FROM THE PUBLISHER

On the rooftop of the world, shoe-horned into the Grand Himalayas, Bhutan—or Thunder Dragon—is a fiercely independent kingdom. 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. Only 4,000 tourists will visit the kingdom in any one year and they are strictly monitored by a government that cares deeply for its people, environment and heritage. 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; her guidebook takes you on an incredible journey of discovery and adventure; her love of the people and the place shines through; her in-depth knowledge helps aid our understanding of why this unique land has long remained one of Asia's deepest mysteries and best-kept secrets.

• Extensively revised and updated by the world's leading expert on Bhutan who has many years' experience visiting and working in this amazing kingdom

• Essential facts for the visitor including what to bring, how to book, visas, customs, climate, health and money

• 67 color photographs

• 3 maps

• 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 excerpts add a historical perspective

Author Biography: Tibetologist Françoise Pommaret has traveled extensively in Asia, particularly Bhutan, where she has lived and worked intermittently since 1981. She holds a permanent position as a Research Fellow at the National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) in France, and is also an advisor on a variety of issues to the Bhutanese Education Division and National Commission for Cultural Affairs. She teaches at the School of Oriental Studies (INALCO) in Paris and lectures throughout the world. She is considered the world's leading specialist on Bhutan.

FROM THE CRITICS

Traveller

Colorful,practical guide,well illustrated with many astonishing photographs.

Travel & Leisure