Synopses & Reviews
Shoe-horned into the Grand Himalayas, Bhutan--Land of the Peaceful Thunder Dragon--is a fiercely independent kingdom that celebrated its centenary in 2008. Isolated, charming, peaceful, and religious, the Bhutanese are a pragmatic, sensitive people who take from the West what will benefit their country and leave the rest. The countryside is pristine, the lifestyle and culture have been preserved for centuries, and the love of life is abundant among the people. Few outsiders know Bhutan as intimately as Françoise Pommaret.
Includes:
- Passionate introduction to Bhutanese culture and history by resident author--the world's leading expert on Bhutan
- Literary extracts with an historical perspective
- Trekking and mountaineering in this spectacular kingdom
- National symbols of Bhutan, ceremonial scarves, the Dzongkha language, chortens and mandalas
- Archery and other national sports, plus much more
Review
"Colorful, practical guide, well illustrated with many astonishing photographs. Provides an in-depth general introduction to this kingdom's history, culture and ecology, with a comprehensive itinerary ranging from the major cities to the remotest monasteries. (Traveller)"
Synopsis
- Updated by the world's leading expert on Bhutan who has many years' experience visiting and working in this cherished kingdom
- Essential facts for the visitor including what to bring, how to book, visas, customs, climate, health and money
- In-depth treatment of each region of the kingdom; what to see, its history and significance
- Invaluable guide to trekking and mountaineering
- Special excerpts include: national symbols of Bhutan, archery and other sports, ceremonial scarves, the Dzongkha language, chortens and mandalas
- Literary extracts add an historical perspective
Synopsis
"The bible of Bhutan guide books."--Travel & Leisure
About the Author
Bhutan resident Françoise Pommaret is a French ethno-historian and Director of Research at the National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), Paris on secondment to the Royal University of Bhutan.