Falling in Love with Bhutan

Before arriving in Bhutan, all I wanted to see in this mystical country was Tiger’s Nest or Taktsang Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most sacred sites. I was so mesmerised by the way this monastery is precariously perched on the edge of a cliff.

However, my perception of Bhutan changed completely the moment I step out of the plane at Paro international airport.  There was an unexplainable sense of peace and serenity in my heart. The sight of crystal clear water in Paro river and the greenery on the mountains as we were landing were simply breathtaking.

Paro International Airport, Bhutan

Paro, Bhutan

Paro International Airport, Bhutan

Paro Bhutan

We had a funfilled time visiting Paro, Haa Valley, Thimphu, Wangdue Phodrang and Punakha.  Our visit to Tiger’s Nest/Taksang Monastery was on the last day of tour, saving the best for last I guess J

Tiger’s Nest or Taktsang Monastery, Bhutan

The journey up to Takshang Monastery was an arduous one. I am glad that our local tour guide insisted that we take the horse up for the first part of the journey. “It’s faster” he said. I couldn’t have made it up if I had hiked up on my own as the air was thin and hence I was easily out of breath!. 

Tiger’s Nest or Taktsang Monastery - horses resting

Steps leading to Tiger's Nest or Taktsang Monastery

Colourful prayer flags leading to Tiger’s Nest or Taktsang Monastery

Upon reaching the top, the view was simply awesome! I was so thrilled to reach the top.

Tiger’s Nest or Taktsang Monastery

Visiting Bhutan has changed my perspective and outlook on some things in life. The world that I live in runs at a much faster pace and is full of many unnecessary things like work stress, traffic jam and politics! I believe every country has its share of problems. But as a tourist, Bhutan seems such a magical country.  So magical that I was already thinking of ways to come back again even before our tour ended.  Though the pace of life in Bhutan may be a lot slower than what I am used to, I couldn’t help falling in love with the country and its people’s simple lives.

Bhutan - local villagers taking a break

Our local tour guide who speaks very good English made us feel very welcomed and was very willing to answer the many questions that this bunch of inquisitive city folks brought up in trying to understand the Bhutanese way of life. 

Through him and our driver, I witnessed a high level of humility hardly seen in many of the countries that I have visited thus far. Both of them will go all the way out to meet our many requests to the extend of helping out in the kitchen to get our food ready. And when food is brought to our table, it is always served with a bow. Is this the norm for Bhutanese or is this special for tourist only? I wouldn't know. But I will find out more when I come again.

    

Bhutan, I miss you and I will be back.