There is a place in the world where happiness is considered more important than material wealth, to the point that the government measures it through a series of parameters and intervenes if the so-called “Gross Domestic Happiness Rate” is not satisfactory.
In this article we will introduce you to the Kingdom of Bhutan.
Love of nature and respect for traditions
Bhutan is a small kingdom of 774,000 people perched amid theHimalayan peaks between China and India, ruled by a Dragon King whose role is primarily as the nation’s moral and spiritual leader. Thimphu is its capital and the country’s main economic center.
The population is ethnically diverse, with major groups such as the Ngalop (considered the “original” Bhutanese), Sharchop and Lhotshampa (of Nepalese origin).
It is undoubtedly a country that captivates with its natural beauty, culture, and unique approach to well-being and sustainable development.
Indeed, in the Kingdom of Bhutan, daily life is characterized by a strong connection with nature.
This small state is known for its environmental conservation efforts: about 72 percent of the country, for example, is covered by forests, and a significant portion of the land is designated as national parks and nature reserves. Bhutan is also the first country in the world to be carbon negative.
A trip to Bhutan is a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in a deeply spiritual culture influenced by Vajrayana Buddhism, which is the state religion.
Monasteries, temples and fortresses (dzongs) dot the landscape, serving not only as religious centers but also as the hub of the country’s social and administrative life.
People often wear traditional clothing: the gho for men and the kira for women, but religion does not overly influence community life; in a sense, this small kingdom has managed to strike a balance between spirituality and community spirit.
Religious festivals, known as tsechu, for example, are colorful celebrations that attract visitors from all over the world and feature masked dances and sacred rituals.
Gross Domestic Happiness (GNH) – Gross National Happiness.
Gross Domestic Happiness (GNH) is a unique and pioneering concept introduced by Bhutan’s fourth Dragon King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, in 1972.
This approach to national well-being goes beyond measuring economic progress through Gross Domestic Product (GDP), emphasizing instead a more holistic approach that takes into account the happiness and well-being of citizens.
How is the Happiness rate measured? To measure the level of happiness of the people, the Government of Bhutan has identified 9 parameters, called domains in technical jargon.
which must always be met through the government’s lifestyle and policy choices.
The Gross Domestic Happiness Rate is measured through an index that takes into account the nine domains mentioned above.
Data are collected through national surveys involving large samples of the population, with detailed questionnaires covering various aspects of daily life and well-being.
The Nine Domains of Gross Internal Happiness
- Psychological Wellness:
- Measurement of overall satisfaction in life, positive and negative emotions, and sense of spirituality and purpose in life.
- Health:
- Assessment of physical and mental health, access to health services, and healthy behaviors of the population.
- Use of Time:
- Analysis of how people use their time, balancing work, rest and leisure.
- Vitality of the Community:
- Examination of social relationships, community support and sense of belonging.
- Education:
- Access to and quality of education, literacy, and lifelong learning opportunities.
- Cultural Diversity and Resilience:
- Preservation of cultural traditions, local languages and religious practices.
- Good Governance:
- Efficiency, transparency and accountability of government, along with citizen participation in decision-making.
- Life Standards:
- Assessment of economic conditions, financial security, and quality of life.
- Ecological Resilience:
- Measurement of environmental sustainability, natural resource management and biodiversity.
Focusing on economic, social, cultural, and environmental aspects, Bhutan’s Gross Domestic Happiness Rate aims to create a more balanced and happy society by providing a unique example of how well-being can be prioritized in a national context.
The concept of GNH has had a significant impact not only in Bhutan, but also internationally. It has inspired global discussions on how governments can better measure the progress and well-being of their citizens, going beyond simple economic indicators. International organizations, academics and policymakers have looked to the GNH (Bhutan Gross Domestic Happiness Rate) model as a source of inspiration for developing alternative measures of well-being.
Tiger’s Nest and Glacial Valley
Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) and the Phobjikha Valley are two of Bhutan’s main attractions, mystical and very special places that should definitely be visited when you reach this wonderful country.
Tiger’s Nest is a spectacular monastery perched on a cliff 3,120 meters above sea level.
It is one of Bhutan’s holiest sites and offers breathtaking views of the Paro Valley.
Phobjikha Valley, on the other hand is a place to experience contact with nature.
A glacial valley famous for being the winter refuge of black-necked cranes.
It is the ideal area for trekking and wildlife watching.
Other particularly interesting places to see are Thimphu ,
l he capital of Bhutan, combining modernity and tradition; the Punakha Dzong and Bumthang, places of great spiritual importance suitable for lovers of meditation.
How to get to Bhutan
Planning a trip to Bhutan is not super easy, but certainly possible by organizing well.
In fact, tourism in Bhutan is strictly regulated to preserve the culture and environment. Visitors must travel with licensed tour operators and pay a daily rate that covers lodging, transportation, guides, and meals.
This approach ensures that tourism has a positive impact on the country and contributes to the well-being of its citizens in line with the principles of National Happiness Growth.
It is possible to reach Bhutan by air, thanks to theParo International Airport (PBH).
It is the country’s only international airport and is famous for being one of the most difficult and spectacular airports in the world, located in a narrow valley surrounded by high mountains.
Or by land through some entry points on the border with India.
Entry Requirements
- Seen: All foreign visitors, except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals, require a visa to enter Bhutan.
The visa must be applied for through a tour operator authorized by the Bhutanese government. - Tourist Packages: Bhutan has a low-intensity tourism policy of a minimum daily package tour (starting at about $250 USD in high season), which covers lodging, transportation, guiding, meals and a sustainable development fee.
Visiting Bhutan offers a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in a deeply spiritual culture and explore some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world. It is not a trip for everyone, but it is an ideal destination for lovers of the Himalayas and for those who wish to explore the concept of GNH or Gross Domestic Happiness Rate.
A particularly interesting place especially to learn about a culture that is very complex and different from our own.
Being a predominantly Buddhist country, it offers many opportunities for those interested in meditation and spiritual reflection.
Visitors can participate in spiritual retreats and meditation practices in historic monasteries.
Finally, Bhutanese people are known for their kindness and hospitality.
Visiting Bhutan offers the opportunity to interact with a people who live by principles of simplicity and harmony with nature.
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