Bhutan is a small, landlocked country in the eastern Himalayas, bordered by India to the south and China to the north.
With a population of just over 750,000 people, Bhutan is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning mountain landscapes, and unique Gross National Happiness philosophy. Predominantly Buddhist, Bhutan places a strong emphasis on preserving its environment and cultural traditions. The government is committed to sustainable tourism and has implemented policies to protect natural and cultural resources, making it a popular destination for eco-tourists and those seeking an authentic cultural experience.
Mountaineering has been prohibited in Bhutan since 2003 out of respect for the sacred mountains. The highest peak in Bhutan is Gangkhar Puensum, standing at an impressive altitude of 7,570 meters (24,836 feet), and is the highest unclimbed mountain in the world. Although climbing mountains is strictly prohibited, trekking is still allowed, offering visitors opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the country. Some of the popular treks include the Jomolhari Trek and the Snowman Trek, which take visitors through alpine meadows and high mountain passes.
Bhutan’s commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental policies is a global leader. The country has a unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH), which prioritizes sustainable development and the well-being of its citizens over economic growth. As part of this philosophy, Bhutan has implemented various environmental policies, including the prohibition of plastic bags and maintaining a forest cover of 72%.
As mountaineering is prohibited in Bhutan, it can be assumed that skiing is also not allowed in the country. Although there is snow in the mountains and villages, especially in winter, there are no ski resorts in Bhutan, and there is not much evidence of the practice of this sport in the past. If snow conditions permit, ski touring or cross-country skiing could be done on trekking trails, but skiing would be more of a means of transportation rather than a way of descending mountains in this unique country.
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