Bhutan is a country steeped in happiness, literally. This is the country that invented Gross National Happiness as a way to measure the country’s success – forget GDP.
Tipping my hat to these happy peeps, I thought I’d do a little roundup of my favorite books about Bhutan.
Lonely Planet Guide to Bhutan
Bhutan is a land of tranquility and cultural depth, and this guide is one of the best resources for anyone planning a visit. While it doesn’t focus on hotel or restaurant recommendations—since accommodations are prearranged by tour operators—this book offers a wealth of historical, cultural, and religious insights. It’s an excellent resource for understanding the country’s rich traditions before, during, and long after your journey.
*****
Bhutan: Himalayan Mountain Kingdom by Francoise Pommaret
Francoise’s deep knowledge of Bhutan is unparalleled, having lived there for over three decades. This book is a comprehensive exploration of Bhutan’s culture, people, and history. It’s not a traditional guidebook but rather an insightful look at the country’s social, political, and spiritual landscape. Anyone looking to understand Bhutan beyond tourist destinations will find this an essential read. Pommaret’s perspective makes this book a must for travelers and armchair explorers alike.
*****
Beyond the Sky and Earth by Jamie Zeppa
This memoir is one of the most captivating accounts of life in Bhutan. In it, she recounts her experiences teaching in a remote village, providing a window into the beauty and challenges of living in one of the world’s most isolated countries. Her reflections are both personal and insightful, capturing the nuances of Bhutanese culture while weaving in themes of identity, change, and connection. This story of self-discovery and cultural immersion is as much a romance as it is a journey of the soul.
*****
Buttertea at Sunrise by Britta Das
In this memoir, Britta reflects on her two years as a physical therapist in a remote Bhutanese village. Much like Jamie Zeppa’s journey, it’s a story of cultural immersion and personal growth. But what sets this memoir apart is Britta’s unique insight into Bhutan’s rural life and healthcare system. Through her experiences, she offers a rare, intimate view of the country, capturing both its challenges and beauty in a way that makes this book a compelling read for anyone curious about Bhutan beyond the surface.
*****
Trekking in Bhutan
This detailed guide is the ultimate resource for anyone planning to explore Bhutan’s rugged terrain. It covers popular routes and provides accurate trail times and distances, though keep in mind that new paths and weather conditions can alter your trekking experience. Offering practical advice on preparation, this book ensures trekkers are well-prepared. Whether you’re embarking on a short trek or a longer expedition, this guide helps you plan with confidence, ensuring a memorable and rewarding adventure in Bhutan’s stunning wilderness.
*****
Dreams of the Peaceful Dragon by Katie Hickman –
This memoir is one of my favorites about Bhutan, written by one of the first foreigners allowed into the remote Eastern region. Katie Hickman, along with her boyfriend, embarks on an unforgettable journey across the Kingdom by foot and horseback. Her narrative offers a rare glimpse into a land untouched by modern influences, rich with stories of the people, landscapes, and traditions that make Bhutan so unique. It’s a must-read for anyone fascinated by the mystery and beauty of this Himalayan kingdom.
*****
Under the Holy Lake: A Memoir of Eastern Bhutan by Ken Haigh
Set in the late 1980s, this memoir recounts Ken’s time as a teacher in a remote Bhutanese village, offering a fresh perspective on rural life in Bhutan. Though decades have passed, the simplicity and beauty of life in Eastern Bhutan remain largely unchanged. His thoughtful reflections provide an insightful look into the challenges and rewards of living in such a unique and culturally rich environment, offering readers a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s people, traditions, and their enduring connection to the past.
*****
Treasures of the Thunder Dragon: A Portrait of Bhutan by Queen Ashi Dori Wangmo Wangchuk
Imagine the Queen of a country trekking through the Himalayas to meet local communities and understand their needs. That’s exactly what Queen Ashi Dori Wangmo Wangchuk did. As one of the King’s four wives, she immerses herself in Bhutan’s remote corners, offering a personal and rare look into the Kingdom’s culture. Her deep connection to her country and its people makes this book an intimate journey into Bhutan, seen through the eyes of someone who’s both a leader and a passionate advocate for its future.
*****
Bhutan: The Land of Serenity by Matthieu Ricard
This is more than just a coffee table book, this collection of stunning photographs captures the spirit of Bhutan. Matthieu Ricard, a Buddhist monk and the Dalai Lama’s French interpreter, pairs breathtaking imagery with profound insights into Bhutanese culture and spirituality.
*****
Married to Bhutan: How One Woman Got Lost, Said I Do, and Found Blis by Linda Leaming
A delightful and humorous story of life in Bhutan, this book shares the experiences of an American woman who marries a Bhutanese artist. Having lived in Bhutan for 10 years, Linda offers a unique perspective through her insightful and often funny observations, blending immersion in Bhutanese culture with the challenges of being an outsider. Her storytelling weaves together the beauty of Bhutan and the complexities of cross-cultural marriage, making it a captivating read for anyone curious about the Kingdom and its way of life.
*****
A Field Guide to Happiness: What I Learned in Bhutan about Living, Loving and Waking Up by Linda Leaming
In her second book, Linda offers a deeper reflection on her time in Bhutan, exploring into how the country’s peaceful rhythms have helped her slow down and adopt a simpler, more mindful way of life. She draws a captivating contrast between the fast-paced chaos of North America and the serene tranquility of this Himalayan Kingdom. Through personal stories and cultural insights, Linda provides a thoughtful exploration of true happiness and offers readers with a roadmap for finding inner peace. It’s an inspiring journey into the art of living with intention, presence, and joy.
*****
A Splendid Isolation: Lessons on Happiness from the Kingdom of Bhutan by Madeleine Drexler
This short but sweet book offers more insights into Bhutan’s approach to happiness. I don’t agree with all the author writes about here, but I still find her observations about the country, its people, and its government thought-provoking. She presents a unique perspective on how Bhutan maintains its distinctive identity in a rapidly changing world. It’s an intriguing read for anyone curious about Bhutan’s political system and its fascinating balance between tradition and progress.
*****
Radio Shangri-la: : What I Discovered on my Accidental Journey to the Happiest Kingdom on Earth by Lisa Napoli
This fascinating book offers a look at modern Bhutan through the eyes of Lisa Napoli, a former NPR journalist who volunteered at a Bhutanese youth radio station in 2006. Through her journey, we get a unique perspective on how Bhutan navigates the balance between modern influences and traditional values. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of a country striving to preserve its culture while embracing progress.
*****
Beneath the Blossom Rain: Discovering Bhutan on the Toughest Trek in the World by Kevin Grange
In this book, Kevin reflects on his experience tackling the Snowman Trek, widely regarded as one of the toughest in the world (and something that I have done twice!). His journey is a blend of physical endurance and emotional discovery, and I’m sure it will be a captivating read for anyone passionate about trekking or simply interested in travel to Bhutan.