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Bhutan Thimphu Festival Tour Itinerary
13 years ago
Jun 30, 2009
Dramitse Nga Chham
It is performed by sixteen dancers, each wearing a mask representing an animal or a bird. They have an Nga in the left hand and a drumstick in the right hand. They wear knee length yellow silk skirts.
Pa Chham
The dancers are dressed in knee length yellow skirts and Ringa (golden crowns). They do not wear masks. They carry a drilbu (small bell) and a tangtee (a small drum) in each hand.
News: His Majesty the King granted audience to the India's Chief of Army Staff
His Majesty with Chief of India’s Army StaffHis Majesty the King granted audience to the India's Chief of Army Staff, General Deepak Kapoor today.
General Deepak Kapoor was escorted in traditional chipdrel ceremony to the Tashichhodzong. In the courtyard of the Tashichhodzong, he was presented a guard of honour by the Royal Body Guards and the Royal Bhutan Army.
General Kapoor was then ushered into the throne room where he received the audience with His Majesty the King.
General Deepak Kapoor was commissioned into the regiment of artillery in June 1967 and has held important Staff and Command positions. He is a recipient of the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Sena Medal and Vishisht Seva Medal. He took over as the Chief of the Army Staff on September 30, 2007.
Following the audience, General Kapoor called on the Chief of Operations of the Royal Bhutan Army, Major General Batoo Tshering. He also called on the Foreign Minister, Lyonpo Ugyen Tshering.
His Majesty the King also hosted a luncheon for General Deepak Kapoor at the Dechenchholing palace.
Source: BBS
General Deepak Kapoor was escorted in traditional chipdrel ceremony to the Tashichhodzong. In the courtyard of the Tashichhodzong, he was presented a guard of honour by the Royal Body Guards and the Royal Bhutan Army.
General Kapoor was then ushered into the throne room where he received the audience with His Majesty the King.
General Deepak Kapoor was commissioned into the regiment of artillery in June 1967 and has held important Staff and Command positions. He is a recipient of the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Sena Medal and Vishisht Seva Medal. He took over as the Chief of the Army Staff on September 30, 2007.
Following the audience, General Kapoor called on the Chief of Operations of the Royal Bhutan Army, Major General Batoo Tshering. He also called on the Foreign Minister, Lyonpo Ugyen Tshering.
His Majesty the King also hosted a luncheon for General Deepak Kapoor at the Dechenchholing palace.
Source: BBS
News: Bhutan Govt. flexes its majority muscle
In a session filled with drama and revelations yesterday, nearly 20 DPT ministers and MPs criticised and rebuked Opposition leader Tshering Tobgay for his observations today on the Lyonchhoen’s state of the nation address last Friday and the government’s handling of media freedom.
The MPs and ministers collectively reiterated and defended their previous stand on the ban of live BBS broadcast of the National Assembly discussion of bills, stating that it was a “majority” decision, and their thumping of the press, stating that it was needed. They also justified the constituency development grant (CDG), stating that they did not break any Constitution rule.
Opposition leader Tshering Tobgay had said: “The prime minister’s address, besides not making clear the differences between the 9th and 10th plans, had also not said how much work was actually done in the 10th plan.”
Source: Kuenselonline
He gave examples of feeder roads, highway and hospitals, whose work were there in the 9th plan, or even in the eighth plan, but which were listed in the Lyonchhoen’s address of DPT achievements. He also expressed doubts over the speed of implementation of the 10th plan and urged government to move faster.
The opposition leader also criticised the government for lambasting the press in the Lyonchhoen’s state of the nation address.
“The media has their freedom and knows their responsibilities and the government doesn’t have to continuously tell the media what is right or wrong and what to do or not do,” he said. He said this would lead to a scared and weaker media, since all the advertisement money came mainly from the government.
“Our country won’t get the media it deserves and this will affect the freedom of the media,” he said. “By not allowing live broadcast of the assembly session, it’s an infringement of media freedom and also goes against the principles of democracy,” said Tshering Tobgay.
Criticising CDG he said, “One of the causes of poverty is the lack of budget in the gewogs and so MPs shouldn’t come between the gewogs and their money.” He also questioned the constitutionality of CDG and said that he had not received any response from the government on his questions over the issue.
He said another major reason for poverty was unemployment, which was created by a weak private sector and falling standards of education. He also said that social problems like drugs and prostitution were created because of unemployed youth.
Criticising Lyonchhen’s stand on the constitution, he said, “The Constitution is a sacred do*****ent but that does not mean we keep it in a choesum (altar), but that we have to keep looking at it, discuss it, and be guided by it.” He said that the Constitution was an important handbook and the government should respect it.
In response to the Opposition Leader’s criticisms, Punakha MP Tshering Penjor sharply rebuked the Opposition leader, saying that he had “no discipline” by bringing up issues like CDG, which, he said, was already resolved. He also said that the media was not stopped from working, adding that the media was more concerned about entertainment.
Wangduephodrang MP Pasang Thrinlee accused Tshering Tobgay of bringing up “useless” issues and discussions. Lyonpo Yeshey Zimba said: “The new government has done many important works for which we should be grateful instead of just attacking only.” He also said that the government was implementing the works be it the 9th plan leftover or the 10th plan.
Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk said that support was being given to industries and tourism. He also said that India had allotted an additional Nu 7b for the local government in addition to the current funds.
“The danger with the media is that some of them are commercial entities and may be guided by commercial interests over that of the people and nation,” he said.
He also said that live broadcast issue was resolved by a majority, which had to be respected.
Lyonpo Nandlal Rai said: “The media is not outside the country and shouldn’t just keep attacking the government.” MP Rinchen Dorji from Trongsa said: “This Saturday there was a Kuensel story saying that MPs will misappropriate CDG, but if we were against the media then this reporter would be thrown in prison.”
Kuensel said or wrote no such thing. There was no CDG story on this or last Saturday issues and no MP can willfully throw a reporter in prison, said Kuensel’s editor, adding that the MP should do his homework before attacking a newspaper for things it had not written about.
Opposition MP Damcho Dorji also questioned the Speaker’s statement not to discuss resolved issues outside the Assembly, by citing the Constitution’s fundamental right of freedom to expression and responsibility to represent the public’s view.
Source: Kuenselonline
The MPs and ministers collectively reiterated and defended their previous stand on the ban of live BBS broadcast of the National Assembly discussion of bills, stating that it was a “majority” decision, and their thumping of the press, stating that it was needed. They also justified the constituency development grant (CDG), stating that they did not break any Constitution rule.
Opposition leader Tshering Tobgay had said: “The prime minister’s address, besides not making clear the differences between the 9th and 10th plans, had also not said how much work was actually done in the 10th plan.”
Source: Kuenselonline
He gave examples of feeder roads, highway and hospitals, whose work were there in the 9th plan, or even in the eighth plan, but which were listed in the Lyonchhoen’s address of DPT achievements. He also expressed doubts over the speed of implementation of the 10th plan and urged government to move faster.
The opposition leader also criticised the government for lambasting the press in the Lyonchhoen’s state of the nation address.
“The media has their freedom and knows their responsibilities and the government doesn’t have to continuously tell the media what is right or wrong and what to do or not do,” he said. He said this would lead to a scared and weaker media, since all the advertisement money came mainly from the government.
“Our country won’t get the media it deserves and this will affect the freedom of the media,” he said. “By not allowing live broadcast of the assembly session, it’s an infringement of media freedom and also goes against the principles of democracy,” said Tshering Tobgay.
Criticising CDG he said, “One of the causes of poverty is the lack of budget in the gewogs and so MPs shouldn’t come between the gewogs and their money.” He also questioned the constitutionality of CDG and said that he had not received any response from the government on his questions over the issue.
He said another major reason for poverty was unemployment, which was created by a weak private sector and falling standards of education. He also said that social problems like drugs and prostitution were created because of unemployed youth.
Criticising Lyonchhen’s stand on the constitution, he said, “The Constitution is a sacred do*****ent but that does not mean we keep it in a choesum (altar), but that we have to keep looking at it, discuss it, and be guided by it.” He said that the Constitution was an important handbook and the government should respect it.
In response to the Opposition Leader’s criticisms, Punakha MP Tshering Penjor sharply rebuked the Opposition leader, saying that he had “no discipline” by bringing up issues like CDG, which, he said, was already resolved. He also said that the media was not stopped from working, adding that the media was more concerned about entertainment.
Wangduephodrang MP Pasang Thrinlee accused Tshering Tobgay of bringing up “useless” issues and discussions. Lyonpo Yeshey Zimba said: “The new government has done many important works for which we should be grateful instead of just attacking only.” He also said that the government was implementing the works be it the 9th plan leftover or the 10th plan.
Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk said that support was being given to industries and tourism. He also said that India had allotted an additional Nu 7b for the local government in addition to the current funds.
“The danger with the media is that some of them are commercial entities and may be guided by commercial interests over that of the people and nation,” he said.
He also said that live broadcast issue was resolved by a majority, which had to be respected.
Lyonpo Nandlal Rai said: “The media is not outside the country and shouldn’t just keep attacking the government.” MP Rinchen Dorji from Trongsa said: “This Saturday there was a Kuensel story saying that MPs will misappropriate CDG, but if we were against the media then this reporter would be thrown in prison.”
Kuensel said or wrote no such thing. There was no CDG story on this or last Saturday issues and no MP can willfully throw a reporter in prison, said Kuensel’s editor, adding that the MP should do his homework before attacking a newspaper for things it had not written about.
Opposition MP Damcho Dorji also questioned the Speaker’s statement not to discuss resolved issues outside the Assembly, by citing the Constitution’s fundamental right of freedom to expression and responsibility to represent the public’s view.
Source: Kuenselonline
Jun 29, 2009
Guru Tshengye Chham
Guru Tshengye ChhamGuru Rinpochhe Assumed a various forms in order to help all living beings. The dance of Guru Tshengye depicts his eight main manifestations. The display of the glorious deeds of the great Guru during the dance strengthens the faith of the spectators.
News: Bhutan tradition of oral story telling is dying
Not long ago, children would sit around their grandparents at night after dinner listening to stories of fairies, prince and princess, and distant lands. This tradition of oral story telling is dying. Many say it is already dead.
Now both children and adults while away their time in the living room watching TV. To help revive this tradition, the Center of Bhutan Studies (CBS) in association with the International Centre for Ethnographic studies in the US is organizing a story telling conference in the Capital. The three day conference began today. Her Royal Highness Ashi Sonam Dechan Wangchuck graced the opening.
The conference will try to write and capture the cadence of story telling, the musical quality of the language and the manner of the speaker. It also aims to capture the creative art of story telling in an electronic form and film that can become the part of mass media.
CBS says, traditions are fragile, and the safe deposit of the oral stories is not permanent. But it hopes that efforts like this can light up the drive to preserve the voices of the past.
Opening the first national conference on storytelling, Her Royal Highness Ashi Sonam Dechan Wangchuck said it is a pity that one of the oldest and most powerful expressions of individual and cultural creativity- traditional storytelling has been taken over by the other means of mass media such as TV and internet in today's society. Her Royal Highness said today, young children rarely sit around their grandparents and elders to listen to stories.
Her Royal Highness said in most urban areas, social relationships are often weakened by these new forms of media. With the rise of these new technological storytelling mediums, the cultural prominence of traditional storytelling as an art form is transforming.
Her Royal Highness said every one must make an effort to re-tell stories we heard in our childhood as a first step to revive our precious oral traditions.
Her Royal Highness said storytelling is a special bond between elders and children and a means of passing on our tradition, culture, and moral values to the next generation.
Her Royal Highness said community storytelling reinforces social bonds that connect individuals to their community, through shared experiences of traditional knowledge and heritage.
Nine foreign participants and ten Bhutanese folklorists are attending the three-day programme.
Source: BBS
Now both children and adults while away their time in the living room watching TV. To help revive this tradition, the Center of Bhutan Studies (CBS) in association with the International Centre for Ethnographic studies in the US is organizing a story telling conference in the Capital. The three day conference began today. Her Royal Highness Ashi Sonam Dechan Wangchuck graced the opening.
The conference will try to write and capture the cadence of story telling, the musical quality of the language and the manner of the speaker. It also aims to capture the creative art of story telling in an electronic form and film that can become the part of mass media.
CBS says, traditions are fragile, and the safe deposit of the oral stories is not permanent. But it hopes that efforts like this can light up the drive to preserve the voices of the past.
Opening the first national conference on storytelling, Her Royal Highness Ashi Sonam Dechan Wangchuck said it is a pity that one of the oldest and most powerful expressions of individual and cultural creativity- traditional storytelling has been taken over by the other means of mass media such as TV and internet in today's society. Her Royal Highness said today, young children rarely sit around their grandparents and elders to listen to stories.
Her Royal Highness said in most urban areas, social relationships are often weakened by these new forms of media. With the rise of these new technological storytelling mediums, the cultural prominence of traditional storytelling as an art form is transforming.
Her Royal Highness said every one must make an effort to re-tell stories we heard in our childhood as a first step to revive our precious oral traditions.
Her Royal Highness said storytelling is a special bond between elders and children and a means of passing on our tradition, culture, and moral values to the next generation.
Her Royal Highness said community storytelling reinforces social bonds that connect individuals to their community, through shared experiences of traditional knowledge and heritage.
Nine foreign participants and ten Bhutanese folklorists are attending the three-day programme.
Source: BBS
News: Bhutan cane and bamboo exhibition wrapped up
Cane and bamboo exhibition The artisan couple from Zhemgang, representing their fellow artisans, had not only marketed bamboo products but also sold about Nu 50,000 worth of the same.
“We’re very grateful to the government for providing us this opportunity to display our products and find potential buyers,” said Rinchen, adding that back home, the market being small, it was really difficult to sell their products, the only means to meet their food, health and children’s education needs.
“Till now our monthly income was about Nu 7,000 per month and we’re only able to break even. But, now, we hope things will change.” Just to sell their products at their local market in Zhemgang, they have to walk almost three days from their village.
Organised by department of industry (DoI), with funds from UNDP and technical assistance from SNV, there were other artisans from Trashigang and Mongar with similar objectives. “Such exhibitions also help artisans to showcase their talents,” said a DOI official.
Craft items, encompassing an array of cane and bamboo products, included not only traditional products like bangchung, zem and tser dhop, but also modern products such as cane wine holder, tser tissue box, penholder, bamboo tray and hangers, etc. Live demonstrations of various craft work were also presented.
SNV’s Galey Tenzin said that prices of bamboo products are set to come down by almost 20-30 percent in future. He added that, through the technical assistance they provide, bamboo artisans are encouraged into group-based business and also made aware of proper price fixation of their products. Earlier, prices were mostly fixed through guesswork.
“We’re encouraging artisans to use bamboo rather than cane, because cane has become scarce with extensive and unsuitable use in the past, which has even led to a sharp decline in production,” he said. “With most communities far from the road point, motivation is much needed for the artisans.”
Pema Letho, 24, from Mongar, said that assistance from various organisations in developing their skills and training them to make new products has really benefited in improving living standards and provided opportunities for others to take the path too.
Source: Kuenselonline
News: Bhutanese United Nations’ employees in Afghanistan
Bhutanese United Nations’ employees in Afghanistan, Karma Jimba “Nothing moves here without paying bribes,” says one of the rare Bhutanese United Nations’ employees in Afghanistan, Karma Jimba.
Karma is among four Bhutanese living and working in war torn Afghanistan. When he first started four years ago, he thought it would be great if he could work for six months. “But time passed and, before I knew it, four years had passed.” Although his car missed bomb blasts several times, he says, “I don’t feel scared.”
Karma is among four Bhutanese living and working in war torn Afghanistan. When he first started four years ago, he thought it would be great if he could work for six months. “But time passed and, before I knew it, four years had passed.” Although his car missed bomb blasts several times, he says, “I don’t feel scared.”
Well adjusted to life in Afghanistan, the 43-year-old says that implementing projects and overcoming corruption were the main challenges they face.
“Visiting a project site becomes like a royal entourage,” he said. “I have to be in a bulletproof land cruiser with another armoured car as a backup. And I’m escorted by 18-armed guards, nine in front and nine behind with AK47 and explosive launchers pointing in all directions along the way.”
Karma from Khoma, Lhuntse is the project manager for rural access improvement project under the United Nations office for project services (UNOPS). He worked with the Bhutan logging corporation now NRDCL before joining UN.
Corruption, he feels, is a result of wars. “When I interact with government counterparts, it’s not a professional challenge I face but corruption.”
Afghanistan has two faces: one that of a developed and the other, of a developing country, wrote Karma to Kuensel. It has five star hotels to super express highways to broadband Internet connection. “But the world is using Afghanistan as a dumping ground for second hand goods in the absence of any legal framework,” said Karma. “But not having regulations can sometimes be beneficial to the people,” he adds.
Citing an example, the father of two said that anyone could open a business without a license, thus saving time and money with complicated government procedures. “This is really making business grow and Bhutan should think of deregulating wherever possible. In Bhutan I feel it is a bit over-regulated.”
Donor pressure is what results in quality work and which Karma insists should be duplicated in Bhutan. “Quality control and quality assurance should be very strict, because quality is a serious issue for Bhutan.”
The project he manages has constructed and rehabilitated over 8,000 km of road and built over 60 major bridges, some as long as 250 m.
The situation in Afghanistan is not how the outside world sees it, writes Karma. “In fact, all international employees live in bulletproof well-furnished comfortable houses with air conditioners.”
With strict security rules, and movement only from the guesthouse to office and back, he said, “I am a UN employee and UN security rules are very tight. So it becomes equivalent to being a UN prisoner if one may say so.”
Source: Kuenselonline
Jun 28, 2009
News: Bhutan PM to visit India
Prime Minister Lyonchhoen Jigmi Y ThinleyPrime Minister Lyonchhoen Jigmi Y Thinley will be visiting India to felicitate the newly elected government on June 30. In Delhi, Lyonchhoen will call on the Indian President Pratibha D Patil, Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and senior government officials.
The prime minister will also meet the Indian National Congress party president Sonia Gandhi and the opposition leader L K Advani.
Foreign secretary Daw Penjo, economic affairs secretary Dasho Sonam Tshering and other senior government officials will be accompanying the prime minister. The delegation will be in India until July 3.
Source: Kuenselonline
The prime minister will also meet the Indian National Congress party president Sonia Gandhi and the opposition leader L K Advani.
Foreign secretary Daw Penjo, economic affairs secretary Dasho Sonam Tshering and other senior government officials will be accompanying the prime minister. The delegation will be in India until July 3.
Source: Kuenselonline
News: Bhutan Hundred graduates to undergo intensive IT training in India
Hundred graduates are leaving the country today to undergo intensive IT training in India, courtesy of Infosys technologies ltd. The training is being provided free of cost by the multinational company.
“This is very significant,” said information and communications minister, Lyonpo Nandalal Rai. The minister told the graduates at a final briefing yesterday that they would be representing Bhutan as ambassadors, and that it was very important they succeed. The 100 graduates represent the government’s first official move to create an IT skilled work force for the upcoming IT Park. They will be trained in business processes and software development.
“It’s much more than just training,” said department of information and technology director, Tenzin Choeda, “it’s a test for the country as a possible ground for future investment.” Developing the IT sector to provide an environment to attract local and foreign investment and provide employment opportunities is one of the major goals of the government.
“I don’t know how far this will be beneficial for us,” said Sherab Dorji, one of the graduates, “but it’s an opportunity for those of us who are unemployed.”
Sonam Zangmo, who graduated in June 2008, said she was happy to be selected for the training. But, because of the rising unemployment rate in the country, she said, the success of the training could only be measured once the trainees return. “I hope I get a job when I return,” she said.
Ministry of labour and human resources secretary, Dasho Sonam Tenzin, was very optimistic about the graduates finding employment after completing their training. He said it was not easy to get accepted at an institute like Infosys and that it was only through the goodwill of the company that the 100 Bhutanese were being trained. “They’ll all get employed, even if not with Infosys, they’ll get it elsewhere,” he said.
Source: Kuenselonline
“This is very significant,” said information and communications minister, Lyonpo Nandalal Rai. The minister told the graduates at a final briefing yesterday that they would be representing Bhutan as ambassadors, and that it was very important they succeed. The 100 graduates represent the government’s first official move to create an IT skilled work force for the upcoming IT Park. They will be trained in business processes and software development.
“It’s much more than just training,” said department of information and technology director, Tenzin Choeda, “it’s a test for the country as a possible ground for future investment.” Developing the IT sector to provide an environment to attract local and foreign investment and provide employment opportunities is one of the major goals of the government.
“I don’t know how far this will be beneficial for us,” said Sherab Dorji, one of the graduates, “but it’s an opportunity for those of us who are unemployed.”
Sonam Zangmo, who graduated in June 2008, said she was happy to be selected for the training. But, because of the rising unemployment rate in the country, she said, the success of the training could only be measured once the trainees return. “I hope I get a job when I return,” she said.
Ministry of labour and human resources secretary, Dasho Sonam Tenzin, was very optimistic about the graduates finding employment after completing their training. He said it was not easy to get accepted at an institute like Infosys and that it was only through the goodwill of the company that the 100 Bhutanese were being trained. “They’ll all get employed, even if not with Infosys, they’ll get it elsewhere,” he said.
Source: Kuenselonline
Jun 27, 2009
News: Bhutan will witness the total solar eclipse on July 22
Total solar eclipse will take place on July 22A total solar eclipse will take place on July 22. The solar eclipse will be visible in India, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, China and Japan.
Eye specialists are advising people not to watch the solar eclipse with bare eyes. They said the eclipse may appear dim but the sunlight will be so strong. It can damage the innermost part of the eye called the retina.
People are also advised not to watch the solar eclipse through medical x-ray frames, black and white colour frames, CD and floppy disk. Watching the eclipse through digital camera and binoculars can also cause severe damage to the eyes.
An eye specialist at the national referral hospital, Dr. Dechen Wangmo said people will not realize that their eyes are being damaged because there will be no pain initially. The symptoms will start appearing within one to four hours after watching the eclipse. She said the vision will start to deteriorate right after looking at the eclipse,
“Within the first six months, the vision recovers but in some, the damage is permanent. My advice to the patients not to watch solar eclipse directly” said Doctor Dechen Wangmo.
She said if people want to watch the eclipse, the safest way is to watch on a projection and not directly.
She said children are more vulnerable than adults. This is because the natural filter of children’s eyes is not well developed.
According to the Head of the Metrology Section Karma Chophel, the total solar eclipse will be visible in almost all parts of the country. He said part of Punakha, Gasa, Haa and Wangdue will witness partial eclipse. It will begin from west coast of India at 6:53 am. It will reach Bhutan at 6:59 am in the morning. In Bhutan, it will last four minutes ten seconds.
Karma Chhophel said the eclipse will enter from southwest of Bhutan that is from Samtse and exit from Trashiyangtse.
Eye specialists are advising people not to watch the solar eclipse with bare eyes. They said the eclipse may appear dim but the sunlight will be so strong. It can damage the innermost part of the eye called the retina.
People are also advised not to watch the solar eclipse through medical x-ray frames, black and white colour frames, CD and floppy disk. Watching the eclipse through digital camera and binoculars can also cause severe damage to the eyes.
An eye specialist at the national referral hospital, Dr. Dechen Wangmo said people will not realize that their eyes are being damaged because there will be no pain initially. The symptoms will start appearing within one to four hours after watching the eclipse. She said the vision will start to deteriorate right after looking at the eclipse,
“Within the first six months, the vision recovers but in some, the damage is permanent. My advice to the patients not to watch solar eclipse directly” said Doctor Dechen Wangmo.
She said if people want to watch the eclipse, the safest way is to watch on a projection and not directly.
She said children are more vulnerable than adults. This is because the natural filter of children’s eyes is not well developed.
According to the Head of the Metrology Section Karma Chophel, the total solar eclipse will be visible in almost all parts of the country. He said part of Punakha, Gasa, Haa and Wangdue will witness partial eclipse. It will begin from west coast of India at 6:53 am. It will reach Bhutan at 6:59 am in the morning. In Bhutan, it will last four minutes ten seconds.
Karma Chhophel said the eclipse will enter from southwest of Bhutan that is from Samtse and exit from Trashiyangtse.
Source:BBS
News: Bhutan Prime Minister presented the first annual report on the state of the nation
Bhutan's Prime Minister Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. ThinleyAt the opening today, the Prime Minister Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. Thinley also presented the first annual report on the state of the nation since the Druk Phuensum Tshogpa government came into power last year.
The two hour thirty minute report was broken into three parts. These are historic events, progress in the pursuit of Gross National Happiness and the state of our emerging democracy.
On the pursuit of GNH, Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. Thinley said Bhutan's economy is estimated to have grown by eight percent in the 2008-2009 fiscal year.
After a nationwide survey found that only about 69 percent of the rural water supply schemes are still functioning, the government instructed the respective dzongkhags to rehabilitate and augment the water supply schemes.
To improve health care services, the government recruited 22 specialists from Myanmar and employed 18 retired doctors. It trained and posted about hundred nursing assistants in various hospitals. The government has also launched an accelerated training programme which is expected to produce about 1,400 nurses by 2013 against the projected requirement of 1,534.
In education, over Nu. nine billion have been allocated in the current plan.
The Prime Minister informed the house that the royal government has set an ambitious target of increasing adult literacy rate to 70 percent by 2013.
In agriculture, close to 290 kilometre of farm roads and power tiller tracks were constructed last year. He said the royal government intends to promote Bhutan as a purely organic brand by gradually phasing out the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
The agriculture ministry has come out with a comprehensive national human wildlife conflict management strategy. To develop small and cottage industries, a micro, small and medium enterprise project is being implemented.
During the year, the government approved 51 industrial projects including five FDI projects.
To provide affordable housing, the National Housing Development Corporation has completed 306 units of housing in seven priority dzongkhags. It has provided more than 1,000 new residential units in urban centers so far.
Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. Thinley said the government is looking at constructing adequate affordable housing for the large number of citizens who are compelled to live across the border in Jaigaon.
He said land will be provided by the government and construction will be carried out by private sector and the rent will be fixed by the government.
Lyonchhen informed the house that over 4,500 job seekers registered with the ministry of labour and human resources during the year. Of the total over 1,300 have been employed and around 2,000 were referred to various companies in corporate and private sectors.
On public service delivery, Lyonchhen said the Royal Civil Service Commission has established a unit called Improving Public Service Delivery System to reduce administrative burden. He said the government is looking at ways to use information and communication technologies for successful delivery of services.
Lyonchhen said the Grievance Cell established under the cabinet secretariat received about 800 cases as of May this year. Of that, about 450 have been dealt with while the rest are still under process.
The procedure for processing security clearance certificate has been made user friendly and simplified in order to improve service delivery. Speaking on media and its role- Lyonchhen said the government has been encouraging and supporting the development of a free and responsible media. He said each private newspaper and private radio have been granted a subsidy of Nu. two million.
Lyonchhen also spoke on the growing number of social ills in the country over the years. He said alcoholism, prostitution and gambling have increased. He said the government is committed to preventing and reducing the social ills.
The Royal Bhutan Police arrested 418 people in drug related offences and 62 drug traffickers during the year. This was pointed out by the Prime Minister in his government report to the parliament sessions today.
2008 saw only 440 cases of assault and battery compared to 449 cases in 2007. The fall, Lyonchhen said is due to strong advocacy and legal protection given by related NGOs and the government.
Eight cases of prostitution were also reported last year. Many he said may have remained unreported. Lyonchhen said 18 cases of homicide were also reported compared to 14 the previous year. The number of cases related to vandalism and desecration dropped from 194 in 2007 to 169 last year. Suicide cases rose from 50 in 2007 to 53 last year.
Lyonchhen also said divorce and gambling are also increasing.
He said the government is deeply alarmed and said it intends to take concerted measures to curb them.
The Prime Minister’s report is available at www.cabinet.gov.bt.
Source: BBS
The two hour thirty minute report was broken into three parts. These are historic events, progress in the pursuit of Gross National Happiness and the state of our emerging democracy.
On the pursuit of GNH, Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. Thinley said Bhutan's economy is estimated to have grown by eight percent in the 2008-2009 fiscal year.
After a nationwide survey found that only about 69 percent of the rural water supply schemes are still functioning, the government instructed the respective dzongkhags to rehabilitate and augment the water supply schemes.
To improve health care services, the government recruited 22 specialists from Myanmar and employed 18 retired doctors. It trained and posted about hundred nursing assistants in various hospitals. The government has also launched an accelerated training programme which is expected to produce about 1,400 nurses by 2013 against the projected requirement of 1,534.
In education, over Nu. nine billion have been allocated in the current plan.
The Prime Minister informed the house that the royal government has set an ambitious target of increasing adult literacy rate to 70 percent by 2013.
In agriculture, close to 290 kilometre of farm roads and power tiller tracks were constructed last year. He said the royal government intends to promote Bhutan as a purely organic brand by gradually phasing out the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
The agriculture ministry has come out with a comprehensive national human wildlife conflict management strategy. To develop small and cottage industries, a micro, small and medium enterprise project is being implemented.
During the year, the government approved 51 industrial projects including five FDI projects.
To provide affordable housing, the National Housing Development Corporation has completed 306 units of housing in seven priority dzongkhags. It has provided more than 1,000 new residential units in urban centers so far.
Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. Thinley said the government is looking at constructing adequate affordable housing for the large number of citizens who are compelled to live across the border in Jaigaon.
He said land will be provided by the government and construction will be carried out by private sector and the rent will be fixed by the government.
Lyonchhen informed the house that over 4,500 job seekers registered with the ministry of labour and human resources during the year. Of the total over 1,300 have been employed and around 2,000 were referred to various companies in corporate and private sectors.
On public service delivery, Lyonchhen said the Royal Civil Service Commission has established a unit called Improving Public Service Delivery System to reduce administrative burden. He said the government is looking at ways to use information and communication technologies for successful delivery of services.
Lyonchhen said the Grievance Cell established under the cabinet secretariat received about 800 cases as of May this year. Of that, about 450 have been dealt with while the rest are still under process.
The procedure for processing security clearance certificate has been made user friendly and simplified in order to improve service delivery. Speaking on media and its role- Lyonchhen said the government has been encouraging and supporting the development of a free and responsible media. He said each private newspaper and private radio have been granted a subsidy of Nu. two million.
Lyonchhen also spoke on the growing number of social ills in the country over the years. He said alcoholism, prostitution and gambling have increased. He said the government is committed to preventing and reducing the social ills.
The Royal Bhutan Police arrested 418 people in drug related offences and 62 drug traffickers during the year. This was pointed out by the Prime Minister in his government report to the parliament sessions today.
2008 saw only 440 cases of assault and battery compared to 449 cases in 2007. The fall, Lyonchhen said is due to strong advocacy and legal protection given by related NGOs and the government.
Eight cases of prostitution were also reported last year. Many he said may have remained unreported. Lyonchhen said 18 cases of homicide were also reported compared to 14 the previous year. The number of cases related to vandalism and desecration dropped from 194 in 2007 to 169 last year. Suicide cases rose from 50 in 2007 to 53 last year.
Lyonchhen also said divorce and gambling are also increasing.
He said the government is deeply alarmed and said it intends to take concerted measures to curb them.
The Prime Minister’s report is available at www.cabinet.gov.bt.
Source: BBS
News: His Majesty the King graced the opening ceremony of 3rd session of the parliament
His Majesty the King graced the opening ceremony of 3rd session of the parliament The 3rd session of the parliament began amidst traditional ceremony today. His Majesty the King graced the opening ceremony. His Majesty the King was escorted by the Prime Minister, the National Assembly Speaker, the Opposition Leader, the National Council chairperson, and cabinet ministers.
At the courtyard of the Gyalyong Tshokhang, His Majesty was received by members of the parliament and then ushered into the Gyalyong Tshokhang.
In the opening remarks, the National Assembly Speaker Jigme Tshultim expressed gratitude to His Majesty the King for touring remote villages in Lhuentse and Monggar and solving the pressing land related issues.
Tshogpoen Jigme Tshultim also congratulated the United Progressive Alliance government in India for its success in the national elections this year. The Speaker also commended the recent visit of India’s new External Affairs Minister to the country.
He also congratulated the new constitutional appointees to the Royal Civil Service Commission. Tshogpen Jigme Tshultim also expressed condolence to people who lost family members in the flood last month. On other issues, he said the unemployment problem in the country is expected to be solved by the upcoming hydro power projects such as the Punatshangchhu hydro power project.
Following this, the Prime Minister, the Opposition Leader, the National Council Chairperson and parliament members presented their appreciation to His Majesty the King.
During the recess, His Majesty also met with the parliamentarians and interacted with international diplomats and guests who attended the opening.
The 3rd session of the parliament is expected to discuss about 12 bills including the Local Government Bill, the Civil Service Bill and the Police Bill.
At the courtyard of the Gyalyong Tshokhang, His Majesty was received by members of the parliament and then ushered into the Gyalyong Tshokhang.
In the opening remarks, the National Assembly Speaker Jigme Tshultim expressed gratitude to His Majesty the King for touring remote villages in Lhuentse and Monggar and solving the pressing land related issues.
Tshogpoen Jigme Tshultim also congratulated the United Progressive Alliance government in India for its success in the national elections this year. The Speaker also commended the recent visit of India’s new External Affairs Minister to the country.
He also congratulated the new constitutional appointees to the Royal Civil Service Commission. Tshogpen Jigme Tshultim also expressed condolence to people who lost family members in the flood last month. On other issues, he said the unemployment problem in the country is expected to be solved by the upcoming hydro power projects such as the Punatshangchhu hydro power project.
Following this, the Prime Minister, the Opposition Leader, the National Council Chairperson and parliament members presented their appreciation to His Majesty the King.
During the recess, His Majesty also met with the parliamentarians and interacted with international diplomats and guests who attended the opening.
The 3rd session of the parliament is expected to discuss about 12 bills including the Local Government Bill, the Civil Service Bill and the Police Bill.
Source: BBS
Jun 22, 2009
Ging Tsholing Chham
Ging Tsholing ChhamThe dancers which combines two groups of characters namely Ging and Tsholing. The Tsholing dancers have long colorful brocade dresses and wear terrifying masks. The Ging dancers wear tagshams (tiger-skin skirts) and terrifying dark blue (male) and red (female) mask with a flag on the top. Each Ging dancers carries Nga (Drum) in the left hand and Nea tog (drumstick) in the right hand.
The Tungam Chham
Tungam ChhamThe dancers wear beautiful brocade dresses, boots and a terrifying mask. The dance has a very deep symbolic meaning. A ritual sacrifice is carried out, the dancers represent the gods.
Daga Dzong
Zhabdrung Rinpochhe, after unifying the western part of the country, decided to expand the Drukpa rule ro the southern region. Accordingly he visited Dagana and in about 1651, laid the foundation for the dzong which he named Trashi Yangtse Dzong. Tenpa Thinley was appointed as the first Daga Poenlop to govern the southern region fom this Dzong. Daga Dzong become the seat of the Daga Poenlop for many years. Today it is the headquarters of the Dagana Dzongkhag
Jun 19, 2009
About Dzong (Fortress) of Bhutan
Dzong's (Fortress) of BhutanThe word "Dzong" loosely translated mean a fortress. For over three hundred years they have served as an effective defence against any attack or invasion. That is why, they were built mostly on mountains spurs overlooking and commanding the whole valley below. They were often surrounded by watch towers and observation posts situated higher up the hillsides. The Dzong today serve the function of both administrative center and a monastery.
Dzongs were first built in Bhutan in the twelfth century by La, Gyalwa Lhanangpa, an important leader of the Lhapa Kagyu. Do Ngon Dzong (Blue Stone Dzong) where Dechen Phodrang stands today was built by him. It was only from the time of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in he seventeenth century that the Dzong played a significant role in the history of Bhutan.They not only served as an effective defence but also became the centers of religious and cultural activities and the seat of civil authority.
Today the major Dzongs are the seats of district administrations. They house the offices of the civil authority headed by the Dzongda and district court headed by the Thrimpons.
Dzongs were first built in Bhutan in the twelfth century by La, Gyalwa Lhanangpa, an important leader of the Lhapa Kagyu. Do Ngon Dzong (Blue Stone Dzong) where Dechen Phodrang stands today was built by him. It was only from the time of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in he seventeenth century that the Dzong played a significant role in the history of Bhutan.They not only served as an effective defence but also became the centers of religious and cultural activities and the seat of civil authority.
Today the major Dzongs are the seats of district administrations. They house the offices of the civil authority headed by the Dzongda and district court headed by the Thrimpons.
Jun 16, 2009
GASA DZONG
Gasa is most famous for its Layap people, and for the Snowman Trek, one of the most challenging treks in the Himalayas. Gasa is bordered by Tibet to the north and by Thimphu, Punakha, and Wangdue Phodrang dzongkhags to the south. Gasa is divided into four gewogs:
* Goenkhamae Gewog
* Goenkaatoe Gewog
* Laya Gewog
* Lunana Gewog
National Council from Gasa
Formally, Gasa was a dungkhag under Punakha dzongkhag and it was made a separate dzongkhag at the beginning of the 7 th plan in 1992. It consists of four Geogs – Goenkhatoe, Goenkhamae, Laya and Lunana. Gasa lies on the old trade route to Tibet. The Gasa people take pride in the fact that the Zhabdrung entered Bhutan through Gasa and there are many sacred places and artifacts revered as being blessed by his presence and association. In fact, the map for the Geog as drawn by the community use landform associated with the Zhabdrung as reference point. For instance, the Phulakha (pass in the north) is where it is believed that the people of Gasa made their first offerings to the Zhabdrung who had camped there on his way into Bhutan.
* Goenkhamae Gewog
* Goenkaatoe Gewog
* Laya Gewog
* Lunana Gewog
National Council from Gasa
Formally, Gasa was a dungkhag under Punakha dzongkhag and it was made a separate dzongkhag at the beginning of the 7 th plan in 1992. It consists of four Geogs – Goenkhatoe, Goenkhamae, Laya and Lunana. Gasa lies on the old trade route to Tibet. The Gasa people take pride in the fact that the Zhabdrung entered Bhutan through Gasa and there are many sacred places and artifacts revered as being blessed by his presence and association. In fact, the map for the Geog as drawn by the community use landform associated with the Zhabdrung as reference point. For instance, the Phulakha (pass in the north) is where it is believed that the people of Gasa made their first offerings to the Zhabdrung who had camped there on his way into Bhutan.
Samdrup Jongkhar Dzong
The Dzongkhag has eight Community Schools, seven Primary Schools, six Junior High Schools and one High School with a total of students of 6,995 as of December 2001.
Samdrup Jongkhar is the gateway to and commercial hub for five Eastern dzongkhags. The dzongkhag’s potential is further enhanced by the commissioning of Kurichu hydropower. Availability of reliable hydropower combined with modern Telecom facilities will change the development landscape of the dzongkhag by offering tremendous opportunities for household, business and industries. Lack of adequate road network also has direct impact on socio-economic development and quality of lives of the people in the dzongkhag.
Samdrup Jongkhar is the gateway to and commercial hub for five Eastern dzongkhags. The dzongkhag’s potential is further enhanced by the commissioning of Kurichu hydropower. Availability of reliable hydropower combined with modern Telecom facilities will change the development landscape of the dzongkhag by offering tremendous opportunities for household, business and industries. Lack of adequate road network also has direct impact on socio-economic development and quality of lives of the people in the dzongkhag.
Jun 15, 2009
Trashiyangtse Dzong
Trashiyangtse was a Dungkhag under the administration of Trashigang Dzongkhag till 1992. It was created as a separate full fledged Dzongkhag co-inciding with the start of the seventh plan in 1992. The Dzongkhag has eight geogs namely Bumdeling, Jamkhar, Khamdang, Ramjar, Tomzhangtshen, Trashiyangtse, Toetsho, and Yalang with 117 villages and 3489 households..
Two and half five-year development plans have brought about manifold socio-economic changes in the lives of the people in the Dzongkhag. As of first half of 2006 (4th year of 9th Five Year Plan) the Dzongkhag has one Higher Secondary School, one Middle Secondary School, four Lower Secondary Schools, twenty two community primary Schools, one Hospital, seven Basic Health Units (BHU), eight Renewable Natural Resources (RNR-EC) Extension Centers, one Institute for Zorig Chusum and a 40 KM black topped road. Over 70% of the households have access to piped drinking water supply.
Trashigang Dzong
This dzong, or fortress, was built in 1659 by the third Druk Desi to defend against Tibetan invaders. Because of its altitude invading armies remarked that “it is not a dzong on the ground, it is in the sky”. Now it became the seat of successive Trashigang Dzongpoens who were called the Trashigangpas. Today the Dzong is the headquarters of the Trashigang Dzongkhag
Jun 12, 2009
Archery: National Game
National Game of Bhutan ArcheryArchery The national sport of Bhutan is archery. Other traditional sports include digor - a kind of shotput, darts and wrestling. Today, most international sports, such as soccer, basket ball, volleyball, tennis, and table tennis are becoming popular. In Bhutan a game of archery has always been a serious business. Tradition has it that if two villages or districts were to compete in a game of archery, elaborate preparations preceded the actual duel. Astrologers consulted the stars and their books of wisdom to divine the most auspicious day to play the game, including even the most favorable sequence of shooting for their players.
Each dzong in Bhutan has a separate space as ‘Bha Cho’ or field of target. Competitions and archery contests are quite colorful and bubbles with excitement. There are often two teams, wearing traditional Bhutanese dresses, competing with each other. Small wooden targets for archers are placed 140 m apart, as opposed to the Olympics, where 50 m is the standard distance
Each dzong in Bhutan has a separate space as ‘Bha Cho’ or field of target. Competitions and archery contests are quite colorful and bubbles with excitement. There are often two teams, wearing traditional Bhutanese dresses, competing with each other. Small wooden targets for archers are placed 140 m apart, as opposed to the Olympics, where 50 m is the standard distance
Mongar Dzong
Mongar DzongMongar Dzong, Although built in the 1930s and one of Bhutan’s newest dzongs, it is constructed in the same way as all earlier dzongs, without plans or nails. A visit to Mongar Dzong shows one how traditional Bhutanese architecture has continued to thrive through the centuries.
Bumthang Jakar Dzong
BUMTHANG: JAKAR DZONGJakar Dzong, Constructed in 1549 by the great grandfather of the first Shabdrung, the Dzong was initially built as a monastery. It was upgraded in 1646, after the Shabdrung had firmly established his power. Jakar Dzong is now used as the administrative center for Bumthang valley, and also houses the regional monk body.
Bumthang farms yield buckwheat, dairy products, honey, and apples among other products.
The language spoken in the Bumthang district is known as Bumthangkha. It is a Tibeto-Burman language closely related to Dzongkha, the national language of Bhutan. Bumthangkha is partially comprehensible to speakers of Dzongkha, which originated in valleys to the west of Bumthang. Each of the four valleys of Bumthang has its own dialect, and the remnants of the Kheng kingdom to the south in Zhemgang speak Khengkha which may be classified as a dialect of Bumthangka.
Bumthang farms yield buckwheat, dairy products, honey, and apples among other products.
The language spoken in the Bumthang district is known as Bumthangkha. It is a Tibeto-Burman language closely related to Dzongkha, the national language of Bhutan. Bumthangkha is partially comprehensible to speakers of Dzongkha, which originated in valleys to the west of Bumthang. Each of the four valleys of Bumthang has its own dialect, and the remnants of the Kheng kingdom to the south in Zhemgang speak Khengkha which may be classified as a dialect of Bumthangka.
Jun 11, 2009
Druk Air
As required by government regulations all visitors must travel at least one way into Bhutan by Royal Bhutan Airlines, Druk Air. Druk Air operates from Bangkok (BKK), Kolkatta, Delhi (DEL) and Kathmandu (KTM) to Paro. Entry is permitted only by Druk Air into Paro or overland through Phuentsholing accompanied by a guide.
National Airline "Druk Air" operates New Delhi & Kolkata in India, Kathmandu - Nepal and Bangkok - Thailand. There is flight from Paro to Bangkok via Kolkata and Bangkok to Paro via Kolkata every day and there is flight from Delhi to Paro via Kathmandu on Monday, Thursday & Saturday and Paro to Delhi via Kathmandu on Wednesday, Friday & Sunday and flying back the same. We are authorized GSA for Druk Air we will do ticketing for Bhutan portion but rest we are not authorized so you may have to handle by yourself.
Flight Schedule and Read More
Druk Air Addresses:
BANGLADESH – Dhaka
Druk Air Corporation Ltd
Mams Travels & Tours Ltd
33, Gulshan Ave, Road-45
Gulshan-2, Dhaka-1212
Tel: +880-2-9862243/9892862/9890802
Fax: +880-2-8828439
BHUTAN – Paro
Druk Air Corporation Ltd
Nemizampa, Paro
Tel: +975-8-271856 to 58/271860
Fax: +975-8-271861
SITA: QJCRPKB
BHUTAN – Thimphu
Druk Air Corporation Ltd
P.O. Box 209, Thimphu
Tel: +975-2-322215/323420/322825/321754
Fax: +975-2-322775
SITA: QJCRRRKB
INDIA – New Delhi
Druk Air Corporation Ltd
City Office: Ansal Bhawan Building
G Floor-3, 16 KG Marg
Connaught Place, New Delhi - 110001
Tel: +91-11-23357703/23357704
Fax: +91-11-23357768
Airport Tel: +91-11-25653207/25653147
SITA: DELKKKB, DELCOKB
INDIA – Kolkata
Druk Air Corporation Ltd
51, Tivoli Court
1A Ballygunge Circular Road
Kolkata
Tel: +91-33-22402419/22805376
Fax: +91-33-22470050
Airport Tel: +91-33-25119976
SITA: CCURRKB
MYANMAR – Yangon
Druk Air Corporation Ltd
C/o Mrs Soe Soewin
Thuriya Tours & Travels, Yangon
Tel: +95-1-524904
Fax: +95-1-525948
Mobile: +95-95002776
NEPAL – Kathmandu
Druk Air Corporation Ltd
Malla Treks (P) Ltd
P.O. Box 5227
Leknath Marg, Kathmandu
Tel: +977-1-4410089/4423145
Fax: +977-1- 4423143/4471712
THAILAND – Bangkok
Druk Air Corporation Ltd
Room # 3237, Central Block
International Airport, Bangkok
Tel: +66-2-5351960/5354901
Fax: +66-2-5353661
SITA: BKKKKB
National Airline "Druk Air" operates New Delhi & Kolkata in India, Kathmandu - Nepal and Bangkok - Thailand. There is flight from Paro to Bangkok via Kolkata and Bangkok to Paro via Kolkata every day and there is flight from Delhi to Paro via Kathmandu on Monday, Thursday & Saturday and Paro to Delhi via Kathmandu on Wednesday, Friday & Sunday and flying back the same. We are authorized GSA for Druk Air we will do ticketing for Bhutan portion but rest we are not authorized so you may have to handle by yourself.
Flight Schedule and Read More
Druk Air Addresses:
BANGLADESH – Dhaka
Druk Air Corporation Ltd
Mams Travels & Tours Ltd
33, Gulshan Ave, Road-45
Gulshan-2, Dhaka-1212
Tel: +880-2-9862243/9892862/9890802
Fax: +880-2-8828439
BHUTAN – Paro
Druk Air Corporation Ltd
Nemizampa, Paro
Tel: +975-8-271856 to 58/271860
Fax: +975-8-271861
SITA: QJCRPKB
BHUTAN – Thimphu
Druk Air Corporation Ltd
P.O. Box 209, Thimphu
Tel: +975-2-322215/323420/322825/321754
Fax: +975-2-322775
SITA: QJCRRRKB
INDIA – New Delhi
Druk Air Corporation Ltd
City Office: Ansal Bhawan Building
G Floor-3, 16 KG Marg
Connaught Place, New Delhi - 110001
Tel: +91-11-23357703/23357704
Fax: +91-11-23357768
Airport Tel: +91-11-25653207/25653147
SITA: DELKKKB, DELCOKB
INDIA – Kolkata
Druk Air Corporation Ltd
51, Tivoli Court
1A Ballygunge Circular Road
Kolkata
Tel: +91-33-22402419/22805376
Fax: +91-33-22470050
Airport Tel: +91-33-25119976
SITA: CCURRKB
MYANMAR – Yangon
Druk Air Corporation Ltd
C/o Mrs Soe Soewin
Thuriya Tours & Travels, Yangon
Tel: +95-1-524904
Fax: +95-1-525948
Mobile: +95-95002776
NEPAL – Kathmandu
Druk Air Corporation Ltd
Malla Treks (P) Ltd
P.O. Box 5227
Leknath Marg, Kathmandu
Tel: +977-1-4410089/4423145
Fax: +977-1- 4423143/4471712
THAILAND – Bangkok
Druk Air Corporation Ltd
Room # 3237, Central Block
International Airport, Bangkok
Tel: +66-2-5351960/5354901
Fax: +66-2-5353661
SITA: BKKKKB
Travel Information's
We would firstly like to make sure about the Tourism regulations in Bhutan, we are sure you are aware that Tourism in Bhutan is fully regulated by the Govt. and they had set fixed daily tariffs per person on night halt basis for two different seasons which are classified as follows:
Peak Season Rates (Till 31st December 2011):
For The Months Of January, February, March, April, May, June - September, October, November, December.
US$200 per person per day for 3 or more in a group
US$230 per person per day for 2 in a group
US$240 per day for a single individual
Off Season Rates (Till 31st December 2011):
For The Months Of July and August.
US$165 per person per day for 3 or more in a group
US$195 per person per day for 2 in a group
US$205 per day for a single individual
Peak Season Rates (From 1st January 2012):
For The Months Of January, February, March, April, May, June - September, October, November, December.
US$ 250 per person per day for 3 or more in a group
US$ 280 person per day for 2 in a group
US$ 290 day for a single individual
Off Season Rates (From 1st January 2012):
For The Months Of July and August.
US$ 200 person per day for 3 or more in a group
US$ 125 person per day for 2 in a group
US$ 245 day for a single individual
These rates include government mandated surcharge of US$40 per day for one person and US$30 per day per person for a group of two.
You get a lot more for your money in Bhutan!
Cancellation Policy
Tour Payment:
100% Refund if tour canceled within 95 Days from the start of the tour.
50% Refund if tour canceled within 65 Days from the start of the tour.
25% Refund if tour canceled within 45 Days from the start of the tour.
No Refund if tour canceled less than 30 Days from the start of the tour.
Airfare:
100% Refund if Air Ticket canceled within 5 Days from the start of the tour.
50% Refund Air Fare canceled within 65 Days from the start of the tour.
25% Refund Air Fare canceled within 30 Days from the start of the tour.
No Refund for Tickets canceled less than 30 Days from the start of the tour.
The above price does not include round trip airfare on National Airline Druk-Air.
Here’s what’s Included!
While on Cultural Tour:
* Imported Car with Driver
* Fluent English Speaking Cultural Guide
* All Accommodations
* All Three Meals with evening tea
* Museum Fees
* Road Permit / Special Permits to enter old monasteries
While on Trekking Tour:
· The North Face Sleeping Bag
· The Thermarest Air Mattress
· The 2 men sleeping Tent
· Dining Tent
· Kitchen Tent
· Shower Tent
· Toilet Tent
· Handy Shower
· Comfort Chair
· Table
· Geographic Positioning System (GPS)
· Satellite Phone
· Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC)
· Walkie Talkie
· Leki Poles
· Ice Axe
· Hot Water Bag
· Drinking Water Bottle
· Trekking Cook & Waiter
· Trekking Horses to carry trek goods and luggage
Here’s what’s NOT Included!
USD 20 as Visa Fee
Laundry
Alcohol / Beverages
International Telephone Calls / Internet
Souvenirs/ Gifts
Tips for Guide / Driver / Trekking Team
Round trip Air fare Bhutan Rock Climbing
The rates quoted above are set by the Royal Government of Bhutan. Any other rates seen advertised is illegal. Many tour operators think they have to “undercut” prices that the government has set in order to compete. This inevitably leads to poor customer service as tour operators herd as many guests as they can in large groups, and put their guests in sub-standard hotels to cut expenses and hire unqualified guides to haul you around.
Accommodations:
The costs of all accommodations are included in tour costs. In the major towns of Thimphu, Paro, and Phuentsholing, comfortable hotels are available for the visitor. In smaller towns, modest, but adequate, hotels, lodges and guest houses are readily available. We will ensure that the best available accommodations are arranged for you. The Department of Tourism (formerly known as Tourism Authority of Bhutan: TAB) regulates hotel standards and all travel regulations in Bhutan.
Food and Drink:
Traditional Bhutanese food is hot and spicy. For our visitors, however, Chinese, Indian, and Continental fares are served. The more adventurous can try the local delicacies like the tasty and fiery the national dish of Bhutan, Emma Datshi which is made with chilies and Local Bhutanese cheese. Meals are normally served buffet style in the hotels. On trekking tours a trained cook will accompany your group to provide simple but nutritious dishes. All meals while you trek or visit in Bhutan are also included in the daily tour cost. Other services include trekking arrangements. Your only extra expenses will be, liquor, laundry, souvenirs and tips if you choose.
Ground Transport:
Again, all ground transportation is already included in your daily tariff. We use only clean, comfortable and well maintained cars, vans and coaches to transport our guests. Our experienced drivers are trained and licensed by the DOT and the Road Safety and Transport Authority. You will be at ease riding in the mountains of Bhutan unlike the experiences you will have had in Nepal and India. Sanity on the road prevails, and drivers are courteous to each other.
Guides:
Guests of the kingdom are required to have guide accompaniment throughout their stay in Bhutan. You will have a very fluent English speaking guide and driver at your disposal at all times. This is not to say you have to have your hand held everywhere you go. We are very accommodating and we can be flexible. Our guides have all been trained and licensed by the DOT (Department of Tourism). Our trekking guides and cooks undergo additional mountain training, including safety and first aid. None of our guests have ever needed a rescue, but we have helped lost trekkers from other tour agencies get out of the high passes safely. We have been successfully leading groups through the Bhutan highlands ever since tourism was privatized.
Tourist Seasons:
A visit to Bhutan can be planned anytime of the year but the best period is from mid September to November and March to June. There are many festivals during these months, and visitors should take advantage of trekking and the Tsechu (Festival). Most hotels sell out during this time and it is important for us to plan in advance if you want to attend.
Contact us if you have any questions regarding the tour costs. The daily rate may sound high at first, but remember that this includes all your accommodations, meals, guided tours, and all ground transportation in Bhutan, museums fees.
Travel Visa Application:
Tourist Visas: Your visa has to be approved prior to air ticketing and your arrival in Bhutan. Once you are ready to confirm your tour arrangements we will apply for your visas. We will need all of the following details.
01: Your full name (EXACTLY as it appears in your passport)
02: Permanent address
03: Occupation
04: Nationality
05: Passport number
06: Date of issue and expiration of passport
07: Date and place of birth
08: Telephone Nos
Your Bhutan visa will be stamped in your passport only when you arrive in Bhutan. Bhutan Visa Fees of US$ 20 which you need to wire together with your Airline and Tour Payment to Bhutan Historic tour in advance to process your Bhutan Visa and purchase Druk Air tickets.
Peak Season Rates (Till 31st December 2011):
For The Months Of January, February, March, April, May, June - September, October, November, December.
US$200 per person per day for 3 or more in a group
US$230 per person per day for 2 in a group
US$240 per day for a single individual
Off Season Rates (Till 31st December 2011):
For The Months Of July and August.
US$165 per person per day for 3 or more in a group
US$195 per person per day for 2 in a group
US$205 per day for a single individual
Peak Season Rates (From 1st January 2012):
For The Months Of January, February, March, April, May, June - September, October, November, December.
US$ 250 per person per day for 3 or more in a group
US$ 280 person per day for 2 in a group
US$ 290 day for a single individual
Off Season Rates (From 1st January 2012):
For The Months Of July and August.
US$ 200 person per day for 3 or more in a group
US$ 125 person per day for 2 in a group
US$ 245 day for a single individual
These rates include government mandated surcharge of US$40 per day for one person and US$30 per day per person for a group of two.
You get a lot more for your money in Bhutan!
Cancellation Policy
Tour Payment:
100% Refund if tour canceled within 95 Days from the start of the tour.
50% Refund if tour canceled within 65 Days from the start of the tour.
25% Refund if tour canceled within 45 Days from the start of the tour.
No Refund if tour canceled less than 30 Days from the start of the tour.
Airfare:
100% Refund if Air Ticket canceled within 5 Days from the start of the tour.
50% Refund Air Fare canceled within 65 Days from the start of the tour.
25% Refund Air Fare canceled within 30 Days from the start of the tour.
No Refund for Tickets canceled less than 30 Days from the start of the tour.
The above price does not include round trip airfare on National Airline Druk-Air.
Here’s what’s Included!
While on Cultural Tour:
* Imported Car with Driver
* Fluent English Speaking Cultural Guide
* All Accommodations
* All Three Meals with evening tea
* Museum Fees
* Road Permit / Special Permits to enter old monasteries
While on Trekking Tour:
· The North Face Sleeping Bag
· The Thermarest Air Mattress
· The 2 men sleeping Tent
· Dining Tent
· Kitchen Tent
· Shower Tent
· Toilet Tent
· Handy Shower
· Comfort Chair
· Table
· Geographic Positioning System (GPS)
· Satellite Phone
· Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC)
· Walkie Talkie
· Leki Poles
· Ice Axe
· Hot Water Bag
· Drinking Water Bottle
· Trekking Cook & Waiter
· Trekking Horses to carry trek goods and luggage
Here’s what’s NOT Included!
USD 20 as Visa Fee
Laundry
Alcohol / Beverages
International Telephone Calls / Internet
Souvenirs/ Gifts
Tips for Guide / Driver / Trekking Team
Round trip Air fare Bhutan Rock Climbing
The rates quoted above are set by the Royal Government of Bhutan. Any other rates seen advertised is illegal. Many tour operators think they have to “undercut” prices that the government has set in order to compete. This inevitably leads to poor customer service as tour operators herd as many guests as they can in large groups, and put their guests in sub-standard hotels to cut expenses and hire unqualified guides to haul you around.
Accommodations:
The costs of all accommodations are included in tour costs. In the major towns of Thimphu, Paro, and Phuentsholing, comfortable hotels are available for the visitor. In smaller towns, modest, but adequate, hotels, lodges and guest houses are readily available. We will ensure that the best available accommodations are arranged for you. The Department of Tourism (formerly known as Tourism Authority of Bhutan: TAB) regulates hotel standards and all travel regulations in Bhutan.
Food and Drink:
Traditional Bhutanese food is hot and spicy. For our visitors, however, Chinese, Indian, and Continental fares are served. The more adventurous can try the local delicacies like the tasty and fiery the national dish of Bhutan, Emma Datshi which is made with chilies and Local Bhutanese cheese. Meals are normally served buffet style in the hotels. On trekking tours a trained cook will accompany your group to provide simple but nutritious dishes. All meals while you trek or visit in Bhutan are also included in the daily tour cost. Other services include trekking arrangements. Your only extra expenses will be, liquor, laundry, souvenirs and tips if you choose.
Ground Transport:
Again, all ground transportation is already included in your daily tariff. We use only clean, comfortable and well maintained cars, vans and coaches to transport our guests. Our experienced drivers are trained and licensed by the DOT and the Road Safety and Transport Authority. You will be at ease riding in the mountains of Bhutan unlike the experiences you will have had in Nepal and India. Sanity on the road prevails, and drivers are courteous to each other.
Guides:
Guests of the kingdom are required to have guide accompaniment throughout their stay in Bhutan. You will have a very fluent English speaking guide and driver at your disposal at all times. This is not to say you have to have your hand held everywhere you go. We are very accommodating and we can be flexible. Our guides have all been trained and licensed by the DOT (Department of Tourism). Our trekking guides and cooks undergo additional mountain training, including safety and first aid. None of our guests have ever needed a rescue, but we have helped lost trekkers from other tour agencies get out of the high passes safely. We have been successfully leading groups through the Bhutan highlands ever since tourism was privatized.
Tourist Seasons:
A visit to Bhutan can be planned anytime of the year but the best period is from mid September to November and March to June. There are many festivals during these months, and visitors should take advantage of trekking and the Tsechu (Festival). Most hotels sell out during this time and it is important for us to plan in advance if you want to attend.
Contact us if you have any questions regarding the tour costs. The daily rate may sound high at first, but remember that this includes all your accommodations, meals, guided tours, and all ground transportation in Bhutan, museums fees.
Travel Visa Application:
Tourist Visas: Your visa has to be approved prior to air ticketing and your arrival in Bhutan. Once you are ready to confirm your tour arrangements we will apply for your visas. We will need all of the following details.
01: Your full name (EXACTLY as it appears in your passport)
02: Permanent address
03: Occupation
04: Nationality
05: Passport number
06: Date of issue and expiration of passport
07: Date and place of birth
08: Telephone Nos
Your Bhutan visa will be stamped in your passport only when you arrive in Bhutan. Bhutan Visa Fees of US$ 20 which you need to wire together with your Airline and Tour Payment to Bhutan Historic tour in advance to process your Bhutan Visa and purchase Druk Air tickets.
Trongsa Dzong
Trongsa DzongThe Trongsa Dzong was the ancestral home of the ruling dynasty. It is also the district administration office of the Trongsa district. It was built in 1648 A.D. The landscape around Trongsa is spectacular, and for miles on end the Dzong seems to tease you so that you wonder if you will ever reach it. Backing on to the mountain and built on several levels, the Dzong fits narrowly on a spur that sticks out into the gorge of the Mangde River and overlooks the routes south and west. The view from the Dzong extends for many kilometers and in former times nothing could escape the vigilance of its watchmen. Furthermore, the Dzong is built in such a way that in the old days, no matter what direction a traveler came from, he was obliged to pass by the Dzong. This helped to augment its importance as it thus had complete control over all east-west traffic. The Ta-Dzong, an ancient Watch Tower of the Trongsa Dzong is located on top of a steep hill about 1 km beyond the Trongsa Dzong. The watch tower displays many interesting armors used by the Bhutanese soldiers during the olden days.
Jun 10, 2009
Jun 9, 2009
Wangdue Phodrang Dzong
WANGDUE PHODRANG DZONGThe Wangdue Phodrang Dzong was built in 1638 which dominates the district. The name is said to have been given by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal who was searching for the best location for a dzong to prevent incursions from the south. At the chosen spot the Shabdrung encountered a boy named Wangdi playing beside the river and hence named the dzong "Wangdi's Palace".
Jun 8, 2009
Paro Rinpung Dzong
PARO RINPUNG DZONGParo Rinpung Dzong is a large Drukpa Kagyu Buddhist monastery and fortress in Paro District in Bhutan. It houses the district Monastic Body and government administrative offices of Paro Dzongkhag.
In the fifteenth century local people offered the crag of Hungrel at Paro to Lama Drung Drung Gyal, a descendant of Pajo Drugom Zhigpo. Drung Drung Gyal built a small temple there and later a five storied Dzong or fortress which was known as Hungrel Dzong.
In the seventeenth century, his descendants, the lords of Hungrel, offered this fortress to the Drukpa heirarch Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, in recognition of his religious and temporal authority. In 1644 the Shabdrung dismantled the existing Dzong and laid the foundations of a new Dzong. In 1646 the Dzong was reconsecrated and established as the administrative and monastic center of the western region and it became known as Rinpung Dzong.
A great annual festival or tsechu is held at Rinpung Dzong from the eleventh to the fifteenth day of the second month of the traditional Bhutanese Lunar Calander. At the break of dawn on the morning of the fifteenth day, a great sacred Tongdrol banner depicting the Eight Manifestations of Guru Rinpoche is displayed for the public.
In the fifteenth century local people offered the crag of Hungrel at Paro to Lama Drung Drung Gyal, a descendant of Pajo Drugom Zhigpo. Drung Drung Gyal built a small temple there and later a five storied Dzong or fortress which was known as Hungrel Dzong.
In the seventeenth century, his descendants, the lords of Hungrel, offered this fortress to the Drukpa heirarch Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, in recognition of his religious and temporal authority. In 1644 the Shabdrung dismantled the existing Dzong and laid the foundations of a new Dzong. In 1646 the Dzong was reconsecrated and established as the administrative and monastic center of the western region and it became known as Rinpung Dzong.
A great annual festival or tsechu is held at Rinpung Dzong from the eleventh to the fifteenth day of the second month of the traditional Bhutanese Lunar Calander. At the break of dawn on the morning of the fifteenth day, a great sacred Tongdrol banner depicting the Eight Manifestations of Guru Rinpoche is displayed for the public.
Punakha Dzong
Punakha Dzong was constructed by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1637-38. It is the winter home of Bhutan's Central Monastic Body led by HH the Je Khenpo. The Dzong houses the most sacred relics of the Southern Drukpa Kagyu School including the Rangjung Kasarpani, and the sacred remains of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and Terton Padma Lingpa. In 1907, Punakha Dzong was the site of the coronation of Ugyen Wangchuck (or Deb Nagpo) as the first King of Bhutan. In 1987, the dzong was partially destroyed by fire.
Due to its location at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers in the Punakha-Wangdue valley, the Dzong is vulnerable to flash flooding caused by glacier lakes (GLOF). According to a recent report, flash flood damage to Punakha Dzong occurred in 1957, 1960 and 1994.
A covered wooden cantilever bridge crossing the Mo Chhu River was built together with the Dzong in the 17th century. This bridge was washed away by a flash flood in 1957 or 1958. In 2006 work started on a new covered wooden cantilever bridge of traditional construction with a free span of 55 meters which was completed in 2008.
Due to its location at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers in the Punakha-Wangdue valley, the Dzong is vulnerable to flash flooding caused by glacier lakes (GLOF). According to a recent report, flash flood damage to Punakha Dzong occurred in 1957, 1960 and 1994.
A covered wooden cantilever bridge crossing the Mo Chhu River was built together with the Dzong in the 17th century. This bridge was washed away by a flash flood in 1957 or 1958. In 2006 work started on a new covered wooden cantilever bridge of traditional construction with a free span of 55 meters which was completed in 2008.
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