Customer Reviews

Bhutan: Himalayan Mountain Kingdom, Fifth Edition (Odyssey Illustrated Guides)

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I have traveled extensively in the Far East, but have never before to Bhutan, until now (2007). I always like to read up on places before I visit them and generally travel as independently as reasonably possible.
I purchased both this book and the Lonely Planet guide and found the combination excellent. This book has more about the places, the people and their customs and the history. Don't expect it to be a comprehensive list of places to stay and places to eat. It contrasts well with Lonely Planet's backpacker's reference book image.
I think this is a good book and doubt whether you will be disappointed if you buy it.

This guidebook to Bhutan was not at all helpful. It is filled with tiny details which may be of interest to the devotee, but gives the average traveler very limited background. You can read about the many different kinds of chortens, for example, but you will find the discussion of Tantric Buddhism in general perplexing. The maps are not good, and no attempt is made to separate the spectacular (such as the Punakha Dzong) from the mundane (such as the Thimpu Dzong). The information on trekking is very limited and dated. Get the Lonely Planet guide, along with the Bart Jordan book on trekking-if you intend to do a trek. Bhutan is a very expensive country to visit, and you should have a better guide in hand before your visit.

This book was terrific reading preparing for my visit to Bhutan. Beautiful pictures, interesting copy. Of course, if doesn't cover so e of the more hidden aspects of Bhutan that are kept well hidden from visitors due to strict controls and mandatory guides, but a magical fantasy nonetheless.