Surrounded by the Himalayan Mountain ranges, lies a tiny nation on the world map which can be missed by your eyes. Bhutan is an Independent nation surrounded by India at its south and China at its north and yet shares no similarity to both its neighbours. While both India and China have excelled in the races to make a significant mark on the global map, Bhutan seems in no hurry to adapt to the ever-evolving race of globalization. All that matters to Bhutan is the happiness of the Bhutanese people.
The idea of Bhutan was a mystical land beyond my imagination until I visited.
There are also flights connecting Delhi or Bagdogra in India to Paro International Airport, Bhutan. Only Bhutan Airlines and Druk Airlines operate India to Bhutan flights. No other commercial airlines fly into Bhutan.
Note – Indians entering Bhutan need not pay any fees for the permit.
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Landing in Paro Airport is fascinating. The flight dived right into the Himalayan mountain ranges over tiny houses, dense green forests and the Paro river before its dramatic landing into the Paro International Airport. Another highlight was the in-flight view of the snow clad Mount. Everest and Mount. Kanchenjanga.
Every season has its own kind of charm in the Himalayas, but the best time to visit Bhutan is from late March to October to witness the fuller rivers and the colors of nature.
Tip – Try river rafting for some adventures in Bhutan.
We visited the Memorial Chorten (Buddhist Stupa) in the center of the city, the hilltop view of Tashichu Dzong which also holds the Druk King’s residence and the government office, the Big Buddha statue made of bronze that overlooks the entire city of Thimphu. We also went to the Takin National Park which preserves the Takin, national animal of Bhutan.
Punakha Valley which lies along the Pho and Mo rivers is known for its rice paddy fields. The Punakha Dzong being the initial administrative capital is an architectural marvel with colorful designs and carvings on wooden interiors and exteriors.
The trek through the rice paddy to Chimi Lakhang (Fertility temple) is picturesque. The village that we trekked through had colorful phallus drawings on their walls. The locals pray to this fertility god for their kids’ wellbeing. There were cattle grazing and chickens running around the village lanes, children playing and some shops selling artifacts to the tourists.
There were beautiful paintings depicting stories of local deities which the local guides shared. The best part of the trek was the number of travelers we befriended on the way and the travel stories they shared.
Note – Among the things to do in Bhutan, a trek to Tiger’s nest is highly recommended.
Tip: Even if you are on a Bhutan backpacking tour from India ensure you book a night at a cottage or a homestay in a local village.
Bhutan also promotes organic farming and a visit to Sunday farmers market in Thimphu can be added to your Bhutan travel itinerary.
The first impression of Bhutan has left me craving more from this beautiful land.
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