Trans Bhutan Trail reopens after 60 years

For the first time in the last 60 years, the amazing trail in the Land of the Thunder Dragon will finally be available for visits.

Restored by the Bhutan Canada Foundation, the main donor of the project, the trail is an ancient 250-mile route linking more than 400 iconic historic and cultural sites in the country, 9 districts, 28 local governments, 2 municipalities and an impressive national park. Trans Bhutan Trail also features 18 spectacular bridges and 10,000 stairs. Tourists visiting can either walk or ride mountain bikes along the route.

 Sam Blyth, Bhutan Canada Foundation’s chairman, commented:

 "This is a community-based project in both its building and operation which will restore an ancient cultural icon and provide a sustainable, net carbon zero experience in the country for pilgrims and travellers.

The Trans Bhutan Trail also reflects the country's philosophy of Gross National Happiness and will allow the children of Bhutan to walk in the footsteps of their ancestors."

 According to the BCF’s representatives, tourists could cover the entire trip in one month, but can also choose shorter distances for three days to a week trips. Bordered by the town of Ha in the west near Tibet and Arunachal Pradesh in the east near India, the route offers magnificent views and experiences in what could be one of the most beautiful destinations on the planet.

 Formerly known as a Buddhist pilgrimage route, Trans Bhutan Trail will be inaugurated by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the monarch that actively contributed to the restoration of the sites and the reviving of the trail. The opening ceremony will take place in the Bhutan's sacred city of Trongsa, in March.

 Nevertheless, the Trans Bhutan Trail can be visited only after paying a $250 per day fee for every person. The somewhat prohibitive tax was created in accordance with the "high value, low impact" selective tourism policy of the country in the attempt to avoid over-crowding of the area. The fee includes transport, accommodation, meals, as well as guided tours.

 Moreover, travellers will have to apply for a visiting permit. Applicants are invited to begin necessary formalities starting April.

 As currently the Himalayan kingdom is closed to tourism, spring will come with better news for travellers that have visiting the country on their bucket list, with a full or partial reopening yet to be publicly announced by authorities.

 

 

Source: cnn.com