Happiness is a place. The Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan is known as the Last Shangri-la, Land of the Thunder Dragon, Kingdom in the Clouds, and Druk Yul. Bhutan is well-known for age-old living culture, authentic traditions, clean environment, colorful festivals, spiced food with cheese, spectacular landscapes, and impressive landmarks. With amazing ancient temples, monasteries, and age-old fortresses, Bhutan is a perfect destination for a break from fast-moving urban life. Bhutan is the only carbon-negative country on earth with 70% of the land covered with forests.
Bhutan is best known for the Tiger's Nest (world cultural heritage) built on the cliff. As the landmark of Bhutan, it is a must-visit place for tourists to hike up. Here is a list of some renowned attractions for your Bhutan trip planning: Rinpung Dzong, The Folk Heritage Museum, Dochula Pass, Chomolhari Trek, National Museum of Bhutan, Motithang Takin Preserve, Phobjikha Valley, Jambay Lhakhang, Gangtey Monastery, Haa Valley, Tashichho Dzong, Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan, Tower of Trongsa (Ta Dzong), Punakha Suspension Bridge, Samdrup Jongkhar, Drukgyel Dzong, Buddha Dordenma Statue, Zuri Dzong Fort, Tango Buddhist Institute, Talo Village, Chele La Pass, Hidden Valleys of Bumthang, Simtokha Dzong, Norzin Lam Street, Jigme Dorji National Park, Dagala Thousand Lakes, Punakha Dzong, Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, National Institute for Zorig Chusum, Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory, Choki Traditional Art School, Wangdue Phodrang, Royal Manas National Park, Namgay Artisanal Brewery, Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang, Kyichu Lhakhang Temple, Chimi Lhakhang, etc.
Bhutan is also famous for its philosophy of promoting Gross National Happiness(GNH) over Gross Domestic Product(GDP) and productivity. The term Gross National Happiness was coined in 1972 by Bhutan's fourth Dragon King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. Guided by its GNH, Bhutan has considerably improved its economic, environmental, social, and governance situation in the past four decades.
The GNH Index is a holistic reflection of the general well-being of the Bhutanese population rather than a subjective psychological ranking of "happiness" alone. The GNH Index includes nine domains: Psychological well-being, Health, Education, Time use, Cultural diversity and resilience, Good governance, Community vitality, Ecological diversity and resilience, and Living standards.