Bhutan Highlander Festival: Known As The Happiest Country On Earth

At more than 4000 meters above sea level, the Highlander Festival of Bhutan has been held since 2016. Promoted by the king to promote tourism and cultural conservation of the country, this event receives more and more visits from tourists from around the world.

Learn more about everything that this celebration offers, held by the only country in the world where well-being is measured through its National Happiness Index.

Bhutan, the happiest country on earth

Located in South Asia and close to the borders of China and India, is Bhutan. Its capital, Timbu, has a population of about 700,000. Being away from the coast, it does not have industries, so its economy is based on the primary sector.

It would be the fourth king of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, who declared Gross National Happiness in 1972 as the main measure of the country, leaving GDP behind. And it is that in Bhutan all decisions are aimed at the happiness of the people; hence it is known as the happiest country on earth.

Today, the fifth king has started a strong campaign to preserve the culture of the country and thereby attract international tourism. For this reason, on October 16, 2016, the new Highlander Festival was established, also known as The Royal Highlander Festival.

The Highlander Festival, a unique celebration by the Himalayas

The Festival takes place in Laya, a small but picturesque town located about 4000 meters high, in the Himalayas. As there is no road, the only way to access the event is through an area of ​​rural roads and trails.

The route can be a bit demanding, so it is better to go prepared and equipped with a suitable outfit for running or trekking . The organizers have camping for visitors and along the way horses and mules are offered to carry luggage.

Upon reaching the top, visitors are greeted by a welcoming committee with songs and dances. At the entrance it is possible to walk along the red carpet, destined for high dignitaries and royalty. During the festival, it is possible to meet the King of Bhutan and other celebrities from the region, who come together to enjoy the celebration.

Festival activities

Dressed in traditional attire, in which the hat made of bamboo stands out, the locals offer different types of activities. Tourists will be able to witness the traditional offering of Buelwa and the Auley, a recital of epic songs and poems.

Among the festival activities are the competitions of animals typical of the region, which include yaks and high mountain dogs. The animals are cared for with care by all the participants of the event, who appreciate your help in the daily tasks. They also feature traditional combat and endurance tests.

In addition, the festival offers a series of stalls where you can see and buy local products. During the celebration, visitors are offered free food, water and tea, as well as some typical liquors of the region.

Another curious fact is that the king of Bhutan bets not only on cultural tourism, but on sustainable tourism. In this way, we will be able to find several garbage collection areas, as well as places for recycling. Similarly, the Highlander Festival pays tribute to the Yak, icon of the country.

The natural landscape offered by the ascent path and the views that can be enjoyed at the event site are other attractions of the festival.

For lovers of nature and high mountain tourism, the Higlander Festival can be a perfect excuse to enjoy their favorite sports and activities in a unique and incomparable environment, such as the mythical Himalayan mountain range. In fact, not a few are attracted to this celebration precisely because of that close, humble and ecological environment.

Cover: Facebook Royal Highland Festival.