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Bhutan's tiny Himalayan airport is one of the hardest places on Earth to land

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bhutan paro airport monks plane

Bhutan, the tiny Himalayan kingdom tucked between India and China, has but one international airport.

Surrounded by 18,000-foot mountains.

That airport is called "Paro," and like the rest of the mostly Buddhist kingdom, it is nestled among the Himalayas, which make getting there a tricky proposition.

Obviously, however, it's easier to fly in than it is to walk.

Partly due to an unusually short runway, takeoffs and landings are among the world's most difficult, and very few pilots are qualified to land there.

But for those who can get their hands on a tourist visa, and handle their fear, a trip to Paro also offers breathtaking views of some of the world's most beautiful mountains, and one of the only ways to visit one of world's happiest countries.

Bhutan has preserved much of its traditional Buddhist culture, a big draw for the tourists who come from around the world to explore its majestic mountains and centuries-old monasteries. 

[An earlier version of this post was written by Alex Davies.]

The runway is short, with little space on either side.



The Google Maps satellite view shows it is nestled among the Himalayan Mountains.



One Google reviewer says there's one duty free shop and a small beverage counter, but "sweet and hospitable security and one of the most charming airport buildings ever."

[Source: Google Review]



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

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