Highlights of Bhutan
Wang Sisi Chum Heritage Home
The "Wang Sisi Chum Heritage Home" rests approximately 23 kilometers from central Thimphu, along the Paro-Thimphu highway, gracing a hillside overlooking the Thimphu Chu River, opposite a steep majestic cliffside steeped in local legends and folklore.
According to oral tradition, the house boasts a history spanning over 300 years, with recorded accounts dating back to around 1788. It served as the residence of three Druk Desis or Deb Raja, Chief Ruler of Bhutan before the establishment of the current monarchy. Notably, the 19th Druk Desi Tenzin, who ruled from 1788 until his demise in 1792, earning a reputation as a beloved leader as per historical records. Additionally, the house was home to the 20th Druk Desi Tashi Namgyel and the 23rd Druk Desi Sangay Tenzin. Among the notable figures associated with the house, Mewang Gup Karp stands out—a historical mythical figure wielding more power than the Desis despite his position as Gup (village headman). Countless mythical tales depict Gup Karp's encounters with local demons and spirits, whom he subdued and converted into his servants.
While subsequent occupants of the house were mainly passed down through the matriarchal lineage of starting from Chimi Wangmo, daughter of Mewang Gup Karp, who earned the moniker "Wang Sisi Chum," signifying "the rich lady of Wang Sisina." The men of Sisina House were called Wang Sisinap. The current custodian, Sisi Chum Dechen Wangmo continues to reside in the home.
Kunzang Dechen Gompa
Kunzang Dechen Gonpa (monastery) was established in the early 18th century by Desi Sangay Tenzin of the house of Wang Sisina. The revered Terton (treasure revealer) Drukdra Dorji had a prophetic dream foreseeing immense benefits to sentient beings and the local population by constructing a monastery on the hillside above Wang Sisina's ancestral home. Thus, he tasked Desi Sangay Tenzin with constructing the monastery at its current location. Perched at an altitude of 2900 meters and 26 kilometers from Thimphu town, the monastery is distinguished by a Buddha statue fashioned after the Jowo Jampa of Lhasa's Jokhang Temple. It also preserves 108 volumes of sutras, along with personal artifacts of Terton Drukdra Dorji and garments belonging to another esteemed Buddhist figure, Jamgoen Yeshey Dorji. Since 2018, a three-year retreat center has been operational under the supervision of the Monk Body, with twelve monks presently engaged in meditation at the facility.
Dhumra Farm Resort
Dhumra Farm Resort is a pioneer in agro-tourism, offering a refreshing blend of luxury and nature. Committed to the farm-to-table concept, the resort combines sustainability with elegance, inviting guests on a journey into organic living. Surrounded by lush greenery, every part of Dhumra Farm Resort reflects eco-friendliness, supporting local farmers and practicing pesticide-free cultivation. Here, visitors enjoy a sensory experience, savoring delicious meals made from fresh produce in a tranquil, synthetic-free environment. With its focus on luxury and environmental responsibility, Dhumra Farm Resort provides a welcoming retreat for travelers seeking harmony between indulgence and sustainability.
Paro Taktsang
Nestled precariously on the sheer cliffs of Paro Valley in Bhutan, the iconic Paro Taktsang, or Tiger’s Nest Monastery, stands as a testament to both natural wonder and spiritual devotion. This sacred site, perched at an elevation of over 3,000 meters, offers a captivating blend of breathtaking scenery and profound religious significance. To reach this awe-inspiring sanctuary, one embarks on a pilgrimage-like journey, hiking along rugged mountain trails adorned with prayer flags fluttering in the Himalayan breeze. The trail weaves through lush pine forests and across gurgling mountain streams, offering glimpses of distant peaks and cascading waterfalls along the way. Each step brings a sense of anticipation, as the monastery gradually reveals itself amidst the craggy cliffs, appearing almost suspended in mid-air.
Festivals in Bhutan
Bhutan's vibrant festivals, known as tshechus, offer a captivating glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage. These events are integral to Bhutanese life, providing both locals and visitors with a unique opportunity to delve into the nation's traditions and spirituality. Featuring a spectacle of dance, music, and religious rituals, tshechus celebrate the teachings of Buddhism. The highlight of these festivals is the masked dances, or cham, performed by monks and laymen in elaborate costumes and colourful masks, depicting religious stories and legends believed to bring blessings and good fortune to observers. Tshechus also feature traditional folk dances, music performances, and religious ceremonies, creating an atmosphere brimming with joy and devotion. These gatherings serve as a unifying force, bringing people from diverse backgrounds together to revel in their shared heritage. Popular festivals: Punakha Drubchen (Feb), Paro Tshechu (Feb/March) & Thimphu Tshechu Festival – (Sept/Oct).
