U.S., Aug. 30 -- Bhutan has always held a special place in my heart. Nestled high in the Himalayas between two giants, India and China, this tiny kingdom of fewer than 800,000 people stands apart from the modern world. For many traveling lers, Bhutan represents not just a destination, but a philosophy of life. It is a country where Gross National Happiness is prioritised over Gross Domestic Product, and where the pulse of life remains steady, unhurried, and deeply connected to the natural world.

From my home base in Bangkok, it is surprisingly straightforward to reach Bhutan. Direct flights from Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines) and Bhutan Airlines connect the Thai capital with Paro, Bhutan's only international airport. The flight itself i...