BHUTAN AS A HONEYMOON DESTINATION
Looking for the most romantic honeymoon? Let’s see why people choose going to Bhutan
1. BHUTAN IS THE COUNTRY OF HAPPINESS
Bhutan is the only country in the world that has a “Gross National Happiness” (GNH). The process of measuring GNH began when Bhutan opened up to globalization. It measures people’s quality of life, and makes sure that “material and spiritual development happen together.” Bhutan has done an amazing job of finding this balance. It is hard to imagine that such a small country, tucked in the Himalaya Mountains, is the “Happiest Country” in the world, the last standing Buddhist Kingdom and has one of the fastest growing GDP’s in the world.
Who wouldn’t want to visit a nation which is known worldwide for its Gross National Happiness?
2. BHUTAN IS THE NATURE LOVER’S PARADISE
Bhutan is famous as the land of the thunder dragon, ancient temples, and fortresses.
Eastern Bhutan – Ideal for unexplored trekking, natural wonders, historical and cultural tours and textiles. The districts of Mongar, Lhuntse, Tashi Yangtse, Tashigang and Samdrup Jongkhar constitute the eastern circuits.
Western Bhutan – It is famous for the annual Haa Summer Festival and comprises of six western Districts in the country that includes Thimphu, Paro, Haa, Wangdue Phodrang, Punakha and Gasa.
Central Bhutan – This area is famous for many festivals. Major ones being annual Tshechu of Trongsa and Bumthang, the Jampa Lhakhang Tshechu and the Ura Tshechu. There are many sacred monuments in this region that are worth a visit.
Southern Bhutan– It is the ecological hub of the country comprising of seven southern districts of Bhutan – Samtse, Chukha, Dagana, Tsirang, Sarpang, Zhemgang and Pemagatshel.
3. BHUTAN HAS A VARIETY OF UNIQUE THINGS TO DO
– An elephant ride is a must do here; one can also see colourful hornbills and golden langurs.
– Meet tribals –Khengpa people and stay in traditional bamboo homes
– The Tigers Nest is the most iconic tourist site in Bhutan and is a definite must visit place. The relaxing hike to the monastery and its location will take your breath away. The panoramic view is totally worth the effort.
– Hot Stone Bath: This is a popular form of medication practiced in Bhutan since time immemorial. This is said to have lots of medicinal benefits and is usually done for having knee, joint and back pains.
– Food tasting at Folk Heritage Museum: One stop shop for authentic Bhutanese food. Must try here is Aara (local alcohol) and Suja (butter tea).
– Mountain Biking: For the adventurous soul mountain biking here is a definite do.
– Kayaking and Rafting: The flowing rivers invite the professionals and amateurs alike to get wet and have some fun rafting and kayaking.
4. THERE’S NOT A SINGLE TOURIST TRAP IN THE COUNTRY.
Which means that you can spend your days climbing, walking sticks in hand, up to Buddhist temples and fortresses, or biking down pristine switchback mountain trails.
Honeymooners will love the stunning beauty and irresistible allure of this tiny country. It is further matched by the deep spirituality, old world charm and placid ways of living. Hike up to a beautiful dzong (monastic fortress) on a lovely morning or let your hair down at a town pub. Snow capped mountains, picturesque valleys, gurgling rivers and luxuriant forests as you explore the country. Dzongs, Lhakangs and Chortens highlight the religiosity of the Bhutanese while festivals bring out the colours of pomp and gaiety. Fiercely traditional yet secular, the Bhutanese will welcome you warmly to cherish their distinct culture and heritage.
5. BHUTAN HAS LUXURIOUS STAYING STANDARD
Tourism is one of the mainstays of the Bhutanese economy and one can find decent infrastructure in most of the tourist hubs. The mountain lodges built in sync with Bhutanese architectural patterns have natural rammed earth walls, gently sloping roofs and wood-panelled interiors with a king size bed, a traditional bukhari (wood-burning stove) and large terrazzo-clad bath. You can hear the gurgling Wangdi River as you enjoy a romantic candle-lit dinner on the stone patio outside your room.
6. THE MOST DISTINCTIVE CHARACTERISTIC OF BHUTANESE CUISINE IS ITS SPICINESS.
Chillis are an essential part of nearly every dish and are considered so important that most Bhutanese people would not enjoy a meal that was not spicy. The Bhutanese believe that it is a badge of honour to eat as spicy food as possible. Don’t forget to try out Ema Datse (cheese & chilies), a stew eaten with red rice. The yak cheese has a distinctive taste different from other types of cheeses. Phak Shaa Paa (Pork stew with radish) is also served with variants. Momos, or meat dumplings, are popular in Bhutan and in the entire Himalayan belt. Most dishes are tempered to suit individual tastes. The Swiss Bakery in Thimphu is a great place for coffee and cake. It also offers a range of mouth watering Tibetan, Indian and Continental dishes.
7. THE BHUTANESE ARE WELL-KNOWN FOR THEIR ARTISTIC INTERESTS.
You must buy some hand woven shawls, skirts and other fabrics that have intricate designs on them. Souveniers like trinkets, hand made paper, prayer wheels, masks, and Thangkas make great gifts. Thangkas are Buddhist hand paintings on hand made paper. The lovely paintings can be hung from the walls or framed. For the fashion conscious, there are a lot of accessories to choose from. Shop for some junk silver (that’s all over the place), turquoise, or use the colorful scarves to create an outfit.
8. THE MOST EXCLUSIVE OF TOURIST DESTINATIONS
Bhutan is undoubtedly one of the most exclusive of tourist destinations anywhere and efforts are taken to maintain it.
In order to protect the culture, traditions and natural environment the government has adopted a strict policy of “High Value, Low Impact Tourism”: visitors must be accompanied by an official Bhutanese tour guide, apply for an approved visa from the tourism council. This policy is aimed at attracting discerning tourists that will respect the unique culture and values of the Bhutanese people while also providing the visitors with an unforgettable one of a kind experience. A mere 13,000 tourists visit Bhutan each year makes it feel as if you’re the only guests at the understatedly luxurious trip.
9. LUXURY BUT STILL IN BUDGET?
Honeymoon is a much-needed escape after months of exciting, yet exhausting, wedding planning. It is the first time the two of you will be together as a married couple. Why not enjoy luxurious and best suited hotels and accommodations with the most romantic honeymoon packages of Bhutan which are crafted by Triip’s local guides in Bhutan.
Source: Mr. Joe