Yak & Laya Travels
~ Your Gateway
Guide to Bhutan
Discover Bhutan: A Living Culture & A Natural Marvel with Us
Welcome to Bhutan, a kingdom nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, where tradition and nature coalesce in a harmonious dance. Bhutan stands as a living testament to a culture that has endured the test of time and a commitment to environmental preservation that sets it apart. Prepare to be enchanted by the mystical allure of this kingdom, where happiness is a measure of success and nature is revered as a sacred entity.
Cultural Heritage:
Bhutan is not just a destination; it’s a living, breathing culture. From the colourful festivals that paint the valleys to the adorned dzongs that echo centuries-old stories, Bhutan offers a rare glimpse into a world where tradition is not a relic of the past but a vibrant part of daily life. The Bhutanese people proudly wear their traditional attire, and every step you take is a journey through a tapestry of customs and rituals.
Environmental Stewardship:
Bhutan is a beacon of environmental responsibility. The constitution mandates that a staggering 60% of its landmass be perpetually covered by forests. This commitment to nature goes beyond rhetoric—Bhutan is one of the three carbon-negative countries in the world, absorbing more carbon dioxide than it produces. The lush landscapes, pristine air, and crystal-clear rivers stand as a testament to Bhutan’s unwavering dedication to preserving the planet for generations to come.
The Pledge of Carbon Negativity:
Bhutan’s carbon negative pledge is not just a commitment; it’s a promise to the Earth. As you traverse its breathtaking landscapes, you’ll witness firsthand how this small kingdom has become a global leader in sustainability. From the fluttering prayer flags to the untouched mountain peaks, every element of Bhutan’s natural canvas reflects a deep respect for the environment.
SOOTHE YOUR SPIRIT OR TEST YOUR METTLE – OR BOTH.
Bhutan offers thrillingly contrasting experiences for body and soul, often simultaneously. Strenuous climbs or sound healing, white-water rafting or hot-stone bathing, mountain biking or meditation – the choices are as varied as the terrain, and as certain to salve spirits and promote relaxation.
FROM RURAL HOMES TO RESTAURANTS, BHUTAN IS FULL OF FLAVOUR.
Hospitality and food are inextricably linked here. Whether in the remotest valley or the chicest restaurant, many of the same ingredients are used to conjure astonishingly diverse creations: cheeses of yak or cow milk, red rice, butter, buckwheat and always, always chillies. Chillies of every possible type and permutation – red or green, dried, in pastes or sambals – are the nation’s favourite vegetable, making our warm welcome a literal one.
ALONGSIDE CULTURE-PACKED CITIES, RURAL LIFE QUIETLY UNFOLDS.
The streets of Thimphu, Paro and Phuentsholing bustle with locals working and socialising, and guests exploring markets and museums. Meanwhile, in tranquil valleys and on vertiginous hillsides, people churn milk into butter, gather wild greens from the forest, and chat over suja, or butter tea. There’s a pace – and a place – for everyone.
AN UNRIVALLED VARIETY OF LANDSCAPES AND LIFE.
Given Bhutan’s lowland valleys and snow-capped peaks that easily reach 7,000m above sea level, it’s possible to pass through several climates in a day. There are lush, subtropical dells, pine-forested hillsides and mountain glaciers – and at every elevation, the landscape teems with wildlife. With more than 70% of our territory swathed in pristine woodland, biodiversity thrives here. This is nature at its wildest.
MEET MASTERS OF CONTEMPORARY CULTURE AND ANCIENT ART FORMS.
Over centuries of seclusion, we developed unique cultural pursuits that continue to evolve today – like archery or da, the national sport and the focus of regular, raucous (and highly competitive) tournaments. Thirteen protected arts and crafts – zorig chusum – from ceramics to blacksmithing, and sculpture to carpentry, have been passed down. This vibrant legacy has created a culture that’s tangible everywhere from the humblest home to the most important dzong. Young artists develop contemporary works at not-for-profit arts organisation Voluntary Artists Studio, Thimphu (VAST), while classically trained weavers collaborate with emerging designers.
