Geographically, Bhutan can only be described as an epitome of the landscape of a mystical, elfin land. Nourished by the Himalayas, this neighboring country is engulfed in beauteous scenery. Here, the clouds are constantly on the move, curling around the mountain tops and flitting about whilst marring views of the sky, yet allowing sunlight to permeate, creating a truly ethereal picture. Here, lush vegetation springs out like an ambling young animal. Here, one feels an inexplicable and placid calmness that is bound to soothe the soul. A place where unemployment is virtually non-existent, it is a safe haven to its fulfilled citizens.  

My journey was an interesting one, exiting India via train, travelling through the borders into the Bhutanese city of Phuentsholing. It was from here that the real travel began, in the form of an enjoyable road trip. This city was merely our starting point from where we collected permits to visit the capital, Thimpu, six hours away by road.  Starting out early, we reached Thimpu by early evening, only to behold the gorgeous valley with the river Raidak coursing through the center of the city. The city is a structural marvel, planned in accordance with the course of the river, all buildings on either side of it in an organized fashion. Every building was a work of art in itself, designed in a traditional Bhutanese style with several patterns on the roof ledges and windows and mesmerizing paintings of dragons everywhere. The attractions of Bhutan were mainly two types − gorgeous monasteries, and the Dzongs, which are the administrative units of the country. Both of these attractions are architectural wonders, their splendor undeniable to any viewer.

Thimpu is scattered with several monasteries, although, we only visited two. The first was one that contains the famous Dordenma statue of Buddha which was atop a hill, a mammoth figure of over 169 feet, placed on top of a pedestal of gold below which lies a glorious monastery. The monastery’s inside is embellished with breath-taking carvings and beautiful paintings of Lord Buddha and can only be described as scenic sublime. It was a delightful blend of gold present in the pillars along with the myriad of colors from the paintings.  Below the monastery, there were several gold sculptures of Tara, the female Bodhisattva and a symbol of luck.  The large statue in itself was awe inspiring, not merely due to its admirable proportions but also its architectural value.

The second monastery was more commonplace, much smaller in size, but containing the same grand scheme of colors like the Dordenma monastery. Here, I had the privilege of witnessing a Buddhist prayer service. Drums were beaten, trumpets blown and chants sounded, but despite the somewhat startling volume, the air about the whole event was only tranquil and soothed one’s mind for a while. 

The next stop was the Dzong of Thimpu, opposite the King’s palace. This administrative unit had several ministries and was a palatial compound with sprawling gardens and a large square in the middle where frequent cultural programs take place.  The King’s palace is out of bounds to the general public for security reasons. The Bhutanese monarch is deeply revered. One can see pictures of him in every nook and cranny of every town as a symbol of the people’s allegiance to their respected ruler.  

Thimpu also has several shops that contain beautiful jewelry, largely made of silver and semi-precious stones. However, these items are steep in price as they import materials from India itself to produce them, hence; buying anything very large is not recommended.  Nevertheless, one can always yield to one’s temptation and purchase a small keepsake, for ignoring such alluring items is only an easy task for the cold hearted! 

The next destination was Punakha, six hours from Thimpu. The only attraction here is yet another Dzong that contained two wonderful monasteries within it. This structure is said to have played an important role in Bhutanese history and is in a valley with agricultural land and the mountains cradling it. This Dzong is the most beautiful one in the country, mainly due the picturesque background it is set in. Set at a height, it’s full of several passageways, like an old fort and is shrouded with an aura of mystery and adventure. A riot of colors, it contrasted beautifully with the blue-purple mountains in the background, the yellow fields of rice and babbling bodies of water that ran about. There is an impressive wooden bridge directly above a river. Punakha is an ideal picnicking spot.  

Paro was the final destination. A beautiful city through which the river Paro ran, it contained the most famous Bhutanese attraction- the Tiger’s Den, an almost vertical slope where, according to mythology, a monk was said to have flown up to. It is said to be a trek of over three hours (none of us dared to attempt it), but there are horses which can take people up to a certain point after which they must walk.  

Below, there is a flea market where all kinds of authentic and beautiful jewelry is sold, less than one third the price of the main cities. I purchased a pair of attractive earrings and rings from here. 

Paro also contains a Museum of Natural History, which although not spectacular, is worth a visit to kill time. There is also a Dzong, very similar to the others mentioned, containing a monastery and quaint paintings.  

Paro concluded my trip to Bhutan. The country is one of ethereal landscape rather than metropolitan clutter. Even the capital, though busy, has a rustic charm, being in the lap of nature, which one delightfully accepts. Hence, this country is a wonderland for all enthusiasts of nature, especially those who fancy the mountains. The temperature didn’t go below 12 degrees in October, which would be the perfect time to visit to avoid excessive rain fall and landslides.  

Bhutan has much to offer to lovers of nature and those seeking a spiritual getaway. Visits are highly recommended, especially for those in deep need of unwinding. 

Geographically, Bhutan can only be described as an epitome of the landscape of