Fact Sheets & Video - South Asia

The Lost Kingdom of Bhutan

In 1910 one British Explorer called Bhutan "the last great place of true exploration". It has also been called the "Lost Kingdom", nestled in the Eastern Himalayas this mystical land has long enticed saints, mystics, scholars and pilgrims and today the kingdom continues to impress visitors with it's array of monasteries, dzongs, textiles, trekking options, festivals, flora and fauna and the friendliness of its people.

This is a place of surprises, where the country's progress is measured in 'Gross National Happiness', where buying cigarettes is illegal, where visitors have to pay a minimum US$200 per day to visit the kingdom, where immense and anatomically detailed phalluses are painted on housefronts to ward of evil and where change is most definitely afoot.

Despite centuries of self-imposed isolation Bhutan is now attempting to open itself to modernisation, whilst protecting its rich history and traditions. This is therefore the time to visit and search for the key to happiness in the world's last "Shangri-la". Bhutan is a place where cigarettes are banned, cars were only introduced in 1961, televisions in 1999, the internet in 2003, all children receive free education, including in the English language, the capital city, Thimphu, doesn't have a single traffic light (the only capital in the world) and where, by decree, 62% of the country must remain forested.

Bhutan's massive ancient fortresses, the Dzongs, are striking landmarks in every valley. Sitting atop the steepest ridges, or between fast flowing rivers, the Dzongs (which mean fortresses) are a reflection of the ancient need for defence, but which have become a symbol of stability and security over the years. Today, Bhutan's Dzongs continue to provide shelter for both the district administration and the clergy.

Bhutan's population of over 700,000 is made up primarily of indigenous Bhutanese known as the Drukpa. Unlike many nearby countries, the Bhutanese are not at you to hire them, buy their wares, or get out of their way. You're aware that you are not of any special interest to them as a foreigner.

Today, the Bhutanese Government regulates tourism through quotas and a mandatory US$200 minimum in daily expenditure.

The US$200 a day charge is for groups of 3 or more. Individual tourists and couples are subject to a surcharge on top of this daily rate.

Up to the age of 6, kids are free. Kids 7-12 accompanied by parents or guardians receive a 50% discount on the daily rates.

Full time students 29years of age and under receive a 25% discount but you must book direct through a Bhutanese tour operator to receive this discount rather than through a company or agent in Australia.

The costs seem very steep at first, but factor in what is supplied - accommodation, food, transport, guides - and of course the beauty and uniqueness of Bhutan.

The US$200 a day includes a US$65 tax, used by the government to fund infrastructure, education, health and other programs.

The Royal Government of Bhutan requires that all foreign visitors travel with a prepaid and preplanned itinerary through a Bhatanese tour company. You can simply buy a space on a group tour or arrange a custom-made program.

Bhutan's National carrier, Druk Air, operates flights from Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, and Kathmandu to Paro.

The town of Phuentshoeling in South-Western Bhutan is the land border access open for International Tourists, lying 170km east of the Indian national airport of Bagdogra. From the border there is a mountainous journey by road to Thimphu, which is 175km away but takes more than 6 hours to drive.

Further Information:

Thai Airways International

THAI have 40 flights a week from Australia to Bangkok and daily connections to Kathmandu.

Contact Thai Airways International on 1300 651 960 or visit www.thaiairways.com.au

World Expeditions

Land of the Thunder Dragons - 13 day Tour

Two departures: 28 October 2009 or 06 April 2010

Cost joining Paro: $4390

Includes all meals, local guide, accommodation and sightseeing fees.

Conditions apply.

Contact World Expeditions on 1300 720 000 or visit worldexpeditions.com