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AROUND THE KINGDOM
Bhutan has three regions that are open to visitors. These three
regions are distinctly different due to the prominent north, south
mountain ranges that separate each area resulting in different topographical
features. Follow the links below for a virtual tour and history
of the regions.
Western
Bhutan: Western Bhutan is comprised of the Haa Valley at
8860ft. (recently opened to limited travel), Paro Valley at 7200ft.,
Thimphu at 7500ft. the Punakha Valley and Wangdue Phodrang at 4200ft.,
separated by high passes or "La's": Cheli La (3988m, 13,084ft.),
Dochu La (3050m, 10,007ft.), Pele La (3300m, 10,825ft., separates
Western from Central). Western Bhutan is known for its stunning
scenery with rice paddies and orchards cascading down magnificent
mountains, the pristine rivers that flow through the main towns
of Paro, Thimphu and Punakha, and unique two-story houses with brightly
painted window designs.
Central
Bhutan:
The Black Mountains separate Western Bhutan from Central Bhutan.
This region includes Trongsa and the rich broad valleys of Bumthang
including Chumey, Choekhor, Tang and Ura valleys. The passes crossed
are Yotang La (3400m, 11,155ft.) Shertang La (3573m, 11,723ft) and
Thrumshing La (3800m, 12,465ft.). Central Bhutan is known for its
buckwheat and apple production, its sturdy stone houses, and its
plethora of monasteries. Its the ideal place for walking due to
its broad valleys and sloping mountains. The beauty of the Bumthang
valleys are legendary.
Eastern
Bhutan:
This region comprises Mongar, Lhuentse, Trashigang and Trashi Yangste.
Sengor Valley separates Central from Eastern Bhutan. After Thrumshing
La, passes crossed are Kori La (2400m), Yongphu La (2190m) and Narphung
La (1698) at much lower altitudes than Western and Central. The
forests dissipate and the altitude is lower. The warmer climate
is suitable for growing corn, rice, wheat, potatoes and surprisingly
lemon grass. Eastern Bhutan is known for its stunning hand-loomed
textiles and the weavers are all masters of the supplementary weft-weave
technique. Eastern Bhutan is the least travelled area of the country
and is where many of the kingdom's most ancient spiritual sights
are found.
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