Exploring The World, One Place At A Time
Bhutan, a Buddhist kingdom nestled on the eastern edge of the Himalayas, captivates visitors with its enchanting monasteries, majestic fortresses (dzongs), and breathtaking landscapes that span from subtropical plains to steep mountains and valleys.
Famously recognized as ‘the Happiest Country in the World,’ Bhutan holds a special place in my heart as it was the first country I ventured to, accompanied by a dear friend. For nearly a month, we embarked on a delightful journey, hopping from one charming mountain town to another, immersing ourselves in the unique culture, and partaking in the awe-inspiring Tsechu Festival. Along the way, we encountered the warmest hospitality from the locals, encountering some of the kindest souls while traversing the picturesque roads of this magical land.
To put it in the words of the Lonely Planet, “The exotic, arcane and otherworldly side of Bhutanese culture is perfectly encapsulated in its religious festivals. Most dzongs and many gompas (monasteries) host an annual dance festival, which remains the highlight of the social year for most …
“A month? What are you going to do there for a month?” – Nearly every second person whom I told about my Bhutan plans, asked me this question! A point came when I was tired of explaining, and I chose a rather simple answer – “Since I’m …
In this larger world where we live, there are numerous smaller worlds, each nurturing itself in a different way, completely hidden from the rest. Such was Haa Valley (‘Haa’ in Dzongkha literally translates to ‘rice’), situated in the Western part of Bhutan, bordered by Tibet. …