Bhutan goes Bollywood

Source: India Today
By Saurabh Shukla

The coronation of Bhutan’s new King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk next month will feature a surprisingly varied cast from India.

jigme Kheser Namgyel Wangchuck
King Jigme Kheser Namgyel Wangchuck

Led by chief guest President Pratibha Patil, a power-packed delegation comprising not merely top political honchos but also Shah Rukh Khan will travel to Thimpu. The Indian delegation will manage a double act of cementing ties with Bhutan and entertaining the new king.

The crowning of Wangchuk, 29, who is world’s youngest king, will be a special affair with lots of colour and fanfare. While UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi is a special invitee, Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi is also expected to be there along with External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee. Continue reading Bhutan goes Bollywood

Old trail in Bhutan to be restored for tourists

Source: kuenselonline.com
By Nima Wangdi

23 September, 2008 – A beaten trail, that passed through Ura to Gayzamchu in Bumthang, was once trodden by villagers from the east to transport goods offered as taxes to local chieftains resident in Bumthang, Trongsa, and Punakha. In the ‘50s, the people of Ura used the path as a mule track to barter butter, betel nuts, and clothes.

When the lateral highway emerged, about four decades ago, the path was used only by occasional mushroom collectors and cattle herders.

Today, the diverse ecosystem along the trail, including mushrooms like Matsutake growing under the pines, and different animal and bird species of the region, will change the purpose of the trail altogether. Continue reading Old trail in Bhutan to be restored for tourists