Population: 672,425
Time zone: GMT +6 hours
Currency: Ngultrum
Language: Dzongkha
Int. dialling code: +975
Religion: Buddhism
Tourist board
Kitty Corrigan
Deputy Editor, Country Living
"My must-see destination is Bhutan - all the more thrilling because it's difficult to get to and there's a restriction on the number of tourists admitted each year.
"Buddhism is at the core of every aspect of life, and the king - now handing over to a democratic government - believes that gross national happiness is more important that gross domestic product. I went to escape the millennium in London and would recommend it to escape the Olympics in 2012."
Getting into Bhutan
Getting into Bhutan is notoriously difficult. The small country only accepts 20,000 tourists per year and all non-Indian or Bangladeshi must apply for visa at least 30 days in advance. It's not that the Bhutanese are unwelcoming or unfriendly, quite the opposite in fact. It's because they value their Gross National Happiness (GNH) above all else, values that seek to preserve their ancient heritage and traditions. An influx of tourists and quick modernisation is something that is believed would harm Bhutan's society. We advise seeking advice on applying for a visa from your travel agent.
There are only two ways to get into Bhutan. One is by road through certain towns such as Phuntsoling, Samdrup Jongkhar and Gelephug. The main way in for British nationals is by air into Paro airport. The only airline that flies operates from Paro is the Bhutanese Druk Air. They fly in from New Delhi, Kathmandu, Kolkata, Dhaka and Bangkok. You will need to buy separate tickets for your flight into Bhutan from one of these cities, most of which you can fly to directly from the UK.
Did you eat at a fantastic restaurant or stay in a wonderful hotel in Bhutan? Maybe you discovered a hidden sight or you have a Himalayas travel tip that you want to share with other visitors?