Bhutan

Mystery and legend have surrounded the tiny kingdom of Bhutan for centuries. Its steep mountainsides and remote forested valleys are scattered with holy places of deep mystical importance, where the founders of Tibetan Buddhism have left their traces. Since its borders were opened to tourists in 1974, a tightly controlled tourism policy has allowed a very limited number of visitors to enter the country each year at a high price and with strong environmental controls in an effort to protect the fragile balance between the nation's traditional heritage and modern economic development. There is a real benefit to the high cost of visiting Bhutan - 35% of the government fee goes towards services such as schools and hospitals, thus benefiting the local population. Our excellent contacts here enable us to be sure of providing a remarkable experience in this enchanting Himalayan culture, known locally as Druk Yul, meaning 'The Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon'.