A land of natural splendor, Bhutan is distinctive and remote. The world's only carbon negative country, a deeply Buddhist land that steadfastly maintains its ancient ways. A different world where Gross National Happiness is deemed more important than Gross National Product.
The living heritage of Buddhism is manifest in the prayer flags fluttering in the wind, the prayer wheels spinning in tumbling waterfalls and the imposing monasteries and dzongs. Bhutan is noted for its Tshechus, or festivals, which are held annually on dates chosen by the lamas as per the Buddhist lunar calendar. The festivals are generally preceded by rituals and dances performed by masked monks in beautiful costumes of brilliantly colored silk to the accompaniment of traditional instruments.
In an effort to safeguard its rich natural and cultural environment, it has consciously adopted a controlled tourism and development policy. Bhutan is deeply conscious of environmental issues and preserves the countries natural bounty and a way of life that is simple and spiritual.