As dawn broke across the horizon, painting the sky with hues of gold, the city of Thimphu stirred gently to life. The chirping of early birds cut through the serene silence of the morning, a symphony that woke me from the cocoon of my Bhutan Better Product bed. I emerged from the embrace of a soft, twilight-colored pillow and a Chinese silk blanket, feeling like a giant awakening from slumber. With tousled hair and a towel-marked face, I dashed to the bathroom for a refreshing shower, eager to shed the remnants of a long journey's fatigue.
This marks my first venture east, south, and then back to Thimphu. It’s a story of adventure—one that I’ll recount as a young Bhutanese traveler, along with my friend. While many might have tread similar paths, this journey is unique to me. It involved scaling hills and mountains, navigating through misty valleys, and braving relentless rain. The roads were rugged, the boulders unyielding, and the landscape ever-changing. From the chaos of Assam's duars to the calm return to Thimphu, every twist and turn tested our resolve.
Journeys like these blend joy with fear, laughter with courage. Although I haven’t ventured to Lunana’s snowy heights, my prayers for a safe trip were answered. It’s a reminder that cautious driving can prevent mishaps and ensure a safe return.
Travel brings both challenges and rewards. Whether it’s sipping tea with only Parle-G biscuits at a remote stall, or enduring altitude sickness at mountain passes, each moment adds to the experience. My friend’s preference for Eastern Sikam Phakshas contrasts with my own taste for beef and traditional Bhutanese dishes. Noodles, specifically Maggi, have their own charm, and the absence of rice at dinners surprisingly led to a slight weight loss.
By 2:00 PM in Wangdue, trees swayed rhythmically in the wind, and the Puna Tsangchu flowed majestically, its turquoise waters a testament to nature’s artistry. We stopped near Bajo to visit my sister, sharing a warm hug with my one-year-old nephew who missed his uncle’s playful visits.
As our adventure continued, we encountered snowstorms near Pelela, a fleeting winter wonderland before descending to Rukubji village, peeking shyly from beneath a snowy veil. The sun’s rays pierced through the clouds, casting a glow over potato fields and farmhouses. At Chendebji guest house, a few cups of coffee and chocolate biscuits provided the energy needed to navigate Trongsa’s winding tracks. That night, we rested in a cozy Bhutanese lodge, embraced by the town’s rich history.
Every morning is a fresh start. Our drive to Bumthang, with its stunning views of Chumey Valley and the ascent to Jakar Dzong, showcased Bhutan’s traditional charm and sacred sites. The journey continued through Mongar, where the road’s newly paved surface felt smooth under our tires. Despite the hot and humid change in weather, the night in Mongar was eerily peaceful, the town still recovering from recent earthquake tremors.
At TrashiGang, securing a lodge during festival season was a challenge, but we succeeded. My friend, an ex-Sherubtsean, proudly shared tales of his alma mater, showing me landmarks and recounting college memories.
As we approached Yongphula, the fog thickened and rain intensified, making visibility a challenge. Yet, the panoramic view of Khaling’s ridge was mesmerizing. Samdrup Jongkhar’s Wamrong town offered a simple lunch amidst the backdrop of recovery from a recent fire.
The road to Phuntsholing was demanding, with sharp turns and speeding trucks. An early morning departure from Samdrup Jongkhar saw us navigating through rough terrain and traffic, eventually reaching Phuntsholing by late afternoon after an arduous drive.
Reflecting on this journey, it’s evident that every travel experience is a mix of trials and triumphs. From the thrill of the road to the tranquility of Thimphu, this adventure has been both exhilarating and enlightening. As I unwind with another shower, I cherish the memories made and look forward to reliving them in days to come.
