I attended a fascinating festival in Bhutan and understood why it is one of the happiest countries in the world

The image can contain a weapon and an arrow Tatsuhiko Kinjoh

My driver, Tshering Dorji

The true spirit of Bhutan is revealed not only in the black collar crane festival, but also in the daily life of its citizens. I quickly develop an affinity for Suja, butter tea that will soon become my companion through cold mornings and long afternoons, and Ema Datshi, the beloved dish that goes perfectly with rice. Each meal strengthens the importance of connection both to local ecology as well as to the other.

While I travel from Valley to Valley, the transparent mixture of adventure and tradition deepens my connection with Bhutan. My guide, who happens to be a formed archer, insists that I try him at least once. The archery shooting, the national sport of Bhutan, is not only a hobby but an expression of the community spirit, and almost all the villages have a practicing area. He takes me to a local match and what strikes me the most is the feeling of a friendly competition, the verbal battles that take place in an acclamation and song choir, and the intense lens of players . It is a beautiful reflection of community culture of Bhutan, where each victory or defeat is shared.

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