Blogs from Thimphu, Bhutan, Asia - page 2

A slogan at Thimphu’s School of Traditional Arts says, “Gross National Happiness is more important than Gross National Product” by HM, Jigme Singye Wangchuk, the fourth Dragon King of Bhutan. This concept of GNH (Gross National Happiness) was designed to measure the quality of life or social progress than only the economic indicator of GDP (Gross Domestic Product). After driving in a Tata Safari for almost 4 days from Tamenglong, three members of the Adventure Club of Tamenglong (ACT) and a friend, Raimi, we picked up from Eastern Theological College, reached Gelephu a border town in Bhutan adjacent to Dadgiri in Chirang District of Assam. It was already 8 pm and the border gate had been closed for vehicles except for a few pedestrians crossing the borders at the last moment. Initially we were refused entry ... read more

Day 3 - Paro to Thimpu After an early start, and a long wait at the airport, the flight being over an hour late, we were surprised by the size of our Druk Airways plane. The snack they handed out on the 50minute flight, was a bland cheese sandwich with mayonnaise and a sweet biscuit. We spent more of the flight looking out of the window and the clear views of the Himalayas which the First Officer did his best to identify each of the main peaks to us. The second part of his announcement was that we shouldn't get alarmed by the proximity of the descent to the surrounding mountains, and that this was quite normal, as was the slightly bumpy approach due to cross winds. Once we had collected our baggage we headed outside ... read more

Geo: 27.4426, 89.6673We've left the smallest Asian country and arrived in, arguably, the most hidden Asian country- because of a limited number of colours, I suspect that Deb P's crayon atlas doesn't even include Bhutan. Until recently, the tiny Kingdom of Bhutan remained tucked away in total isolation from the rest of the world. That segregation has helped to preserve its deep Buddhist traditions, and pristine landscapes. Some fun facts about Bhutan:* It's one of 43 landlocked countries in the world.* The word “Bhutan” translates to “Land of the Thunder Dragon.” It earned the nickname because of the fierce storms that often roll in from the Himalayas.* Bhutan is the first country in the world with specific constitutional obligations on its people to protect the environment. Among its requirements: At least 60 percent of the nation ... read more

There is a story that we heard. Apparently, disobedient soldiers in years gone by were given a punishment to run between Thimphu and Paro. 29km, 2000m of altitude gain and loss on mountainous terrain, all run between 2400m and 3600m. Sounds curious... but wait! it gets more interesting! There was a 'fastest known time' for this punishment. A time of 7hours and 50 minutes. Now, let me introduce you to Randall. Randall is a curious chap. He likes challenges. He was triumphant in the Thimphu Momo-Off (eating as many Bhutanese dumplings as you can), and astounded his audience by putting away a healthy 32 of them! In addition to momos, Randall also likes hills, and running up and down them. Those of you that know me (Andy), know that I am also impartial to the occasional ... read more

Geo: 27.4426, 89.6673Took a flight with the Royal Bhutanese Airline DrukAir out of rainy Bangkok to a unsuspected stop at a dusty Indian military airstrip in Bagdogra. After taking on 50 more western tourists we headed for Paro, Bhutan. Landing there is rather adventurous. The plane has to fly an S-curve through the valleys while descending before quickly leveling for landing. Immediately upon arrival one realizes how remote this Himalayan kingdom is, with only two immigration officers needed.Got picked up by my guide and driver for the next 8 days and had lunch in Paro before we drove under blue skies to the capitol Timphu. Strolled around a bit and checked into the Riverview Hotel. I still can't believe I actually made it here to Bhutan, which by the way is also called the Land of ... read more