When in Bhutan, do as the Bhutanese do and feel the way we apprehend happiness in the truest form. Experiencing Bhutan in an authentic way means embracing the lifestyle and traditions of its people. One of the most immersive and enriching ways to do this is by spending a night or two at a Bhutanese farmhouse. These farmhouses are not just places to stay; they are living museums where the culture of Bhutan's past and present converge. Here, you will sleep in traditional Bhutanese homes, savor home-cooked Bhutanese meals, and live just as the Bhutanese do, guided by the warm hospitality of your local host.
During your stay, you'll have the opportunity to engage in various hands-on activities that are integral to daily life in Bhutan. You can work alongside your host in the vegetable garden, learning about the local agricultural practices and even harvesting fresh produce. For those who love cooking, you can try your hand at preparing Bhutanese dishes, using traditional methods and ingredients. And for a truly memorable experience, you can even attempt to milk a cow, an activity that connects you directly with the agrarian roots of Bhutanese society. Your host will be more than happy to share their knowledge and stories, providing a rich narrative to your hands-on experiences.
Staying in a Bhutanese farmhouse offers an unparalleled chance to gain a firsthand understanding of typical village life in Bhutan. The experience is made more authentic by the fact that, except for some necessary modernizations in hygiene and sanitation facilities, these farmhouses have remained unchanged for generations. This blend of tradition and modern convenience ensures your comfort while preserving the essence of Bhutanese rural life. All in all, the life of Bhutanese is very simple with no complications, and that is the main magical source of happiness; in the farmhouse, you will get to feel the authentic essence in its truest form.
Most farmhouses in Bhutan are colourful, traditional structures made from mud and stones, built without the use of nails. These buildings are a testament to Bhutanese architectural ingenuity and resilience. In the past, the ground floor of these houses served as shelter for cattle, an arrangement that kept the animals safe and warm. Today, this space has been repurposed for family storage, a change aimed at improving household sanitation and hygiene. This adaptation highlights how Bhutanese people blend tradition with practicality to enhance their living conditions.
While at the farmhouse, don't miss the chance to participate in traditional Bhutanese activities such as archery and dart. Archery, in particular, is deeply embedded in Bhutanese culture and is considered the national sport. Trying your hand at these activities will give you a deeper appreciation of the skills and traditions that are valued in Bhutanese society.
In essence, staying at a Bhutanese farmhouse is more than just a lodging option; it's a doorway to experiencing the heart of Bhutanese culture and rural life. It's an adventure that enriches your understanding of Bhutan, leaving you with memories and insights that last a lifetime.
Note:
We highly recommend that you at least spend two nights at the farm house, one to learn the way we live and two to feel the way we live.