Bhutan is popular worldwide for its reputation of being the happiest nation in Asia and one of the happiest countries in the world, where national happiness is prioritized over economic growth. It is becoming increasingly popular for travelers keen to explore the remote and unspoiled Buddhist Shangri La, making it one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world.
Bhutan as a mystical kingdom, trouble-free and blissful, remains the only nation in the world that emphasizes “Gross National Happiness” is more important than “Gross Nation Product”. Spirituality has been identified as an important dimension of quality of life and it is a country of simple people for whom happiness is all that counts.
GNH is a holistic approach to sustainable development that gives as much weight to human flourishing as it does wealth. Buddhist values encourage people to be content. As a contented country, the image has fueled an influx of international travelers.
It is a society where simple people are more than happy to share. People are never jealous of others, rather compassionate and happy with what they have. Bhutanese are thus peace-loving, disciplined, extremely friendly, gentle, and hospitable.
Any policy should frame based on a happiness index and environment-friendly. If the policy is not able to ensure results in the well-being of the people, it will never be approved in the country
Despite the growing prevalence of the internet, cable television, cell phones, and many other modern technologies and ideas in recent years, the desire to preserve natural beauty and Buddhist culture has remained high.
It has preserved much of the culture since the 17th century and remains the last standing Buddhist Kingdom. Buddhism is the most widely practiced religion in the country and Vajrayana Buddhism is the country’s state religion.
Apart from the enriching spirituality and strong Buddhist beliefs, ranging from subtropical plains to steep mountains and valleys dotted with ancient monasteries and dzongs (fortresses).
In addition, Bhutan has one of the most stable ecosystems in the world. Conservation of the environment is one of the pillars of the happiness index. The country is one of the last remaining biodiversity hotspots in the world, with most of its natural environment still pristine, unspoiled, and intact.
Besides, Bhutan also provides all citizens free education and free health care – the most powerful social levelers. And villagers are offered much of their electricity at no cost. It has one of the fastest-growing GDPs in the world.
Bhutan is widely identified as the ‘Switzerland of Asia’ its size, shape, and location in the mountains.
