During my short visit to Bhutan, I experienced Im sure only a glimpse into this world. One of my enduring impressions will be of the expansive forests that cover the majority of this small Kingdom and the inherent reverence for the living world that is the foundations of Buddhism.
Exploring the remains of an old fort against the backdrop of unclimbed peaks.
My guide, Ratu, and driver, Ramish, on the ruins of the fort.
The government banned the climbing of any mountains above 5000m after a few tragedies with people trying to climb the highest mountains. It is in keeping with their philosophy that mountains are themselves sacred and should be respected, not conquered.
Bhutan is many things - including, for better or worse, highly controlled by the government. It is a place like nothing I have experienced before and the many ways in which reverence for all living things are naturally a part of daily life was incredibly inspiring. One thing is for certain is that Bhutan is consciously determining its own path towards the future - with high speed internet and luxury cars alongside archery competitions and youth training to be master sculptors, a massive investment into hydro power and national protection of forests. Bhutan is a country considered.
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