Bhutan: Where Wealth is Measured in Happiness
Trekking with Pema
From the very moment I stepped off the plane, Bhutan enveloped me in a colossal gust of wind that seemed almost like a spirited greeting, a testament to the extraordinary nature of this tiny Buddhist kingdom cradled within the Himalayas. Embarking on a transformative journey, Liza, Charlotte and I spent five days trekking from the picturesque town of Paro to the vibrant capital of Thimphu. Each night, our dinner was illuminated not just by the campfire's flickering glow but also by the wisdom imparted by our young guide, Pema. In those intimate moments around the bonfire, Bhutanese culture unfolded before us like a vibrant tapestry, rich with tradition, spirituality, and the collective happiness that defines the essence of this remarkable kingdom.
Amidst the breathtaking landscapes, we discovered that Bhutan's allure extends beyond its natural beauty. It lies in the warmth of its people, the ancient traditions that permeate every facet of life, and the commitment to fostering happiness as a national priority. Here, wealth is measured not in the conventional terms of GDP but in something far more profound — happiness.
As we traversed the mountainous terrain, we weren't merely trekking from one destination to another; we were traversing through a living museum of cultural heritage. The air was thick with stories of ancient monasteries, mystical legends, and the harmonious coexistence of tradition and modernity. Pema, with a youthful spirit and profound knowledge, painted vivid narratives each evening, allowing us to glimpse into the soul of Bhutan. The West could learn a lot from this spiritually endowed little country.
A few fun facts about Bhutan:
Every year the country celebrates the King's birthday by planting thousands of trees and Bhutan holds the world record for the most trees planted in one hour - 4,900.
Bhutan celebrates an annual "International Day of Happiness" on March 20th, emphasizing the importance of happiness and well-being in global development.
A whopping 72% of its land mass remains forested.
Many houses are built from mud and the entire village gathers together while building to sing, dance and pound the bricks.
Archery is the National Sport. Traditional archery competitions are not only a sport but also a celebration of community and camaraderie.
Bhutan is the only country in the world that does not have traffic lights. Instead, traffic is managed by policemen at major intersections.