The Last Shangri-La

“Located in the eastern Himalayas between India and China, Bhutan’s snow-capped peaks rise above shadowy gorges cloaked in primeval forests, its majestic fortress- like dzongs and monasteries taking prime position in the picture-book beauty of the amazing Himalayan landscape. ”

Bhutan is no ordinary place. This last great Himalayan Kingdom shrouds itself in mystery and magic, and boasts being a melting pot where traditional Buddhist culture carefully embraces global developments. Imagine a country where worth and development are measured differently — Gross National Happiness instead of Gross Domestic Product. Beauty and wisdom are visible at each dzong, every gompa, and most incredibly, in the eyes of every smiling Buddhist monk you encounter. This is a country where nature lovers, photographers, and culture enthusiasts alike will uncover a meshed trove of natural beauty, culture, traditions, and unparalleled compassion.

Bhutan offers one of the last natural untouched pristine pockets in the entire Himalaya region. By law, at least 60% of the country must remain forested for all future generations. Bhutan has succeeded in doing so. More than 51% of the country is protected—the largest percentage of any Asian country.

Paro, the capital city, is a small and charming town located at an elevation of about 2280m in the center of the valley, on the bank of Pa Chhu River. Paro town was first formed in 1985 with one main street, lined with colorfully painted shops. It is home to the famous Paro Tshechu, one of the most sought-after dance festivals celebrated over a period of for 5 days to commemorate Guru Rinpoche and his great deeds.

The festival is attended by hundreds of devoted – almost mesmerized – audience. The theatrical presentation is about the afterlife, hence the event is highly revered. the Paro Tshechu is held in the open courtyard with the backdrop of the majestic Paro Dzong. It is a spiritual and a social event where community members traditionally congregate while dressed ostentatiously.

Paro is also home to the legendary Tiger Nest, one of Bhutan’s holiest monasteries. Paro Taktsang, or Tiger’s Nest’s legend states that Guru Rinpoche arrived in Bhutan by flying on the back of a tigress. He visited several caves and cliff sides in order to meditate and subdue local demons. He spent a large amount of his time on the mountainside above the Paro Valley, sanctifying the place. The hike to reach the Tiger’s Nest is strenuous, but the view from the top is not to be missed and definitely worth the effort.

Punakha, another famous city in Bhutan, sits in a sultry, fertile and beautiful valley at the junction of the Mo Chhu (Mother River) and Pho Chhu (Father River). The low altitude of the Punakha valley allows for the growth of two rice crops a year, and oranges and bananas are also in abundance. Bird enthusiasts should keep their eyes peeled for the critically endangered white-bellied heron, which can be spotted in Punakha.

Commanding the river junction is the gorgeous Punakha Dzong, arguably Bhutan’s most beautiful dzong. Situated where two rivers converge, the Punakha Dzong is the most dramatic and beautiful example of Bhutanese architecture in the country. It is especially beautiful in spring when the lilac-coloured jacaranda trees bring a lush sensuality to the dzong’s characteristically towering whitewashed walls. This dzong was the second to be built in Bhutan and it served as the capital and seat of government until the mid-1950s. All of Bhutan’s kings have been crowned here. The dzong is still the winter residence of the Dratshang (official monk body).

Bhutan holds many surprises. This is a country where the rice is red and where chilies aren’t just for seasoning, but are the main dish. It’s also a deeply Buddhist yet modern land, where monks check their smartphones after performing a divination. Yet, while it visibly protects its Buddhist traditions, Bhutan is not a museum.

The Bhutanese are well-educated, fun loving, and well-informed about the world around them. It’s this blend of the ancient and the modern that makes Bhutan the last Shangri-La, and an endlessly fascinating destination.