The last great Himalayan Kingdom and a country shrouded in enigma and magic that creates a fascinating tale and experience for all.
Bhutan, a place soaked in rich culture and tradition, possessing breath-taking landscapes and dotted with ancient monasteries and dzongs, as yet unspoiled by modernity and commercialism.
A Plethora of Festivals
In Bhutan, Tshechus is an annual religious festival held in numerous monasteries, dzongs and temples to honour the Guru Rinpoche, the “Lotus-Born Teacher”, who brought Tantric Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th Century. The two most popular Tshechus are the Paro and Thimphu Tshechus which takes place in spring and autumn respectively. Tshechus are glorious events where entire communities gather to witness religious dance moves, socialise, receive blessings and dazzle in their local regalia. For visitors, these festivals are a great experience to take in the unprecedented, colourful and exhilarating display of Bhutanese traditional culture. With a festival going on every month, there's never a wrong time to visit Bhutan!
Finding Spiritual Haven(s)
The numerous festivals go along with the sheer number (more than 40!) of monasteries that dot the country. It is no wonder that Bhutan is well known as a spiritual haven steeped in Buddhist culture. Among the more notable monasteries to visit include:
Tiger's Nest Monastery, or Paro Taktsang, is arguably the most famous monastery in Bhutan. Built into the upper cliff in the Paro Valley, it is an architectural marvel. The monastery boasts beautiful and splendid views of its surroundings.
Tango Monastery offers a serene aura and quaint environment, while aligning with the Bhutanese tradition of focusing on spirituality than fancy facades. It is a prominent Buddhist learning centre and is accessible via an hour-long trek up a hill.
Tashichho Dzong is a fortress located near the capital and serves as both a monastery and central secretariat to the present government. Also known as the Fortress of the Glorious Religion, it is located along the banks of Wangchu River.
Spirituality in The 13 Traditional Art and Craft (Zorig Chusum)
In Bhutan, arts and crafts remain an essential part of daily life and express the country’s internal and external spirituality. Defined as the art of Zorig Chosum, it is full of sacred beliefs that represent a religious experience, a connection that enlightens creativity passed down from one generation to another. The 13 arts include: Painting (Lha-zo), Sculpting (Jim-zo), Papermaking (De-zo), Casting (Lug-zo), Carpentry (Shing-zo), Masonry (De-zo), Carving (Par-zo), Woodturning (Shag-zo), Blacksmithing (Gar-zo), Gold and Silver forging (Troe-zo), Bamboo Work (Tsha-zo), Tailoring, Embroidery and Applique (Tshem-zo), and Weaving (Thag-zo).
The National Institute of Zorig Chusum is located in the capital. Here, the young learn every aspect of the portrayal of spiritual values in each of the craft that embodies the ordinary transformed into the mystical. Opened to the public, it is possible to wander through its charming corridors, observe ongoing classes, interact with students and learn.
Views That Take Your Breath Away
Nestled along the Himalayan region and being relatively untouched by modernity, Bhutan boasts of stunning landscapes from the highest mountain peaks to the deepest of valleys. With 70% of the terrain coated with forests and 7% pressed beneath glaciers, Bhutan is truly a place to take in nature in all its glory.
Coupled with a relatively sparse population and strict tourism controls, Bhutan also boasts one of the cleanest and purest environments in Asia, and the world.
Pleasant Climate All Year Round
The climate in Bhutan mirrors the spiritual serenity of the country. The capital enjoys a fairly unchanging subtropical climate throughout the year, during which winters are subtle while summers are not excruciatingly hot..
The Happiest Nation on Earth
The ultimate beauty of the country lies in its people. Taking a path no other country has, Bhutan has opted to measure its success based on Gross National Happiness (GNH) as opposed to measuring itself on economic success. A philosophy created by the Bhutanese government, it is a measure of collective happiness and well-being of its people. Happiness is a goal enshrined in Bhutan's constitution. Evidently, visitors will immediately be astounded by the joy and peace of the Bhutanese people, even as they extend a warm hand of hospitality and friendship.
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