Bhutan: Shangri-La Exists
Land of the Thunder Dragon - Druk Yul. Bhutan is one of the last independent kingdoms, situated in the Eastern Himalayas. It is run by a constitutional monarchy. All new construction needs to incorporate traditional elements ensuring continuity. The country is officially carbon neutral and mandates 70% be planted with forests. Bhutan also measures its National Happiness Index.
Tiger's Nest
Paro Taktsang is a sacred Buddhist site which was first built in the 1692. According to the Namthar of the Lhakhang, it is believed that Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) flew to this location from Singye Dzong on the back of a tigress. This place was consecrated to tame the Tiger demon. In 1998 the monastery was demolished a second time and finally re-opened in 2005. Once visitors walk up 2.5 miles of path to the observation area, they walk down 464 steps, cross a bridge and walk up 300 steps to the monastery itself.
The Druk Path
The Druk Path follows a varied and beautiful route within a network of Bhutan's mule trails. One of the original trails people used to walk between Thimphu and Paro.
