Bhutan or "Land of the Thunder Dragon" is nestled
on the slopes of the eastern Himalayas and is the only surviving
Buddhist kingdom in the Himalayan region. It is a small
country, surrounded by Tibet and India, with a population
of just over one million. Remaining untouched by foreign
influences, until it was opened to the outside world in
the 1960's, has allowed its traditional culture, dress,
religion and way of life to remain unspoilt. Its stunning
natural scenery, vibrant culture, mystical religion and
charming people, makes Bhutan a truly exceptional place
to visit.
"Roof of the World, Land of Snows or Shangrila"
- however you describe the Buddhist Kingdom of Tibet, it
has always held the outsiders fascination. Locked away deep
in the mighty Himalayas, it offers fabulous monastries,
stunning views of the worlds highest mountains and follows
the old pilgrimage route overland to Nepal.
Nepal is a country of vivid contrasts, from tropical plains
and ice capped mountain peaks, to fertile valleys and rushing
streams, to colourful festivals and tranquil meditation.
Trekking through the Annapurnas; white water rafting on
the Trisuli River; elephant riding in Chitwan National Park,
searching for the elusive Bengal Tiger; happy and friendly
people; plenty of shopping plus a nice relaxed atmosphere,
are just some of the memorable experiences to be enjoyed.
Nepal is a country of vivid contrasts, from
tropical plains and ice capped mountain peaks, to fertile
valleys and rushing streams, colourful festivals and tranquil
meditation. Its 16 million people celebrate life and faith
the year round. Festival upon colourful festival, salutes
Nepals living Gods and Goddesses, the rains and the harvests.
Nepal is an ancient Kingdom, ruled by a modern monarch and
a democratic Government and is a mixture of 2 of the worlds
great religions - Hinduism and Buddhism. Though small in
area, Nepal has one of the worlds most diverse peoples and
landscapes and is truly a country of spectacle and beauty.
There are few countries on earth with the
enormous variety that India has to offer. Its landscape
ranges from the mighty Himalayas; to the endless plains
of India; to beautiful, palm lined beaches. Its vibrant,
colourful people offer such a variety, that it is fascinating
to simply just watch and observe.
Pushkar is a small town located in the Indian state of
Rajasthan, and is one of the holiest Hindu sites in India.
It’s sacred lake is dedicated to Brahma, the Lord of Creation,
and is surrounded by bathing ghats and innumerable temples.
These temples are home to the Sadhus, who are people who
have renounced all wordly possessions and roam India seeking
enlightenment. Once a year, during the full moon in November,
Pushkar is transformed into the worlds biggest camel and
cattle fair. This fair is predominantly a rural gathering,
with thousands of the colourful and friendly Rajasthani
villagers attending. During the day, camels are raced, paraded,
bought and sold, whilst at night, the desert air is filled
with the sounds of the distinctive Rajasthani folk music.
Bali is much more than just sun, surf and
shopping. It has a rich culture with fine temples, magnificent
scenery, active volcanoes, crater lakes, hot thermal springs,
mountains, lush tropical forests, rice paddies plus a warm,
friendly people, making Bali an ideal place to visit.
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