- “Travellers and Magicians” (2003): Directed by Khyentse Norbu, this Bhutanese film tells the story of a government officer who sets out on a journey to become a teacher, discovering love and spirituality along the way. It beautifully showcases the Bhutanese countryside and the local culture.
- “Karma” (2014): This Indian-Bhutanese film, directed by Tshering Wangyel, revolves around the life of an office cleaner and his interactions with the people he cleans up after. It provides a insight into urban life in Bhutan.
- “Hema Hema: Sing Me a Song While I Wait” (2016): Directed by Dzongzar Khyentse Rinpoche, this thought-provoking drama takes place during a traditional Bhutanese masked dance, where participants must keep their identities hidden. The movie explores themes of identity and freedom.
- “Vara: A Blessing” (2013): Set in a remote Himalayan village in Bhutan, this Indian-Bhutanese film portrays the love story between a young woman and a musician. It delves into the clash between ancient traditions and modern influences.
- “Guru in Seven” (1998): Directed by Tshering Lhendup, this comedy-drama film from Bhutan follows the story of a novice monk, who arrives in the capital city of Thimphu and encounters various characters on his path. It offers a glimpse into urban life in Bhutan with humorous undertones.
- “The Circle of Karma” by Kunzang Choden: This is one of the most well-known Bhutanese novels, written by Bhutan’s first female novelist. The story follows the life of Tsomo, a young Bhutanese woman, as she navigates the challenges of traditional culture and societal expectations.
- “The Madman’s Tale” by John Katzenbach: While not entirely set in Bhutan, this psychological thriller includes sections set in a remote village in Bhutan. The protagonist, Francis Petrel, seeks refuge in this village while on the run from a disturbed killer.
- “Radio Shangri-La” by Lisa Napoli: This memoir tells the author’s personal journey when she takes a job at a radio station in Bhutan. It offers a glimpse into the country’s culture and explores the impact of the modern world on Bhutan’s traditions.
- “Himalayan Dhaba” by Craig Joseph Danner: This novel weaves a tale of adventure and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of Bhutan’s mountainous terrain. It follows the protagonist’s transformative journey as he opens a roadside dhaba (restaurant) and encounters a variety of characters.
- “Married to Bhutan” by Linda Leaming: A memoir by an American woman who falls in love with Bhutan and eventually moves there. It explores her experiences of assimilating into the local culture and provides insightful observations about life in this Himalayan kingdom.
WANDERLIST: Bhutan in books and on film
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