Bhutan is a modern country with its rich tradition and culture. Indeed, it is no ordinary place. Bhutan knows the downside of rapid modernization. As such, it has decided to move cautiously forward without moving its soul.
The government’s priorities include sustainable socio-economic development, preservation and protection of the natural environment, preservation of culture, and promotion of traditions. Each decision of the authorities is weighed for the benefit of its citizens. Its tourism policy is a good example of the government’s efforts to control foreign influences while maintaining Bhutanese values. With this, Bhutan has kept its authentic look and feel which many tourists enjoy.
In this article, we will learn more about why tourists like visiting Bhutan:
Authentic
Bhutan is a country wherein the natives live by their values and tradition. To the government, the legacy, environment, and the future are of utmost importance. Indeed, everyone looks forward to development by using its culture.
Dzong or the Bhutanese Fort
Dzongs are known as the ancient forts which are being used by the leaders as administrative centers. It follows the traditional Bhutanese architecture with a tapering top and a wide base. The buildings were ornately decorated with various shapes and colors. Furthermore, dzongs were built without using a single nail. Fly to Bhutan now via Drukair.
Gross National Happiness
Bhutan’s development philosophy was based on gross national happiness. In this case, they base the quality of life on the mental being and spiritual life of the people. Indeed, they do not reject the conventional method of measuring the development of the country which is through Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, GNH has been pursued as an alternative to developmental philosophy. Visit Bhutan now via Drukair.
Highest Unclimbed Mountains
In Bhutan, you can find some of the highest unclimbed mountains in the world. Examples of this are Jitchu Drake and Mount Jhomolhari. The government does not allow mountaineering in these peaks. The Bhutanese believe that the place is the dwelling of the spirits and the deities.
Low Volume, High Impact
For every tourist, there is a tariff of $250 to be spent for each day at Bhutan. For some, this will appear as one of the most expensive destinations. However, the amount includes food, accommodation, transport, plus a guide. As such, your money is all worth it whenever you visit Bhutan now.
Mountain Trekking
You can experience physically challenging routes in Bhutan which includes crossing high mountain passes and snow. Along the way, you will be bothered by the leeches. However, it is worth all the trouble because you can witness its natural beauty.
Furthermore, you will come in close contact with farmers and highlanders. There will also be horses that can carry your camping packs. Trek the mountains of Bhutan now and fly with Druk Asia.
Museums and Monuments
In Bhutan’s museums, you can find the relics of Bhutanese history which start from the reign of Guru Padmasambhava in the 8th century. When tourists visit the museums, they can have ubiquitous experience of the Ihakhangs and dzongs.
Spicy Cuisine
Bhutan is one country in the world wherein they use chili as a vegetable and not as a seasoning. Their national dish is known as ‘ema-datshi’ and it is a cheese and chili stew with rice. Adventurous tourists who like to try the dish can do so at their own risk.
Spiritual Heaven
In Bhutan, Buddhism is considered not as a religion but a way of life. This is the reason why Bhutan is peaceful. This is because Buddhism is deeply ingrained in people’s mentality.
As you roam the place, you will find an old woman or man with a string of beads at the Memorial Chorten. If you wish to get away from the noise and chaos, you can try experiencing Bhutan’s meditation retreats.
TaktsangGoemba
One of the most important Buddhist monasteries in Bhutan is called TaktsangGoemba. It is located on a vertical cliff 300 meters North of Paro. This monastery was built in 1692. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche went into the cliff from Tibet riding the back of a flaming tigress. Fly to Bhutan now with Druk Asia.
Thirteen Unique Crafts of Bhutan
The ZorigChusum or the thirteen arts and crafts of Bhutan is very symbolic. It is deeply rooted in their Buddhist philosophy. It includes woodwork, carving, stonework, painting, sculpting, woodturning, ornament making, blacksmithy, paper making, and bamboo work, weaving, and tailoring. This was introduced in Bhutan by PemaLingpa in the 15th century. PemaLingpa was a treasure discoverer.
Tsechus or Festivals
The annual religious festival of Bhutan is known as Tsechus. It is held in all the major monasteries and dzongs or fortresses in Bhutan. Tsechus are considered as social gatherings wherein people of all classes will gather in the place and witness the cultural items and mask dances performed by the monks.
