Planet Travel offers trips to Bhutan, the 'last Shangri-la'
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Locals perform at the Tshechus festival that honors Guru Rinpoche, founder of Tibetan Buddhism. |
The dates of festivals vary from place to place, but are held around the 10th day of a month on the lunar calendar. The biggest Tshechus is usually celebrated in April in Paro and in October in Thimphu.
During the event, participants wear their best clothes and jewelry - often made of coral and turquoise - as they enjoy performances such as religious mask dances.
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| City of good karma |
Bhutan is also a paradise for stamp collectors. It is famous for its unique designs including many world firsts such as a 3D stamp, silk stamps and scented stamps. It also released a "talking stamp" in 2006 - a diminutive CD containing documentary videos about the nation.
Travel tips
Because the Bhutan government does not accept individual tourism applications, tourists are required to enter the country through licensed tour operators.
The minimum peak-season price for each tourist is $250 per day, making it among the most expensive holiday destinations in the world. But that includes almost all services such as accommodation, food, transport, guide fees and entrance tickets.
Planet Travel now also offers tailor-made services, making itineraries based on the customer's preferences.
The travel agency suggests that tourists book flight tickets at least three months early due to government restrictions and limited flights by Royal Bhutan Airlines.
Smoking is banned in Bhutan and sales of tobacco products are illegal. Anyone breaking the law will be sentenced to prison for smuggling. The government has also banned exports of timber to protect its forests.
