Happiest Country in the World …
Bhutan is the last Himalayan kingdom, shrouded in amazing snow peak mountains and shadowy forests that create a picturesque landscape. That’s not all;
the unique and the best thing about Bhutan is that it is the only country that is 72% covered in forests making it not only carbon-neutral but the world’s
only carbon negative country.
Apart from this, Bhutan is a place where traditional Buddhist culture meets majestic fortress like dzongs and monasteries
and it is undoubtedly a magical and mystical place to be. Reputed to be the last Shangri La, this one of its kind country, is certainly the best place to visit
for family vacation, honeymoon tours and even for adventure holidays.
Thimphu is an intriguing destination and the capital of Bhutan. The city nestled in the higher ranges of the Himalayas offers astonishing sights
of its emerald forests and beautiful view of the Wang-chhu (Thimphu river).
Thimphu is culturally a must visit place graced with old world charms and modernity. The top sightseeing places are Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, Royal Takin Reserve, Tashichhoe and Simtokha Dzong, (Dzongs are ancient forts that are used today as the administrative centres. Dzongs follow typical Bhutanese architecture with a wide base and tapering top. They are also ornately decorated in various colors and shapes. Dzongs were built without using a single nail) ,Monasteries - Dechen Phodrang, Tango and Cheri. For an excursion breaker, Thimphu offers charming cafes and bars as well as nightclubs and restaurants to socialise and meet like-minded people.
Parois known for its peaceful, serene beauty and clean air, surrounded by unlevelled mountains, lush green fields and historical buildings. There are attractive dzongs
here, such as Paro and Zuri; monasteries like Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), Pelri Goemba and 7th century old Kichu Lhakhang. Other
tourism places include temples, monuments and museums such as Bondey Lhakhang, Khangkhu Lhakhang, Druk Choeding and National Museum. Paro is a historic town with peaceful atmosphere,
and it is best explored on foot. It is worth a stroll witnessing the everyday life of the locals which ultimately makes it a must visit place in Bhutan.
Punakha, another breathtaking destination is the best place to be for those who enjoy the adrenaline rush of river rafting in its two rivers – Mo-Chhu and Pho-Chhu.
However, Punakha is widely famous for the 17th-century fortress Punakha Dzong which sits majestically besides the Pho and Mo Chhu. This Himalayan town hosts masked dances and traditional
music during Punakha Tshechu, a religious festival of Bhutan. The feeling the place offers is surreal, and thus many people visit here mostly to understand the Bhutanese culture and
history as well as to relish its divine natural beauty. Surrounding the town in the Punakha Valley, it has some must visit attractions like Chimi Lhakhang and Namgyal Chorten.
From these points, one can get a grand view of rivers and mountains
Dochula pass is located on the way to Punakha from Thimphu. The pass is a popular location among tourists as it offers a stunning 360
degree panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range. The view is especially scenic on clear, winter days with snowcapped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the
tranquility of the 108 chortens gracing the mountain pass.
Bhutan is the only country in the world where chilli is not used as a seasoning but a vegetable! The national dish is “ema-datshi”, which is a chilli and cheese stew
served with rice. Adventurous tourists may like to try it at their own risk.
Buddhism in Bhutan is not a religion; it’s a way of life. This explains the peace level of Bhutan. If you would like to get away from noise and chaos,
try Bhutan’s meditation retreats.
