Situated in the eastern Himalayas, surrounded by powerful neighbours (India and China), Bhutan is for many, Shangri-la, a mythical country hidden in the mountains. Little populated - less than a million inhabitants - and the size of Switzerland, it has an undeniable charm and magic, according to Bhutan aficionados. Farmers for the most part, the Bhutanese practise Tibetan Buddhism, the state religion, which plays an important role in their daily lives. They are justly proud of never having been colonized. Furthermore, to protect local and traditional values, the government exercises a very restrictive policy regarding tourism. This policy shelters Bhutan wisely from the tourist hustle and bustle.

"...Colourful, practical guide, well illustrated with many astonishing photographs. Provides an in-depth general introduction to this kingdom's history, culture and ecology, with a comprehensive itinerary ranging from the major cities to the remotest monasteries. Special sections on selected topics, plus literary excerpts, ncluding J. Claude White on an inter-sex mudfight..." - Traveller "...The bible of Bhutan guidebooks..." - Travel & Leisure "...outstanding..." - Michael Palin, Himalaya"

Tibetologist Francoise Pommaret has travelled extensively in Asia, particularly Bhutan, where she has lived and worked intermittently since 1981. She was a Research Assistant for the Bhutan Tourism Corporation and a History Research Officer in the Department of Education of the Royal Government of Bhutan. She now holds a permanent position as Director of Research at the National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) in France, and is also an advisor on a variety of issues to the Bhutanese Education Division and National Commission for Cultural Affairs. She speaks French, English and Dzongkha, and reads classical Tibetan, and has written numerous academic and general interest articles on different aspects of the culture and history of Bhutan. She teaches at the National Institute of Oriental Languages and Civilisations (INALCO) in Paris and lectures throughout the world. She is considered the world's leading specialist on Bhutan, and resides in Bhutan.