Bhutan Photo Essay
A young woman poses for the cameraCopyright: Arindam Thokder

In Pictures: A Dream Trip To Bhutan Is Made All The More Memorable Thanks To The Kindness Of Its People

When he got the opportunity to visit "the happiest country in the world," Arindam Thokder took photographs that captured the joy and beauty of the country in spectacular detail. Here's a selection of his highlights from the trip in photos and text
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Bhutan has captivated me since childhood. Known as the "happiest country in the world," it lies just a few kilometres from my hometown, Cooch Behar in West Bengal. One of my earliest fascinations with Bhutan was a lenticular postage stamp I owned—almost 3D in effect. I was equally enchanted by the striking national flag: a white dragon at its centre, set against yellow-orange and orange-red diagonal halves.

In the streets of Thimphu, a Bhutanese police officer controls traffic with a calm yet authoritative presence
In the streets of Thimphu, a Bhutanese police officer controls traffic with a calm yet authoritative presenceCopyright: Arindam Thokder

As a child, I visited Bhutan several times but never ventured beyond Phuntsholing, a lively border town where Indians can travel without an entry permit. Then, in 2013, I finally got the chance to explore beyond it. The short yet memorable itinerary included visits to Thimphu, the capital city, Paro, and a day trek to the breathtaking Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). While the experience was incredible, I longed to explore Bhutan’s lesser-known corners beyond its popular tourist spots.

Near Paro, this small shrine stands in harmony against the backdrop of the surrounding hills, its vibrant Bhutanese architecture with earthy hues standing out in the soft sunlight. An elderly woman bows in prayer
Near Paro, this small shrine stands in harmony against the backdrop of the surrounding hills, its vibrant Bhutanese architecture with earthy hues standing out in the soft sunlight. An elderly woman bows in prayerCopyright: Arindam Thokder

Recently, my dream came true during a bike trip. This time, I revisited Thimphu and Paro but made it a point to go further—to Dochula Pass, Punakha Dzong and, most significantly, the serene Phobjikha Valley. Located 134 kilometres from Thimphu and bordering the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, Phobjikha is a stunning, U-shaped glacial valley nestled against the backdrop of Bhutan’s Black Mountains.

On a windy day near Punakha Dzong, a mother and her four children make their way across the famous hanging bridge that sways high above the Pho Chhu River below. This image captures a simple yet powerful moment of daily life in Bhutan, where family, nature and spirituality are deeply intertwined
On a windy day near Punakha Dzong, a mother and her four children make their way across the famous hanging bridge that sways high above the Pho Chhu River below. This image captures a simple yet powerful moment of daily life in Bhutan, where family, nature and spirituality are deeply intertwinedCopyright: Arindam Thokder

This enchanting region is often referred to as Gangtey, named after the Gangteng Monastery perched on a ridge overlooking the valley. Known for its picturesque beauty, Gangtey is one of Bhutan’s most scenic destinations. Treks through the valley, such as the three-day Phubja Valley Trek, offer an immersive experience of Bhutan’s rich ecology and spiritual heritage, a testament to the country's commitment to sustainable tourism.

Phobjikha Valley stretches out in quiet beauty with the distant peaks of the Black Mountains rising against the horizon. Part of the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, these mountains are known for their rich biodiversity and cultural importance
Phobjikha Valley stretches out in quiet beauty with the distant peaks of the Black Mountains rising against the horizon. Part of the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, these mountains are known for their rich biodiversity and cultural importanceCopyright: Arindam Thokder

Phobjikha Valley, with its tranquil charm, timeless architecture and the kindness of its people, left me spellbound—a journey I’ll cherish forever. One of the highlights was experiencing the traditional Bhutanese architecture in the small villages scattered across the countryside. The houses, with their intricately painted walls, ornate wooden windows and vibrant façades, stand as timeless works of art, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape. The people I met were equally remarkable, their warmth and hospitality unparalleled. Strangers offered tea and stories, making me feel like a welcome guest with their ever smiling faces.

In Gangtey Village, vibrant mustard plants with yellow flowers brighten the landscape
In Gangtey Village, vibrant mustard plants with yellow flowers brighten the landscapeCopyright: Arindam Thokder

Children in the villages were especially heartwarming, their innocent smiles and unfiltered curiosity a reminder of life’s simpler joys. They waved eagerly as we passed by on our bikes. It was a humbling and uplifting experience that underscored the deep connection Bhutanese people have with their land and community.

Inside the peaceful Gangtey Monastery, a group of young monks, dressed in their traditional orange-red robes are seen after their study time
Inside the peaceful Gangtey Monastery, a group of young monks, dressed in their traditional orange-red robes are seen after their study timeCopyright: Arindam Thokder

Bhutan is one of the few capital cities in the world without traffic lights. Instead, traffic is managed by police officers who use hand signals and their friendly demeanour to keep things running smoothly.

Wangdue stands outside his shop in the serene Gangtey Village. The quaint wooden shop is filled with traditional whisks made from the tail hair of a yak. His fingers glide effortlessly over the strings of the Dranyen, the most popular traditional musical instrument
Wangdue stands outside his shop in the serene Gangtey Village. The quaint wooden shop is filled with traditional whisks made from the tail hair of a yak. His fingers glide effortlessly over the strings of the Dranyen, the most popular traditional musical instrumentCopyright: Arindam Thokder

Starting their monastic education at a young age, the boys of the Gangtey Monastery dedicate themselves to learning Buddhist teachings, meditation and rituals. Their daily routine is filled with prayer, study and discipline. These young monks play an important role in preserving Bhutan's spiritual traditions and culture, embodying the quiet strength and discipline that are central to Bhutanese life.

A young Bhutanese girl steps down outside her home, as she heads to school on a chilly morning. Wrapped in warm winter clothes, her ears are covered to shield her from the cold
A young Bhutanese girl steps down outside her home, as she heads to school on a chilly morning. Wrapped in warm winter clothes, her ears are covered to shield her from the coldCopyright: Arindam Thokder

At the Dochula Pass, prayer flags fluttered gently in the breeze. The distant mountains vanished, leaving a calm stillness all around. The mist added a magical touch, making the place feel peaceful and almost otherworldly.

Dochula Pass felt like a scene from a dream. The 108 chortens, as a memorial to the Bhutanese soldiers who died in the 2003 war, stood quietly, their white walls fading into the mist that rolled in suddenly
Dochula Pass felt like a scene from a dream. The 108 chortens, as a memorial to the Bhutanese soldiers who died in the 2003 war, stood quietly, their white walls fading into the mist that rolled in suddenlyCopyright: Arindam Thokder

Thukpa is a hearty noodle soup and a staple of Bhutanese cuisine. Restaurants in the country can serve Chinese, Nepalese, Tibetan and Indian foods, which are very popular. In recent years, Korean restaurants have opened due to the increasing popularity of K-pop in the country.

A Bhutanese lady serves a steaming bowl of traditional thukpa from her home-run restaurant. The warm, savoury soup is the perfect comfort food to counter the chilly weather
A Bhutanese lady serves a steaming bowl of traditional thukpa from her home-run restaurant. The warm, savoury soup is the perfect comfort food to counter the chilly weatherCopyright: Arindam Thokder

The simplicity of life and the unspoiled beauty of its landscapes make Bhutan not just a place to visit but a place to feel. For me, Bhutan will always be a reminder of the joy that comes from embracing life’s essence—happiness rooted in contentment, community and an abiding respect for the world around us.

Morning in Gangtey Village is pure serenity. The air is crisp and fresh, carrying the soft sounds of a cow grazing nearby
Morning in Gangtey Village is pure serenity. The air is crisp and fresh, carrying the soft sounds of a cow grazing nearbyCopyright: Arindam Thokder
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