Discovering the happiness trail in Bhutan

Nestled in the crook of the Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is one of the most exotic and unique destinations in the world. Called the ‘Land of Thunder Dragon’ or ‘Druk Yul’, Bhutan is utterly captivating. The high snow-clad mountains and the lush valleys of Bhutan reverberate with an aura of peace that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Though it is one of the smallest countries in the world, the cultural diversity in Bhutan is astounding. Free of a class system, Bhutanese people adhere to a social code of living, and are fond of festivals, songs and dance. They are open, warm people, with a rich heritage and numerous fantastic traditions. Indeed, even today, the people in Bhutan wear their traditional garb as a mark of respect for their ancient heritage and customs. Men wear ‘gho’, a knee-length robe tied with a belt, while the women wear ‘kira’, an ankle-length dress worn over a blouse and tied with a brooch. Made from exquisite silk, and woven on handlooms, these traditional costumes are great souvenirs to take home. Shopping in Bhutan is fun; original, unique handicrafts and trinkets fill the markets. The price is negotiable; vibrant carpets, turquoise and stone jewellery, bamboo handicrafts, singing bowls, and prayer beads can all be found in Bhutan. Main market days in Thimpu, Bhutan’s capital are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. You can definitely find wonderful treasures browsing through the colourful stalls of local market on these days.

Bhutan is exemplary in many ways. Instead of more material considerations, Bhutanese people value the sublime way of living. They do not subscribe to the belief that amassing wealth leads to true happiness. The country measures its progress by the Gross Happiness Index, instead of the Gross Domestic Index used by most countries. The country has a monarchy, which has willingly given way to democracy. People still revere their monarchs, but have accepted the new political system.

Buddhism is deep-rooted in their psyche and their ethos is admirable. In Bhutan, all life is treated as sacred and pure. People treasure the environment above everything and live in harmony with nature. A spiritual undercurrent runs through the very soil of Bhutan. Monasteries and temples have been built on mountains and abundant spinning wheels, and prayer wheels, dot the landscape. Prayer flags are found everywhere – fluttering on rooftops, mountains, dzongs, temple courtyards, and in front of houses. They are used to invoke blessings from the deities. Given the philosophies with which Bhutanese people lead life, Bhutan is one of the leading countries in terms of ecological conservation and awareness. Bhutan is blessed with abundant natural beauty. It is home to many endangered species of fauna like the red panda, snow leopard and the golden langur. Over 600 varieties of orchids and more than 3000 medicinal plants are found in Bhutan. It has a diverse range of birds, earning the moniker of East Himalaya’s Bird Hot Spot. The Black Necked Crane makes Bhutan its winter destination, and it is the subject of many folklores and songs. For women who love nature, Bhutan is the perfect destination. In this last Shangri-La, with its mist-covered temples, pristine forests and rivers, peace can be found. The spiritual tones of Bhutan will give all its visitors a happier, tranquil vision for life.

There is veritable panoply of beautiful sights in this country. Taktsang Goemba, also known as the ‘Tiger’s nest’ monastery, located in the Paro district, is one of the most famous sights of Bhutan. It is said that Guru Rinpoche, one of the most famous Buddhist monks, landed in this fortress on the back of a tigress and brought Buddhism to Bhutan. The capital of Bhutan, Thimpu, is situated on the hillside of the river Wang Chu. It holds many places of interest, like the National Institute of Thirteen Arts and Crafts, where students are instructed in the thirteen traditional arts of the Bhutanese people, Trashi Chhoe Dzong or the fortress of the glorious religion, which was erected in 1641 and rebuilt in the 1960s. Chimmi Lhakhang is a buddhist monastery, dedicated to the Lama Drukpa Kuenley, the ‘Divine Madman’. Women who desire children are blessed in this monastery by the presiding lama.

The Gangtey valley is an unspoiled, splendid glacial valley in Bhutan. Black necked cranes from the Tibetan plateaus roost in this valley in winter. With its lush trees and bamboos, it is an ode to the eternal beauty of nature in Bhutan.

There are many opportunities here for those who crave adventure. The stark beauty of the mountains and the rich countryside makes Bhutan the perfect place for hiking and trekking. There are numerous trails scattered over the country, because people in Bhutan still prefer to walk than despoil their surroundings by the ravages of modernity. Alternatively, the terrain can be explored on a bike. Mountain biking is an offbeat, thrilling way to explore the country. There can be nothing more stirring than a journey through the wild trails through the forests of Bhutan! And if that’s not enticing enough for you, there are exciting rapids for white-water rafting along the rivers Mo Chu and Samdingkha. You could also try your hand at Archery, the national sport of Bhutan.

Bhutan seems like a wondrous relic from ancient times, untouched, pure and beautiful. With its splendid vistas and warm, welcoming people, Bhutan is the perfect destination for women who are seeking a soul stirring experience.

[Image credits: Paro valley, Thimpu,  – www.travel-pictures-gallery.com ; Tiger’s nest –  www.summitpost.org]