The Lady of the House: A Local Cook in Rural Bhutan

Nestled in the central part of Bhutan, Bumthang is a hidden gem that often goes unnoticed by travelers, but it's precisely this remote location that makes it so enchanting. During our stay, we had the opportunity to experience the region's charm by visiting a farmhouse and savoring a delicious meal prepared by a local mother of four. One of her children had emigrated to Australia, while the others lived in Thimpu, the country's capital. To supplement her income from farming, the lady of the house organized dinners for the occasional tourists who visited the area, a challenging feat in Bhutan where young people are leaving rural areas, leading to a shortage of workers to tend to the farms. This trend threatens Bhutan's self-sufficiency, a value that the country has long promoted. Despite the challenges, the food served was outstanding, with the noodles being a standout dish. The dinner at the farmhouse not only provided a glimpse into the local way of life but also helped us understand the challenges the country is facing – Bumthang, Bhutan