King of Bhutan welcomes Dutch royals to his homeland

October 28, 2007Oct 28, 2007, 11:00 PM GMT

The jet-setting pair were in the country at the invitation of its king, 27-year-old Jigme Kesar Namgyal Wangchuck.

Treated to a warm welcome from officials at the kingdom's only airport, the husband and wife team then attended a spectacular reception hosted by the Oxford-educated monarch in their honour at his official residence of Dechenchoeling Palace.

Nestled between India and China in the Himalayas, Bhutan comprises a diverse terrain, ranging from icy mountain peaks in the north to subtropical plains in the south. One of the world's most isolated nations, its very remoteness has helped ensure the preservation of its vibrant cultural identity.

During their visit Willem and Maxima explored one of the Buddhist country's 2,000 monasteries, visited an institute for traditional medicine and met with some local youngsters.

Also known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, the country is a mecca for trekkers and nature lovers, who are drawn by its vast forests and rare flora and fauna. And the country's capital is equally fascinating. Planning regulations require all buildings to follow traditional designs, while the city also boasts several colourful festivals, including a popular masked-dance one at the end of summer.

Willem-Alexander and Maxima touch down at the country's only airport at the start of their three-day visit to the remote Himalayan kingdom

The royal couple visit one of the predominantly Buddhist kingdom's 2,000 monasteries

They were invited to the country by its young monarch, whom they met in Thailand last year

King Jigme Kesar Namgyal Wangchuck greets his Dutch guests

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