The Dragon Kingdom: Bhutan

“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” – Ibn Battuta

“Happiness is a place” – the tag line for all tourism in Bhutan is more than a statement. It is a belief held dear by the wonderful people of this unique Kingdom nestled in the Himalayas. I am convinced about it.

100 Chortens at Dochula
The Gateway to Buddha Statue Overlooking the Town of Thimphu
Budhha Dordenma Statue : 52 meters tall statue of Buddha blesses the town of Thimphu in the valley below.
Our Guide, Thinley, explaining the significance of the fireplace used for special ceremonies.

An amazing country with great sense of pride and preservation of their culture and traditions while being open to the modern vibes and technology. There are many modern cafes and hotels in the towns of Thimphu and Paro.

At Ambient Cafe in Thimphu. Oscar – The cat is on the Menu.
A tastefully set-up cafe – Ambience, coffee, pastries, the cat and the staff are all amazing !!
Preparation for Winters – Drying the Chillis for lean months. At The Simply Bhutan
Pema The Artist – Patronized by the Royal Family, he mastered his art and is a legend in the country.
Fresh and all organic – Bhutan does not use fertilizers !!
Even the Churpis, Cheese and Meat – is all so tempting
Thimphu Dzong (Fort)
Brig Jaswinder Singh and Mrs Namrata Kaur – A lovely evening Spent at their home in Thimphu
Chortens at Dochula
At Punakha
Punakha Dzong
Over that wooden cantilever bridge !!
In the Courtyard of Punakha Dzong
The hanging foot bridge at Punakha – not for the faint hearted !!
At Lawa la – on our way to Phobrang
Flags of Faith : Spreading the prayers through the winds
Phobrang Monastery
The School Within the Monastery
Decorations and candles being made by young monks – using the Butter. These last for more than an Year !!
Climate Change might adversely effect this centuries old tradition and art !!
… they make it with Butter and Love !!
Wheels of the Faith
The Phobrang Wetland – Winter Home to Black Necked Cranes !!
The wetland is now recognised as an important site and community is involved in its protection !
Local Arts and Antiques – Many shops in Thimphu and Paro
100 x Chortens at Dochula
The enthusiasm of hiking to Paro Taktsang (aka Tiger’s Nest Monastery) got to her too !!
That is the Paro Taktsang Monastery from the mid-way cafe !!
The Mid-Point – the mules are allowed only till here.
The first view around the bend from where the stairs take you down into a gorge, before you climb up again !!
Getting Closer !!
The famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery or Paro Taktsang
Your best friends !!
Paro Dzong (Fort)
17th Century Watch Tower Converted to the National Museum – a Must Visit !!

A Creative Picture at the Airport Lounge !

Well, I think the pictures speak for themselves. For us as a family – it is a collection of memories !!

Another attraction of the travel to Bhutan, especially on a flight via Kathmandu is the opportunity to see mount Everest, Makalu and Kanchenjunga amongst other highest peaks of the world. We were plain lucky to see them on clear days – both on the onward and return flight.

Mount Kanchenjunga
The Everest

“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.”
― Gustav Flaubert

We wish you great travels, fair winds and happy landings – wherever you go !!

Jo Written by:

2 Comments

    • 01/01/2024

      Dear Thinley,
      Thank you. It was great to go with you.
      Thank you for showing us your incredible country !
      Best regards,
      JS

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