BIKERS CLUB FEB 2019 ISSUE | Page 49

WHY VISIT BHUTAN? Bhutan is no ordinary place. It is an amply modern country yet medieval with one foot still rooted in its past. Bhutan is aware of the downsides of rapid modernization and has decided to move cautiously without losing its soul. TOP 10 REASONS TO VISIT BHUTAN Sustainable socio-economic development, preservation and promotion of culture and tradition, and preservation and protection of of natural environment are at the forefront of government policy. Taktsang is one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in Bhutan. It is situated on a vertical cliff 3000 mt north Paro. The monastery was built in 1962. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew on this cliff from Tibet on the back of a flaming tigress. Every decision is carefully weighed for the benefit of its people. The government's 'high value-low volume' tourism policy is therefore a good example of its efforts to keep foreign influences at bay while nurturing Bhutanese values at home. 2. Tsechus (Festival) Tsechu Festival of Dance. Tsechu is the religious festival in Bhutan. It is conducted in all the dzongs and major monasteries. Tsechus are social gatherings where people from near and far gather to witness mask dances and cultural items. This gives Bhutan a different look and feel altogether, a visual and spiritual feast for all visitors. 1. Taktsang Goemba (Tiger's Nest Monastery)