Bhutan - The Kingdom between Heaven and Earth

Let's start with Thimphu, the most unusual capital in the world. There are no traffic lights, and traffic is controlled by police officers in white gloves, like conductors on a theater stage. Visit the National Memorial Chorten, where pilgrims in colorful robes perform daily prayer circles, spinning prayer wheels.

In Thimphu, it's important not to rush. Stroll through the Saturday market, where the air is filled with the aroma of spices, and be sure to try emu datshi, a national dish of hot peppers and cheese that will make you feel the fire of Bhutan.

Paro is home to the country's most emblematic landmark, the Taktsang Lhakhang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery, perched on a cliff at 3,000 metres. A winding path through pine groves and mist reveals fabulous views of the Paro Valley. Stop for a moment, close your eyes and listen to the wind whisper – perhaps it will tell you the legend of how Guru Padmasambhava flew here on the back of a tiger.

Punakha Dzong stands at the confluence of two rivers, like a giant ship ready to set sail. When the jacaranda trees bloom in spring, the dzong seems especially beautiful. Kings were crowned here, and the spirit of history is preserved here. Enter inside and feel the coolness of the walls, touch the wooden columns covered with ancient patterns, and sense the breath of centuries.

Phobjika is an amazing valley where black cranes, considered sacred birds, fly every winter. When the fog covers the valley and the silhouettes of the birds are barely visible, it seems as if you have entered an ancient myth. Be sure to visit the local monastery Gangtey Gompa, where monks read prayers daily, asking for the well-being of the cranes and people.

Bumthang is a land of monasteries, ancient legends and endless apple orchards. Here stands the Kurjey Lhakhang monastery, built around a cave where Padmasambhava himself meditated. Bumthang is also famous for its delicious cider and honey, and a walk through the local farms is the perfect complement to the spiritual experience.

No visit to Bhutan would be complete without a festival. The most famous is Tshechu, a vibrant religious festival with monks dancing in colorful masks, music, and ritual performances that last for days. At these festivals, be prepared to smile, dance, and feel part of something big and important.

• Individual tourism is prohibited in Bhutan, so you can only travel through accredited agencies.

• Locals wear traditional clothes - kira and gho. Tourists should also try on these outfits.

• Respect local traditions: take pictures of people only with their permission, do not smoke in public places and remember that spirituality is more important here than material values.

Bhutan is not just a country. It is an experience that changes the idea of ​​happiness and the meaning of life. It is a country where after visiting you will look at the sky for a long time, remembering the mountains and the smiles of the people who became your family for a short time.

Welcome to Bhutan, a place where happiness can be felt at your fingertips.