THE KINGDOM OF GROSS NATIONAL HAPPINESS
Bhutan is a Buddhist kingdom that is encircled by the lofty mountain ranges of the Himalayas. The topography of the country starts as an arctic rocky expanse dotted by towering peaks that offer breathtaking visuals throughout the year. The southern part is relatively flatter, more fertile and covered in palatial greenery. But no matter where you are in Bhutan, the visuals are breathtaking. The powdery blue mountains are ever present in a typical Bhutanese skyline, and the entire kingdom is dotted with monasteries that sport an air of unmatched grandeur.
A CLOSER LOOK
The kingdom of Bhutan functions closely on the principles of cultural preservation and environment friendliness. The kingdom has banned any manufacturing/usage of tobacco throughout the premises to maintain the sanctity of its surroundings. Tourists are allowed to bring in with them only a limited number of cigarettes during each trip. The meat consumed throughout the country isn’t slaughtered within the borders of Bhutan either. They are imported from the neighboring country of India and preserved in dried form and used in curries.
CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The most interesting events that take place in Bhutan are the Tsechu and the annual Summer Festival. The Tsechu is observed during the 10th day of Lunar Month, that marks the birth date of Guru Padmasambhava, the patron saint of Bhutan, who introduced Buddhism in the kingdom of Shangri La. People gather in the courtyard of elaborately decorated monasteries dressed in their traditional best as the program unfurls with great pomp and show. Songs, dance performances, prayer sessions & masked dances follow. A giant, larger-than-life banner is unfurled that dawn, which is embroidered or painted with great detailing.