Travel in city Thimphu

Colorful monasteries, snow-capped peaks, peaceful villages lined with chili farms: the beauty of Bhutan is visible around every turn of its hairpin roads.

Spring break was approaching, and the plan was to head to Mumbai to see my husband’s family with our two daughters, Meenakshi, 16, and Amrita, 11. We hadn’t all visited together since before the pandemic and were long overdue to meet Mahir’s 86 year-old mother, who lived alone and was more like a mother to me than any “in-law,” and his recently widowed sister, along with her 16 year-old son.

This year, 2024, the Kingdom of Bhutan, marks a significant milestone as it commemorates the 50th anniversary of opening its borders to international tourists. Since welcoming its first foreign visitors in 1974, Bhutan has focused on sustainable tourism, prioritizing cultural preservation and environmental conservation. This is done through Bhutan's policy of high-value, low-impact tourism. The government regulates tourism through a daily tariff, which includes accommodation, meals, transportation, and a contribution to Bhutan's development fund. This approach not only helps preserve Bhutan's fragile ecosystem but also ensures that tourism benefits local communities directly.

In the heart of the Himalayas lies a kingdom veiled in tradition and adorned with breathtaking landscapes of mountains and valleys. This is the Kingdom of Bhutan, often referred to as the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Nestled between India and China, this small yet extraordinary country captivates the hearts of travelers with its untouched beauty, vibrant culture, and deeply-rooted traditions. But perhaps what truly sets Bhutan apart are its festivals, where the country comes alive in a kaleidoscope of colors, dances, and ancient rituals.

Bhutan's allure as a haven for luxury-seeking adventurers continues to grow, particularly in the picturesque region of Punakha. Positioned just three hours away from Bhutan's capital, Thimphu, Punakha attracts travelers due to its quaint charm and burgeoning array of upscale accommodations. Journeying through the scenic Dochula Pass, travelers are awarded with panoramic views of the Himalayas before descending into the valley below. Punakha boasts a temperate climate, making it an enticing year-round destination.

In the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan, a country that values happiness above everything else, children are welcomed with open arms.

A road trip through the remote, stunningly beautiful Himalayan valleys of Bhutan ranks as one of travel’s most exciting adventures.

Since opening to tourism in 1974, the Kingdom of Bhutan has long been a place that’s fascinated travelers. The country may be small, but criss-crossing its Himalayan terrain takes time and expertise.

Both offer incredible mountains, deliciously spicy food and unique cultures to discover. But which should you visit?

For years, the tiny Himalayan nation of Bhutan leveraged its otherworldly but imposing geography as a barrier against the world. But two decades ago, at the behest of the royal family, the cloistered kingdom, known for its “Gross National Happiness” index, invited in its first international brand. It wasn't McDonald's or Coca-Cola, but Aman, the ultra-luxury hotel company, which set up a circuit of five lodges collectively known as Amankora. Six Senses and COMO followed with lodge loops of their own, and soon Bhutan began topping adventure travelers' bucket lists.

Last year, Bhutan sent a shock to its tourism sector by raising its so-called sustainable development fee from $65 to $200 per night, per person for all tourists, excluding Indian nationals, who are charged $15 (Rs 1200) per night, per guest.