Shakti's Musings & Travelogue

When the three sisters decided to embark on a Bhutan adventure, I figured it was time to call in my Bhutanese buddy to whip up an itinerary that would make us look like travel pros. We soared into Bhutan on Druk Air, and let me tell you, landing at Paro International Airport felt like riding a roller coaster designed by Mother Nature herself—absolutely unforgettable! In a world where everyone rushes around like caffeinated squirrels, Bhutan is like that warm, fuzzy blanket you didn’t know you needed. Here, you can indulge in some seriously quirky activities: try your hand at archery, marvel at ancient crafts, feast on home-made cheese, brave the fire-breathing chillies and tackle breathtaking treks.

But wait, there’s a secret Bhutan that most don’t talk about – the one where prayer flags are like hipsters, strung up everywhere and fluttering proudly. In this whimsical Bhutan, you can boost your happiness, dive headfirst into surprises, and kick off some wild adventures that even your most daring friend would raise an eyebrow at!

More than 70% forested and the first carbon-negative country in the world, Bhutan is like Mother Nature’s little secret stash, packed with soaring mountains and enough monasteries and stupas to make even a tree-hugger say, “Whoa, that’s a lot of karma!”

Some of the must-see places in Bhutan include the infamous Tiger’s Nest Monastery, which, let’s face it, is literally dangling on a cliff, trying to steal the spotlight with its jaw-dropping views! When we finally landed at Khangkhu Resort, it was a sigh of relief—our legs were already staging a protest and demanding lunch like they were entitled celebrities. After we devoured a feast of Ema Datshi, we pranced over to Kichu Lhakhang, Drugyel Dzong, and Rinpung Dzong like we were on a cultural scavenger hunt. The next day, we figured it would be a blast to tackle Takshang base and hike up to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Spoiler alert: the trek is basically a three-hour endurance trial, and if you’re the type to ahem pause for selfies every five minutes, you might as well book a tent for that extra hour! By day three, we were ready to roll to Punakha via Dochula Pass, where we gazed at 108 stupas, feeling like we had stumbled into an exclusive stupa gala, all while marveling at the fabulous Himalayas ! Our last stop was Khuruthang town, where we made a pit stop at the Wolakha Monastery, trying to project sophistication while our minds were plotting the next snack break!

On day 4, we zipped over to Punakha Dzong, ready to chill at Zomlithang, the ultimate picnic hangout! Pro tip: pack your lunches and drinks, because who wants to eat soggy sandwiches while sitting on the riverbank? After a feast fit for royalty (aka us), we waddled over to check out Chimi Lhakhang, the Fertility Temple—don’t ask me how it works, I’m just here for the sights! Oh, and Bajo Lhakhang was on the agenda too. We crashed at Meripuensum Hotel for the night, dreaming of a buffet. Then came day 5, where we took off to Thimpu, but not before making a pitstop at Lamperi Park—because nature called, you know? If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also swing by Dochula Pass for a selfie! We capped it all off at Khamsum Inn, where hopefully, the beds were as comfy as our dreams of endless Ema Datshi and Momos.

On day 6, we set off on a trek to Tango Monastery, practically skipping down the nature trail because excitement made us forget how to walk! After a lunch that could fuel a small army, we ambled through the craft bazaar and handicraft shops—seriously, I wish I’d brought a shopping cart! Remember to grab some local cloth; it’s so warm you’ll feel like a chic Panda bear wrapped in a blanket. As our adventure came to a close, we busted out our best dance moves en route to the Grand celebration at Changlimithang Stadium, where we just casually spotted the King and Queen with their royal crew. I mean, what a way to end things—can we get a round of applause for the ultimate royal send-off? What a riotously grand finale to our memorable escapade in the land overflowing with good vibes and cheerful smiles!