Get to know who we are; some of the heartwarming humans who power our trips; the Bhutan Himalaya Difference; and what our travelers say. Opening the doors to Bhutan since 1999 LEARN MORE High tea at Tiger's Nest Jomolhari Camp Bauhaus family at Tiger's Nest Guests Raymond and Peggy in Punakha Farm-to-table day with traditional families in central Bhutan Guest Donna makes a friend Guests Sheri and Dayton have a moment Our young hikers Jenny and Alli Guests Nelsons and friends on hike Guests at the top of Dochula mountain Guest Stephanie and family at Punakha Dzong Guest Byron and group hiking in Tang Guest Chuck C shares pictures with village children An encounter on the trail Archery day Guests celebrating a successful afternoon archery session A joyous farewell dinner Learning about the Bhutanese emphasis on universal education Hiking in central Bhutan Barb tries on the national dress Trekking on the Dragon's Path Camping Guests resting under holy Bo tree Rebbecca and mom Becky treasure hunting at the Tibetan market El Salvadorean painter and mixed media artist Camila admiring temple mural | Guests Gallery Since 1999, we have arranged in-depth journeys to Bhutan for culturally curious and open-minded travelers; New York Times correspondents; traveling photography seminar leaders and their groups; artists; architects; writers; yoga teachers (and their students); meditation teachers and their followers; birders; medical, dental, and eye-clinic missions and volunteers; avid trekkers; multi-generational families; honeymoon couples; and other discerning travelers. Learn more about the Bhutan Himalaya Difference . Bhutan Himalaya staff and guests with the chief Buddhist abbot of Trongsa, central Bhutan © Bhutan Himalaya archives What we've learned Through the decades, each individual guest’s traveling style, interests, and needs have made us as diversely expert as our guests. As expected, we’ve seen and handled a wide range of challenges, and in response, cultivated an alert, gracious and sensitive range of travel and trip leading skills, and then some. The result is that we’re as unruffled, overseeing the complex logistics and demands of your trip, as at keeping things flexible enough to seize the unique and unplanned experiences that arise from our longstanding connections across Bhutan. What we’ve learned from our long years of experience is this. The trip information you see on our website and in print is merely the beginning, the structure, ‘the bones of the trip,’ so to speak. It’s our ability to spin magical memories from each spontaneous, in-real-time encounter on those itineraries that make our trips such sparkling, meaningful, and life-changing human experiences. (See our Guests Gallery below). Learn about our wonderful team coordinators and their special connections . Bhutan Himalaya guest Monica shows how it's done, at the base of Mt. Jomolhari © Bhutan Himalaya archives Bhutan, at your pace Traveling in a group, if done improperly, can feel impersonal and rushed. When you journey with us we see that you always have reasonable personalized access to our guides and staff to ensure that you never feel as if you are holding up the group. Our journeys have enriched the lives of our many guests, a great number of whom have described their journeys as transformational, and who continue to refer us to new travelers. We are proud of the fact that most of our new guests come to us by word-of-mouth introductions from past travelers instead of heavy marketing. This, in turn, enables us to continue nurture and widen our expanding network of sensitive cross-cultural friendships. Guests at one of our spontaneous outdoor picnic lunches © Bhutan Himalaya archives Expanding options Our volunteer journeys provide opportunities to give back and do some good in the communities where we travel. Our past “voluntouring” trips have included short-term projects for families with high school teens, retired professionals and travelers with backgrounds in health & medicine. Our culinary journeys, village-to-village ride and camp horseback tours and our winter treks to Southern Bhutan’s recently re-opened Royal Manas National Park are thoughtfully expanding the range of travel options available in the kingdom. Bhutan Himalaya guest working with Buddhist nuns in Bhutan's central highlands region © Bhutan Himalaya archives Sharing Bhutan is our passion We strive to create and share experiences that provide deep and meaningful perspectives into a way of life that is inherently balanced, sane and compassionate. We're proud to share our rich Bhutanese heritage with respect, sensitivity, and the firm belief that Bhutan has a remarkably human, and humane, perspective to share with the rest of the world, especially in these troubled times. A TEAM OF well-connected guides and trip leaders, with operations in Bhutan and the U.S., we offer in-depth, intimate, and authentic journeys across the transformational landscape of Bhutan, with travel extensions in the region. | Who we are _________ Travel Logistics Organizer for CBS 60 Minutes 2024 special report on Bhutan “First, thank you for making my trip to Bhutan run smoothly. Second, for explaining your culture and customs to me and our team in a way that helped our 60 MINS story come alive. Third, for making the visit seriously fun!” ~ Lesley Stahl, Correspondent, CBS 60 Minutes, September 2024 Search Travel Bhutan Abundance: a summer journey JOURNEYS Blessings of Bhutan Bhutan’s Jomolhari Trek Heart of Happiness Trek to Treasure Lake On the Wings of Prayer Punakha’s Pageant of Warriors Bhutan in the Time of Rhododendrons SEE ALL JOURNEYS Stories Hidden Lands of Happiness SPOTLIGHT Wild Wild East: How an ancient matriarch led her people to Bhutan Our top 10 reasons why you should visit Bhutan in 2023 How the brown trout came to Bhutan's lakes and rivers The top 10 mask dances to see in Bhutan Pomp & circumstance at Bhutan's warriors festival A journey to learn about Gross National Happiness SEE ALL STORIES Us The Bhutan Himalaya Difference ABOUT US Who we are The Bhutan Himalaya Difference What Our Travelers Say Our Team Meet our latest hires CONTACT US

Bhutan receives the prestigious Murie Spirit of Conservation Award on October 17, 2023 in Jackson Hole, Wyoming EVENTS Bhutan Honored with Murie Spirit of Conservation Award Karma Dorji, Travel Programs Coordinator, Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions Karma Dorji, Travel Programs Coordinator, Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions October 12, 2023 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Bhutan receives the prestigious Murie Spirit of Conservation Award on October 17, 2023 in Jackson Hole, Wyoming Home > Stories > Current Page Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link With thoughtful itineraries honed since 1999, we unveil the depths of Bhutan's happiness philosophy, the daily physical adventures through the beautiful Himalayan landscape complemented by the intimate and in-depth cultural experiences sensitively curated for you every day. Questions? Get in touch with us Through the eyes of a select few informed leaders we saw the dilemmas of a culture: A hitherto sheltered nation discovering the arguments for and against remaining a cloistered society in this 21st Century. I loved the adventure, and I loved the discovery. Unlike anything else I have ever experienced! Lola W., California Get similar features & travel information straight to your inbox with the Bhutan Himalaya Newsletter WE ARE THRILLED to announce that the Kingdom of Bhutan has been awarded the prestigious Murie Spirit of Conservation Award for its dedication to environmental preservation. This marks the first-ever recognition of an entire country for its outstanding efforts in conservation. Join the Celebration! As esteemed friends of Bhutan, we'd love it if you're able to attend and join the celebration of Bhutan's remarkable achievements for a better planetary future. The annual Murie Spirit of Conservation Awards Presentation will take place at the Teton Science Schools, The Center Theater, 700 Coyote Canyon Rd., Jackson, WY 83001, United States . Tickets for the event hosted by the Teton Science Schools are available at this link . Or you can call their main line at 307.734.8956 ; For the Box Office, please call 307.733.4900 . You can also email them at: info@jhcenterforthearts.org Her Majesty the Queen Mother of Bhutan, Ashi Tseyring Pem Wangchuck Her Majesty the Queen Mother is the co-chair of the Bhutan Foundation, the kingdom's premier charity and international partnerships organization creating, and working with, a global network of supporters to ensure sustainable, broad-based, and holistic development in Bhutan, with a special emphasis on the four pillars of Gross National Happiness: environmental conservation, equitable development, good governance, and cultural preservation. Her Majesty began her schooling at St. Helen’s Convent in Kurseong, Darjeeling District, in the Indian State of West Bengal. After graduation, she married the Fourth King of Bhutan, His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck. Her Majesty has a special interest in youth welfare and education. In 1999, Her Majesty the Queen Mother served as the president of the Bhutan Youth Development Fund, a non-profit founded by His Majesty the Fourth King in 1998. Begun with a $1 million dollar endowment fund, Her Majesty strengthened the BYDF by mobilizing philanthropists around the world, and by raising funds for youth-focused development programs in Bhutan. The Queen Mother’s dedication to quality education for youth in the kingdom is recognized by the Ministry of Education in Bhutan. Her unwavering belief that a wholesome education is crucial for shaping a wholesome human being has been the driving force behind the introduction of innovative place-based education in Bhutan. Presently, under Her Majesty's leadership, the Bhutan Foundation is one of the most significant organizations supporting wide-ranging programs in Bhutan aimed at building Bhutanese professional capacity while supporting the work of the government and its civil society partners. Learn more about the groundbreaking work of the Bhutan Foundation here: https://www.bhutanfound.org/about/ Acceptance on Behalf of Bhutan Her Majesty will graciously accept the Murie Spirit Award on behalf of Bhutan, reaffirming our nation's unwavering commitment to environmental conservation and the preservation of our unique Himalayan ecosystem. Royal Acknowledgment During the award ceremony, Her Majesty the Queen Mother of Bhutan, Ashi Tseyring Pem Wangchuck, will receive the Champion of Rising Leaders Award in acknowledgment of her exceptional efforts in inspiring and nurturing the next generation of environmental leaders. It is a truly significant moment for Bhutan's commitment to sustainability and fostering a better future for our planet. Previous Murie Spirit of Conservation awardees Previous recipients of the ward include global conservation icon Dr. Jane Goodall; famed field biologist Dr. George Schaller; Award-winning filmmaker and National Geographic photographer, Jimmy Chin; Rose Marcario, Board Member, Advisor, and Former CEO of Patagonia, Inc.; and the actor Harrison Ford, for his work as Vice-Chair of Conservation International, a global nonprofit dedicated to building a healthier, more prosperous and more productive planet. To receive similar updates in your inbox, please subscribe to our newsletter Email* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Submit Swipe left above for more See our upcoming journeys Celebrating 40 years of Bhutan Foundation at the spectacular Royal Highland Festival Celebrating 40 years of Bhutan Foundation at the spectacular Royal Highland Festival Marvels & mask dances: celebrating the beauty and cultural treasures of Bhutan Cultural Treasures of Bhutan Timeless Bhutan: In the Footsteps of Monica & Fritz von Schulthess Journey to Bhutan's spectacular Royal Highland Festival & Beyond Trek to Treasure Lake, Trongsa Festival & Tiger’s Nest-3 Conservation, culture and the grand Trongsa Festival Bhutan conservation, culture, mythology & overland from western to central highlands Lodge to lodge trekking on the epic Trans Bhutan Trail Ancient Kathmandu and hidden Trisuli with optional Chitwan National Park In-depth cultural exploration of Bhutan View all journeys _________ Travel Logistics Organizer for CBS 60 Minutes 2024 special report on Bhutan “First, thank you for making my trip to Bhutan run smoothly. Second, for explaining your culture and customs to me and our team in a way that helped our 60 MINS story come alive. Third, for making the visit seriously fun!” ~ Lesley Stahl, Correspondent, CBS 60 Minutes, September 2024 Search Travel Bhutan Abundance: A summer journey DEPARTURES Blessings of Bhutan Bhutan's Jomolhari Trek Heart of Happiness Trek to Treasure Lake On the Wings of Prayer Punakha's Pageant of Warriors Bhutan in the Time of Rhododendrons SEE ALL JOURNEYS Stories Hidden Lands of Happiness SPOTLIGHT Wild Wild East: How an ancient matriarch led her people to Bhutan Our top 10 reasons why you should visit Bhutan in 2023 How the brown trout came to Bhutan's lakes and rivers The top 10 mask dances to see in Bhutan Pomp & circumstance at Bhutan's warriors festival A journey to learn about Gross National Happiness SEE ALL STORIES Us The Bhutan Himalaya Difference ABOUT US Who we are The Bhutan Himalaya Difference What our travelers say Our Team Meet our latest hires CONTACT US

IN FOCUS The magnificent madness of Bhutan's wild rhododendrons Karma Dorji, Travel Programs Coordinator, Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions Karma Dorji, Travel Programs Coordinator, Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Home > Stories > Current Page Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link With thoughtful itineraries honed since 1999, we unveil the depths of Bhutan's happiness philosophy, the daily physical adventures through the beautiful Himalayan landscape complemented by the intimate and in-depth cultural experiences sensitively curated for you every day. Questions? Get in touch with us Through the eyes of a select few informed leaders we saw the dilemmas of a culture: A hitherto sheltered nation discovering the arguments for and against remaining a cloistered society in this 21st Century. I loved the adventure, and I loved the discovery. Unlike anything else I have ever experienced! Lola W., California Get similar features & travel information straight to your inbox with the Bhutan Himalaya Newsletter AS A YOUNG boy in Bhutan, I waited eagerly for the first signs of spring each year. Not because of the warmer weather or the longer days, but because of the magnificent spectacle that would unfold in the mountains above our capital – the wild rhododendron blooms. Such was the transformative power of this annual explosion of color in our mountains that even my father, a stern man of few words, would become an excited child as the rhododendron season took hold. He made us wear our finest traditional clothes — colorful handwoven silk and brocade ghos and kiras — and with a twinkle in his eye, ushered us into his Jeep for a journey up the winding mountain roads. I can still remember the feeling of that moment we'd reach that special spot – a small curve of compact dirt that offered a breathtaking view of the glittering snowcapped Himalayan peaks. My father would practically leap from the car, shooing us out with great excitement. My mother, my three sisters, and I followed him up the mountain path, our vibrant clothes matching the great overhanging blooms of the rhododendron trees that stood out against the deep mist-wrapped forests of ancient pine and fir. Our destination was always the same – a majestic, ancient rhododendron tree that seemed to embrace us with its sprawling branches. As we gathered beneath its canopy, my father would set up his beloved 35mm Canon AV1 on its tripod. He'd meticulously frame the shot, ensuring the camera captured both our family and the sumptuous trumpets of rhododendron blooms. With the timer set, he'd dash to join us, always finding time for a final touch – adjusting his forest green fedora to a jaunty angle or tossing a bright silk scarf around his neck, the camera's click freezing in time our family amid the explosion of color that heralded Bhutan's spring. As I grew older, I realized that this "rhododendron madness" wasn't unique to my family. It was deeply ingrained in Bhutanese culture. I discovered that our kingdom boasts an incredible 46 wholly native species of rhododendrons, with 10 additional subspecies. These aren't the pruned ornamental bushes you might find in Western gardens. No, Bhutan's rhododendrons are wild, untamed giants, some reaching heights of over 65 feet! From late March to the end of May, these magnificent rhododendrons transform our mountainsides into a painter's palette. Mute puffs of scarlet, pink, cream, gold, and white cascade down the slopes of the mighty Himalayas — a sight that has inspired poets*, driven Bhutanese archers to acts of seeming madness**, and even set off a botanical craze in 19th-century Europe***. Now, as an adult, I understand why my father was so enraptured by these blooms. They represent more than just the changing of seasons – they embody the wild beauty of Bhutan itself. These days when I stumble on a particularly stunning grove of giant rhododendrons during a hike, I'm filled with the same awe that must have inspired the 19th-century British naturalist Frank Kingdon Ward****to describe them as "fiery curtains" and "incandescent lava." Each spring, as the rhododendrons paint our mountains with their vibrant hues, I'm transported back to those early family outings in my father’s Jeep. I hear my father's excited voice, feel the soft silk of my gho, and see the ancient tree stretching its arms toward the Himalayan sky. These wild blooms, in all their untamed glory, are more than just flowers, they're a living, breathing piece of Bhutan's soul, a natural wonder that continues to captivate and inspire all who witness their magnificent madness each year during the stunning Bhutanese spring. _______ *A Chinese poet of old, Cheng Yanxlong, is said to have compared the red flowers of the rhododendron to “blood dropped from the mouths of cuckoo birds.” Chinese folklore says that the cuckoo birds arrive first in spring, followed by the rhododendron blooms. **As the rhododendron season nears, Bhutanese archers can be seen jumping back and forth in front of the target, abandoning all good sense to the winds, even as their opponents prepare to shoot. The archer raising his bow and taking aim cries out: “Ethometho sha rendo! Ngi da kari pho rendo!” which, translated, means “Just as it’s time for the rhododendrons to bloom, so it’s time for my arrows to find their mark! ***Joseph Hooker’s Rhododendrons of the Sikkim-Himalaya was published in 1849, setting off a wild craze among European botanists, gardeners and enthusiasts, causing a flurry of artists from the era to paint them in the florid and gushing styles in which they were being described in the literary prose of the time. ***Frank Kingdon Ward was also the first person to document the rare and elusive Himalayan Blue Poppy, Bhutan’s national flower. The quotes above appear in his book “Riddle of the Tsangpo Gorges: Retracing the Epic Journey of 1924-25 in South-East Tibet”; edited by Kenneth Cox, Antique Collectors Club Ltd., August 2001). ~ Karma Dorji is the author of Dreaming of Prayer Flags: Stories & Images from Bhutan, 2008 To receive similar updates in your inbox, please subscribe to our newsletter Email* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Submit Swipe left above for more See our upcoming journeys Celebrating 40 years of Bhutan Foundation at the spectacular Royal Highland Festival Celebrating 40 years of Bhutan Foundation at the spectacular Royal Highland Festival Marvels & mask dances: celebrating the beauty and cultural treasures of Bhutan Cultural Treasures of Bhutan Timeless Bhutan: In the Footsteps of Monica & Fritz von Schulthess Journey to Bhutan's spectacular Royal Highland Festival & Beyond Trek to Treasure Lake, Trongsa Festival & Tiger’s Nest-3 Conservation, culture and the grand Trongsa Festival Bhutan conservation, culture, mythology & overland from western to central highlands Lodge to lodge trekking on the epic Trans Bhutan Trail Ancient Kathmandu and hidden Trisuli with optional Chitwan National Park In-depth cultural exploration of Bhutan View all journeys _________ Travel Logistics Organizer for CBS 60 Minutes 2024 special report on Bhutan “First, thank you for making my trip to Bhutan run smoothly. Second, for explaining your culture and customs to me and our team in a way that helped our 60 MINS story come alive. Third, for making the visit seriously fun!” ~ Lesley Stahl, Correspondent, CBS 60 Minutes, September 2024 Search Travel Bhutan Abundance: A summer journey DEPARTURES Blessings of Bhutan Bhutan's Jomolhari Trek Heart of Happiness Trek to Treasure Lake On the Wings of Prayer Punakha's Pageant of Warriors Bhutan in the Time of Rhododendrons SEE ALL JOURNEYS Stories Hidden Lands of Happiness SPOTLIGHT Wild Wild East: How an ancient matriarch led her people to Bhutan Our top 10 reasons why you should visit Bhutan in 2023 How the brown trout came to Bhutan's lakes and rivers The top 10 mask dances to see in Bhutan Pomp & circumstance at Bhutan's warriors festival A journey to learn about Gross National Happiness SEE ALL STORIES Us The Bhutan Himalaya Difference ABOUT US Who we are The Bhutan Himalaya Difference What our travelers say Our Team Meet our latest hires CONTACT US

Sharing the wonders of the Bhutan Himalaya through our photographs and detailed descriptions PICTURE STORIES Sharing our stories about the Bhutan Himalaya, in words and images. Follow us @BhutanHimalaya Waiting for Black-necked Cranes Bhutan's elegant "Birds of Heaven" bring joy to locals and visitors alike when they arrive at the end of fall. But sometimes it's a narrow window of opportunity ... See Picture Story The Grand Pageant of Warriors Festival An account of the pomp and ceremony, the pageantry and history ... See story Bhutan's lovely Rhododendron Blooms A photo-essay about the beauty and the madness of the Himalayan “Rose-Tree” ... See story Jomolhari: Mother Goddess Mountain The beauty and the power of hiking in the lap of Bhutan's sacred peak ... See story

INSIDE INFO Trans Bhutan Trail Stage 1: The Trek from Paro to Haa via the Kaley La pass Bhutan Himalaya Editors Bhutan Himalaya Editors Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Home > Stories > Current Page Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link With thoughtful itineraries honed since 1999, we unveil the depths of Bhutan's happiness philosophy, the daily physical adventures through the beautiful Himalayan landscape complemented by the intimate and in-depth cultural experiences sensitively curated for you every day. Questions? Get in touch with us Through the eyes of a select few informed leaders we saw the dilemmas of a culture: A hitherto sheltered nation discovering the arguments for and against remaining a cloistered society in this 21st Century. I loved the adventure, and I loved the discovery. Unlike anything else I have ever experienced! Lola W., California Get similar features & travel information straight to your inbox with the Bhutan Himalaya Newsletter THE TREK FROM Paro to Haa on the Trans Bhutan Trail via Kalela is a captivating journey that combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a touch of adventure. This route covers approximately 25 kilometers and can be completed in a day, depending on your pace and preference for exploring the surroundings. Starting Point: Paro 2000m/6,800ft Paro is a picturesque valley town known for its serene landscapes, traditional architecture, and historic sites. The trek begins from this charming town, offering views of lush rice fields, quaint villages, and the iconic Paro Dzong, a fortress-monastery that stands as a testament to Bhutanese history and culture. Initial Ascent The trek starts with a steady ascent, taking you through thick pine forests and past vibrant rhododendron bushes, especially beautiful in the spring. The trail is well-marked and maintained, providing a clear path amidst the dense foliage. As you climb higher, the air becomes cooler, and the sounds of the valley below fade into a tranquil silence. Highest point: Kalela, approximately 3,500m/11,450ft After a few hours of trekking, you will reach Kalela Pass, which sits at an elevation of around 3,500 meters (11,450 feet). This pass offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. On a clear day, you can see the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in the distance. Kalela is a great spot to rest, take photos, and soak in the breathtaking scenery. Descent into Haa Valley From Kalela, the trail begins its descent into the Haa Valley. The path winds through green meadows, past traditional yak herding areas, and alongside crystal-clear streams. The descent is gentle, allowing you to enjoy the serene beauty of the landscape at a relaxed pace. Near the end of the trail we take you to visit a beautiful cliffside temple where you have to squeeze between two large boulders to enter. Inside are rare paintings, including those of the goddesses of compassion, protection and wisdom. Arrival in Haa As you approach the Haa Valley, you will notice a change in the landscape, with the valley opening up to reveal expansive fields and traditional Bhutanese homes and raised cultivated fields. Haa is known for its unspoiled natural beauty and rich heritage. The valley is relatively less frequented by tourists, making it a perfect detour for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. To receive similar updates in your inbox, please subscribe to our newsletter Email* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Submit Swipe left above for more See our upcoming journeys Celebrating 40 years of Bhutan Foundation at the spectacular Royal Highland Festival Celebrating 40 years of Bhutan Foundation at the spectacular Royal Highland Festival Marvels & mask dances: celebrating the beauty and cultural treasures of Bhutan Cultural Treasures of Bhutan Timeless Bhutan: In the Footsteps of Monica & Fritz von Schulthess Journey to Bhutan's spectacular Royal Highland Festival & Beyond Trek to Treasure Lake, Trongsa Festival & Tiger’s Nest-3 Conservation, culture and the grand Trongsa Festival Bhutan conservation, culture, mythology & overland from western to central highlands Lodge to lodge trekking on the epic Trans Bhutan Trail Ancient Kathmandu and hidden Trisuli with optional Chitwan National Park In-depth cultural exploration of Bhutan View all journeys _________ Travel Logistics Organizer for CBS 60 Minutes 2024 special report on Bhutan “First, thank you for making my trip to Bhutan run smoothly. Second, for explaining your culture and customs to me and our team in a way that helped our 60 MINS story come alive. Third, for making the visit seriously fun!” ~ Lesley Stahl, Correspondent, CBS 60 Minutes, September 2024 Search Travel Bhutan Abundance: A summer journey DEPARTURES Blessings of Bhutan Bhutan's Jomolhari Trek Heart of Happiness Trek to Treasure Lake On the Wings of Prayer Punakha's Pageant of Warriors Bhutan in the Time of Rhododendrons SEE ALL JOURNEYS Stories Hidden Lands of Happiness SPOTLIGHT Wild Wild East: How an ancient matriarch led her people to Bhutan Our top 10 reasons why you should visit Bhutan in 2023 How the brown trout came to Bhutan's lakes and rivers The top 10 mask dances to see in Bhutan Pomp & circumstance at Bhutan's warriors festival A journey to learn about Gross National Happiness SEE ALL STORIES Us The Bhutan Himalaya Difference ABOUT US Who we are The Bhutan Himalaya Difference What our travelers say Our Team Meet our latest hires CONTACT US

REVIEW COMO Metropolitan Bangkok: A modern oasis in Thailand's bustling capital Karma Dorji, Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions Karma Dorji, Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Home > Stories > Current Page Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link With thoughtful itineraries honed since 1999, we unveil the depths of Bhutan's happiness philosophy, the daily physical adventures through the beautiful Himalayan landscape complemented by the intimate and in-depth cultural experiences sensitively curated for you every day. Questions? Get in touch with us Through the eyes of a select few informed leaders we saw the dilemmas of a culture: A hitherto sheltered nation discovering the arguments for and against remaining a cloistered society in this 21st Century. I loved the adventure, and I loved the discovery. Unlike anything else I have ever experienced! Lola W., California Get similar features & travel information straight to your inbox with the Bhutan Himalaya Newsletter NESTLED IN BANGKOK'S vibrant Sathorn district, the COMO Metropolitan offers a refreshing blend of sophistication and tranquility. From the moment you arrive, greeted by twinkling lights adorning tall terminalia trees, the hotel sets itself apart. Gone are the stuffy check-in desks; instead, sink into Nordic-inspired sofas while sipping a chilled welcome drink. Your bags? Magically whisked away, only to reappear in your room. It's such small details that define the COMO experience. We stayed at the hotel for four nights in the late fall of 2023, and this is what we found. Rooms and Amenities The rooms are modern, harmonious and comfortable. The aesthetic is a cross between zen-like simplicity and a Northern European sensibility. The beds are cloud-like, and the views – particularly of the breeze-ruffled trees – evoke a sense of serenity rarely found in such urban hotels. Thoughtful touches abound, from complimentary bamboo slippers to daily fresh fruit platters. Dining Breakfast by the pool is a treat for both the palate and the eyes. As you savor perfectly cooked eggs, watch the morning unfold around the turquoise pool, where golden leaves from the surrounding trees dance on the water's edge. For a lovely in-house dining experience, try the Michelin-starred Nahm restaurant downstairs. Or try something truly local and authentic: ask the staff for directions to Baan Khanitha , a renowned dinner spot next door, housed in one of one of those graceful old Thai bungalows one occasionally finds amid the bristling high rise towers of Bangkok; it has an extensive menu representing all the major culinary traditions of Thailand. Wellness and Relaxation The COMO Shambhala spa lives up to its billing as a "haven of tranquility." Start your day with a yoga session or indulge in one of their renowned wellness therapies. The pool area, with its towering terminalia trees, offers a serene escape from the city's hustle. Location and Value At around $150 per night for an upgraded Metropolitan room (Late 2023), the COMO offers excellent value. Its location in the Sathorn district provides easy access to Lumphini Park and the vibrant Silom area, while still feeling like a secluded retreat. The Verdict The COMO Metropolitan Bangkok strikes an excellent balance of price, comfort and functional elegance. It's an ideal base for exploring the city, with the added bonus of returning to a peaceful sanctuary each evening. From the attentive staff to the thoughtful amenities (including pre-dawn breakfast boxes for early departures), every aspect of your stay is carefully considered. For us, it was a sophisticated escape in the heart of Bangkok. Remember to book directly for perks like room upgrades and flexible check-in and check-out times. Perhaps request a room with freshly cleaned windows for the restful views of the tall, waving Terminalia trees. Book direct at https://www.comohotels.com/thailand/como-metropolitan-bangkok To receive similar updates in your inbox, please subscribe to our newsletter Email* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Submit Swipe left above for more See our upcoming journeys Celebrating 40 years of Bhutan Foundation at the spectacular Royal Highland Festival Celebrating 40 years of Bhutan Foundation at the spectacular Royal Highland Festival Marvels & mask dances: celebrating the beauty and cultural treasures of Bhutan Cultural Treasures of Bhutan Timeless Bhutan: In the Footsteps of Monica & Fritz von Schulthess Journey to Bhutan's spectacular Royal Highland Festival & Beyond Trek to Treasure Lake, Trongsa Festival & Tiger’s Nest-3 Conservation, culture and the grand Trongsa Festival Bhutan conservation, culture, mythology & overland from western to central highlands Lodge to lodge trekking on the epic Trans Bhutan Trail Ancient Kathmandu and hidden Trisuli with optional Chitwan National Park In-depth cultural exploration of Bhutan View all journeys _________ Travel Logistics Organizer for CBS 60 Minutes 2024 special report on Bhutan “First, thank you for making my trip to Bhutan run smoothly. Second, for explaining your culture and customs to me and our team in a way that helped our 60 MINS story come alive. Third, for making the visit seriously fun!” ~ Lesley Stahl, Correspondent, CBS 60 Minutes, September 2024 Search Travel Bhutan Abundance: A summer journey DEPARTURES Blessings of Bhutan Bhutan's Jomolhari Trek Heart of Happiness Trek to Treasure Lake On the Wings of Prayer Punakha's Pageant of Warriors Bhutan in the Time of Rhododendrons SEE ALL JOURNEYS Stories Hidden Lands of Happiness SPOTLIGHT Wild Wild East: How an ancient matriarch led her people to Bhutan Our top 10 reasons why you should visit Bhutan in 2023 How the brown trout came to Bhutan's lakes and rivers The top 10 mask dances to see in Bhutan Pomp & circumstance at Bhutan's warriors festival A journey to learn about Gross National Happiness SEE ALL STORIES Us The Bhutan Himalaya Difference ABOUT US Who we are The Bhutan Himalaya Difference What our travelers say Our Team Meet our latest hires CONTACT US

Go-BOB-App-News.jpg In Bhutan, a Bank App Widens the Door to Cashless Travel 10/22/25, 9:00 PM With new email-based registration and global card support, GoBoB’s digital wallet aims to make shopping in Bhutan as easy as tapping a screen. Earlier this month (October 2025), the Bank of Bhutan rolled out a major update to its goBoB digital wallet , adding features designed specifically to make financial transactions easier and more secure for international visitors. For the first time, tourists can now register and verify their goBoB wallet accounts using only an email-based one-time password (OTP), even before landing in Bhutan. This streamlined setup eliminates the earlier need for a local SIM card or an annoying visit to a bank branch, allowing visitors to activate and fund their wallets while still home or en route. Once logged in, the revamped goBoB app enables users to add money directly via international Visa and MasterCard , instantly converting currencies into ngultrum for local spending. The new goBoB ecosystem lets travelers explore, dine, split the bill, and shop while staying fully cashless. The app’s evolving feature set now includes: QR-based merchant payments accepted widely in cafés, taxis, and handicraft shops Offline payment mode for settlements in areas with limited network connectivity In-app customer support in English and Dzongkha Beyond convenience, the upgrade strengthens data security with end-to-end encryption and customizable spending alerts—protecting both locals and international users. For visitors arriving and leaving through Paro International Airport, GoBoB counters and QR-enabled merchants are now becoming part of the broader Digital Bhutan cashless campaign, positioning the app as another innovative step toward smart tourism; it turns the challenge of exchanging and handling cash for purchases into a fluid, one-tap experience. So how do you set it up? Here's the Step by Step: Step 1: Download the App You can find the goBoB app on official stores: Android users: Download goBoB Google Play Store iOS users: Download goBoB Apple App Store Doublecheck to make sure it’s published by the Bank of Bhutan Limited . Step 2: Choose Your Registration Method (***Email-Based OTP Reccomended***) The latest version offers two registration modes: Local SIM Registration: For Bhutanese users or travelers with a Bhutanese number. Email-Based OTP Registration: For international visitors — you can register before arriving in Bhutan using your email ID to receive an OTP. Step 3: Register and Verify Once you open the app: Tap “Sign Up Now.” Choose your registration mode (mobile or email). Enter your details (name, ID/passport number, email, and date of birth). Agree to the terms and conditions. You’ll receive an OTP by SMS (for local SIM) or email (for tourist users). Enter the OTP to verify your identity. Your digital wallet is now created! Step 4: Secure Your Account After verification: Create your MPIN (login PIN). Set a TPIN for authorizing transactions. Never share your PINs or OTPs with anyone for security reasons. Step 5: Add Money to Your Wallet You can fund your goBoB wallet through: International VISA/MasterCard (a 3.5% convenience fee applies). mBoB bank transfer (for customers with a Bank of Bhutan account). To add money: Tap Add Funds under the main menu. Select your preferred payment method. Enter the desired amount. Confirm with your TPIN. Step 6: Start Using goBoB You’re ready to explore and pay across Bhutan: Scan merchant QR codes at restaurants, cafés, taxis, and handicraft shops. Use Offline Payment Mode for small purchases even with low or no network. View instant transaction receipts and manage spending categories. Optional: Increase Your Wallet Limit If you plan to spend more during your trip: Go to Settings → Request to Enhance Limit. Submit your passport details and photo ID. Approval usually takes 1–2 working days. Need Help? Within Bhutan: Call 1095 (toll-free) Outside Bhutan: +975 2 349903 Tip for Travelers: You can now complete goBoB setup before your trip. Register with your passport and email, verify via email OTP, and load funds using your international card—making it easy to go cashless as soon as you arrive in Bhutan. Previous Next

CULTURE Momos on the mind: an ode to the delicious dumplings of Bhutan Bhutan Himalaya Editors Bhutan Himalaya Editors Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Home > Stories > Current Page Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link With thoughtful itineraries honed since 1999, we unveil the depths of Bhutan's happiness philosophy, the daily physical adventures through the beautiful Himalayan landscape complemented by the intimate and in-depth cultural experiences sensitively curated for you every day. Questions? Get in touch with us Through the eyes of a select few informed leaders we saw the dilemmas of a culture: A hitherto sheltered nation discovering the arguments for and against remaining a cloistered society in this 21st Century. I loved the adventure, and I loved the discovery. Unlike anything else I have ever experienced! Lola W., California Get similar features & travel information straight to your inbox with the Bhutan Himalaya Newsletter AMONG THE MISTY peaks of the Bhutan Himalaya, in the greasy spoons that grace the crowded produce markets and serendipitous street corners where local enthusiasts sniff them out like pigs digging up truffles, a culinary treasure awaits those who seek its sublime joys. The pillowy pockets of joy begin with hand-rolled dough, lovingly proofed and crafted from simple ingredients—flour, water, and a touch of oil. But it's the filling that truly elevates the Bhutanese momo to its celestial heights. A harmonious blend of minced vegetables or meat, fragrant with garlic, ginger, and spring onions, creates the symphony of flavors that dance on the tongue. The Art of Preparation Watching skilled momo makers at work is akin to witnessing a sacred rite. With deft fingers, they roll out perfect circles of dough, carefully spooning in the precious fillings. Then comes the true magic—the pleating. Each fold is a work of art, sealing in the savory treasures and creating the momo's distinctive shape, the ends of which must, in the words of one Bhutanese mother, “resemble the perfectly pointed horns of the most beautiful yak.” A Steamy Affair As the momos nestle in their steamer baskets, anticipation builds. The gentle wisps of steam carry tantalizing aromas, hinting at the delights to come. After a brief but agonizing wait, the momos emerge, their translucent skins glistening like pearls. The First Bite Biting into a freshly steamed Bhutanese momo is a transcendent experience. The delicate wrapper yields easily, releasing a burst of fragrant steam. The filling, perfectly seasoned and juicy, floods the senses with its dense umami flavors, followed by feelings of warmth, satisfaction and comfort. Swipe each dumpling—also available in cheese-filled vegetarian flavors—over a flaming hot, red smear of the national chili sauce ezay , and you’re well on your way to culinary bliss. More Than Just a Meal In Bhutan, momos are more than mere sustenance - they are a cultural touchstone, a way of bringing people together. Families and friends gather together to prepare and share these beloved dumplings, strengthening their bonds of kinship and creating cherished memories with each other, each bite a tiny flavor bomb lubricating the interweaving circles of family, friendship, and hospitality, like the Endless Knot, one of the eight sacred symbols of Himalayan Buddhism. Momos on a distant shore While deeply rooted in Himalayan tradition, the allure of momos has reached far beyond their mountainous origins. Drawn by their reputation for maximum oomph and deliciousness, foodies visiting the Jackson Heights neighborhood of Queens, New York City, can now take part in annual “momo crawls.” No matter where one is in the world, a bite of each precious morsel of momo can transport the lucky eater immediately to the serene beauty of Bhutan, where time moves more slowly and life's simple pleasures take center stage. To a Bhutanese enthusiast, momo is more than just food—it's a portal to another world, a world ringed by the pristine and snowy peaks of home, a world of well-remembered tastes and flavors that bring alive everyone and everything one has ever loved, all wrapped up in a heartwarming, full-belly feeling that lingers long after the last dumpling has disappeared from the plate. To receive similar updates in your inbox, please subscribe to our newsletter Email* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Submit Swipe left above for more See our upcoming journeys Celebrating 40 years of Bhutan Foundation at the spectacular Royal Highland Festival Celebrating 40 years of Bhutan Foundation at the spectacular Royal Highland Festival Marvels & mask dances: celebrating the beauty and cultural treasures of Bhutan Cultural Treasures of Bhutan Timeless Bhutan: In the Footsteps of Monica & Fritz von Schulthess Journey to Bhutan's spectacular Royal Highland Festival & Beyond Trek to Treasure Lake, Trongsa Festival & Tiger’s Nest-3 Conservation, culture and the grand Trongsa Festival Bhutan conservation, culture, mythology & overland from western to central highlands Lodge to lodge trekking on the epic Trans Bhutan Trail Ancient Kathmandu and hidden Trisuli with optional Chitwan National Park In-depth cultural exploration of Bhutan View all journeys _________ Travel Logistics Organizer for CBS 60 Minutes 2024 special report on Bhutan “First, thank you for making my trip to Bhutan run smoothly. Second, for explaining your culture and customs to me and our team in a way that helped our 60 MINS story come alive. Third, for making the visit seriously fun!” ~ Lesley Stahl, Correspondent, CBS 60 Minutes, September 2024 Search Travel Bhutan Abundance: A summer journey DEPARTURES Blessings of Bhutan Bhutan's Jomolhari Trek Heart of Happiness Trek to Treasure Lake On the Wings of Prayer Punakha's Pageant of Warriors Bhutan in the Time of Rhododendrons SEE ALL JOURNEYS Stories Hidden Lands of Happiness SPOTLIGHT Wild Wild East: How an ancient matriarch led her people to Bhutan Our top 10 reasons why you should visit Bhutan in 2023 How the brown trout came to Bhutan's lakes and rivers The top 10 mask dances to see in Bhutan Pomp & circumstance at Bhutan's warriors festival A journey to learn about Gross National Happiness SEE ALL STORIES Us The Bhutan Himalaya Difference ABOUT US Who we are The Bhutan Himalaya Difference What our travelers say Our Team Meet our latest hires CONTACT US

How to Make your Trip Payments: Payment Methods: Please make your trip deposits and payments by direct wire transfer to our Client Trust Account. When making direct wire transfer payments, you will need to provide your bank with part or all of the wire transfer information below. Please note we do not take credit card payments. Wire Transfer: Please provide your bank with the following information to authorize wire transfer payment (your bank may require all or part of the following information): 1. Ultimate Beneficiary: Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions. 2. Company account #: 8379264800. 3. Bank Name: WELLS FARGO BANK 4. Bank Address: 420 Montgomery Street San Francisco, CA 94104 USA 5. Routing Number: 121000248 (For Domestic Transfers from within the US) 6. Swift Code: WFBIUS6S (For international Transfers from outside the US) If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us by phone or email. ***

A firsthand account of Bhutan's early springtime "Festival of Warriors," its history and pageantry. | SLIDESHOW | WARRIORS PROCESSION | Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. Swipe left on image for Next Slide; right for Previous Slide; scroll down for caption READ CAPTION 1. "The Palace of Great Bliss" Stone-faced, burly and forbidding, the warriors are suddenly all smiles and grins, showing crimson teeth stained by beetle-juice. The fierce men lined up moments earlier for the group photograph are modern-day descendants of Bhutan's Pazaaps, a centuries-old citizen's militia charged with safeguarding holy relics within the fortified ramparts of western Bhutan's Dechen Punthang Phodrang or "Palace of Great Bliss," which straddles the confluence of two rivers, Mochu and Phochu, like a great white ship at anchor. Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. READ CAPTION 2. A Group Photo Like their ancient forebears before them, the present-day Pazaaps have heavy spiked brass helmets with protective coverlets that run down the sides and backs of their heads. They carry lightweight shields made from woven cane with an outer covering of tough animal hide. Their bright red shoulder-to-knee ghos are made from a dense blend of yak hair and wool. Wrapped around their shoulders and their necks are durable lengths of dull raw silk which, used correctly, can stop a full frontal blow from a long sword. And yes, they are wearing swords; swords well over two-feet long and hanging swashbuckler-fashion from their waists or tucked at rakish angles into their belts. Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. READ CAPTION 3. A Vibrant Festival Leaving me, the warriors disappear quickly into the shadowy passages on either side of the massive stone fortress—known colloquially as a dzong*—they have known all their lives. They are in a hurry because the Pazaaps and their cohorts are the main attraction today at the annual "Procession of Warriors", a grand festival blending religion, history and cultural spectacle in this part of the country we have invited our guests to attend. Each year, when winter gives up its hold on the countryside to an early spring and purple jacarandas start to bloom on the trees outside its walls, the grand halls and courtyards of this monumental monastery-fortress, one of the kingdom's finest, explodes in a riot of colors and sounds, a medieval pageant recounting one of the country's most important legends. *Dzong: A Dzong is one of Bhutan's defining architectural landmarks. These grand monastery-fortresses house religious and administrative offices of provincial governors spiritual leaders. Similar to European castles in function, they serve as state capitol, Buddhist seminary, district court all rolled in one. At various times of the year they also become the venue of large communal celebrations such as the religious festivals that have been held on their grounds for centuries. There are 20 beautiful dzongs in Bhutan; one each in each of the 20 regions of the kingdom. Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. READ CAPTION 4. The Great Unifier The story concerns a certain holy relic—the Rangjung Kharsapani*—a miraculous self-created image of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. The holy artifact was brought to Bhutan in the early 17th century by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel—master-builder, administrator and, according to the history books, "The Great Unifier of Bhutan"—personified at the festival (above) by a high lama wearing a gold-paint mask. The fact that Shabdrung brought the sacred image to Bhutan among his prized spiritual possessions irked his powerful rivals in Tibet who promptly launched several military campaigns to reclaim it. Enter the Pazaap warriors, who were sworn in as its defenders. After several battles, Shabdrung and the ancestors of today's Pazaaps came up with an idea to put an end to the hostilities. During a lull in fighting, they formed a procession of monks and warriors to the Mochu river next to the dzong and pretended to throw the holy object in water. When the Tibetan forces saw that the Avalokitesvara image was now lost to all, they left, never to return. Unbeknownst to the Tibetans, however, the real relic was securely placed in a protected tower of the dzong, where it remains to this day. *Rangjung Kharsapani: An exceedingly rare statue of the enlightened Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara believed to have appeared from the ashes of Tshangpa Gyari, one of the founders of the Drukpa or "Dragon" school of Buddhism practiced in Bhutan (because of this Bhutanese call themselves Drukpai Meyser, or “People of the Drukpa”). Following his cremation, the founder Tshangpa Gyari’s vertebrae are said to have turned themselves miraculously into 21 such miniature statues of Avalokiteshvara. Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. READ CAPTION 5. A Pageant of Warriors A sudden blast of ceremonial music—drums, long horns, reedy pipes and clashing hand-held cymbals—announces the start of the day's festivities. Following the sounds of the music to the main outer courtyard of the dzong, I see the grand procession of warriors weaving its way from the ample grounds outside the fortress. Colorful swirling religious standards and pennants dominate the view on every side. As the procession moves closer, I can see that in addition to the foot soldiers like the ones I photographed earlier, there are proud commanders with gleaming helmets wearing flashy silks and brocades. They ride brightly festooned horses, led and followed by long lines of monks and monastics. Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. READ CAPTION 6. Pomp and Ceremony Then, a flash of yellow, a quick gleam of reflection from round-rimmed glasses announcing the arrival of one of the most recognizable and beloved figures in the kingdom, His Holiness Je Khenpo, chief arbiter of all things monastic in Bhutan. The courtyards now fill up quickly with vibrantly dressed festival-goers in their best and brightest. Among the residents of the surrounding valleys of Punakha, are state guests, high officials, ministers and members of the kingdom's beloved royal family. The dignitaries take their seats in the elaborate upper viewing galleries of the dzong which includes the ceremonial seat of His Holiness Je Khenpo, who presides. In short order, the festivities begin in earnest. Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. READ CAPTION 7. Dance of the Warriors A sudden explosion of fire-works accompanied by blood-curdling yells, whoops and whistles announces the entrance of our friends, the Pazaaps. Blades slice the air and shields rise to meet them. Faces contort fiercely, bodies twist and twirl. Drums beat, and feet leap in the air, a strenuous if effortless-seeming ballet telling a story about the brave and historic encounters of warriors past. Re-enacting the battles of their forbears, Bhutan's Pazaap warriors preserve a vital aspect of the kingdom's cultural memory. Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. READ CAPTION 8. The Deflection Suddenly, a plaintive cry, followed by more ceremonial music. The yellow-robed figure of the Je Khenpo rises, followed by his retinue of monks and ceremonial standard bearers. The re-enactment of the symbolic procession to the river includes Bhutan's chief abbot, His Holiness Je Khenpo (in yellow robes), modern day representatives of officials and nobility from the surrounding valleys and retinues of monks, musicians and warriors. The procession gradually makes its way out of the courtyard and down the stairs to the banks of the river. Bhutan's spiritual leader ceremonially throws something round and shiny into the river (I'm told it's an orange) symbolizing one of history's most unique peace-inducing deflections as well as an annual offering to the spirits of the river. Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. READ CAPTION 9. Another Year Down by the river, I can see the Pazaaps celebrating, pumping their fists gleefully in the air. I hear their exuberant shouts and cries, and though I can't see their faces from the distance, I imagine them grinning ear to ear with red betel-stained teeth, marking yet another happy year of their lives. Watching the final act of a martial celebration in a country otherwise known for its peace and tranquility I have reached a personal conclusion. Despite the explosions, in spite of the fierce dances, the leaping, jousting and vigorous crossing of swords, this event is really about finding resolution. It is not so much about the pride and prowess of the Pazaap warriors as about defusing conflict, something we need more of in the world today. Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. READ CAPTION 10. Endnote Although there is no longer an expectation that the Pazaaps will ever see battle, the young men are still chosen for their ancestry, strength, intelligence, standing in the community and, to a certain extent, for their good looks and their physical stature. These three friends relax after their exertions at the festival with a young monk (at the edge of the frame). While their lives will lead them down very different paths, of householder and renunciation (in the case of the monk), their strong bonds of kinship will endure through the years enabled by the openness of Bhutanese society and the wide-ranging roles that those in the monasteries play in the lives of the average Bhutanese citizen, warriors and laymen. By Karma Dorji The annual festival of warriors ushers Bhutan's springtime festival travel season. The history of the Pazaaps (as the warriors are known) celebrates martial strength, the significance of sacred relics in Bhutan and a clever defusing of cross-border hostilities. To learn more, read the full article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. To see dates and prices for an upcoming journey featuring the festival, see here. Like this? Get similar features & travel information delivered to your inbox with the Bhutan Himalaya Newsletter

Get to know who we are; some of the heartwarming humans who power our trips; the Bhutan Himalaya Difference; and what our travelers say. Our Heartwarming humans LEARN MORE High tea at Tiger's Nest Jomolhari Camp Bauhaus family at Tiger's Nest Guests Raymond and Peggy in Punakha Farm-to-table day with traditional families in central Bhutan Guest Donna makes a friend Guests Sheri and Dayton have a moment Our young hikers Jenny and Alli Guests Nelsons and friends on hike Guests at the top of Dochula mountain Guest Stephanie and family at Punakha Dzong Guest Byron and group hiking in Tang Guest Chuck C shares pictures with village children An encounter on the trail Archery day Guests celebrating a successful afternoon archery session A joyous farewell dinner Learning about the Bhutanese emphasis on universal education Hiking in central Bhutan Barb tries on the national dress Trekking on the Dragon's Path Camping Guests resting under holy Bo tree Rebbecca and mom Becky treasure hunting at the Tibetan market El Salvadorean painter and mixed media artist Camila admiring temple mural | Guests Gallery Karma Dorji, Travel Programs Coordinator Tutored by Buddhist monks at a young age, Karma attended high school in India and studied journalism in Germany. In the early to mid-1990s, he traveled to all 20 districts of Bhutan to cover His Majesty the Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck’s visionary five-year plan for Gross National Happiness. INSPIRED BY A KING Following the footsteps of Bhutan’s visionary king, Karma trekked the remotest corners of the country, meeting many extraordinary people and profiling their lives in what he calls “the most formative years of my life.” In 1995, Karma received the United Nations Dag Hammarskjöld Award for Journalism from the UN Correspondents Association. Because of his unique experiences, Karma began sharing the beautiful landscape, people, and stories of Bhutan with the wider world of travelers in 1999. BI-CULTURAL Today, Karma divides his time between Bhutan and the rugged central coast of California (south of Big Sur Highway 1), where his American wife, Linda, grew up. They met in Bhutan while she was working with the United Nations to support and develop physical therapy and community (health) rehabilitation services. They have two sons, Mila Dorji, a graduate of the Yale Public Health School who works in Global Health; and Shey Dorji, a graduate of marine science from UC Santa Barbara, working to reduce the effects of climate change through marine research. Both young men are avid hikers, surfers, and free divers. They were raised bi-culturally in Bhutan and coastal California. BOOK & LECTURES ON BHUTAN Karma has lectured on travel and Bhutanese culture at the Smithsonian in Washington D.C., and at the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco (The Raven Crown: Royal Scepter of Bhutan’s Buddhist Kings ). Karma’s book Dreaming of Prayer Flags: Stories and Images from Bhutan was released in July 2008 and launched at the Bhutan Folklife Festival, an event co-sponsored by the Smithsonian Institution and the Royal Government of Bhutan. “Karma carries in him the spiritual heritage and wisdom of his Buddhist ancestors” ~Elvi Ruottinnen, Founder, Earthpeace Communications, (1995) Travel Programs Coordinator Karma Dorji with his former tutor, the high abbot of Kurje Monastery, Lama Dorji Wangchuk ⓒ Bhutan Himalaya archives Sangay Rinzin, Senior Staffing Coordinator & Leader Sangay’s leadership, knowledge of the terrain and personal connections, especially in his home region of Eastern Bhutan, are crucial to the smooth running of our travel programs and featured trips. Resourceful and charming, Sangay brings a boundless sense of playfulness to our journeys. His natural exuberance and sense of humor combine to make him a quick hit among our guests. While he may be lighthearted, Sangay’s knowledge of Bhutanese culture, history and customs is deep. Sangay is one of our most valuable assets. Sangay Rinzin, Senior Staffing Coordinator & Leader ⓒ Bhutan Himalaya archives Tashi Wangdi, Senior Trekking & Motorcycle Adventures Coordinator Tashi, a devil on a motorcycle, is a steady and respected hand in the Bhutan Himalaya team. His mission is managing intricate logistics of our trekking expeditions while keeping a sharp eye on discipline, morale and the well-being of our camp crew. But make no mistake, he is an exceptional cultural guide as well for us and led many cultural adventures as well. Whenever Tashi shows up, expect the vibe to tip into the fun zone. Tashi has been trekking in the Bhutan Himalaya for a long time and began his career supporting film and nature research expeditions, and later became an expert trekking guide for several tour agencies before we bagged him. Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions relies on him for the outstanding connections he has developed through the years within the high-altitude nomadic highlands of Bhutan, an essential ingredient for the smooth running of our trekking operations. Tashi Wangdi, Senior Trekking & Motorcycle Adventures Coordinator ⓒ Bhutan Himalaya archives Yeshey Wangchuk, Country Coordinator and Trip Leader Our sweet-natured but immensely capable Country Coordinator, Yeshey Wangchuk (kneeling, front), has led some of the most challenging and exciting journeys for us. Yeshey is well-connected in Bhutan and his family members include current and former government and civil service figures and some of the most respected cultivators in western Bhutan. Gracefully efficient, Yeshey combines effortless Buddhist grace with an unflappable sense of direction, which is the influence of his guardian, His Eminence Lama Dorji Wangchuk, one of the highest-ranked Buddhist abbots in the country (see below: seated behind Yeshey). From arranging special entries to remote monasteries to securing our seats on the limited number of flights to Bhutan to smoothing over logistics feathers, Yeshey does it all, only ever revealing the very broadest of smiles! Yeshey Wangchuk, Country Coordinator and Trip Leader with His Eminence Lama Wangchuk ⓒ Bhutan Himalaya archives Tashi Namgay, Bhutan Birding Expert ⓒ Bhutan Himalaya archives ______________________ Additional trip guides, leaders and support staff may vary from trip to trip. Meet some of the exceptional people who have staffed past journeys and expeditions for an idea of who you might have on your trip. Tashi Namgay, Bhutan Birding Expert While Tashi can be relied on to ably lead any type of journey, his true passion is reserved for birding. In the course of a decade or more of leading birding trips to Bhutan, Tashi worked his way up as an apprentice guide to independent Trip Leader. Tashi has amassed a wide-ranging and keen first-hand knowledge of when and where to spot the most colorful and exotic birds of Bhutan, making him a natural choice whenever we have guests who are birding enthusiasts. Rinchen, Guide ⓒ Bhutan Himalaya archives Senior Guide Dorji Phuba explaining a temple mural to guest ⓒ Bhutan Himalaya archives Rinchen, Trip Leader, Eastern Bhutan Born and raised among the high nomads of eastern Bhutan’s fabled Merak-Sakteng region, Rinchen has deep roots in far eastern Bhutan. A journey with Rinchen, especially in the east, has the air of a homecoming with a native son. This self-effacing young man is wise beyond his years and guests quickly discover that Rinchen’s humility masks an immensely broad knowledge of the customs and landscape of his birth. Dorji Phuba, Senior Guide, Western Bhutan With youthful flair and fun, Dorji has become a past favorite of many Bhutan Himalaya guests. He comes from a prosperous farming family in Paro, Bhutan’s ‘rice-bowl.’ His tendency for amusing anecdotes and playful antics hides an extensive knowledge of the history, culture, and customs of Bhutan and the Himalayas. His ‘lay-of-the-land’ expertise is something he gets from his family’s close connections to the land. In fact, the fastest way to find Dorji is to visit his father’s beautiful estate by the Pachhu river, where they grow golden delicious apples, Bhutan’s famous red rice and, as often as they can, play the national sport of archery. Pema, Transport Logistics ⓒ Bhutan Himalaya archives Pema, Transport Logistics Although intimidating at first glance, Pema (foreground, sunglasses) grasps the precise humor of almost any situation, and quickly share his jovial insights with hapless bystanders. From tour buses to four-wheel drives, he has been one of our most stalwart and reassuring drivers. A native of western Bhutan’s Paro valley, Pema’s wonderful sense of humor is rivaled only by his immense skill & captainship negotiating our vehicles as we travel overland on the long and winding roads of Bhutan. Chencho, Senior Trekking Guide ⓒ Bhutan Himalaya archives Chencho, Senior Trekking Guide Chencho (sitting), our senior trekking expeditions guide for many years, was an instant hit with many guests. After decades covering the major trekking routes of Bhutan, Chencho has left the country to pursue other career choices. He once walked five hours out of the mountains near the end of a trek to satisfy a guest’s thirst for Bhutan’s local Red Panda beer. Following his reappearance at camp later that evening, he learned the guest only mentioned it in jest. Chencho was an important member of our team and his cheerful presence on our expeditions will be missed! Staff with guests, 2016 So which staff members will you have on your trip? That varies on the time of your booking and our changing roster of staff for each trip. But no matter who they are, rest assured they will be knowledgeable, splendid company, and good fun! We choose our trip guides to meet the four pillars of traditional Bhutanese hospitality: likeability, dependability, fun, and dignity. In addition, they meet the rigorous testing and licensing requirements of the Tourism Council of Bhutan, so no matter who you meet, your trip will be in expert hands. If you have further questions regaring trip staff, please reach out using one of the contact forms on this website. We look forward to hearing from you! The Bhutan Himalaya Team. AT BHUTAN HIMALAYA Expeditions, we believe the people who power our trips are our most valuable assets. We guarantee you will fall in love with our singular, caring, and thoughtful individuals. Say hello to some of the fabulous, heartwarming people behind our journeys. | Meet some of our wonderful field staff! _________ Travel Logistics Organizer for CBS 60 Minutes 2024 special report on Bhutan “First, thank you for making my trip to Bhutan run smoothly. Second, for explaining your culture and customs to me and our team in a way that helped our 60 MINS story come alive. Third, for making the visit seriously fun!” ~ Lesley Stahl, Correspondent, CBS 60 Minutes, September 2024 Search Travel Bhutan Abundance: a summer journey JOURNEYS Blessings of Bhutan Bhutan’s Jomolhari Trek Heart of Happiness Trek to Treasure Lake On the Wings of Prayer Punakha’s Pageant of Warriors Bhutan in the Time of Rhododendrons SEE ALL JOURNEYS Stories Hidden Lands of Happiness SPOTLIGHT Wild Wild East: How an ancient matriarch led her people to Bhutan Our top 10 reasons why you should visit Bhutan in 2023 How the brown trout came to Bhutan's lakes and rivers The top 10 mask dances to see in Bhutan Pomp & circumstance at Bhutan's warriors festival A journey to learn about Gross National Happiness SEE ALL STORIES Us The Bhutan Himalaya Difference ABOUT US Who we are The Bhutan Himalaya Difference What Our Travelers Say Our Team Meet our latest hires CONTACT US

Get to know who we are; some of the heartwarming humans who power our trips; the Bhutan Himalaya Difference; and what our travelers say. The Bhutan Himalaya Difference LEARN MORE High tea at Tiger's Nest Jomolhari Camp Bauhaus family at Tiger's Nest Guests Raymond and Peggy in Punakha Farm-to-table day with traditional families in central Bhutan Guest Donna makes a friend Guests Sheri and Dayton have a moment Our young hikers Jenny and Alli Guests Nelsons and friends on hike Guests at the top of Dochula mountain Guest Stephanie and family at Punakha Dzong Guest Byron and group hiking in Tang Guest Chuck C shares pictures with village children An encounter on the trail Archery day Guests celebrating a successful afternoon archery session A joyous farewell dinner Learning about the Bhutanese emphasis on universal education Hiking in central Bhutan Barb tries on the national dress Trekking on the Dragon's Path Camping Guests resting under holy Bo tree Rebbecca and mom Becky treasure hunting at the Tibetan market El Salvadorean painter and mixed media artist Camila admiring temple mural | Guests Gallery We don't outsource your trip With us you have the assurance of knowing that when you book your travel to Bhutan, you are making your reservations directly with the people responsible for running your trip once you arrive in the country. At Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions, we are actively engaged in all levels of designing, offering, booking, and guiding your trip in Bhutan. That's as local as it gets. We're your Bhutan Connection Imagine traveling in small groups with well-versed, articulate, and fun Bhutanese friends. That, in short, is how our trips are run. Our guide-to-guest ratio (which is among the highest in Bhutan) ensures that everyone feels personally cared for. It also enables our staff to individually shine in their expertise, and enables them to share their wealth of insights and cultural connections in relaxed and meaningful ways with each trip member. We Don’t do the Crowded Tour Bus Thing Traveling with other people can be fraught with annoyances if everyone is traveling in close quarters much of the time. We generally use smaller vans and four wheel drives that enable us to get in and out of the more popular sights before the crowded tour buses arrive. The result is a smoother, more flexible travel experience for everyone. We're embedded in the local culture All our trip leaders and guides were born and raised in Bhutan and come from different parts of the country featured on our trips; the reason why they are often welcomed back to the places we visit with the affection reserved for well-loved community insiders. We offer varied perspectives Our local connections in Bhutan are rooted in the multi-generational bonds of kinship that each trip leader brings to our team. Our friends and family include senior monastic elders, diplomats, government leaders, intellectuals, farmers, artisans and people from all walks of life. With us you have the special opportunity to learn first hand what makes Bhutan so unique in an increasingly complex and challenging world. AS A LONGTIME travel outfitter specializing in journeys to the Kingdom of Bhutan, we offer culturally enriching, physically active and intellectually stimulating private and small group adventures across our beautiful corner of the Himalayas. A few reasons why we think you'll like us: | With us, it's personal. _________ Travel Logistics Organizer for CBS 60 Minutes 2024 special report on Bhutan “First, thank you for making my trip to Bhutan run smoothly. Second, for explaining your culture and customs to me and our team in a way that helped our 60 MINS story come alive. Third, for making the visit seriously fun!” ~ Lesley Stahl, Correspondent, CBS 60 Minutes, September 2024 Search Travel Bhutan Abundance: a summer journey JOURNEYS Blessings of Bhutan Bhutan’s Jomolhari Trek Heart of Happiness Trek to Treasure Lake On the Wings of Prayer Punakha’s Pageant of Warriors Bhutan in the Time of Rhododendrons SEE ALL JOURNEYS Stories Hidden Lands of Happiness SPOTLIGHT Wild Wild East: How an ancient matriarch led her people to Bhutan Our top 10 reasons why you should visit Bhutan in 2023 How the brown trout came to Bhutan's lakes and rivers The top 10 mask dances to see in Bhutan Pomp & circumstance at Bhutan's warriors festival A journey to learn about Gross National Happiness SEE ALL STORIES Us The Bhutan Himalaya Difference ABOUT US Who we are The Bhutan Himalaya Difference What Our Travelers Say Our Team Meet our latest hires CONTACT US