Known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, the tiny kingdom of Bhutan offers a glimpse into traditional Buddhist life. Landlocked between Tibet and India in the eastern Himalayas, the country was insulated by a long period of restricted tourism.

The minimal exposure to outside influences has helped preserve traditional culture. Citizens are required to wear traditional Bhutanese attire and avidly practice archery, the national sport. Though travel agent Tshering Samdrup of Jachung Travel has noticed increasing interest in travel to Bhutan, there are less than 20,000 visitors each year.

There are few standard tourist destinations, but Samdrup finds that "the biggest draw is to visit historical Buddhist monasteries from the 16th century." Dzongs -- traditional fortresses -- often serve as monasteries or government bureaus and nearly every village has a temple. Many of the dzongs are set on cliffs for defensive strategy and the most famous monastery, Taktsang ( which means "Tiger's Nest") is perched on a steep cliff near Paro. Legend tells that Guru Pinpoche flew on the back of a tigress to bring Buddhism to Bhutan.

Like Nepal, Bhutan is a prime destination for trekking. Samdrup recommends the spring and fall, when visitors will be treated to "views of snow-capped mountains and Yak-herders." The Haa Valley, west of Paro, was only opened to tourism in 2005 and offers expansive views of Himalayan peaks.

Travel is precarious within the country. There is only one airport -- in Paro --, and only one airline that flies into it. All tourists must travel on a pre-paid guided tour, arranged by a registered and government-approved travel agency. Visas, which cost $20, can be obtained by the travel agent.

Situated in a valley, Paro houses the national museum and the finest luxury accommodations in the country. The town developed as an outpost on the trade route to Tibet. The capital of Thimpu was created in 1955 and has no traffic lights.

Bhutan

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