9 Unforgettable Days in the Mystical Land of Bhutan With Karena Berdullas

Bhutan is a country that immediately captures your imagination, a land locked in between two giants of Asia, India and China. A Kingdom that opened its borders to the world only in the 70s, and has prided itself in preserving the culture with its ancient Buddhist traditions and its incredible natural beauty.

I was drawn to this mesmerizing country by its stories and legends. I had always been fascinated by the idea of a nation that values happiness over material wealth and strives to achieve Gross National Happiness. My desire to explore the enchanting land and experience its rich culture and natural splendor was ignited.

My journey began in the capital city of Thimphu. As I stepped out of the plane, I was greeted by the cool mountain air and the warm smiles of the local people. The city itself is a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity, where ancient monasteries stand side by side with modern buildings.

I spent my first day exploring the sights of Thimphu. I visited the National Memorial Chorten, a beautiful stupa built in memory of the third king of Bhutan, and the Tashichho Dzong, the impressive fortress that houses the government and the king's throne room.

The following day, I embarked on a breathtaking hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery. The monastery is perched on a sheer cliff face, 900 meters above the Paro Valley. The hike was challenging, but the views were absolutely stunning. As I reached the monastery, I was rewarded with a panoramic view of the Himalayas.

I spent the next few days exploring the Paro Valley. I visited the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, and the Rinpung Dzong, a massive fortress that dominates the valley. I also took a day trip to the Chele La Pass, which offered me breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari.

As my time in Bhutan came to an end, I realized that I had fallen in love with this country and its people. The beauty of the Himalayas, the richness of the culture, and the warmth of the people had left an unforgettable mark on my heart.

Here are some of the highlights of my trip:

• The people: The Bhutanese people are some of the friendliest and most welcoming people I have ever met. They are always willing to help and go out of their way to make you feel at home.
• The culture: Bhutan's culture is a unique blend of Buddhism, Hinduism, and animism. The people are deeply religious, and their beliefs are reflected in their art, architecture, and way of life.
• The natural beauty: Bhutan is a land of stunning natural beauty. The Himalayas dominate the landscape, and the country is home to lush forests, sparkling rivers, and beautiful valleys.
• The food: Bhutanese food is delicious and unique. The national dish is ema datshi, a spicy stew made with chilies and cheese.
• The Gross National Happiness: Bhutan is the only country in the world that measures its progress by Gross National Happiness. This philosophy emphasizes the importance of happiness, well-being, and environmental sustainability.

If you are looking for a truly unique and unforgettable travel experience, I highly recommend visiting Bhutan. It is a country that will stay with you long after you leave.