In a remote kingdom hidden in the Himalayas, there is a trail said to be the toughest trek in the world—twenty-four days, 216 miles, eleven mountain passes, and enough ghost stories to scare an exorcist.   In 2007 Kevin Grange decided to acquaint himself with the country of Bhutan by taking on this infamous trail, the Snowman Trek. He was thirty-three, at a turning point in life, and figured the best way to go at a crossroad was up. Against a backdrop of Buddhist monasteries and soaring mountains, Grange ventured beyond the mapped world to visit time-lost villages and sacred valleys. In the process, recounted here with a blend of laugh-out-loud humor, heartfelt insight, and acute observation, he tested the limits of physical endurance, met a fascinating assortment of characters, and discovered truths about faith, hope, and the shrouded secret of blossom rain.   Beneath Blossom Rain, Grange’s account of his journey, packs an adventure story, a romantic twist, and a celebration of group travel into a single entertaining book. The result is the ultimate journey for any traveler, armchair or otherwise. Along with high adventure, it delivers an engaging look at Bhutan—a country that governs by a policy of Gross National Happiness and that many regard as the last Shangri-La. Watch a book trailer. Read more

Bhutan 1:250,000 Travel Map, waterproof, GPS-compatible, REISE This map is waterproof and tear-resistant, durable enough to survive time spent in the rucksack, pocket or on a restaurant table. It is double-sided to provide the best balance between a good scale and a convenient sheet size (size 100 x 70 cm / 39.5 x 27.5 in) with topographic and tourist information. The map divides Bhutan east / west with a good overlap. The base map has altitude colouring with contours, spot heights and mountain passes. Road network includes local roads. Local airfields and helipads are also marked. Internal administrative boundaries are shown with names of the provinces. A wide range of symbols highlights various places of interest, including temples, castles and palaces, archaeological sites, viewpoints, hot springs, camp sites, etc. Names of main trekking routes are highlighted as are names of national parks and conservation areas. The map has a latitude and longitude grid at intervals of 15’ and an index of place names and national parks. Multilingual map legend includes English. High quality German-made cartography. Read more

Folded and indexed road and travel map. Distinguishes roads ranging from main roads to other roads/tracks. Legend includes railways, passes, international airport, bus stations, police stations, hospitals, petrol stations, hotels, lodges, camping sites, museums, buddhist temples, chorten, monasteries/churches, Dzongs, points of interest, nature reserves, national parks, golf courses. Includes inset map of Thimphu and Para. Read more

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Lonely Planet's Bhutan is our most comprehensive guide that extensively covers all the country has to offer, with recommendations for both popular and lesser-known experiences. Join the pilgrims at Changangkha Lhakhang, Hike to Taktshang Goemba, and explore the weekend market at Thimpu; all with your trusted travel companion.Inside Lonely Planet's Bhutan Travel Guide: Lonely Planet's Top Picks - a visually inspiring collection of the destination's best experiences and where to have themItineraries help you build the ultimate trip based on your personal needs and interestsLocal insights give you a richer, more rewarding travel experience - whether it's history, people, music, landscapes, wildlife, politicsEating and drinking - get the most out of your gastronomic experience as we reveal the regional dishes and drinks you have to tryToolkit - all of the planning tools for solo travellers, LGBTQIA+ travellers, family travellers and accessible travelColour maps and images throughoutLanguage - essential phrases and language tipsInsider tips to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spotsCovers Thimphu, Paro Dzongkhag, Trongsa Dzongkhag, Mongar Dzongkhag, and moreAbout Lonely Planet:Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures Company, is the world's number one travel guidebook brand. Providing both inspiring and trustworthy information for every kind of traveler since 1973, Lonely Planet reaches hundreds of millions of travelers each year online and in print and helps them unlock amazing experiences. Visit us at lonelyplanet.com and join our community of followers on Facebook (facebook.com/lonelyplanet), Twitter (@lonelyplanet), Instagram (instagram.com/lonelyplanet), and TikTok (@lonelyplanet).'Lonely Planet. It's on everyone's bookshelves; it's in every traveler's hands. It's on mobile phones. It's on the Internet. It's everywhere, and it's telling entire generations of people how to travel the world.' Fairfax Media (Australia) Read more

Tucked away in the eastern end of the Himalayas lies Bhutan-a tiny, landlocked country bordering China and India. Impossibly remote and nearly inaccessible, Bhutan is rich in natural beauty, exotic plants and animals, and crazy wisdom. It is a place where people are genuinely content with very few material possessions and the government embraces "Gross National Happiness" instead of Gross National Product. In this funny, magical memoir, we accompany Linda Leaming on her travels through South Asia, sharing her experiences as she learns the language, customs, and religion; her surprising romance with a Buddhist artist; and her realizations about the unexpected path to happiness and accidental enlightenment. As one of the few Americans to have lived in Bhutan, Leaming offers a rare glimpse into the quirky mountain kingdom so many have only dreamed of. For over ten years, Leaming has lived and worked in the town of Thimphu, where there are no traffic lights and fewer than 100,000 people. "If enlightenment is possible anywhere" she writes, "I think it is particularly possible here" The Bhutanese way of life can seem daunting to most Westerners, whose lives are consumed with time, efficiency, and acquiring things. But Leaming shows us that we don't necessarily have to travel around the world to appreciate a little Bhutan in our own lives, and that following our dreams is the way to be truly happy. Read more

Explore Nepal with this Freytag & Berndt road map. The best way to plan your trip, prepare your itinerary, and to travel independently in this country. Read more

Lonely PlanetBhutanis your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Join the pilgrims at colourful Changangkha Lhakhang, hike to the dramatic cliff -hanging Taktshang Goemba, or explore the busy weekend market at Thimpu -all with your trusted travel companion. Get to the heart of Bhutan and begin your journey now! Inside Lonely PlanetBhutan Travel Guide:Colour maps and images throughout Highlightsand itineraries help you tailor your trip to your personal needs and interests Insider tips to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots Essential infoat your fingertips - hours of operation, phone numbers, websites, transit tips, prices Honest reviews for all budgets - eating, sleeping, sight-seeing, going out, shopping, hidden gems that most guidebooks miss Cultural insights give you a richer, more rewarding travel experience - festivals, architecture, Buddhism, customs, wildlife, history, traditional arts Over37 mapsCovers Thimphu, Paro Dzongkhag, Trongsa Dzongkhag, Mongar Dzongkhag and more About Lonely Planet: Since 1973, Lonely Planet has become the world's leading travel media company with guidebooks to every destination, an award-winning website, mobile and digital travel products, and a dedicated traveller community. Lonely Planet covers must-see spots but also enables curious travellers to get off beaten paths to understand more of the culture of the places in which they find themselves. The world awaits! Lonely Planet guides have won the TripAdvisor Traveler's Choice Award in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016.'Lonely Planet. It's on everyone's bookshelves, it's in every traveller's hands. It's on mobile phones. It's on the Internet. It's everywhere, and it's telling entire generations of people how to travel the world.' - Fairfax Media 'Lonely Planet guides are, quite simply, like no other.' - New York Times Read more

Nestled in the Himalayas, Bhutan captivates travelers with its breathtaking landscapes, profound spiritual heritage, and commitment to preserving its unique identity. Known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," this enchanting kingdom is a haven of pristine nature, vibrant culture, and deep serenity.Bhutan’s dramatic terrain, ranging from lush subtropical plains to snow-capped peaks, sets the stage for unforgettable exploration. Verdant valleys crisscrossed by rivers and dotted with traditional villages provide a picturesque backdrop for journeys into the heart of this Himalayan paradise.The iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched precariously on a cliffside, embodies Bhutan’s spiritual essence. Pilgrims ascend through pine forests to this sacred site, enveloped by an atmosphere of reverence and awe. Across the country, dzongs—majestic fortress monasteries—stand as both religious and administrative centers, showcasing intricate architecture and centuries of devotion.In the capital, Thimphu, Bhutan’s blend of tradition and modernity comes to life. Markets buzz with activity, offering everything from handcrafted textiles to fresh produce, while cultural landmarks such as the National Memorial Chorten and the towering Buddha Dordenma invite reflection.Festivals, or tshechus, bring communities together in a vibrant celebration of faith and folklore. Dancers adorned in elaborate masks and costumes perform sacred rituals, their movements steeped in meaning and tradition. These joyous gatherings offer a glimpse into Bhutan’s deep-rooted spiritual practices and the warmth of its people.Nature enthusiasts find endless inspiration in Bhutan’s protected wilderness. The Phobjikha Valley, home to the endangered black-necked crane, showcases the kingdom’s dedication to conservation. Meanwhile, trekking routes such as the Snowman Trek challenge adventurers with their rugged beauty, leading to remote high-altitude landscapes untouched by time.Bhutanese cuisine, characterized by bold flavors and local ingredients, offers a culinary journey of its own. Ema datshi, a fiery chili and cheese dish, exemplifies the nation’s love for spice, while hearty buckwheat and red rice dishes sustain locals and visitors alike. Meals often reflect the harmonious connection between nature and culture that defines Bhutanese life.Throughout the kingdom, a philosophy of Gross National Happiness guides development, prioritizing well-being and environmental sustainability over material wealth. This commitment to holistic progress is evident in every aspect of Bhutanese society, from the preservation of traditional crafts to the pristine beauty of its landscapes.Bhutan’s allure lies not only in its extraordinary sights but in its ability to inspire reflection and renewal. A journey here is as much about exploring its physical wonders as it is about connecting with its spiritual heart. Bhutan invites travelers to step into a world where ancient traditions and modern aspirations coexist in harmony, creating an experience that resonates long after departure. Read more

Unlock the Magic of Bhutan: Your Ultimate Guide to the Land of the Thunder Dragon in 2025!Embark on an unforgettable journey to one of the world’s most enchanting destinations with Bhutan Travel Guide 2025: A No-Nonsense Handbook – the only travel guide you’ll need to unlock the best of Bhutan! Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned globetrotter, this expertly curated guide will help you explore Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, hidden gems, and sacred traditions with confidence and ease.Why This Guide Stands OutPacked with practical advice, insider tips, and up-to-date recommendations, Bhutan Travel Guide 2025 is designed to take the guesswork out of your trip planning. From understanding Bhutan’s unique tourism policy and navigating visa requirements to discovering must-see landmarks and budget-friendly stays, every chapter is crafted to ensure you experience the very best of the Land of the Thunder Dragon.What’s Inside:🌟 Top Attractions and Hidden Gems: Find your way to iconic sites like Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Punakha Dzong, and the serene Phobjikha Valley, along with off-the-beaten-path treasures that most tourists miss.🎒 Packing Essentials & Practical Tips: Stay prepared with detailed packing lists for every season, health and safety advice, and currency, ATM, and communication tips for smooth, stress-free travel.🍲 Cultural Immersion & Local Flavors: Immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture by attending colorful festivals, sampling mouthwatering dishes like Ema Datshi, and exploring local markets for authentic souvenirs.🚴 Adventure Awaits: Trek through the Himalayas, spot rare wildlife in lush national parks, or enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities like river rafting, mountain biking, and camping under Bhutan’s starry skies.🛏 Where to Stay: Choose from luxury hotels, cozy guesthouses, charming farm stays, and even unique monastic retreats for an unforgettable overnight experience.Why Visit Bhutan in 2025?This year is the perfect time to experience Bhutan’s evolving tourism landscape! With enhanced sustainability initiatives, revamped accommodations, and vibrant festivals on offer, Bhutan is more accessible – and magical – than ever before.Bonus Feature: A 7-Day ItineraryPressed for time? Our thoughtfully planned 7-day itinerary covers all the essentials, guiding you from the bustling capital of Thimphu to the misty mountain trails of Paro and beyond.Your Gateway to Bhutan Starts HereWhether you’re drawn to Bhutan’s awe-inspiring landscapes, spiritual heritage, or its world-famous concept of Gross National Happiness, Bhutan Travel Guide 2025 is your essential companion for turning dreams into reality.Let this book be your map to discovering the soul of Bhutan – a land where ancient traditions meet modern wonders, and where every traveler leaves with a heart full of unforgettable memories.Get your copy today and unlock the adventure of a lifetime! Read more

Maldives Like Never Before – Your Ultimate Travel Companion for 2025!Turquoise Waters. White Sand Beaches. Luxury & Adventure Await.🌴🏝✨Dreaming of pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and luxury overwater villas? The Maldives Travel Guide 2025 is your essential, no-nonsense companion to experiencing this tropical paradise like never before. Whether you’re planning a luxurious honeymoon, a budget-friendly island-hopping adventure, a diving expedition, or a family getaway, this guide delivers everything you need to know to make your trip unforgettable.What Makes This Guide Different?This isn’t just another generic travel book. Packed with insider tips, expert recommendations, and must-know travel hacks, this guide gives you a deep dive into the Maldives beyond the resorts—from discovering hidden sandbanks and glow-in-the-dark beaches to exploring vibrant local culture and authentic Maldivian cuisine. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you’ll uncover practical, easy-to-follow advice to maximize your experience and budget.What You’ll Discover Inside:🌴 Where to Stay – From ultra-luxury overwater villas to budget-friendly guesthouses on local islands, find the perfect accommodation that suits your travel style.🌊 Island-Hopping Like a Pro – Learn how to navigate between atolls using speedboats, ferries, and seaplanes, and explore both popular resorts and hidden gems.🐠 Snorkeling & Diving Hotspots – Discover the best reefs for spotting manta rays, whale sharks, and vibrant coral gardens.🍛 Authentic Maldivian Cuisine – Taste fresh seafood, coconut-infused dishes, and local delicacies at both high-end restaurants and street markets.💑 Romantic Escapes & Honeymoon Bliss – Plan the perfect private beach dinner, sunset cruise, or secluded island getaway for a magical experience.🎣 Outdoor Adventures & Excursions – Whether it’s deep-sea fishing, dolphin watching, jet skiing, or parasailing, this guide covers the best activities for thrill-seekers and nature lovers.💰 Maldives on a Budget – Think the Maldives is only for luxury travelers? Think again! Learn how to enjoy paradise without breaking the bank, including affordable stays, dining, and transportation tips.🌏 Sustainable & Responsible Travel – Support eco-friendly resorts, learn about coral reef conservation, and discover ways to travel responsibly while protecting the fragile environment.🚀 BONUS 1: A Perfect 7-Day Itinerary – Take the guesswork out of planning with a day-by-day itinerary balancing relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences.BONUS 2: Insider Tips to Avoid Tourist Traps, Save Money & Unlock Hidden Experiences!With detailed travel insights, expert advice, and the latest 2025 updates, this comprehensive yet easy-to-read guide is your passport to the Maldives’ best-kept secrets.Don’t just dream about paradise—experience it!Grab your copy of Maldives Travel Guide 2025 today and start planning the trip of a lifetime! 🌊🏝️🌞 Read more

Sasha Wakefield intertwines the life and legacy of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal (1594–1651) with her own personal spiritual journey as she explores Bhutan’s rich history.The seventeenth century was a pivotal time for the tiny but culturally vibrant kingdom of Bhutan—marked especially by the life of the influential political and spiritual leader Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal (1594–1651), including his remarkable past lives. Sasha Wakefield traces the life and profound spiritual accomplishment of this master in the context of her own spiritual journey from Australia to Bhutan. While unveiling the cultural and spiritual landscape of Bhutan, Wakefield delves into the fundamental Buddhist concepts of reincarnation, karma, bodhisattvas, buddhas, and enlightenment to underscore the significance of Zhabdrung’s spiritual attainment, including reaching the tenth bhumi, or level, of a bodhisattva, and deliberately choosing his own rebirth. During Zhabdrung’s time as early nation-builder of the kingdom and state of Bhutan, he faced adversity and attacks from adversaries but responded with meditation, diplomacy, and unwavering commitment to serve the people of Bhutan. Wakefield shows the nature of ritual and ceremony that are inherent in the history of the Bhutanese state, weaving in the verse texts of liturgies and praises for the offering ceremonies and consecrations that were central to establishing the Drukpa Kargyu Buddhist lineage in Bhutan and establishing Bhutan as a sovereign land. Read more

Don’t just see the sights—get to know the people. Often called the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," Bhutan was secluded for much of its history, its towering mountains and lush green valleys virtually unvisited, evoking a sense of mystery and wonder. A sovereign country throughout the ages, Bhutan is now establishing its place on the world stage. It is determined to maintain its Buddhist culture and unique way of life as it evolves and adapts to political change and economic challenges.Culture Smart! Bhutan will give you a deeper insight into the country's history, values, customs, and age-old traditions. It highlights changes in people's attitudes and behavior as the country modernizes, and provides practical guidance on how to get to know the Bhutanese on their own terms, paving the way for a more meaningful experience of this fascinating and beautiful country.Have a richer and more meaningful experience abroad through a better understanding of the local culture. Chapters on history, values, attitudes, and traditions will help you to better understand your hosts, while tips on etiquette and communicating will help you to navigate unfamiliar situations and avoid faux pas. Read more

Introducing a small, little known country in South Asia, this stunning photographic journey pays tribute to Bhutan’s beautiful ancient culture and landscape. Based on travels from west to east, the text and photographs focus on themes such as history, lifestyle, beliefs, democratization, and environment. This is a visual, informative, and personal account of Bhutan at a time when its government is changing from feudal to democratic and its people are deciding how to balance materialism with spiritualism. Read more

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Lonely Planet: The world's number one travel guide publisher Lonely Planet's Bhutanis your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Join the pilgrims at colourful Changangkha Lhakhang, hike to the dramatic cliff - hanging Taktshang Goemba, and explore the busy weekend market at Thimpu - all with your trusted travel companion. Get to the heart of Bhutan and begin your journey now!Inside Lonely Planet's Bhutan:NEW pull-out, passport-size 'Just Landed' card with wi-fi, ATM and transport info - all you need for a smooth journey from airport to hotelColour maps and images throughoutHighlightsand itineraries help you tailor your trip to your personal needs and interestsInsider tips to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spotsEssential infoat your fingertips - hours of operation, phone numbers, websites, transit tips, pricesHonest reviews for all budgets - eating, sleeping, sightseeing, going out, shopping, hidden gems that most guidebooks missCultural insights give you a richer, more rewarding travel experience - history, people, music, landscapes, wildlife, cuisine, politicsCovers Thimphu, Paro Dzongkhag, Trongsa Dzongkhag, Mongar Dzongkhag, and moreThe Perfect Choice: Lonely Planet's Bhutanis our most comprehensive guide to Bhutan, and is perfect for discovering both popular and off-the-beaten-path experiences.About Lonely Planet: Lonely Planet is a leading travel media company and the world's number one travel guidebook brand, providing both inspiring and trustworthy information for every kind of traveller since 1973. Over the past four decades, we've printed over 145 million guidebooks and grown a dedicated, passionate global community of travellers. You'll also find our content online, and in mobile apps, video, 14 languages, nine international magazines, armchair and lifestyle books, ebooks, and more.'Lonely Planet guides are, quite simply, like no other.' - New York Times'Lonely Planet. It's on everyone's bookshelves, it's in every traveler's hands. It's on mobile phones. It's on the Internet. It's everywhere, and it's telling entire generations of people how to travel the world.' - Fairfax Media (Australia) Read more

This book details my experiences in the Himalayan regions of Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, and Myanmar. In an effort to become more educated about the way of life of its peoples, I discovered that religion is such an important part of their everyday life. Also, as the lands become more integrated into the mountains, the feeling of something spiritual becomes noticeable. Maybe it’s the solitude, the peacefulness, or could it be that the Himalayas possess a certain mystic. My travels took me into the cities congested streets where I mingled with the locals and learnt about their culture, the historic and important sacred temples that support the regions religions, and the near isolation in the mountains. These Himalayan regions possess a certain magic that one cannot encounter elsewhere in the World, and I am truly thankful for the opportunity I have been given to venture into these lands. Be enlightened. Chapters include: - Kathmandu - Religion, Temples, Bars, Chaos and Pollution - Soul Searching and Trekking in Nepal, an unforeseen relationship - Keeping it sacred in Bhutan - The Road to Tibet - Like a Sudden Hope in the Dark Night of the Soul - Connecting the Dots Read more

'A DELIGHT' Grazia'THE GLOBAL SECRETS TO HAPPINESS THAT CAN CHANGE OUR LIVES' Good Housekeeping'BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED AND FASCINATING' Emerald Street'POSITIVITY JUMPS OUT OF EVERY PAGE' The LadyFrom the bestselling author of The Year of Living Danishly, an entertaining, reassuring and useful trip around the world, discovering the secrets of happiness from 30 countries.- Feeling terrified of that upcoming job interview? Take inspiration from the Icelanders and get some Þetta reddast, the unwavering belief that everything will work out in the end. - Lost your way in life? Make like the Chinese and find your xingfu, or the thing that gives you real purpose. - Too much on your plate? The Italians can help you learn the fine art of dolce far niente, aka the sweetness of doing nothing at all.- Overwhelmed by busyness and disconnected from nature? The Swedish have a solution - just find your smultronställe, or 'wild strawberry patch', your perfect escape from the rest of the world. From Australia to Wales, via Bhutan, Ireland, Finland, Turkey, Syria, Japan, and many more besides, The Atlas of Happiness uncovers the global secrets to happiness, and how they can change our lives. Read more

In the West, we have everything we could possibly need or want—except for peace of mind.So writes Linda Leaming, a harried American who traveled from Nashville, Tennessee, to the rugged Himalayan nation of Bhutan—sometimes called the happiest place on Earth—to teach English and unlearn her politicized and polarized, energetic and impatient way of life.In Bhutan, if I have three things to do in a week, it’s considered busy. In the U.S., I have at least three things to do between breakfast and lunch.After losing her luggage immediately upon arrival, Leaming realized that she also had emotional baggage—a tendency toward inaction, a touch of self-absorption, and a hundred other trite, stupid, embarrassing, and inconsequential things—that needed to get lost as well.Pack up ideas and feelings that tie you down and send you lead-footed down the wrong path. Put them in a metaphorical suitcase and sling it over a metaphorical bridge in your mind. Let the river take them away.Forced by circumstance and her rustic surroundings to embrace a simplified life, Leaming made room for more useful beliefs. The thin air and hard climbs of her mountainous commute put her deeply in touch with her breath, helping her find focus and appreciation. The archaic, glacially paced bureaucracy of a Bhutanese bank taught her to go with the flow—and take up knitting. The ancient ritual of drinking tea brought tranquility, friendship, and, eventually, a husband. Each day, and each adventure, in her adopted home brought new insights and understandings to take back to frantic America, where she now practices the art of "simulating Bhutan." This collection of stories, impressions, and suggestions is a little nudge, a push, a leg up into the rarefied air of paradise—of bright sunlight and beautiful views. Read more

Tania Romanov hangs from the final limb of a family tree of generations of unintentional travelers—exiles, refugees, displaced people. She grew up with stories of exile—stories of adventure. Perhaps that’s why, as an adult, she started living her own adventures—and hasn’t stopped since. In India, she learned that to Indians the way she mourned her husband was far less personal than their custom of dropping cremated bodies into a river; in Japan, that her ancestors could find her in the oddest of circumstances. In Bhutan, she found family, and in Namibia she learned to ease her fears of being trapped in her own past. In Never a Stranger, Tania shares those experiences and more, unforgettable stories of travel, connection, and self-discovery. Read more