Bhutan a whole new world

The magnificent and tranquil Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup convent is located atop a hill on the way from from Thimphu to Punakha. Fortunately, this nunnery is not yet a very well known tourist stop and this makes it an all the more appealing attraction. Nestled amidst verdant pine trees, this beautiful structure reflects the finesse of Bhutanese architecture. The pristine white washed walls are complemented by the richly sculpted woods painted in black, red and golden colors embellished with illustrious styles created by local artists. The temple is home to a colossal 14-feet bronze sculpture of Avalokiteshvara. There are many other statues within the temple and also a meditation center of nuns. If the tranquility and soothing chanting by the nuns or the stunning views are not enough, then you can also spot birds and enjoy a cup of hot tea with biscuits with the hospitable hosts.

Haa Valley was Bhutan’s own secret and off the tourist map till 2002. The pristine valley is the second least populated dzongkhag (District) in the country and popularly known as “Hidden-Land Rice Valley. Nestled on the western-most edge of Bhutan, this area is one of the most picturesque places in the country. As you walk through the valley, the emerald meadows with bright flowers, fluttering prayer flags, bright blue skies and light mist that dissipates when touched by the golden beams of the sun make a picture perfect setting. Apart from the picturesque locations, there are a few temples and monasteries which are a must visit. Lhakhang Karpo (White) and Lhakhang Nagpo ( Black ) temples stand out. Legend has it that King Songtsen Gampo released a black and a white pigeon in order to find locations for building temples. The white pigeon landed on the mountains of Chenrizi of towering Rigsum. The black pigeon flew and landed north – that is Lhakhang Nagpo today. A 100-year old monastery of Tagchu Goemba adds a nice balance to the scenic beauty of the valley. Being a remote destination, Haa is also a trekker’s paradise. The River Haa Chu flows right through the heart of the valley and the region is dotted with Goembas (Buddhist Temples). Strolling by the river banks, listening to the sounds of water, and looking at the clouds enveloping proud mountain peaks becomes an even more perfect experience at sunrise and sunset. Visit the ruins of the old fortress of Dobji Dzong or perhaps you may want to get lost in the many small villages, stopping to meet and interact with the friendly locals.   The charms and beauty of Haa Valley are just waiting on you to be discovered and experienced.

A picturesque village not very far from Punakha, Talo is a small typical Bhutanese village at 2800 m offering superb views of the Punakha Valley. Famous for the royal family’s private monastery, the Nalanda University where they run a Junior School/college and, its cleanliness, Talo village is undoubtedly one of the most attractive places in Bhutan. The Talo Monastery is said to be the seat of one of the reincarnations of Zabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, who came to Bhutan in the 17th century and unified the country for the first time in its history. Built atop a small plateau overlooking the Talo village, it commands magnificent views of the nearby villages and the towering hills beyond Wangduepodrang that guard the gateway to Central Bhutan. The 3-day Talo festival is celebrated in the village. The Monastery is also the location for the three-day Talo Tshechu/Festival which is well known for its mask dances. An equally popular attraction, which has a deep religious and historical significance, is the Zhungdra (classical dance) by the Talo dance troupe. The three songs of Mani Sum, which comprise the Zhundra set, are performed as the closing item on each day of the three days of the Tshechu and are the pride of the Talo community. Attending this festival allows you opportunities to meet and mix with both locals and the monks. Enjoy one-on-one conversations that are completely unscripted and help you understand a new point of view. It is precisely such moments that make travel transformative.