Flora and Fauna
The biological diversity of Bhutan is varied and richer than most other countries of the world. Moreover it has taken commendable steps to conserve this biodiversity. This is evident from the fact that Bhutan ranks amongst the top ten countries of the world in highest species density percentage. Bhutan also has the largest proportion of land (35%) under forest cover (protected areas-national parks, biological corridors, conservation areas etc). As per records available Bhutan has more than 5,500 species of vascular plants, 770 species of avifauna and 165 species of mammals.
Eco Hotspot
The mountains of Bhutan are very impressive and its power and beauty can be best experienced on foot. Tourists can get the taste of the same by trekking around the Bumthang valley, walking from Thimphu to Paro or trekking to the base of Mount Jhomolhari. All along the way they would be mesmerized by the spectacular views, picturesque villages and Bhutanese people.
There is no denying the fact that at higher altitudes one can witness breath-taking vistas and watching the sunrise on a Himalayan mountain is truly mesmerizing. Between the months of April and May the rhododendrons bloom in the Himalayas giving it a deep red and orange hue.
There are more than dozen trekking routes in Bhutan and each one of them is unique. Tourists can either choose the short and beautiful Druk Path trek or arduous Snowman trek. Bhutan treks are usually short three-day ones (low altitude) or three-week treks covering up to 356 kms.
One of the most rewarding treks is the Royal Heritage Trek from Bumthang to Trongsa Dzongkhags. Tourists can get a glimpse of Bhutan's history dating back to the early 1950s. 50 years back the 2nd King of Bhutan King Jigme Wangchuck used to use this trail to move from Wangdicholing Palace (royal summer residence) in Bumthang, to Kuenga Rabten Palace (royal winter retreat) in Trongsa. Tourists can witness an abundance of flora and fauna including over 40 species of birds like Yellow and Black Billed Magpies and the Spotted Nut Cracker along this four day trail.
Tourists interested in knowing about Bhutan royal family history or its traditional life can embark on the Royal Heritage Tour. They will be taken to all the important places, palaces, Dzongs and other areas like Punakha, Trongsa, Bumthang, Mongar and Lhuentse which has a connection with the royal family.
Other Attraction
Traditional Houses of Bhutan-
As one travels through Bhutan its traditional houses will turn out to be a treat for the eyes. Most of these houses are made from mud blocks, rammed earth, stone etc. However nowadays reinforced concrete is being used particularly in the urban areas. Bhutanese traditional houses are very spacious and most of them have an attic area that is used for drying crops. Guests are entertained in the altar room and this is the most important room of the house.
In earlier days the roofs were made of traditional slate and timber shingle roofs which are now being replaced by CGI steel roofing. However the traditional practice of drying chilies on the roof during the chili season is still being followed. These houses blend perfectly with the natural landscape of Bhutan.
Traditional cantilever bridges-
Another attractive feature of Bhutan is its traditional cantilever bridges. These graceful pieces of local architecture added to the beauty of the natural landscape. Traditional cantilever bridges are wooden bridges built with wooden structures, interlocked to form the main bridge. Most of these bridges were built over wide rivers which showcases the engineering marvel of these ancient bridges.
These bridges act as passageways for people as well as animals. Just behind the Tashichhodzong in Thimpu tourists can see a beautiful cantilever bridge. Recently a new cantilever bridge has been built over the Thimphu River. There is another old cantilever bridge at Paro Dzong which reflects the bygone days.
Shopping
Shopping in Bhutan is exciting as one can get different types of Bhutanese products which are mainly arts and crafts. Bhutan textiles are very popular and are renowned for their distinctive natural patterns particularly the vegetable dyed wool weaves called yathra and the exquisite pure silk weavings known as Kishuthara. Bhutanese traditional paintings like the lhazo and thangkhas are also very famous. The Bhutanese short knife which is known as Dudzom is also very popular with tourists. Bhutanese bamboo and cane craft like the belo (bamboo hat) and bangchung (Bhutanese Tupperware basket) are also much sought after.
However tourists should be cautious while buying antique items as the same can be seized by customs at the time of departure. As such it is advisable to seek the guidance of respective guides before purchasing any item.
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