People travel to Bhutan for many reasons. For some it is the lure of an ancient culture steeped in spiritual history; for others it is the challenge of entering the interior of a country which is still much of a mystery to the outside world; and for those with adventure in their hearts, it is an opportunity to trek through the spectacular mountains and valleys of Bhutan. Tours to this country can be as diverse as the travellers themselves, but the one common thread running through all the reasons which draw people to Bhutan, is the people.

Known as an extremely spiritual race, the Bhutanese place happiness above all else. Bhutan’s leaders head the only government in the world which makes its policy decisions based on their impact on GNH – Gross National Happiness. This policy means that Bhutan’s decisions are often at extreme odds to other countries which base their decisions and actions on monetary and power-seeking opportunities. Bhutan tours will take you into the heart of a country where time and technology have not yet sullied the minds of its people, and where television was not even introduced until 1999. Even now it is not wholeheartedly embraced and many TV programmes, which are not deemed to contribute to the happiness of the people, are banned.

Many throughout the world expound that the Bhutanese have found the ‘formula for happiness’, but it appears that, in fact, it is a quality so spiritually entrenched that it needs no teaching. While the government nurtures Bhutan’s spiritual development by placing it above the importance of material gain, anyone who has spent time in Bhutan will vouch for its people’s natural warmth and spirituality.

Canadian-American actor and Parkinson’s disease sufferer Michael J Fox, undertook several of his own Bhutan tours whilst producing his documentary, “Adventures of an Incurable Optimist”. Returning several times to Bhutan in his search for the reasons that make people happy, Fox expressed his fascination with the country’s commitment to the happiness and spiritual well-being of its people.

The GNH is based on the Buddhist premise of taking ‘the middle path’. Instead of striving, as most western societies do, towards the cultivation of economic and social progression as their ultimate goals, Bhutan believes that true enlightenment and happiness arises when “spiritual and material development occur side-by-side to complement and reinforce each other”. Michael J Fox said that, although not a Buddhist himself, his Bhutan tours had strengthened his own personal philosophies on staying positive and being optimistic regarding the future.

With its reputation as a destination for healing and happiness, it seems that word may be spreading to the rest of the world about the wisdom of the policies of Bhutan. Tours to the country have become more popular over the past few years and, of course, its location in the foothills of the majestic Himalaya only enhances its attraction. Although tourism is regulated to limit damage to the environment, Bhutan welcomes foreigners. The people live out their principles of kindness, compassion and respect for all living things and you will be embraced into a culture of real and sincere happiness. Perhaps you will take a little of the formula away with you…

Author Bio: Jude Limburn Turner is the Marketing Manager for Mountain Kingdoms, an adventure tour company who have arranged Bhutan Tours for many years. They now offer treks and tours worldwide, including destinations in North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Central and South East Asia.

Category: Travel
Keywords: Bhutan Tours