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Home Lifestyle Fashion

Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z

by Harjeet Kaur
September 27, 2021
in Fashion, Travel, Travelogue
13 min read
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Dordenma Buddha @ Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z

Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z

Kuzu zangpo la or Hello from Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z, certainly, is the country that believes in Gross National Happiness rather than GDP. Breathe the fresh air, Bhutan has Carbon sinks, 70% forest cover, powered totally by mountain streams. Bhutan is a perfect example of green living. Definitely, it is the only country in the world that is carbon negative, it actually produces more oxygen than it consumes.

I was a very reluctant visitor to this happiest country. I am a rookie traveller and I wanted to explore the more exotic names in the brochure list but I am not ashamed to admit that it would have been a titanic blunder not visiting Bhutan with my girl gang. We were a group of 19 adventurous ladies who set out to conquer the mystery of Bhutan and it was an enlightening trip for sure.

Shangri La| Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z

Inaccessible Bhutan allowed the world to take a peek inside only in 1974. The tiny Himalayan kingdom is home to a trove of archaeological treasures, monasteries and elaborate fortresses. Probably, remoteness has preserved the customs, traditions and Buddhist-influenced ethnicity of probably the last existing Shangri-La or place of Bliss.

All tourists have to travel on a planned and guided package tour and cannot travel independently in the kingdom. The arrangements must be made through an officially approved tour operator, directly or through an agent. Our travels were handled by Neptune Holidays. Supposedly, limiting tourists is in order to conserve its delicate environment and culture. But in reality, because of this, no one is denied a visa if you have a valid passport.

Destiny Bridge Thimphu Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z


Thimphu, Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z

Prayer Flags Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z

This country of towering peaks and serene monasteries have an inimitable charm. The snowy peaks in the distance, the dense foliage and colourful blossoms, the simple people, the pure air, the awesome architecture, the peaceful religion exciting and the art superb. Like retro images from the past, the tourist gets to see the splendour of this ancient land through its numerous forts known as Dzongs, monasteries, stupas, the ubiquitous prayer flags in myriad colours which flutter in the wind and the miniature stupas on the hillsides placed in the memory of the dead. The gushing rivers that flow all along the countryside are as clear and warm as the rosy-red cheeks of the friendly Bhutanese people.

Mt Everest

Until now, I was so ignorant about the trip that I didn’t even know we would be flying via Kathmandu airport to Paro Airport, the only international airport in Bhutan. I love flying as it is and always take the window seat and sit with my nose glued to the glass even if it is only fluffy clouds that are visible but I had to have a window seat on this flight as we were going to fly alongside the Himalayas. For me, it was a flight of fantasy that had come true and when the Pilot pointed out the peaks of Mt.Everest and Kanchenjunga,

I had a lump in my throat when I first laid my eyes on these majestic peaks and my hands trembled while I was capturing the view. It was a full paisa-vasool moment for me and I could visualize the peaks long after we had lost sight of them.

Bhutan Airlines

I should thank the pilot and the hostesses of Bhutan Airlines for making us feel so welcome on the flight. The hostesses were endearing and replied to all the silly queries we had about their small and secluded country. I had read how difficult it was to land at Paro airport and when our Pilots took us down rather smoothly and safely, a cheer in unison rose amongst all the passengers. We landed- Bhutan; Country of Gross National Happiness- Thimphu we love you.

The charm of almost virgin territory with its rich flora and fauna is drawing tourists from around the world and the Buddhism and serene monks in their vibrant flowing robes add to the allure of this magical country.

Day 01

Zero Point, Thimphu

Once we alighted from the aircraft of Bhutan Airlines our lungs were happy as we inhaled the clean clear mountain air and as we walked on the tarmac we met our first group of monks who agreed to pose with us for pictures. Right after immigration, we were welcomed by our tour guide Lachu man and once our baggage was loaded in the bus we drove to Thimphu our first stop. Lachu man was dressed in a traditional Gho, a smart, gregarious, articulate young man who endeared himself to the group with his smiling demeanour and patient replies to our unending queries. Consequently, at Zero point traffic circle, the entrance to the city of Thimphu there is a huge statue of an elephant which tells the story of “Four Friends,” the elephant, monkey, rabbit, and bird who realise that living in harmony is more beneficial than in-fighting.

Ramada Valley resort Thimphu Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z
Buddhist Monks
Zero Point
View from Ramada Valley Thimphu Bhutan
Lachu Man our genial guide

Ramada Valley Resort

The Ramada Valley Resort was where we were put up. It faced the flowing stream and hills and the view from my room was a total delight. It took us nearly 2 hours to drive down from Paro to Thimphu. We had lunch at a restaurant and checked out the marketplace where there were all kinds of handicrafts and textiles available. Firstly, we checked in to our rooms, relaxed a bit then got together in the conference hall for some masti, had a sumptuous dinner and crashed with dreams of exploring Thimphu the next day.

Kuensel Phodrang |
Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z

Donderma Buddha
Girl Gang

For a group of 19 ladies, we have to pat ourselves on the back for starting out at the given time every day. We set out after breakfast at 9.30 am to Kuensel Phodrang or the Buddha statue. A massive golden Shakyamuni Buddha all of 60 mts sitting on a lotus, atop a hill and can be viewed from a far-off distance is made of bronze and gilded with gold. Sponsored by a Chinese firm it has taken years to build this monument. The statue is placed on a lotus and below it is a meditation hall with 100,000 eight inches and 25,000 12 inch statues of Buddha. (Photography is not allowed inside any monastery) In other words, unbeknownst to you, you are viewing not one but 125,001 Buddha’s at a time.

125,000 Buddha Statues

There are empty crevices for more Buddha’s that can be sponsored by anyone. The number of statues outnumbers the population of this small mountain city which is 100,000. It was inaugurated in 2015 to honour the 60th birthday of Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the fourth king of Bhutan. The statue was built to ‘bestow blessings, peace and happiness to the whole world”, a noble thought in these trying times. Moreover, another reason for installing this statue is that Guru Padmasambhava widely referred to as the “second Buddha,” in the eighth century has said to have mentioned such a statue. We paid obeisance and meditated for a few minutes in the room and stepped out to view the countryside and the open courtyard with the gilded apsaras flanking the pillars.

Kings Memorial Chorten
Kings Memorial Chorten

King’s Memorial Chorten

The King’s Memorial Chorten is bang in the centre of the city and can be circumambulated by vehicles from outside and people inside chanting and counting their prayer beads. Completed in 1974, it serves as a monument to peace and a memorial to Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk after his death. The Memorial is a white structure with a gold spire and is a revered Buddhist shrine.

Takin Reserve

Takin Reserve, Bhutan

Next on the itinerary was the Takin reserve. Takin is the national animal of Bhutan and is native to China, India and Bhutan. The raven is the national bird, our young guide kept feeding us the entire minute details. The climb up to the reserve is steep and we took a breather midway sitting on the log stools and clicked some pictures. They are docile creatures and we had the good fortune of watching the volunteers’ bottle feeding the young Takin. I wished my grandson was with me to witness this rare animal as he loves animals.

Tashi Chho Dzong Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z
Tashi Chho Dzong Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z

Tashi Chho Dzong

Next, we saw the Tashi Chho Dzong or ‘fortress of the glorious religion. This is the centre of the government and religion; it is the site of the king’s throne room and the seat of the Chief Abbot. It houses monks and government machinery. The huge courtyard is the place where the chief festivals are celebrated. It was reconstructed in the 1960s in a traditional Bhutanese manner, without nails or architectural plans. The Royal Palace is small in comparison and the King lives in a humble dwelling. The area around the Dzong is known as a green belt and no construction can take place there.

Thimphu Bhutan

The Changankha Monastery

The Changankha monastery is an old one and perched on the edge of a cliff. Although, I could see that we had another steep climb ahead but egged myself on to make it to the top. Established in the 12th century on a site chosen by Lama Phajo Drukgom Shigpo, who came from Ralung in Tibet, it is mainly a temple for baptizing babies. We actually saw new parents trudging up to get auspicious names for their newborns. Children are blessed with a phurba or ritual dagger and given a sacred thread. Most of us turned the black-and-gold prayer wheels that are inscribed with mantras. There is a shrine dedicated to the Tshomen or mermaid in the central courtyard. Stop awhile and take in the breathtaking view of the valley spread below.

Folk Heritage Museum

Bhutanese Lunch Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z
Folk Heritage Museum
National School of Art Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z
National School of Art

The Folk Heritage Museum established in 2001 provides tourists with interesting glimpses into the Bhutanese culture and way of life. Photography was not permitted inside the museum. It was set inside an old three-storied traditional house. On display are an impressive collection of typical household objects, tools and equipment. Raw rice was being roasted and I picked up some within the museum premises. Additionally. the museum also organizes a buffet lunch and dinner offering visitors a taste of traditional cuisine. First, half of us had it inside the restaurant while the rest had it out in the verandah. It was a simple lunch; with Butter Tea served first and roasted rice and corn as snacks followed by rice, chicken, potato cheese, sautéed spinach, bitter gourd and a chilli pickle.

Zorig Chusum Bhutan

Bang opposite the museum is the National Institute of Arts, Zorig Chusum Bhutan which helps in preserving its old traditional arts. Students were taught 13 different types of arts; wood carving, mask making, weaving, embroidering, clay modelling and sculpture. We didn’t have time to go in but we had the good fortune to see young students sculpting and giving fine touches to their models outside.

Clock Tower

Clock Tower Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z
Kira and Gho Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z
Thimphu Shop front
Thimphu Balloon seller Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z

At present, the evening was still young and the girls scanned the market at Clock Tower square, Norzin Lam, for gifts and souvenirs before retiring exhausted at the hotel. Bhutanese hand-woven textiles, yak wool scarves and woollens, brass and wood carvings, thangka paintings and traditional Kira and Gho were available in the market. I picked up these cute miniature Kira and Gho bottle covers. All Indian currency was accepted as long as it is cash. The posters of the king and queen look down from many billboards benignly on the people. The people of Bhutan love and respect their king as he lives a simple life and rules by this principle; “Throughout my reign, I will never rule you like a King. I will protect you as a parent, care for you as a brother and serve you as a son”. 

King of Bhutan Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z
Thimphu River Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z
Thimphu Trees Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z

In view of it being a unique country no doubt, Thimphu, the capital is also distinctive with its colourful buildings blending the modern with the traditional and it must be the only capital city without any traffic lights. The sound of the Wang Chhu river was like a lullaby and I slipped into La-la land dreaming of unfolding Punakha and its treasures the next day. Bhutan; Country of Gross National Happiness- Thimphu, the saga continues.

Bhutanese Lady Bhutan|Gross National Happiness #BlogchatterA2Z



If you are planning to visit Bhutan this Tourists Guide to Bhutan would be a great help. And all about Tiger’s Nest and Punakha.Or Egypt for your next vacation.

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Harjeet Kaur

Harjeet Kaur

My writing was limited to school essays and projects for my kids and out of the blue, my writing career began with writing articles for the magazine section of The Hindu. I had a weekend column in the newspaper which was well appreciated. Juggling my time between various jobs down the years and my writing, I have written content for fliers, brochures for colleges, speeches, social media content and also website content I love writing and I am open to writing on a plethora of topics. My blog has interesting insights into my life and travels, gardening, beauty, grooming, recipes, mental health and sustainability. I am a freelance content writer and the answer to all your content generation needs. I thrive on writing and content writing gets my adrenaline pumping. Stringing words and vocabulary is my passion as well as my bread and butter. Whether it is lifestyle content, ghostwriting, blogging, features, or articles, covers the whole gamut of writing that I can pen down. My writing has been much appreciated as it attracts, engrosses as well as captivates. I love to write on any interesting topic under the sun. Meeting new people and understanding what makes them tick is always enlightening. Communication is my strong point and I get across my thoughts right from the heart. An avid and dedicated blogger, my blog is valued by family and friends alike. My blog is ranked 14 in the Top 100 Lifestyle Blogs in India. I love to cook for family and friends and my secret ingredient- “love” is abundantly used in my cooking. It covers myriad interesting topics. I am a passionate home chef and am all for a healthy balanced diet with simple, easy-to-cook recipes. What I do is transform traditional recipes into gourmet by the turn of my ladle. Do read my blogs to know me better.

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Comments 28

  1. Sanjota Purohit says:
    4 years ago

    Kuzu Zangpo 🙂 Never been on this side. Beautiful! I liked the attire on those dolls. Capital City without traffic lights that sounds surprisingly cool.

    Reply
    • Harjeet Kaur says:
      4 years ago

      Kuzu Zangpo La Sanjota 🙂 Thank u so much. That dress is the national dress and most of the public wear it. Yes, there were no traffic lights. Everyone followed traffic rules and the population is very less.

      Reply
  2. Mayuri Nidigallu says:
    4 years ago

    We visited Bhutan in 2014, and I revisited it again through your detailed and informative post. Bhutan is the only country which i could label as ‘content’. I am looking forward to viisting it again, more so after reading your post!

    Reply
    • Harjeet Kaur says:
      4 years ago

      Thank u Mayuri….It was total contentment I feel…never felt better. Although I wished I was younger and was able to trek right up to Tiger’s nest 🙂
      I have travelled very little.. only past couple of years. Want to change that now.

      Reply
  3. Srishti Gupta says:
    4 years ago

    Never visited Bhutan before. But I saw a movie ‘lunchbox’ in which Nimrat Kaur was talking Bhutan is the happiest nation.

    Reply
    • Harjeet Kaur says:
      4 years ago

      Thanks Srishti for stopping by…..Bhutan should be on ur bucket list

      Reply
  4. Roshan Radhakrishnan says:
    4 years ago

    I did not realize it had been inaccessible for so long. Lovely detailed post on a place that many really dont consider in their first list of places to visit.

    Reply
    • Harjeet Kaur says:
      4 years ago

      Its a beautiful country with beautiful people. Thank you for stopping by and appreciating. Do have it in ur bucket list,, as it is worth it.

      Reply
  5. Priyanka Nair says:
    4 years ago

    Thank u=you so much for this beautiful and detailed post about Bhutan.It is in my list, I am so much fascinated by Buddhism and I want to explore it, now looking at the photographs I am dreaming more 🙂

    Reply
    • Harjeet Kaur says:
      4 years ago

      Thank u for appreciating Priyanka…it is an awesome place for sure.

      Reply
  6. abhijit says:
    4 years ago

    I wish more and more countries adopted Gross National Happiness over Gross National Product as an indicator of success of a nation. If people are happy, GDP will grow on its own. People first, products second should be the motto. Some deep spiritual understanding of nature and people have made Bhutanese people adopt such a policy. So endearing.

    Reply
    • Harjeet Kaur says:
      4 years ago

      So wonderfully expressed Abhijit. If only it could be the case worldwide.

      Reply
  7. Vidhya Thakkar says:
    4 years ago

    Aahh i want to visit here!!!

    Reply
    • Harjeet Kaur says:
      4 years ago

      It is worth visiting Vidhya…u shud

      Reply
  8. Neha Sharma says:
    4 years ago

    Bhutan is on my travel bucket list and after reading such a beautiful, well written detailed post am even more eager to visit this beautiful country. Kudos to you for taking up this trip with your girl gang, I have been wanting to do that since ages. Loved reading it!

    Reply
    • Harjeet Kaur says:
      4 years ago

      Thank u so much Neha…..my “girl gang” is at an average age group of 50 but we still have great fun.

      Reply
  9. Vartika Gakhar says:
    4 years ago

    My brother recently went to Bhutan and my sil around 30 years back on an official trip and I have heard so much good from both of them about this country, Your post is another evidence of its beauty. May be will visit it someday. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
    • Harjeet Kaur says:
      4 years ago

      You should visit it Vartika. We all hanker about things that are far away and ignore things closeby. Was my case too but I loved Bhutan.

      Reply
  10. Pr@Gun says:
    4 years ago

    Great and lovely pics. Have heard a lot but not yet visited, thanks for the virtual tour with your post.

    Reply
    • Harjeet Kaur says:
      4 years ago

      Thanks, Pragun….u should visit if u have not. It is such a beautiful country with more beautiful people.

      Reply
  11. Sonia Chatterjee says:
    4 years ago

    Kuzu Zangpo. I have wanted to visit Bhutan for a long time, specially because it is accessible from siliguri quite well. Now your gorgeous pics and awesome post makes me crave for a holiday.

    Reply
    • Harjeet Kaur says:
      4 years ago

      Kuzu zangpo la Sonia 🙂 You should visit. I thoroughly enjoyr=ed my trip and am sure u will.

      Reply
  12. Shilpa Garg says:
    4 years ago

    Bhutan is on our travel wish list. Your detailed and comprehensive travelogue has pushed it higher up in the list! Glad that you had a great time exploring this lovely country despite your initial apprehensions!

    Reply
    • Harjeet Kaur says:
      4 years ago

      Thank you Shilpa….you should visit I would say. Yes, I had a great time, thank you 🙂

      Reply
  13. Manas Mukul says:
    4 years ago

    WOW! literally WOW. What an amazingly detailed post. A lot of hard work has gone into this one. I so much want to visit Bhutan. Hopefully this year.
    #ContemplationOfaJoker #Jokerophilia

    Reply
    • Harjeet Kaur says:
      4 years ago

      Thanks, Manas…there are many more posts on Bhtan..exhaustive number actually and it is a must visit.

      Reply
  14. sandeep sharma says:
    4 years ago

    thank you so much for sharing such a beautiful experience of yous.

    Reply
    • Harjeet Kaur says:
      4 years ago

      Your welcome…its my pleasure …Thanks for the appreciation

      Reply

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