Bhutan Cultural Travel Guide
Bhutan
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Cultural
With cultural heritage and national identity thriving throughout Bhutan, from markets and ancient buildings to ethnic costumes and cuisines, no visit to Bhutan will fail to dish up an impressive dose of unique and astounding culture. Bhutan’s fortress-style ‘dzongs’ are an iconic feature of the kingdom. Some particularly impressive and accessible examples can be found in western Bhutan - Punakha Dzong in Thimpu (Bhutan’s tiny capital city) is exceptional.
Bhutan’s monasteries and temples are equally impressive; Taktshang Takshang, a major site for Buddhist pilgrimage, hangs on a 3,120m cliff above the Paro Valley and graces many a postcard home. With cold winters and summer monsoons, autumn and spring offer the driest and most comfortable climates for sightseeing in western Bhutan.
In the central region, the Bumthang Valley is particularly rich in architecture and home to some of Bhutan’s oldest buildings; Jambey Lakhang, a seventh century temple, is the most historical in the region. Although drier than the west, the central regions receive a rainy spell from May through September but overall, enjoy a milder climate. In spring and October, expect temperatures to fluctuate between 5C and 20C.
Festivals are a highlight of the the Tibetan Buddhist world and Bhutan adds many more of its own to the calendar. Almost all dzongs and monasteries hold an annual festival, lasting for around three days. Held in late September, when the summer rains are easing and temperatures hover between 15°C to 20°C, the Thimpu Festival is one of the grandest in western Bhutan. Thousands of locals come dressed in elaborate homemade costumes, celebrating by dancing, feasting and watching stories told by masked dancers.
