Bhutan

Bhutan is an anomaly in the contemporary world. Unchanged for centuries, this small Himalayan kingdom has remained in relative isolation, its Buddhist traditions and peaceable ways untarnished by outside influence. Only since 1974 have tourists been welcomed, and their numbers remain few. These guests of privilege find a mountain enclave of forests, glacial rivers, pastures dotted with wildflowers and browsing yaks, and ancient monasteries (dzhongs) and temples that have stood for centuries. The wonderful Tigers Nest (see picture) is worth the journey itself.

Home to snow leopards, blue sheep and red pandas, Bhutan’s environment and culture are strictly protected. The result is a rare encounter with a rare land and its people.

One of the most enchanting places any traveller will visit, and I can vouch for that having just returned.