Bhutan- travelling the land of happiness

Nested amidst the Himalayan range, this tiny little country of Bhutan is the first to measure its Gross Domestic Product in happiness. Yes, that is right. It is known as the land of happiness. The fact that it is sandwiched by two giants, India and China on either side, and is still able to maintain such a distinct culture and identity is proof enough that we needed to visit it.

This was the 21st country I have visited and by far one of the most epic trips. Landing in this mystical land was like stepping into a storybook set in an old, peaceful kingdom untouched by modernization.

Is it simply the majestic mountain tops, the tantalizing valleys, the winding rivers, the glorious forest, and the exquisite flowers that make this land so enchanted? No, it’s certainly a lot more than that.

Here in my opinion and observation are the 12 reasons that make Bhutan “the land of happiness”.

• ONE: The number one reason is the values held and practiced by the people of this country. “The Land of Happiness” is no slogan here. It is something practiced by one and all whether it’s the Prince of Bhutan or a regular farmer. You feel the happiness all around.What is their secret? My observation is that they keep life fairly simple. There seem to be no cultural or societal pressures that create unnecessary expectations from life. They are happy in the moment with what they have and where they are. They find joy in ordinary things and have passion for what they do. A fine example of this commitment is their current Prime Minister, Lotay Tshering, a reputable surgeon before he joined politics. While he fulfills his political duties during the weekdays, he continues to serve the people as a surgeon on the weekends. “I will continue doing this until I die and I miss not being able to be here every day,” he added. “Whenever I drive to work on weekdays, I wish I could turn left towards the hospital.” Our tour guide, a very delightful and capable young lady works as a tour guide and when she is not working she goes to her village (1 hour walk from the main city) and looks after her cows. Now that is passion.

• TWO: The pride and comfort with which the Bhutanese people wear their traditional attire. The Gho for men and the Kira for women are worn by young and old alike for work, pleasure and every day living. This gives the country such uniqueness and sense of pride. We were so happy and grateful to have the opportunity to wear these elegant outfits (provided by our tour operator Druk Asia).

• THREE: Bhutan is the only carbon negative country in the world. It certainly takes commitment, wisdom, and foresightedness to plan, administer and produce such results. The people of Bhutan embrace such reverence for nature, each other, and life itself. This is something the rest of the world certainly needs to learn from them.

• FOUR: The Buddhist teachings and way of life are so deeply rooted in this culture. The Buddha statue atop a hill in Thimpu, visible from everywhere in the city, serves to “bestow blessings, peace and happiness to the whole world”. I think it also serves as a constant, subtle reminder of the very gentle and conscious way of Buddhist life.

• FIVE: That fact that education and medical care are free for all in Bhutan.

• SIX: Bhutanese people do not kill animals or do any form of fishing. All meats served to the guests are imported. Our guide told us that during the construction of new buildings, as workers churned cement, they sing religious songs asking for forgiveness for any small creatures that may die in the process. Such is the gentle nature of these people.

• SEVEN: Wedding ceremonies in Bhutan are kept simple and getting a divorce is apparently simpler. The Bhutanese people believe the happiness of the parties concerned comes before any social norms or legalities.

• EIGHT: Bhutan is largely matrilineal society but nowadays a couple after marriage can live with her parents, his parents or on their own. It’s a matter of the couple’s preference. There is no overt gender bias or discrimination. The women are strong, well respected and happy.

• NINE: Sale of Tobacco and plastic bags are banned in Bhutan.

• TEN: Colourful prayer flags fluttering high in the air through out the land add to the element of happiness and joy. They represent the natural elements: earth, water, fire, sky, and sun in five different colours. It is believed the prayers blown softly by the touch of the wind will bring happiness, long life and good karma to all those around. The vibrant colours and the mantras written on these flags gently flowing in the area certainly makes one feel protected and joyful.

• ELEVEN: The Bhutanese people understand and appreciate the shortness and mortality of human life. Families put a white flag on the mountain when a family member passes away. It serves as a constant reminder of human mortality. The sight of these vertical white flags closely put in groups of ten or more on the mountains is so peaceful and serene. In Thimpu with the Buddha statue on top of the hill and and white flags all around the hills I continuously felt a very deep sense of appreciation for life.

• TWELVE: The preservation, respect, appreciation and pride the people have for their history. Whether it is the beautifully built Dzongs ( that serve as the religious, military, administrative, and social centers of their district, their honourable kings, festivities, or their simple yet profound way of life it is all preserved, respected and truly lived.

Travel opens up our mind, heart and soul to new possibilities. To a new way of seeing, doing and being!

The enchanted land of Bhutan has certainly left its mark on my heart and soul. My mind will forever strive to be a little more like those I met and admired!!

Hiking the Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan was one of our most memorable experiences. Click here to read about this experience and my 11 recommendations for the hike.

Happy Travels Friends!

Devinder 💖

All photo credits to my dear husband Ravi Maan.