Written and Travelled by Samantha Fremont-Smith

We should all be so lucky to stumble upon this Himalayan jewel.

Thanks to the nation’s“Gross National Happiness”. Bhutan is the ultimate de-stress vacation venue, not to mention trekking nirvana. A pristine environment, 6,000 Buddhist temples and monasteries add to the lure. Further incentive? The mountain bike-obsessed King has forbidden smoking and limits tourism . Old fashioned telephones arrived just 10 years ago. 

The focus here is well-being of self and the human family—to help, not to hurt.
This philosophy rubs off. The beautiful and gentle people, the clean air and Buddhist monks chanting inspire you to be a better, happier self.

Don't Miss

The famed Tiger’s Nest, the Drukgyel Dzong and the mystery of windy sky
burial site.

Stay:

With the famed Aman resorts in the five valleys: Paro, Thimpu, Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthang. We stayed in Paro and Thimpu and loved our treks and visit to the local nunnery. Choose from Buddhist monk lectures or traditional dance performances in the evening. The property hosts welcome you as long lost friends. You will certainly carry a quotient of happiness home.