Bhutan has long been that idealized Kingdom where life changed little and people liked it that way.  That romanticized notion may be a fading mirage. A recent feature in the Wall Street Journal suggests that some officials would like to see more foreign investment and conventional development.  Two new airports, another airline, more hotels and local branches of foreign universities all seem to be in the plans for this decade and possibly the next two years. Those of us who find the existing simple hotels quite adequate and the absence of extensive roads and air services part of the charm are concerned. Especially, since the inevitable impacts of climate change, glacial melting  and disruptive weather are making it a challenge to maintain Gross National Happiness under the present simplified  infrastructure. Recent floods wiped out extensive wetland habitat utilized by the rare Black-necked Cranes contributing to a continuing population decline of this object of local and tourist veneration.

It may not be fair for residents of over developed nations to make judgments about how other countries should shun modern technologies and conveniences. If nothing else the message you might take from these events is that if you have not seen and experienced the wonders of Bhutan personally, you should visit soon. We can help.

JOURNEYS’ Wild Himalaya trip Nov 2-23, 2008, will include the first trek ever permitted in a wild region of eastern Bhutan.  JOURNEYS received special permission from the Bhutan Department of Tourism to travel with a small group of nature tourists from Buli near Shemgang to Mongar in the extensive virgin broadleaf forest of southeastern Bhutan just north of the Manas area. Rare species such as tiger,clouded leopard,  golden langur and more than 400 species of birds are believed to occur in the area. The full trip itinerary includes prime wildlife sanctuaries in Nepal, Bhutan and Assam, India. The trip is limited to 10 participants and as of this writing four spaces remain.  Call 1-800-255-8735 for detailed itinerary, cost and availability. details.

If you time your trip correctly you can visit Bhutan during the perfect October interval for good weather, great mountain views and a chance to see three or four of the spectacular Tsechus or annual Buddhist Temple festivals. Unfortunately, the limited air space into Bhutan during this period is now almost sold out. If you are interested in, for example, the JOURNEYS Bhutan Temple Festivals trip, call us very soon 1-800-255-8735.