Going Solo in the Land of Happiness: Vanndana’s Bhutan Trip with Thrillophilia
The idea of a solo trip had been brewing in my mind for years, but I never had the courage to take the leap— until Bhutan called out to me!
It all started with a random Instagram post featuring the majestic Tiger’s Nest Monastery perched on a cliff. Something about that image resonated with me. A week later, I was knee-deep in research, booking tickets, and jotting down itineraries with Thrillophilia.
Why Bhutan, you ask? It was the promise of serenity, happiness (it is the land of Gross National Happiness, after all), and breathtaking landscapes that sealed the deal. Plus, the idea of traveling alone to a country that values simplicity and kindness felt like the perfect match. I was nervous but equally thrilled.
Packing my bags felt like packing my dreams, and the night before my flight, I could barely sleep, imagining the adventure that awaited me.
Exploring the Gems of Bhutan
My journey began in Phuentsholing, the gateway to Bhutan. Crossing the border felt like stepping into a different world— clean streets, colourful architecture, and a vibe of calmness.
I spent my first day exploring Zangto Pelri Lhakhang, a small but serene temple. The locals were incredibly warm, greeting me with smiles and curious questions about my solo adventure. One elderly lady even insisted I try a homemade snack she was carrying. It was spicy, crunchy, and utterly delicious— a great start to my Bhutanese culinary journey!
From Phuentsholing, I traveled to Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital. The highlight here was the massive Buddha Dordenma statue. Standing at the base of this towering figure, with panoramic views of the valley below, was surreal. The tranquility of the place was overwhelming, and I found myself sitting there for hours, lost in thought.
In Thimphu, I also visited the Tashichho Dzong, a majestic fortress and monastery. The intricate architecture left me speechless. But what made my visit extra special was an encounter with a group of young monks. They were curious about my camera and ended up teaching me a few Dzongkha words. By the end of it, we were all laughing like old friends.
Next on my itinerary was Punakha, and oh, what a beauty it was! The Punakha Dzong, nestled between two rivers, looked like something out of a fairy tale. I walked across the famous suspension bridge nearby, which was both thrilling and terrifying. The bridge swayed gently, and I clung to the ropes, laughing nervously while locals casually strolled past me as if it were solid ground.
One of my favorite moments in Punakha was visiting a local farmhouse. I learned about traditional Bhutanese life, tried my hand at archery (and failed miserably), and ended the day sipping butter tea with a family who welcomed me like one of their own.
A Foodie’s Delight in Bhutan
If there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s that I love food. And Bhutan did not disappoint!
From the very first bite of Ema Datshi, Bhutan’s famous chili and cheese dish, I was hooked. It was fiery, creamy, and absolutely comforting. I tried it with red rice, which has a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the spiciness of the dish.
Another favorite was Phaksha Paa, a pork dish cooked with radishes and dried chilies. The flavours were rich and earthy, and I found myself licking my fingers unapologetically. I also tried Momos, little dumplings stuffed with meat or vegetables, and they were divine.
One evening in Thimphu, I stumbled upon a small eatery where the owner insisted I try Jasha Maru, a chicken dish with tomatoes and spices. It was so delicious that I went back for seconds. And then there was the Suja, Bhutanese butter tea. It’s an acquired taste, but I found it oddly soothing, especially on chilly evenings.
The Unforgettable Hike to Tiger’s Nest
The hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery was the highlight of my trip. I had read countless stories about it, but nothing could prepare me for the real thing. The trail was steep and challenging, but the views were worth every drop of sweat.
Halfway up, I stopped at a little café for some tea. The view of the monastery from there was mesmerising, and it gave me the push I needed to keep going. Along the way, I met fellow travelers, and we exchanged stories and encouragement.
Reaching the monastery was an emotional moment. The sheer beauty of the place, combined with the effort it took to get there, made me tear up. I lit a butter lamp inside the temple, offering a silent prayer of gratitude for this incredible journey.
Reflections on Solo Travel in Bhutan
Solo travel is a mix of freedom, fun, and a few hiccups, and my trip to Bhutan was no exception. There were moments of pure joy, like chatting with locals, savouring delicious food, and soaking in the stunning landscapes.
There were also minor challenges, like figuring out public transport schedules and dealing with a language barrier at times. But every little obstacle added to the adventure and made the experience even more rewarding.
Bhutan taught me the beauty of simplicity and the joy of being present. From the majestic dzongs to the warm-hearted people, every moment felt like a gift.
The best part was discovering that I could navigate a new country on my own and come out of it with stories to last a lifetime.
As I was traveling back home, I felt a mix of emotions— gratitude, happiness, and a hint of sadness that it was over. But I knew this wasn’t the end. Bhutan had sparked a love for solo travel in me, and I couldn’t wait to see where my wanderlust would take me next.
Read More: Thrillophilia Bhutan Reviews