Bhutan is landlocked country leaning on to the east of great Himalayas. A truly unique country with plenty of jaw dropping sights and truly genuine way of living. World has a lot to learn from this tiny country that has not sold its conscience to modernity and economics.
Here are some quirky facts about Bhutan that makes it truly unique.
- The country measures its progress through gross Happiness and not through Gross domestic product. The care that people show to not just Humans, but to animals and nature is something to be learnt by everyone. Their respect to the land and nature is adorable.
- You cannot honk in the city. Outside of city is acceptable but not inside the city. Any traffic violation will cost you 1750. You cannot get into a fight with anybody for traffic issues or if any vehicle touches yours. You will be charged 10,000 and depending on what you have done you may even be sent to jail.
- Only Royal vehicles could honk, but after an incident that took place which involved Royal vehicle hoking behind someone who was still learning to drive, panicked him to trip down. From then on, even Royal Vehicles stopped honking in cities.
- Crime rate is absolutely nil. Zero. It’s hard to believe but you have to.
- The Royal Residence is a palace. I do not know the exact story but, they gifted the palace to run it as parliament and they moved to a much smaller place. I never know any other king at least in modern times who could be as humble. It’s not just about taking the throne but gaining the worth and respect. Sets a great example to the entire world.
- Make sure you set aside a good amount of time when you go to any restaurant. It is a rule in Bhutan that hotels must start preparing the food only after the order has been placed. I mean even if it is to boil rice or noodles else the license could be canceled.
- Around the area of Royal Residence/Parliament, all vehicles must go less than 40 kms/hr.
- If you see Royal vehicles you need to slow down.
- If you are travelling by road, from Phuentsholing to Thimphu you need to stop at 2 checkpoints for visa check. Do not miss.
- With one visa you cannot travel to the entire country. On entry you get visa to Paro and Thimphu. At Thimphu you can again get approval to travel to other parts of the country.
- Dress appropriately when you are visiting Monasteries and Dzongs. Wear full arm clothes, cover your knees, respect the culture of the land.
- Smoking is banned Bhutan.
- Not a very popular theory around, but it is said that people/drivers who drive in the night have seen lot of paranormal activities. I heard it from a driver who says there is very high probability in this country if you are out in the night to experience paranormal activity. Locals avoid travelling in night.
- I have not seen a single bald person in Bhutan.
Bhutan is a joyful country, full of life. A country where you can experience life in unique way.
Keep Reading, Keep Traveling..!!
-UR
