When You Land at the Paro Airport
The fact that Bhutan has been so secluded from the rest of the world adds to its charm. The Paro airport is the only international airport in the country. But that is not the only reason that makes this airport unique. The view that you see while landing in this Himalayan airport is probably one of the most magnificient images you will witness in your life. So brace yourselves for this breathtaking sight.
Surrounded by mountains on all four sides of upto18,000 ft. tall and at 1.5 miles above sea level, it’s the only airport that is actually a valley. As you fly downwards, you will see the verdant mountains and forests of the Himalayan region, the crystal clear waters of the Paro river, the pious prayer flags fluttering in the mountain and the grand and imposing monasteries. This is a sight that will mesmerize and melt you at the same time.
Good thing is, your Bhutan holiday begins at Paro, so the welcome itself will be one of the best you have ever received and will set the pace for the rest of your trip.
Visit to One of the Famous Hot Springs
Hot springs or Tshachus are found across Bhutan. However, the five most well-known are The Gata Tshachu, The Chubu Tshachu, The Dur Tshachu, The Duenmang Tshachu, and, The Gelephu Tshachu. Bhutanese believe that Tshachus have healing properties and ever since Bhutan has opened its doors to the world, people from across the world come to take a dip in these hot springs. It is supposed to heal one of all diseases, especially joint pains, arthiritis, and sinus.
But what’s overwhelming is the aura and beauty of these springs You will reach one of these spiritual stations after an equally satisfying trek across sparkling mountain streams, bamboo groves, and quaint Bhutanese villages.
Words simply cannot justify the calmness and tranquillity you reach when you reach one of these spiritual stations. When you visit one of these springs in your Bhutan package, you will know exactly what I mean.
When You Trek to the Tiger’s Nest
Taktsang Monastery or popularly known as Tiger’s Nest is considered the holiest monastery of Bhutan. Paro Taktsang is like a magical dew drop on the mighty Himalayas, nurtured and loved by the mountains. Quite literally hanging on a cliff 10,240 feet over the Paro valley it is a sight to behold, revered and silently prayed to.
This unbelievably gorgeous monastery does not reveal itself easily and remains wrapped in mist and clouds. On the way to Tiger’s Nest rhododendrons and a gentle breeze will be your constant companion. But once you reach the top, it’s sheer magic. Capture the untouched, unspeakable beauty of this mountain-edge monastery, watch nature celebrate in all its colours, and hear the mountains serenade the clouds, the echoes of a past, precious culture. Take in all the beauty.
I guarantee each one of you that Tiger’s Nest will remain one of the most memorable, beautiful and cherished travel moments of your life.
See the Monks in red
You may wonder what is so special about this. But it is actually a very rare and treasured sight in Bhutan to see a line of monks pass dressed in vibrant red robes. You will usually catch them by themselves, or in groups of twos or threes.
To see these pious souls in a red in their flaming garments and serene appearances is a sight few get to witness in the last remaining human kingdom. Consider yourself lucky if you happen to witness this rare sight in your Bhutan holiday.
Praying in front of the Big Buddha and the Butter Lamps
Spirituality is a way of life in the realm. This is hardly surprising considering Bhutan does take its happiness quotient and religion very seriously. But the experience of going to a monastery and kneeling before the towering Buddha, and watch the monks light their butter lamps goes way beyond religion.
The lamps in a row, the luminous face of the Buddha, the quiet, and the radiance emanating from the monks and every nook and corner of the monastery will transform you in ways we will never understand, but leave a lasting impression on your minds and soul.
To Conclude,
Bhutan is like a dream you have never dreamt, a story still in the making. It breaks all stereotypes of a tourist spot, and yet remains a destination that remains the right blend of mysticism and spirituality, luxury and affordability, serenity and music of the valleys. One can’t define it, one can’t categorize, only bask in its beauty and admire it for all that it is. Are you ready to visit this magical land of mountains and monasteries?
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