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There is a refreshing stillness around me undisturbed by the soft wind and the chirping birds on the thick spread of trees on the hill slopes. I take deep breathfuls of the fresh mountain air. My body relaxes spontaneously and my mind is totally at ease. Standing at the Chele La Pass in Paro, the capital of Bhutan, on this clear morning, my eyes searched the horizon for the promised views of Mount Everest and Mount Jomolhari, even as the mild sun plays hide and seek with the clouds. There are ribbons of thick mist on the ranges. Pure peace and spectacular scenic beauty are served in abundance at this height of 13000ft and more above the sea level. It literally elevates me from the mundane world, albeit for a few hours. There is so much tranquility and calmness here, to recollect and find soothing peace, once I return to the hustle and bustle of city life. After walking for a while around on the flat mountain top, the driver and I go to the single shelter made of concrete. A tall Bhutanese greets us with a smile and serves us tea and snacks. “Are you all by yourself here?” I enquired. “Yes, Ma’am. I am a lone employee of the tourism department of Bhutan. I come here at eight in the morning and leave after sunset. I am in charge of keeping the grounds, washroom and the water tank, clean, besides attending to the visitors’ needs.” I am surprised at his cheerful demeanor and obvious contentment with his work routine despite being alone for long hours. Those few hours I spent there, filled me with a deep joy even though the famous peaks decided to stay behind the clouds. ------- As we drove down the mountain heights to the city, picturesque vistas like river Paro Chhu, fed by the Himalayan glaciers, dense greenery and undisturbed hills standing like sentinels, continue to fascinate me. Noticeably, the water, flowing from the hills is strategically channelized into streams and canals is kept pristine and free of debris. Life in Bhutan appeared well harmonized with nature. And Mother Nature, evidently, blessed the people of Bhutan with the boons of unspoiled beauty and incredible wellness. ------ Later, in the afternoon, I sauntered through the neatly laid streets of Paro. I see the Bhutanese in their customary traditional clothing, walking at an unhurried pace with their backs straight and bodies fit. Some are seen sitting at the tables outside the small restaurants, enjoying the warmth of the slanting sunlight. There are small businesses lining the streets. I haven’t seen big malls or other attractions as flaunted by cities all over the world. I am told that “Bhutan has embraced modernity cautiously, limiting the impact of globalization on its traditional way of life.” The typical Bhutanese food I have tasted is devoid of oil and spices, yet retaining appeal. I loved their steamed vegetables and meat lightly tossed with seasonings, usually home-made. it is believed that healthy food, plays a capital role in leading a peaceful life. To my great surprise, I have noticed that there are no traffic lights nor traffic police in Bhutan. Honking, like smoking and alcohol consumption is banned and strictly dealt with by the authorities if rules are not adhered to. No wonder, Bhutan is cent percent pollution-free. I learnt that Bhutan was closed to tourists during the Covid crisis. How wise! ----- The monks in the monastery I visited, told me that “Bhutan is deeply rooted in Buddhist philosophy, and spirituality plays a central role in the daily lives of its people. The pursuit of inner peace, mindfulness, and compassion is not just a religious practice but a way of life. The numerous monasteries, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and the gentle sound of mantras being recited-all contribute to a spiritual ambiance that enhances the well-being of the Bhutanese people.” ------- With the sweet taste of peace on my mind and soul, I have returned home, determined to find peace right here, where I live. I realized that peace is as vital as oxygen for my being. After the worthy object lessons I have learnt during my trip to Bhutan, I know that it is not beyond my means to create my own world of peace on physical, mental and spiritual spheres of life, so its taste continues… Word Count: 738 Topic: What is Peace? Is it achievable? Is it desirable? Is it necessary? How? Written for We Want Peace Contest July 2025 Ref: Chele La Pass Chelela Pass is the highest motorable pass in Bhutan, situated at an altitude of 3,988 meters (13,083 feet). It connects the valleys of Paro and Haa, offering stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas. Mount Jomolhari- A mountain in the Himalayas, straddling the border between Yadong County of Tibet, China and the Paro district of Bhutan. |
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