In
the eastern Himalayas, wedged between the Indian and Chinese
sub-continents, is the small kingdom of Bhutan. Covering about
46,500 square kilometers and with an estimated population
of 650,000, the country certainly does not feature prominently
in global consciousness. However, for the relatively small
number of foreign visitors, Drukyul, the land of the thunder
dragon, exudes a special esoteric charm. The kingdom is a
fascinating microcosm, its sheltering from the wider world
testament to circumstance and independent outlook. Indeed,
Bhutan's distinctive character is most evident when interpreted
as a small self-enclosed whole, rather than deconstructed
into its constituent parts. The cultural and ecological environments
are widely hailed as extraordinary, yet such classifications
remain overly general to all but those with a specialist interest.
A short visit leaves the guest immersed by the totality of
this extremely unusual setting. Enduring images tend to be
reflected in subtle little instances, particular to each individual,
when the contrasting experience of being in Bhutan strikes
a special chord within. Tiny yet evocative jewels stimulated
by the unique ambiance of a land and its people.
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bhutan_introduction.pdf (78 k)
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