There is something endlessly mystifying about Bhutan – the worlds
last remaining Buddhist kingdom. Youll find this intriguing little
country perched between Tibet and India in the Himalayas, and
resplendent with natural beauty, which combined as it is, with the
countrys harmonious society, makes Bhutan deserving of the title
The Last Shangri-La.
Cuisine – Perhaps one of the first things youll note about food in
Bhutan is that the rice is usually red, as its the only variety that
grows in the mountains. The food itself is hot with a heavy
emphasis chillies. A typical Bhutanese dish is Ema (chilli) datshi
(cheese) – which is simply made of chilli peppers and cheese and
served with both red and white rice – delicious! If you do enjoy your
food spicy, then be sure to ask for it – as many restaurants tone
down the dishes for foreigners. If you enjoy a drink then be sure to
try the locally brewed Red Panda Beer or the K5 Whiskey, which
was named in honour of the new king, if you want something a little
stronger.
Mountain Trekking – Its quite true that you can do this throughout
the Himalayas but theres something uniquely fascinating about
hiking through Bhutan. Whether its the crisp fresh air, the incredible
scenery or the physical exertion that makes you happy – youll love
every part of it – and dont forget your camera!
Bhutans Monuments – Bhutan is thick with culture and history and
you can witness all over the almost completely unscathed country.
One of the highlights is witnessing pilgrims and monks perform
centuries-old Buddhist rituals complete with deep chanting and
moving displays of devotion – especially when said performances
are in the incredible surrounds of a Bhutanese Buddhist temple
such as Kuensel Phodrang in Thimpu.
Paro – Paro is quite simply charming. Lined with character-filled
streets and colourful architecture, houses without front doors and
cheery locals that are often dressed in traditional clothing. Dont
miss the beautiful Tigers Nest Monastery or Paro Taktsang that is
perched on a ledge high up in the jagged mountains and
surrounded by mist and blue pine trees.
A Little Bhutanese Mystery – Bhutans reputation for mystery is
clearly justified, no more so then when you take your first magicfilled
step into one of the countrys Buddhist temples or when you
witness the ancient practices of the inhabitants inside one of
Bhutans serene monasteries such as Lhodrak Kharchhu in
Bumthang or the Tigers Nest Magic Monastery in Taktshang which
is perched impossibly atop a stark cliff face and surrounded by
nerve-shaking panoramas of the Himalayas.
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