Bhutan

Bhutan is no ordinary place. It is a Himalayan kingdom with a reputation for mystery. It is located on the southern slopes of the eastern Himalayas. To the north is the Tibet Autonomous Region and to the west and south are the Indian states of Sikkim, West Bengal, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. It lies between latitudes 26°N and 29°N, and longitudes 88°E and 93°E. The land consists mostly of steep and high mountains crisscrossed by a network of swift rivers, Bhutan's elevation rises from nearly 150 meters in the south to more than 7500 meters in the north. Mount Chomolhari is the highest peak in Bhutan. Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary form of government. The reigning monarch is Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. The current Prime Minister of Bhutan is Tshering Tobgay, the leader of the People's Democratic Party.

PLACE OF INTEREST -

National Museum of Bhutan:

National Museum of Bhutan is located in a former watch tower (which itself is a museum piece) above the dzong.

Taktsang Monastery:

Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest, is the unofficial symbol of Bhutan. It is about 2-3 hour, totally up-hill hike from the parking lot to the monastery, though there is a cafe located on ridge across from the Taktsang. . Taktsang was established as a sacred place for meditation by Guru Rinpoche who visited the site on his second visit to Bhutan in 747 CE.

Drukgyel Dzong:

Drukyel dzong is about 15 kms from Paro. This dzong (fortress) was built in the 16th century to commemorate a victory over the invading Tibetan forces Drakhapo.

Kichu Lhakang:

It is located just off the road running between Paro bazaar and the Taktsang. Kichu Lhakang is one of the 108 monasteries that were miraculously constructed by King Songten Gampo in one night.

Jangsarbu Lhakhang

Jangsarbu Lhakhang, located behind Paro Dzong. This small and insignificant looking temple is home to a magnificent statue of Sakyamuni Buddha that was carried all the way from Lhasa.

Other place of Interest in Bhutan:

• Paro Dzong
• Trongsa Dzong
• Trashi Chhoe Dzong
• Punakha Dzong
• Gangte Goemba
• National Museum
• National Memorial Chorten
• National Textile Museum
• Tower of Trongsa Royal Heritage Museum
• National Institute for Zorig Chusum
• Black-Necked Crane Information Centre
• Mongar Dzong
• Changangkha Lhakhang