If your next backpacking holiday is going
to be in a destination that is quaint, offbeat yet beautiful and buzzing with
life, look no further than Bhutan. As of 2019, to maintain government programs providing
free education, healthcare and poverty alleviation, the Bhutan government has
announced that all tourists must pay a fee of US$250 per person per day
(accommodation, transport in Bhutan, a guide, food and entry fees included)
This change of policy has spurred a conversation amongst backpackers of the
world whether a trip to Bhutan is even worth it, considering that this is a
significant amount of money to pay, and these prepaid tours come with a loss
of flexibility, which is what
backpackers seek the most in their trips. Let us take a look at why Bhutan is
still worth your time and money:
Firstly, this price is inclusive of stays
in 3 stars and if you luck out, a few 4-star hotels as well. After a few nights
of back to back camping, we promise you these hotels will be a welcome change! The
country is sparsely populated, the air is unpolluted, and the water is clean.
Couple this with a breath-taking view of the Himalayas, and the way your soul
will feel at peace is worth your money and much more.
Visit Bhutan in February and March to catch
the mask festivals in Paro. Watching the younger generation celebrate their
traditions in full gusto is truly heart-warming. This is the first
carbon-negative country in the world, and in the plastic-festered world we live
in, to stay and experience this is totally worth it.
Or let the Land of the Thunder dragon
impress you a little more on your trek to The Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro
Takstang). Located at the side of a steep cliff wall, legend has it that this
location was chosen by a tigress who brought Guru Rinpoche (an important figure
in the Buddhist religion) to the site to subdue a local demon.
If you want to truly experience the
friendly nature of the locals, we suggest you try a homestay. Experience the most
authentic version of the local cuisine, soak in a long relaxing traditional
bath and wake up thoroughly energized.
If you want to see the rare takin, Bhutan’s
national animal, head to the Motithang Takin Preserve in Thimpu. A must visit
spot in Bhutan is its unique for-monastery Punakha Dzong, otherwise known as
the “Palace of Great Happiness”. Apart from being one of the most picturesque
structures in the entire country, the dzong itself features typical detailed
Buddhist symbols and murals some of which depict the life of Buddha.
After all these zen activities, if you are
craving for some high adrenaline adventure, try river rafting at Po Chhu. For
some wholesome fun, you could even head to a local archery match and watch the
locals enthusiastically cheer on their team or make fun of the other team to
confuse its archer. This is a great way to unwind after a hectic day.
Does the promise of a
foreign culture so vibrant, novel and colourful, and pristine natural beauty,
call out to you yet? Then get started with packing and head over to Bhutan
quickly. The only country in the world which measures growth by Gross National
Happiness Index, is sure to leave you with a happy heart and a smiling face.
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