Echoes of Love and Happiness: Rajneesh’s Bhutan Trip Review with Thrillophilia
It all started over a coffee on a Sunday morning. “ Rajneesh, I think we should go on a trip together, just the two of us!” my wife said casually. She was right, parenthood and work had kept us so busy that we’d hardly had a moment to ourselves in the past 25 years. After years of chasing deadlines and raising a family, we were all set to go on our second honeymoon in our 50s.
“Is there any particular destination you wish to visit?” I asked her. With a knowing grin, she replied, “Maybe somewhere far away - no Wifi, no deadlines and definitely no chaos of the city”. After many discussions, we finally settled on Bhutan, where we shall find mountains, monks and the much-needed peace.
With a bag full of pills, hearts full of anticipation and a mutual agreement to complain less, we set off on our vacation to Bhutan.
Gates and Great Views
Upon our arrival at Siliguri, the driver from Thrillophilia received us with a warm smile and drove us to Phuentsholing. The hotel rooms were cosy and comfortable, which was much appreciated after the four-hour-long car journey. Later in the evening, we decided to explore the city by ourselves. Our first stop was the Torsa Riverside. A peaceful walk along the river with the sound of the water flowing and birds chirping in the background rejuvenated our souls.
Then we headed to the Bhutan Gate, which we were told is an emblem of the Indo-Bhutanese relationship. We admired the magnificent architecture, intricate wooden carvings and traditional motifs on the Gate. While we struggled to snap a clear picture of us standing in front of the gate, a kind local helped us.
“Let us sit for a while in the garden,” my wife suggested. The well-manicured flower gardens around the gate served as a welcome spot for the tourists. “Thank you for bringing me here”, she said as her eyes gleamed. I could see her enjoying the escape from her monotonous routine.
The day ended on a spiritual note with the prayers by Buddhist monks at Zangto Pelri Lhakhang and Karbandi Monastery.
Whispers of Nature
The next day, we drove to Thimphu, crossing lush plains, cascading waterfalls and high mountain paths. After check-in, we visited Ludrong Memorial Garden and Zilukha Anim Drashtang.
We then visited the Simply Bhutan Museum, “Let us take pictures of us in local clothes”, I said. While I changed into the Gho, my wife looked pretty in her Kira.
My wife, a nature lover, was eager to visit the Royal Botanical Garden. The peaceful setting of the garden was so romantic that we both giggled and walked hand in hand like newlyweds.
The next day was completely planned for sightseeing, and we offered our prayers at the National Memorial Chorten and Tashicchho Dzong. I was very excited about the visit to Mothitang Takin Preserve, and it did not disappoint. We witnessed the Takin, which is the national animal of Bhutan; it was mesmerising.
My wife was really looking forward to shopping at the Handicrafts Market. I would rather rest, but seeing her enthusiasm made me forget all about my exhaustion. She bought handmade jewellery, some wooden pieces, paintings and souvenirs like keychains and magnets; it brought her a lot of joy.
Landscapes That Mesmerise
The following day, we drove to Paro, and we decided to take it slow and relax after a tiring day of sightseeing. After resting, we visited the Paro Chhu because the receptionist at our hotel suggested it, and we did not regret the decision. The crystal clear water of the river and the picturesque view of the Paro Valley from the step bridge were breathtaking.
The next day was booked for a hike to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest Temple. Despite our age, my wife and I wanted to take part in the hike to feel young. Our guide carefully assisted us through the dense pine forests, rhododendron bushes and gentle slopes. We took a lot of breaks and enjoyed the views. On reaching the monastery, we forgot the difficulty of the hike as we were taken by the beauty of the monastery and the mesmerising views of Paro Valley from the top of the cliff.
We then drove back to Phuentsholing and just relaxed after settling into our rooms. In the evening, we went to Alapan’s Viewpoint to witness the beautiful sunset view.
Homeward Bound
We packed our bags the next day and drove back to Siliguri for departure. I was quite nervous at the beginning of the trip, but Thrillophilia made sure we were safe and comfortable. We expected to see scenic valleys and ancient monasteries, but the trip was a rediscovery of our love and laughter.
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