Hidden Bhutan

‘… it’s refreshing to read a travel book that simply tells you what a place is like. Martin Uitz realises that it’s forever-fascinating Bhutan that we want to read about … [an] erudite account of everyday life in Bhutan.’
Wanderlust

‘The book stands out as a unique and comprehensive survey of Bhutanese history and as such is a must-have for any researcher of the country.’
Choice Magazine

‘The book itself is an enormous contribution to knowledge.’
Oxford Today

‘A mind-opening account and an absolutely fascinating read.’
Nigel Collett

It was only in the 1960s that the first road linking the Kingdom of Thunder Dragon with India was opened, and since 1974 only a strictly limited number of tourists have been allowed to visit each year. Martin Uitz describes how the Bhutanese are edging cautiously toward a more modern future, including a constitution and democracy, whilst preserving their traditional society and attempting to conserve the environment. He explains why the only traffic light in Bhutan was taken out of service, why six men are not allowed to go on a journey together, and what the subtle eroticism of a traditional hot-stone bath is all about.

MARTIN UITZ died on 13 January 2007 aged 54 unexpectedly of heart failure while trekking the Nepalese Himalayas in the presence of his wife Renee. She said: ‘We are grateful that he quit this life peacefully and without pain, accompanied by the sounds of Buddhist prayers amidst his well-loved mountains. His whole life Martin was a traveller between many worlds and has taught us to encounter the world with curiosity, tolerance and compassion.

NATHANIEL MCBRIDE is a writer and translator who lives in London.