Thimphu is the largest town in Bhutan. Most of the buildings we saw in the valley were built in the last 10 years. The population had grown from 20,000 to 100,000 as the result of the 3rd and 4th king's modernization and development plans. Bhutan is a Monarchy but had a democratic elected parliament since 2008. The King's family Wangchuck has been on the throne for 5 generations. The current King is 32 years old and just married a beautiful girl in 2012. They make a magnificent royal couple. The 4th King was quite a forward thinking and popular leader. He was the King who stated that the wealth of a country should not be measured in GNP but in GNH (Gross National Happiness). He set up the 4 guiding pillars to protect the environment, preserve the heritage, provide education and health care, ensure an efficient government to improve the welfare and happiness of his people. His idea not only improved the life of his people but has also been adopted by the UN as a model for the rest of the world. The United Nations has adopted a series of guidelines for GNH index to measure the welfare of a country. I would not say that his people are 100%happy but all the education and health care are provided free of charge and we didn't see any street people, not even a skinny dog. The unemployment rate is less than 2%. The King is doing something right for Bhutan.
Our travel agent Tsomo Kesang hosted two dinners for our little group and brought her family to meet us . We had the pleasure of meeting her husband Karma, her sister Tashi and her cousin.
Karma was a high school principal for many years and now is an administrator in charge of the country's adult education. He is a gentle scholar, a born teacher and patiently answered all our question. Tsomo's sister Tashi just returned from a 3 week visits to USA participating in a conference for future women leaders in developing country. She is a member of the 25 upper house legislators and one of the only 5 appointed by the King. She is intelligent and passionate about serving her country. We were all impressed and charmed by her. Tshomo presented us with a book as a farewell gift,"The Portrait of Bhutan" written by Her Majesty Queen Mother documenting her walking tour of her country. She gave me a special book, "Words of My Perfect Teacher", a guideline and instruction on learning and practicing the Tibetan Bhudda's teaching. We are so touched by her generosity and her compassion. She is an great example of Bhutanese people.

If you ever plan to visit this magical place, you couldn't go wrong by asking Tshomo Keseng's help. Her website is http://www.bhutantravelonline.com. She was quick in responding to our emails and set up a wonderful itinerary based on our interests. We came as her clients but we are leaving as her friends.