Saturday 2 April 2011

Bhutan - The little Paradise ...

Last month I had been to Bhutan and what an experience it was. If I were to say it was out of this world, believe me I mean it quite literally as that land is not only unblemished by pollution, population and progress but it also is secluded from the ways of the world. Its pristine and has its own pace, by this if you thought that it doesn't have luxuries... you think wrong, as almost everyone owns an SUV there. It is like wonderland where almost everything you ever wanted is at reach, sparkling rivers huge mountain ranges and green valleys. What more could I ask for ? well I dint ask for it nor did I expect such a reception, people are so friendly down to earth and just plain happy. IT made me wonder, wander and see, see and perceive, perceive and commit to memory. 

This country is rich in culture and heritage, their temples are called Lhakhangs and their Fortresses called Dzongs and every part of the country is filled with them. Gorgeous architecture placed amidst the gorgeous valleys, its a sight to behold and cherish.






What you see here is called "Taktsang" or popularly known as the "Tiger's Nest" is the cultural icon of Bhutan. Its a temple complex standing on the edge of a cliff. This Temple complex built in 1692 has many legends and stories surrounding it. One of them being - It is believed that Guru Rinpoche flew on a flying Tigress and built this. Leaving the legend aside its enthralling to go there, a decent climb up the hill with no motoring options, the view makes every step worthwhile. Just remember to carry loads of water and some food along.


The Beauty of Bhutan is not just limited to such cultural hot spots, you can see it every where. If you chose to fly down to Paro, or walk across the border from Jaigon into Pheuntsholing your bound to feel the difference, you can smell it in the air. Its so beautiful and clean you would want to settle down there. There are many places worth a visit. We chose to cross the border on foot, we reached the nearest railway station 'Hasimara' and took a rick to the border town Jaigon and crossed the gate on foot into Pheutsholing. There you can get the permits to visit Paro and Thimphu. To go to other restricted places you can get a permit at Thimphu. The officials are friendly and very helpful, making the trip even more endearing and awesome.


The Dzongs are equally beutiful and most often than not placed next to a river, which gives it a magnanimous, an ethereal and surreal feel. One must go there and experience for themselves to know what I mean.

Coming to the next important info, the travel between one place to another is quite easy, one can opt to book an entire cab for themselves, or chose to go by the shared taxis which would be the cheaper option. One could also go via local buses, which are clean and comfortable, only thing is you will need to book a day earlier. 

The Bhutanese cuisine is largely non-vegetarian, pork and beef dishes taking up the menu, there are some scrumptious  cheese dishes. The hot favourite is the 'Ema Datshi'. The momos are mouth watering and when delivered hot is heaven in the cold climate.
 
So go to this land of wonders, to this land of people of golden hearts and the land of the Thunder dragon and have an experience of a life time, in its real sense.

The Journey starts here ...

Travel is a need, a want and its the best way to escape. Escape into another reality, into another realm. Where all you think about is the next sunset or the sunrise, not when the traffic will open up, you will think about scaling a mountain, not about the office presentation, where you think of the next rainshower not about the day of appraisal. Travel is probably the best way to be happy and keep healthy.

India is a country so full of colour, diversity and hence a million travel possibilities. That is why you need someone to tell you whats the best time to venture and where.What to carry and how to mark your trail.

Life is Calling was designed for this, to let you escape, to help you wander and plan your direction.

We plan your trips and treks, we have packages that you can readily indulge in or even get your own custom made package ... whatever be it, the choice is yours and there is only one way to live and that is the HIGHWAY ...

Look out for this space for some superb travel trivia and all the exciting things you can do with 'Life is Calling"