The Happiest Country in the World – Bhutan
Bhutan, a remote himalayan nation, rich in natural beauty and buddhist culture, where national happiness is prioritized over economic growth. Fondly called the shangri-la of the world – bhutan on the eastern edge of himalayas is known for its monasteries, tropical mountains and a pure trekking utopia for backpackers and all travelers alike. From paro to the west to trashigang in the east, this slice of heaven is filled with breath-taking views at every corner. A must-visit for its serenity and architecture.
The Haa Valley in the southwest with the world-famous himalayan blue poppy flowers covers the land like a blue carpet which can be explored by foot. For the wildlife lovers the royal manas national park near gelephu has been recently opened to visitors after years of being closed out to tourists, promising encounters with exotic species like the hornbills, golden langur monkeys, and for the lucky, tigers, wild elephants and endangered one-horned rhinos. Bhutan is not just picturesque but a true instagrammers dream for photo-ops for the social media culture of our times.
Far from busy sights of western bhutan, the rolling hills and cultural sites of bumthang’s four valleys set the scene for numerous day hikes in bhutan’s peaceful center, taking in small monasteries, temples and hermit retreats. Bumthang consists of the four mountain valleys of ura, chumey, tang, and choekhor, although occasionally the entire district is referred to as bumthang valley.
Accommodation options in bumthang are better than average, blending modern and traditional features, and after a day walking you can usually find a traditional hot-stone bath or an ice-cold red panda beer, bumthang’s tasty local brew. The food options in this kingdom are simmered with local and authentic flavors. In spite of the lack of restaurants and brand chain options – this is what makes it a truly local experience on all taste fronts. Bhutan is known for its red rice, meats, vegetables, dumplings, tibetan noodles and mineral-rich food that grows in the himalayan foothills.
Lesser-known tourist trails in lheunste where the royal family once resided doesn’t even feature on the tourist trail yet, what that means is – more authentic local experiences to satisfy your travel-hungry soul. As a country that is striving to move from carbon neutral to carbon negative, this land of the thunder dragon deserves a well-earned visit in the books of travelers seeking an authentic, tranquil and serene escape.
