In autumn 2019 I travelled to the Kingdom of Bhutan. This small land locked country sits between India and China in the eastern Himalayas. My three week trip allowed me to explore both the west and central regions. I was able to experience the nation's ancient Buddhist culture, traditional food and stunning natural landscapes. What really struck me was their passionate commitment to preserve all this. Many have called Bhutan the last Shangri La and it is hard to disagree.

Monks at Rinpung Dzong also known as the Fortress of Heaped Jewels in Paro.

Punakha Dzong known as the Palace of Great Bliss.

Traditional Bhutanese textiles.

Golden buddha at Kuensel phodrang also known as buddha point near Thimphu.

Prayer wheels in Bhutan.

Bin with hand painted message on hike to Tango monastery.

Bhutanese food specialities including chilli cheese and momos.

Tachog Lhakhang iron suspension bridge across the Paro Chu river.

Masked dancers in the Thendralthang courtyard at the Thimphu Tshechu festival.

Photography: © Crimson Rose 2022.