Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, is a mesmerizing kingdom known for its pristine natural beauty, vibrant culture, and Gross National Happiness. With its majestic mountain ranges, ancient monasteries, and colorful festivals, it’s no wonder that Bhutan has served as a backdrop for numerous films, TV shows, and books. This comprehensive guide will take you on a journey through the iconic filming locations in Bhutan, offering an immersive cinematic experience.
The 10 Famous Films Shot in Bhutan
Bhutan’s natural beauty and cultural richness have attracted filmmakers from around the world. Here are the 10 most famous films shot in Bhutan that wonderfully showcase the country’s unique charm:
- Travellers and Magicians (2003): The first feature film shot entirely in Bhutan, directed by Khyentse Norbu, tells a tale of a young Bhutanese man’s journey to America and his encounters along the way.
- The Cup (1999): Another film by Khyentse Norbu, it’s a heartwarming story about young monks in Bhutan who are obsessed with World Cup football.
- Hema Hema: Sing Me a Song While I Wait (2016): This film, once again by Khyentse Norbu, is an intriguing exploration of identity and anonymity set in the remote forests of Bhutan.
- Vara: A Blessing (2013): A beautiful dance drama about forbidden love in a Bhutanese village, directed by Khyentse Norbu.
- Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom (2019): Bhutan’s first-ever submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the Oscars, this film tells the story of an urban teacher assigned to work in a remote Himalayan village.
- Bhutan: The Last Shangri-La (2000): This National Geographic documentary showcases Bhutan’s rich culture and untouched natural beauty.
- Happiness (2013): A poignant documentary that follows the life of an eight-year-old monk living in a remote village in Bhutan.
- Crossing Bhutan (2016): An inspiring film about four athletes’ journey to walk and run 485 miles across Bhutan.
- A Way of Life (2004): A documentary exploring Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness.
- Moving Mountains: The Awakening (2016): A documentary that captures the changing face of Bhutan due to rapid modernization.
5 TV Shows Set in Bhutan
Television shows set in Bhutan may not be as numerous as films, but they have nonetheless beautifully captured the country’s unique charm. Here are five TV shows that have taken viewers on a journey through Bhutan:
- The Bhutan Show (2006): This Bhutanese talk show focuses on the nation’s culture, traditions, and daily life.
- Travel Man: 48 Hours in Bhutan (2019): In this episode, Richard Ayoade and comedian Joe Wilkinson explore the sights and sounds of Bhutan.
- The World’s Most Dangerous Roads – Nepal and Bhutan (2016): Presenters Ed Byrne and Andy Torbet embark on a perilous journey through the treacherous mountain roads of Nepal and Bhutan.
- Bhutan’s Enlightened Experiment (2016): This episode of the series “Witness” on Al Jazeera explores Bhutan’s transition to democracy.
- Bhutan – The Last Dragon Kingdom (2018): This documentary series gives an in-depth look at the cultural and natural heritage of Bhutan.
5 Animated Films Set in Bhutan
While Bhutan may not be a common setting for animated films, the country’s cultural richness and stunning landscapes make it an ideal backdrop for animation. Here are five animated films that capture the spirit of Bhutan:
- Prince Jigyel and the Magic Mountain (2018): This Bhutanese animated film tells the story of Prince Jigyel’s journey to the Magic Mountain.
- The Legend of Pemi Tshewang Tashi (2010): A Bhutanese animated film depicting the legendary Pemi Tshewang Tashi’s heroic deeds.
- Ap Bokto (2017): A popular Bhutanese animation series featuring the character Ap Bokto in various educational and entertaining stories.
- Ley Judko (2018): This Bhutanese animation is a retelling of a popular local tale about the consequences of greed and dishonesty.
- The Adventures of Tashi and Nungshi (2019): An animated series about the adventures of two Bhutanese kids, Tashi and Nungshi.
Famous Books Set in Bhutan: 3 Classic and 3 Contemporary
Bhutan’s unique culture, rich history, and stunning landscapes have inspired numerous authors. Here is a mix of three classic and three contemporary books that bring Bhutan to life:
Classic:
- “Beyond the Sky and the Earth: A Journey into Bhutan” by Jamie Zeppa: A memoir of the author’s time teaching in Bhutan, providing a vivid portrayal of Bhutanese life.
- “Radio Shangri-La: What I Learned in Bhutan, the Happiest Kingdom on Earth” by Lisa Napoli: The author shares her experiences working at Bhutan’s first radio station.
- “So Close to Heaven: The Vanishing Buddhist Kingdoms of the Himalayas” by Barbara Crossette: This book explores the history and culture of Bhutan and other Himalayan kingdoms.
Contemporary:
- “Married to Bhutan: How One Woman Got Lost, Said ‘I Do,’ and Found Bliss” by Linda Leaming: A fascinating account of the author’s life in Bhutan and her insights into Bhutanese culture.
- “A Field Guide to Happiness: What I Learned in Bhutan about Living, Loving, and Waking Up” by Linda Leaming: The author shares her journey of finding happiness in Bhutan.
- “Buttertea at Sunrise: A Year in the Bhutan Himalaya” by Britta Das: A personal narrative of the author’s experiences living and working in a remote Bhutanese village.
Exploring Bhutan’s Filming Locations – Where to Go
Bhutan, with its magnificent dzongs, ancient monasteries, and breathtaking landscapes, has long been a favored location for filmmakers. If you’re eager to explore the cinematic history of this mesmerizing kingdom, here are some essential filming locations in Bhutan:
- Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest): The iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on a cliffside, has been featured in numerous films and documentaries.
- Paro Dzong: This stunning fortress has been a backdrop in films like “Travellers and Magicians.”
- Thimphu: Bhutan’s capital city, Thimphu, has been a popular filming location, offering a mix of traditional Bhutanese architecture and modern urbanity.
- Punakha Dzong: One of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan, it has served as a picturesque filming location.
- Phobjikha Valley: Known for its stunning scenery and black-necked cranes, this valley has been captured in several nature documentaries.
Where to Sleep in Bhutan: 3 Cheap and 3 Luxury Options
Whether you are looking for a luxurious stay or budget-friendly accommodation, Bhutan offers a range of options that provide a unique blend of comfort and Bhutanese hospitality.
Luxury:
- Amankora: This luxury lodge chain offers five lodges located in different valleys of Bhutan, providing a seamless journey through the kingdom.
- Six Senses Bhutan: Comprising five lodges across Bhutan, each with its own character and set within stunning landscapes.
- Uma by COMO, Paro: This luxury hotel in Paro offers exceptional comfort and breathtaking views of the Paro Valley.
Budget:
- Kuenphen Rabten Resort: Located in Punakha, this budget-friendly resort offers comfortable rooms with beautiful views.
- Hotel Norbuling: A popular budget hotel in Thimphu, known for its excellent service and comfortable rooms.
- Tashi Namgay Resort: Located near Paro Airport, this resort offers affordable accommodation with traditional Bhutanese decor.
Where to Eat in Bhutan: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury Options
Bhutan offers a variety of dining experiences, from luxury restaurants serving international cuisine to local eateries offering delicious Bhutanese dishes. Here are three budget and three luxury options for dining in Bhutan:
Luxury:
- Bukhari at Uma by COMO, Paro: This luxury restaurant offers a variety of international dishes and a stunning view of the Paro Valley.
- Arya Restaurant: Located in Thimphu, Arya is known for its delicious Italian and Continental dishes.
- The Thongsel at Taj Tashi: This luxury restaurant in Thimphu serves Bhutanese as well as European and Asian cuisine.
Budget:
- Bhutan Kitchen: Located in Thimphu, this restaurant is popular for its traditional Bhutanese cuisine.
- Sonam Trophel Restaurant: A popular eatery in Paro, known for its delicious Bhutanese and Indian dishes.
- Chh’a Bistro & Bar: A budget-friendly option in Thimphu, offering a variety of Bhutanese, Asian, and Western dishes.
Detailed Itinerary for Exploring Bhutan’s Filming Locations Day by Day
Bhutan’s cinematic charm can best be experienced by visiting its iconic filming locations. Here is a five-day itinerary to explore Bhutan’s cinematic landscapes:
Day 1: Paro – Start with a visit to the stunning Paro Dzong, followed by a trip to the National Museum. In the afternoon, explore the town of Paro, a popular filming location.
Day 2: Taktsang Monastery – Trek to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, featured in several films and documentaries. The rest of the day can be spent exploring the nearby forests and caves.
Day 3: Thimphu – Head to Thimphu and visit Tashichho Dzong, the king’s office, and several other filming locations like the Buddha Dordenma statue and the Folk Heritage Museum.
Day 4: Punakha – Visit the beautiful Punakha Dzong and the Chimi Lhakhang temple. Explore the local markets and the scenic countryside.
Day 5: Phobjikha Valley – Visit the serene Phobjikha Valley, known for its black-necked cranes and stunning landscapes. This valley has been featured in several nature documentaries.
Cryptid Legends and Curiosities About Bhutan’s Film Industry
Bhutan, with its ancient culture and mystical landscapes, is ripe with legends and curiosities that have fascinated filmmakers. The country is home to numerous mythical creatures, known locally as cryptids. The most famous among them is the Migoi, or Yeti, believed to inhabit the Himalayas’ remote regions. This elusive creature has inspired several films and documentaries, adding an element of mystery and intrigue to Bhutan’s cinematic landscape.
The Bhutanese film industry, known as Bhutanwood, is also fascinating. Although relatively young, it has produced over 200 films and has a unique blend of Bhutanese folklore, Buddhist philosophy, and modern themes.
Hidden Gems in Bhutan
Beyond the well-known landmarks, Bhutan is full of hidden gems that offer a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience:
- Haa Valley: This scenic valley is one of the least visited areas in Bhutan, offering serene beauty and a glimpse into the rural Bhutanese lifestyle.
- Bumthang: Known as the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, Bumthang is home to some of the country’s oldest temples and monasteries.
- Royal Manas National Park: This is Bhutan’s oldest national park and a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
What to Pack for a Trip to Bhutan
When packing for Bhutan, consider the country’s varying altitudes and weather conditions. Essential items include waterproof hiking boots, layering clothes, a rain jacket, a warm hat and gloves, a scarf, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. Don’t forget your camera to capture Bhutan’s stunning landscapes and iconic landmarks!
Transportation Tips for Getting Around Bhutan
Bhutan’s mountainous terrain can make traveling a challenge. However, the country has a reliable network of taxis and buses. For longer distances, domestic flights are available. You can also hire a car with a driver.
Travel Documents Needed for Visiting Bhutan
Travelers planning a trip to Bhutan require a valid passport and a Bhutanese visa, which is issued only upon arrival in the country. It’s also mandatory to book your trip through a Bhutanese tour operator or their international partners.
In conclusion, Bhutan’s cinematic landscapes, rich culture, and intriguing legends make it a must-visit destination for movie buffs and travel enthusiasts alike. This comprehensive guide provides all the information you need to plan your ultimate film-themed trip to Bhutan. Happy travels!
