Bhutan

At a Glance

Bhutan is a small Himalayan kingdom that has deliberately limited tourism to protect its environment and culture, resulting in an extraordinary state of preservation, both natural and cultural. The landscape is dominated by dramatic mountain scenery, ancient fortresses called dzongs, and dense forests, and the national philosophy of Gross National Happiness shapes a pace of life that feels intentional and grounded. It is a destination for those who value depth over convenience.

• First country to measure Gross National Happiness as official government policy.
• First carbon-negative country in the world — absorbs more CO₂ than it produces.
• Plastic bags were banned in 1999, a decade before most Western cities considered it.