TRICIA STEVENS
PERSPECTIVES
BHUTAN
Known as the happiest country in the world, Bhutan is a tiny country nestled in the Himalayas between India and China. The Bhutanese name for Bhutan is Druk Yul, meaning "Land of the Thunder Dragon". Bhutan reflects a very rich Buddhist culture and the Bhutanese have adopted most aspects of Buddhism as a way of life and thinking. Bhutan just began opening up to visitors in the 1970's and has kept tourism to a minimum by imposing a $250 per day tariff, so the people of this country aren’t jaded to tourists yet.
ABSOLUTE MUSTS
Explore
Phunaka-Dzong
Dzongs (fortresses) served as a stronghold against enemies in the past and now play an important role as monasteries and administrative centers. Bhutan is home to several dzongs; Phunaka-Dzong being the most famous. All of Bhutan’s kings have been crowned here and it is the second oldest Dzong in Bhutan, built in 1637.
Indulge in
Local Flavours
If your spice tolerance is low, it might be best to build that tolerance before arriving in Bhutan. As someone that does not handle heat well, I can assure you that your taste buds will eventually become accustomed to Bhutanese food and it is SO flavourful! Bhutanese dishes typically include vegetables, chilies and meat. Give Ema Datshi a try as well. This dish consists of cheese and chili and is considered to be the national dish of Bhutan.
Attend a
Football Game
Although archery is the national and most popular sport in Bhutan, football is another popular option shared amongst the locals (soccer for us Canadians). The Bhutan National Football Team represents Bhutan in international men’s football. You’ll be immersed in a crowd of welcoming fans, cheering and supporting their team.
Trek to Tiger's Nest
Also known as Taktsang monastery, this spectacular site will very likely be high on your list of must-sees. Perched on a cliff above the Paro Valley this site is home to several sacred temples and living areas for monks. The name Tiger’s Nest comes from the belief that the Second Buddha flew on the back of a tigress to this spot where he meditated for 3 years, 3 months, and 3 days, thus bringing Buddhism to the country. The hike takes an average of 3 hours. The monastery closes at 1pm, so be sure to start your trek early.
Meditate
Meditation is a common practice amongst Monks and Bhutan is one of the last places on earth where Vajrayana Buddhism continues to thrive. This is the perfect place to learn meditation practices and enjoy a multi-day meditation retreat if time allows. Leave behind those hectic thoughts of your routine-life back home and embrace the calm that surrounds you.
Try to Find a Traffic Light
Bhutan is the only country in the world to not have any traffic lights! Supposedly a set was installed, and then quickly removed, because the Bhutanese preferred that the policemen direct traffic at busy intersections. There is only one traffic signal in the capital city of Thimphu and that is also controlled by police hand signals.
