Vanndana’s Ultimate Solo Adventures in the Land of Happiness
Imagine sitting on a weathered stone bench, sipping a steaming cup of butter tea, with the majestic Punakha Dzong standing tall in the background. The air is crisp, the river hums softly nearby, and a monk, no older than twenty, sitting beside you, sharing stories about Bhutanese culture.
That’s how one of my mornings in Bhutan began— simple yet profound.
Solo travel has a way of making you cherish these little moments, isn’t it?
Planning this trip wasn’t easy. I’d always been the kind of person who needed a companion for everything, even a coffee run. But one day, I decided to take the plunge and gift myself the experience of solitude.
And, Bhutan felt like the perfect choice— a land of happiness, peace, and breathtaking beauty. What I didn’t expect was how much it would teach me about myself and the world around me.
Exploring Bhutan’s Treasures
My journey started in Paro, home to the iconic Paro Taktsang, or Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The hike up was challenging, but every step felt worth it as I climbed higher, surrounded by towering pine trees and fluttering prayer flags.
Reaching the monastery was surreal, it seemed to cling to the cliff as if it were part of the mountain itself. Standing there, gazing at the view, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment and peace.
Next was Thimphu, where the grandeur of the Buddha Dordenma left me speechless. This massive golden statue seemed to radiate calmness, and I spent hours just sitting there, soaking in its aura. At the nearby Dochula Pass, the 108 chortens stood like silent sentinels amidst the misty mountains. The view was straight out of a dream, and I couldn’t resist taking dozens of photos to capture its beauty.
Punakha was where I felt Bhutan’s soul the most. The Punakha Dzong, with its intricate architecture and serene location, was a sight to behold. Walking across the Punakha Suspension Bridge was both thrilling and meditative, as the gentle sway of the bridge seemed to match the rhythm of the river below.
Adventures and Firsts
One of the best things about solo travel is the freedom to try things you’ve never done before. In Bhutan, I stepped out of my comfort zone in ways I never imagined.
River rafting on the Mo Chhu River was a thrilling experience. The rapids were exciting but not too intimidating, and the laughter of my fellow rafters made it even more fun.
I still cannot believe that I tried my hand at archery, Bhutan’s national sport. Let’s just say I won’t be winning any medals anytime soon, but the locals were kind enough to cheer for me anyway.
Rock climbing tested my physical limits, and horse riding through the countryside was an absolute delight. My horse, a gentle but stubborn creature, had a knack for stopping to nibble on grass, which made for some amusing moments.
Conversations That Changed Me
One of the most profound experiences of my trip was talking to the monks. At a monastery in Paro, I met a senior monk who shared insights about mindfulness and happiness.
His words were simple yet impactful: “Happiness isn’t found; it’s created.”
That conversation stayed with me throughout the trip and beyond.
In Thimphu, I also joined a group meditation session led by a young monk. Sitting cross-legged in the quiet hall, surrounded by strangers who felt like friends, I felt an overwhelming sense of connection and calm. It was a moment of clarity that reminded me why I had embarked on this journey in the first place.
Food and Shopping
Coming to my absolute favourite part of the trip- the delicious local cuisine! From the fiery Ema Datshi (chili cheese) to the comforting Thukpa, every meal was a burst of flavour. I particularly loved the momos, which I tried at a tiny roadside stall in Paro. The owner, an elderly woman with a warm smile, insisted I try her homemade chutney, and it was the perfect complement.
Shopping in Bhutan was equally delightful. I picked up colourful prayer flags, handwoven scarves, and a traditional kira as souvenirs. The local markets were vibrant, and bargaining with the friendly shopkeepers was an experience in itself.
Unexpected Friendships
One of the best parts of solo travel is meeting new people. On my hike to Tiger’s Nest, I met a group of travelers from Germany. We bonded over our mutual struggle with the steep trails and ended up exploring the monastery together.
In Thimphu, I shared a campfire with a group of solo travelers from different parts of the world. We exchanged stories, played games, and even attempted to sing local songs. By the end of the night, it felt like we’d known each other forever.
The End of an Incredible Journey
As my trip came to an end, I felt a mix of emotions— gratitude for the experiences, sadness to leave, and excitement to share my stories.
Solo travel in Bhutan was a journey of self-discovery. It taught me to embrace solitude, step out of my comfort zone, and find joy in the little things. If you’ve ever considered traveling solo but held back due to fear or doubt, let me tell you, Bhutan with its serene landscapes and warm people, is the perfect place to start.
So, this is your sign to take the leap and let the adventure begin. Bhutan is waiting for you!
Read More: Thrillophilia Bhutan Reviews