I would describe Bhutan as of the most unique, isolated, and geographically beautiful countries that world has to offer. Sandwiched in the Himalayas mountains between China and India, it may seem easy to overlook the country on a map. However, Bhutan has many wonderful qualities that set it apart from its neighbors. The country has only been open to foreign visitors since the 1970s; even today, the government strictly limits tourism into the country. Since travel into the country is strictly regulated, having a visa and valid passport are key. You also have to take part in pre-arranged tours around the country. However, this has allowed Bhutan to maintain its cultural and physical beauty. It is the only carbon negative country in the world and has no shortage of fresh air and lush forests. The country has no traffic lights and has the highest unclimbed mountain in the world. So many things about this country make it appealing; I hope to one day experience these things myself.
The capital city, Thimpu, lies within the Himalayas providing a great view of the surrounding landscape. It would be interesting to experience authentic Bhutanese culture. I would love to see the Buddha Dordenma Statue and the National Memorial Chorten. The first is a large statue of the Buddha and the second is a shrine to the Buddha. Having visited Buddhist temples in China and Thailand, it would be intersting to see how similar or different the Bhutanese Buddhist places are. I would also love to visit the Tango and Cheri monasteries and observe Buddhist monks live out their lives in peace.
Another worthwhile city to visit would be Paro. The only international airport is located here, so naturally I would have to stay in the city at some point. Paro has more monasteries and temples to visit. The one worth mentioning is the Paro Takstang. When I first saw a picture of Bhutan, I saw this monastery. Etched into the side of the moutain, it has a breathtaking view of the trees and natural beauty not to mention traditional Bhutanese architecture. I would love to have the ability to walk through this temple and see the Bhutanese landscape myself.
Finally, I would definitely want to make time to visit Punakha. This city lies near the Mo and Pho rivers providing fresh water and river rafting opportunities. The city also has the Punakha Dzong fortress, a magnificient structure at the riverside. During religious festivals, you can see the town engage in traditional dances and celebrations. I would enjoy experiencing authentic Bhutanese culture from the people of Bhutan themselves.
Bhutan definitely lies at the top of my list of countries that I want to travel to. The difficulty to travel there only makes it more appealing but allows for the preservation of the country’s natural wonder and cultural identity. I think it would be hard to find a more authentic country and one untouched by modernization than Bhutan. Even breathing the fresh and unpolluted air would be an experience in itself. If there is one places I want to see before I die, it’s definitely Bhutan.
Works Cited:
“20 Top Places to See and Things to Do in Bhutan: Bhutan Tourism.” Tour My India, Tour My India, 22 June 2020, www.tourmyindia.com/blog/top-places-to-see-things-to-do-bhutan/.
“Bhutan Travel.” Bhutan Maps, Bhutan on World Map, Bhutan Location & Transportation Map, Tibet Discovery, www.tibetdiscovery.com/bhutan-tours/bhutan-maps/.
Yu, Forrest. 10 Facts You Might Not Know About Bhutan, www.odynovotours.com/travel-blog/facts-about-bhutan.html.
I have never even heard of this country. The country seems really unique and I would be interested to visit it. Great writing and descriptions.
The pictures look absolutely spectacular. You do a great job selling each location and making me want to go there.