Top 10 Things to Know About Bhutan

When we travel, we always look for the unique things. After all, to find new discoveries and try new things are the main objectives of going to places. While there are many destinations around the world to serve the purpose, there is one place in Asia which extravagantly fulfills such aims.

Ladies and gentlemen, the Kingdom of Bhutan.

True enough, Bhutan is one of the most unique countries in the world. Here are some reasons why many adventure-seekers/culture-curious travelers are taking opportunities to take a tour to Bhutan:

1. Bhutan is the only Vajrayana Buddhist nation in the world. The locals regard its faith with utmost reverence; and there are many sacred dzongs in the country, including the Tiger’s Monastery which is distinctly perched on a mountain cliff.

Photo by: Buddhistmonksbhutan.com

Tiger's Monastery / Taktsang Monastery

2. The currency used in Bhutan is Ngultrum (Nu.) but Indian Rupees are accepted as local tender, except the 500 and 1000 denominations.

3. It is in the constitution of Bhutan to keep 60% of the country forested. This is why high-rise buildings and industrial developments do not exist in the country. There aren’t any traffic lights in the country either.

4. Bhutan takes pride in being a carbon neutral country. Meaning, the air is completely unpopulated and is totally fresh.

5. The Bhutanese women run the family and business; while the men remain at home, maintaining the household.

Photo by: BhutanRebirth

6. Every first Sunday of the month, Bhutan holds the ‘Pedestrian Day’. On this day, no one is allowed to use private vehicles.

Pedestrian Day in Bhutan | Photo by: BBS

7. The use of plastic bags and selling of tobacco are strictly forbidden in Bhutan.

8. It is only on 1999 when Bhutan experiences television and internet connection. However, the latter doesn’t seem to have improved in time as fast connection cannot be expected even in hotels.

Buddhist monks during a computer class in Thimpu, Bhutan | Photo by: Stasiareport.com

9. English is taught in Bhutan schools and is used as the second language in the nation. Most people can then speak the tongue comfortably.

10. Only in 1974 when this conservative country decided to open its doors to tourism.




Basically, there are more things to discover about Bhutan; and these things can only be known when you go there yourself. So do not miss the opportunity and find the reasons. Savor the fun of being in a really exotic travel experience and create unforgettable memories.


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References:
[1] A Brief Historical Background of the Religious Institutions of Bhutan. Digital Library & Museum of Buddhist Studies. 1990.  Web. Accessed 08 April 2014.

[3] 11. Community Forestry: Supporting Bhutan’s National and MDG Goals While Protecting Forests. Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific. Fao Corporate Document Repository. Web. Accessed 08 April 2014.

[4] Bhutan looks to become world’s first 100% organic country. Daily Mirror. Web. 24 October 2013. Accessed 08 April 2014.

[6] Pedestrian Day on first Sunday of every month. BBS. Web. 13 November 2012. Accessed 08 April 2014.

[8] A Bhutan tech primer: early signs of startups and e-commerce. Tech In Asia. Web. 02 September 2013. Accessed 08 April 2014.

[10] Tourism for Development in Bhutan. Global Education. Web. Accessed 08 April 2014.