Nestled in the Himalayas, Bhutan features stunning landscapes, friendly people, and a rich and fascinating culture. Like a soft mist clinging to the mountains, there is an overarching sense of sacredness and deeply ingrained respect for spirit, people, and land that is immediately evident to visitors. Bhutan is a destination like no other; it offers a rare glimpse into another world, one that has been compared to Eden.

It’s the Happiest Place on Earth!

Watch out, Disney. Bhutan is the real magic kingdom! The tiny nation is arguably the happiest on earth. As a whole, its people have enough in economic terms, but they have more than enough in wellness, community spirit, strong governance, environmental policies, and spirituality. It is the only country that measures its progress by its “gross national happiness.” Being surrounded by some of the world’s most beautiful scenery certainly doesn’t hurt either! This contentment and satisfaction shines through and makes interactions with the native peoples that much more rewarding and enjoyable.

Bhutan practices strict crowd-control.

Until the 1970s, visitors were not allowed to enter Bhutan. Now, the number of visitors is limited, and each must obtain a travel visa and book their tours via an authorized tour operator. It is not a tourist destination, and, of course, this only makes the savvy world traveler want to explore its mystical nooks and valleys all the more. Those lucky enough to gain access (only about 105,000 per year) can enjoy a host of activities, from lively festivals to mountain trekking to kayaking, without jostling crowds.

An effortless blend of culture and environment.

“Ecotourism” is a growing trend, but it is no fad in Bhutan. It is a way of life that has thrived since time immemorial. Its people enjoy lives that are literally carved into the mountainsides. They make their livings from the land and its animals. Further, Bhutan is a biodiversity “hotspot” and hosts a variety of endemic and exotic animals, including snow leopard, elephant, blue sheep, tiger, golden langur, water buffalo, and over 770 species of birds. A variety of medicinal, edible, and ornamental plants and flowers bloom all over the kingdom. Bhutan is committed to protecting its biodiversity and its traditional way of life.

Bhutan is a prime destination for any traveler who wants more than a typical vacation; if you want to experience a country and its people at their most authentic, choose Bhutan.