Trek to kingdom in Bhutan

The hermetic kingdom of Bhutan, which has a population of just 700,000, is regarded with reverence by discerning travellers in search of spiritual fulfilment. It is also the only country in the world that measures its progress not in terms of Gross Domestic Product but by the level of happiness of its citizens, or “Gross National Happiness”. Until 1972 outsiders weren’t even allowed into Bhutan. Unlike neighbouring Nepal, which was quickly overrun with backpackers as soon as it threw open its borders, the kingdom has maintained a cautious and high-end approach to tourism. Travellers are required to obtain visas and book with an authorized tour operator (independent travel is not permitted), and they must pay a daily fee of up to $200, which covers guides, transport and basic accommodation. Yet, contrary to popular myth, Bhutan is not as difficult country to visit, and you do not have to be a guest of the royal family to enter. Tour operators such as Abercrombie & Kent include both trekking and cultural trips to their offerings. Intrepid travellers will be rewarded with a land of astonishing beauty that is best discovered on foot. Highlights include Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched precariously on the edge of a 3,000-feet-high cliff In the past couple of years, mountain biking has also taken off here. The king is an avid rider, and is often spotted winding along the valley roads. Last year, a “Tour of the Dragon” race was held, tracing a mountainous path over 267km.