“Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before.”
- DALAI LAMA
Known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, Bhutan is the world’s last surviving Himalayan Buddhist kingdom of lofty peaks and spectacular monasteries, slowly steering its way into the modern world, while keeping its traditional culture intact.
A place of ancient monasteries, fluttering prayer flags and staggering natural beauty, a journey through Bhutan will take you through the last great undestroyed forests of the Himalayas, over high mountain passes and to some of the most biologically diverse national-parks in the world. The dramatic, cliff-hugging Tiger’s Nest is one of many white-walled monasteries that overlook yawning valleys that burst into bloom with wildflowers in spring. The hospitable Bhutanese revel in showing you their deeply Buddhist and fiercely-protected, traditional way of life. Bhutan is not an ordinary place. Its focus on peacefulness has led to a certain magical aura, that is palpable as soon as you land here.
No traffic lights, no aggression – only a buoyant, positive attitude that is at once uplifting and calming. Here Gross National Happiness is constitutionally defined as more important than GDP. Since well-being should take preference over material growth, it is no surprise that Bhutan has enthusiastically embraced sustainable development and environment-friendly technology - a model for the modern world. A trip to Bhutan offers scenic drives and treks, mystical monasteries, vibrant festivals, archery competitions, art treasures, museums and cultural interactions. All these immersive experiences will help you get an insight into life in this mysterious land and maybe, just maybe, unlock the elusive secret to happiness!
HIGHLIGHTS
PARO
Paro, home to Bhutan’s sole international airport, is a historical town with many sacred sites – temples, monasteries (dzongs) and historical buildings scattered throughout the area. Paro Dzong is a high-point of Bhutanese architecture. The National Museum houses impressive, old Thangkas (religious paintings) as well as traditional masks. The most widely recognized, iconic monastery of Bhutan – Tiger’s Nest – perched precariously on a cliff top, is located just outside of Paro and is completely worth the three hour climb up the steep mountain-side to enjoy its culture, art and the (literally) breathtaking views.
PUNAKHA
The drive from Thimphu to Punakha takes you through the beautiful pass at Dochu La, where you have amazing views of the highest mountains in Bhutan. Drive by lush paddy fields and the “phallic” village of Sopsokha. The phallic saga continues at Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of fertility nearby. The Punakha Dzong is arguably the most beautiful dzong in the country, especially in spring when the lilac-coloured jacaranda trees bring a lush sensuality to the dzong's characteristically towering whitewashed walls.
THIMPHU
The capital of Bhutan, Thimphu is known for the Trashi Chho Dzong, the main monastery which hosts its annual “tsechu” or festival, the Changankha Lhakhang – the fine Buddhist temple which hums with pilgrim activity, its bustling weekend market, its textile-weaving center as well as its beautiful art institute, where Bhutan’s traditional arts like painting, wood-carving, embroidery and statue-making are taught. A photographer’s delight!
