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Our latest custom made itineraries tailor-made by our team for other guests just like you This is a subtitle Country Bhutan Abundance Paro to Haa, Haa villages, temples and trails, Haa to Paro, Paro to Thimphu, Thimphu to Punakha, Mendegang and Punakha, Trongsa, Bumthang, Ogyen Choling, , 11 days The scent of juniper smoke curls through cold mountain air as you step onto the tarmac at Paro, the Himalayas rearing up so close and so impossibly vertical that the world seems to... View itinerary Bhutan Abundance Paro to Haa, Haa villages, temples and trails, Haa to Paro, Paro to Thimphu, Thimphu to Punakha, Mendegang and Punakha, Trongsa, Bumthang, Ogyen Choling, , 11 days The mist lifts from the Paro Valley like a prayer unraveling, revealing a world where fortress-monasteries cling to ridgelines and pine forests exhale the cold scent of resin and r... View itinerary Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles.

A longtime travel outfitter specializing in journeys in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan, we offer in-depth journeys for the discerning traveler... Opening the doors to Bhutan since 1999 Who we are We are 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. Since 1999, we have arranged in-depth expeditions to Bhutan for New York Times journalists, fine-art photographers, writers, Buddhist teachers, avid trekkers and a wide range of discerning travelers. Learn more about the Bhutan Himalaya Difference. A diverse range of travelers At Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions, we have worked with an incredibly diverse range of travelers including textile enthusiasts, avid outdoor enthusiasts, New York Times journalists, multi-generational families, birders, mountaineers, artists, medical, dental, eye-clinic missions, writers, photographers, artists and more. Over the years their individual traveling styles, interests and needs have made us skilled in responding to the widest range of situations which means that we are just as great at handling complex logistics as at staying flexible enough to seize the spontaneous opportunities that make travel such sparkling, meaningful and, even, life-changing human experiences. (See our Guests Gallery below) Bhutan at your pace Traveling in a group, if not handled properly, can feel impersonal and rushed. When you sign up with us we always see that you have reasonable personalized access to our guides and staff to ensure 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 from word-of-mouth introductions from our past travelers. This , in turn, enables us to continue nurturing our expanding web of cross-cultural friendship and discovery. 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. Sharing Bhutan is our Passion We believe that we provide travelers with a deeply meaningful window to a way of life that is inherently balanced, sane and compassionate. We proudly continue to share our rich Bhutanese heritage with respect, sensitivity, and in the firm belief that Bhutan has a remarkable perspective to share with the rest of the world. GUESTS GALLERY

IN FOCUS Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Karma Dorji Bhutan Himalaya Travel Programs Coordinator SHARE This is the Lead Paragraph This is caption 1 This is the first normal para Fierce protectors of an ancient martial tradition, the Pazaaps of Punakha appear in public in full ceremonial regalia once a year at the end of a great spring festival to commemorate their proud military past and their role safe-guarding the holiest relics in the land. © Karma Dorji/Bhutan Himalaya After leaving me with detailed instructions on where I can find them in their villages (so I can deliver their pictures when they are printed) they rush off, disappearing quickly into the long shadowy passages on either side of the massive stone fortress they have known all their lives. They are in a hurry because the Pazaaps are the main attraction today at the annual "Procession of Warriors", a grand annual festival in this part of the country we have invited some of our guests to attend. Fierce protectors of an ancient martial tradition, the Pazaaps of Punakha appear in public in full ceremonial regalia once a year at the end of a great spring festival to commemorate their proud military past and their role safe-guarding the holiest relics in the land. © Karma Dorji/Bhutan Himalaya This section is connected to article body 3 Connected to caption 5 Article body 5 Connected to caption 4 Article Body 4 Connected to caption 5 Articlebody6 Connected to caption 5 Article Body 7 Connected to caption 8 Article Body 8 Connected to caption 9 Article Body 9 Connected to caption 10 Article Body 10 Like this? Get similar features & travel information sent straight to your inbox with the Bhutan Himalaya Newsletter Footnotes

IN FOCUS Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Karma Dorji Bhutan Himalaya Travel Programs Coordinator SHARE This is the Lead Paragraph This is caption 1 This is the first normal para Fierce protectors of an ancient martial tradition, the Pazaaps of Punakha appear in public in full ceremonial regalia once a year at the end of a great spring festival to commemorate their proud military past and their role safe-guarding the holiest relics in the land. © Karma Dorji/Bhutan Himalaya After leaving me with detailed instructions on where I can find them in their villages (so I can deliver their pictures when they are printed) they rush off, disappearing quickly into the long shadowy passages on either side of the massive stone fortress they have known all their lives. They are in a hurry because the Pazaaps are the main attraction today at the annual "Procession of Warriors", a grand annual festival in this part of the country we have invited some of our guests to attend. Fierce protectors of an ancient martial tradition, the Pazaaps of Punakha appear in public in full ceremonial regalia once a year at the end of a great spring festival to commemorate their proud military past and their role safe-guarding the holiest relics in the land. © Karma Dorji/Bhutan Himalaya This section is connected to article body 3 Connected to caption 5 Article body 5 Connected to caption 4 Article Body 4 Connected to caption 5 Articlebody6 Connected to caption 5 Article Body 7 Connected to caption 8 Article Body 8 Connected to caption 9 Article Body 9 Connected to caption 10 Article Body 10 Like this? Get similar features & travel information sent straight to your inbox with the Bhutan Himalaya Newsletter Footnotes

Dispatches and feature articles highlighting special events and interesting aspects of traveling in Bhutan. THIS MONTH'S In Focus Our field dispatches about special events and highlights of travel in Bhutan LATEST POSTS The Magnificent Madness of Bhutan's Wild Rhododendron Blooms Read Article Waiting for the annual return of Bhutan's 'Birds of Heaven' Read Article The pomp and festivity of Bhutan's warriors pageant Read Article More Suggested Reading TRAVEL SNAPSHOTS GUEST VIGNETTES INSIGHTS LEARN MORE LONG READS GOING DEEPER TRIP ARCHIVES PAST JOURNEYS hike in the kingdom's legendary 'Valley of the Cranes' Tour and photograph the magnificently-restored Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum; 'Pilgrims walk,' visiting temples and monasteries from 7th to 17th centuries; Taste Red Panda Beer, local Swiss cheese, apple juice and fresh homemade stroopwafel for the young & young-at-heart 💛 hike in the kingdom's legendary 'Valley of the Cranes' Tour and photograph the magnificently-restored Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum; 'Pilgrims walk,' visiting temples and monasteries from 7th to 17th centuries; Taste Red Panda Beer, local Swiss cheese, apple juice and fresh homemade stroopwafel for the young & young-at-heart 💛 First stop: Paro, West Bhutan ...a place of serene rice fields and ancient temples Includes all guides and ground services, lodges, meals, visas, permits and all entrances, fees and attractions Fly from Bangkok to Paro, March 9, 2025 Return flight from Paro to Bangkok March 21, 2025 Drive 3 hours to Gangtey Valley and check in at the Gangtey Tented (safari style) Camp; visit the crane center and hike the nature trail. We may see some of the last remaining Black-necked cranes before they fly off to the Tibetan Plateau Buddhist mask dances are a window into Bhutanese spirituality Punakha, ancient Bhutanese capital Journey across Bhutan Drive from Paro to Punakha

Get to know who we are; some of the heartwarming humans who power our trips; the Bhutan Himalaya Difference; and what our travelers say. What other travelers say about us 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 and his team perfectly orchestrated a wonderful series of valuable insights into Bhutan and Bhutanese culture. My particular area of interest was to learn about Bhutan’s challenge of balancing the goals of their Gross National Happiness Policy with the need to grow their economy and promote industry in the kingdom, which Karma addressed by arranging fascinating meetings with Bhutan’s Economic Affairs Ministers and other Bhutanese dignitaries and media personalities. A fantastic trip all-around with great hiking, culture, current affairs, insights into Buddhism and everything in-between.” ~ Heinrich Karl Friedrich Eduard Pierer von Esch, Former CEO, Siemens AG-Germany Mr. Heinrich Pierer and friends © Bhutan Himalaya archives “In an attempt to share an overall impression of my journey, I began by saying, ‘It was life-altering’. So many changes took place within me during this adventure, on every level. My place in the world, my heart-space, all have been expanded beyond my dreams. For this monumental learning experience, I am forever grateful.” - Laurel W. BHE Guest and guide on the trail © Bhutan Himalaya archives “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. The Guyett family on the trail © Bhutan Himalaya archives “I loved the fact that there were planned activities but with flexibility built in. On one occasion we got to sit with a monk as he recited his morning prayers and my guide stayed there with me—there was never any pressure to progress—yet he was always ready to move on when I was. I loved every moment of my time with your company and I hope to return again to Bhutan. I am strongly recommending that anyone traveling to Asia should consider discovering Bhutan with your team. Thank you for the great memories!” - Tony H., New Zealand Guests hiking the highlands of central Bhutan © Bhutan Himalaya archives Guests making friends on a farm visit © Bhutan Himalaya archives “There are so many things that we recall each day that remind us how special this trip was for us. It was about seeing, feeling and understanding the spirit of the place, and perhaps it was partly about finding answers to some very personal questions. You shared your country with respect, humor, grace, patience, and with great care. We carry extraordinary memories of an extraordinary trip!” - Lois C., California, USA “There are no words to describe what a fabulous journey your team put together for me! Thank you for arranging not only the most wonderful journey of my life, but one which has had a profound impact on me.” - Julica F., US Guests on a walking tour of the Punakha Dzong © Bhutan Himalaya archives A delightful encounter with local schoolchildren © Bhutan Himalaya archives “There are so many things that we recall each day that remind us how special this trip was for us. It was about seeing, feeling and understanding the spirit of the place, and perhaps it was partly about finding answers to some very personal questions. You shared your country with respect, humor, grace, patience, and with great care. We carry extraordinary memories of an extraordinary trip!” - Lois C., US “What will always be a wonderful trip was made all the more special by the personal touches of the excellent guides and staff. They shared their families, their thoughts and their reflections on life. In short it was like traveling with a really close and fun group of friends.” - Karen H. A restful moment of contemplation under a holy Bo tree © Bhutan Himalaya archives “It is impossible to list all the great events, mental images and stimuli to all my senses, most especially my renewed sense of adventure! About all I can say is that this journey with you certainly was the most amazing voyage I’ve ever made…” - Jacques L. A multi-generational expedition for the Neutra-Bauhaus clan © Bhutan Himalaya archives “Our two weeks traveling with you in Bhutan will always be treasured. We had such a special trip because of all the personal connections you made for us. Thank you very much for the trip of a lifetime!” - Mick F. Guests at a farewell dinner in Paro © Bhutan Himalaya archives “Thanks again for arranging such a wonderful trip!” - Paul G. “A FEW WORDS from good friends are worth more than gold,” goes an old Bhutanese saying. We could blow our horn, or we could let our guests—many of whom continue to refer us to their friends and family—speak for us. We prefer the latter. So we can focus on what we do best: putting together the top-notch experiences that create sentiments like these: | A few testimonials _________ 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. 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

IN FOCUS Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Karma Dorji Bhutan Himalaya Travel Programs Coordinator SHARE This is the Lead Paragraph This is caption 1 This is the first normal para Fierce protectors of an ancient martial tradition, the Pazaaps of Punakha appear in public in full ceremonial regalia once a year at the end of a great spring festival to commemorate their proud military past and their role safe-guarding the holiest relics in the land. © Karma Dorji/Bhutan Himalaya After leaving me with detailed instructions on where I can find them in their villages (so I can deliver their pictures when they are printed) they rush off, disappearing quickly into the long shadowy passages on either side of the massive stone fortress they have known all their lives. They are in a hurry because the Pazaaps are the main attraction today at the annual "Procession of Warriors", a grand annual festival in this part of the country we have invited some of our guests to attend. Fierce protectors of an ancient martial tradition, the Pazaaps of Punakha appear in public in full ceremonial regalia once a year at the end of a great spring festival to commemorate their proud military past and their role safe-guarding the holiest relics in the land. © Karma Dorji/Bhutan Himalaya This section is connected to article body 3 Connected to caption 5 Article body 5 Connected to caption 4 Article Body 4 Connected to caption 5 Articlebody6 Connected to caption 5 Article Body 7 Connected to caption 8 Article Body 8 Connected to caption 9 Article Body 9 Connected to caption 10 Article Body 10 Like this? Get similar features & travel information sent straight to your inbox with the Bhutan Himalaya Newsletter Footnotes

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 Newest Team Members 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 Our biggest new hire comes to us from his latest stint as the Director of Bhutan's National Airline, Drukair. His role there included overseeing all technical and administrative aspects of the airline's flight operations. He joins us as Chief Operations Officer of Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions. Please join us in welcoming our dear old friend Karma P. Wangdi to the team! Our other new team member this month is Senior Guide, Dorji Gyeltshen, one of the most experienced birding guides in Bhutan. Our new COO is an avid hiker and a veteran of multiple Snowman Treks, one of the world's most difficult continuous through-hikes. Karma P. Wangdi, Chief Operations Officer The complex challenges of juggling flight bookings and logistics in Bhutan is one of the biggest hurdles in the smooth running of trips in Bhutan. 'KP,' as we call him, brings his tremendous experiences leading the national flagship airline to the job. He has managed Drukair's teams at nearly every city the airline flies and as a senior executive of the airline, he's negotiated with multiple aircraft manufacturerers, including European multinational Airbus. But, he can switch just as quickly from the boardroom to the trails, and is an avid hiker. Before joining Drukair, he led trekking operations for a leading Bhutanese tour company and is a veteran of far-too-many treks all over the country. We are all understandably excited to have our old friend on board here at Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions! Dorji Gyeltshen, Senior Guide and Birding Expert Dorji Gyeltshen, Senior Guide and Birding Expert Our latest hire, Dorji, is among the Top 10 Bhutanese Birdwatchers listed on eBird, a project of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. He has 424 species of birds under his belt, excluding his altitudinal bird species count. He has been a general tour guide since 2004. "One of my major responsibilities during my winter breaks [from school] was to fetch fire wood from the forest for the cold winter months," he says. "Every time I ventured into the forest in the early hours of the day, I'd get very excited by the beautiful and colourful birds I'd see in the bushes. I loved listening to their soothing calls and their songs. Since then, I've been hooked. The more I learn about birds, the more curious I become. It's a pursuit I'm passionate about even on my own free time." *** THIS MONTH WE welcome a former director of the national airline as our Chief Operations Officer, and a Bhutanese birding expert to our broaden our team. Our remarkable people are at the heart of what we do, and we're proud to introduce them to you! | Meet our newest team members _________ 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. 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

TAILORMADE FOR YOU BY OUR TEAM I am a title 04 LEARN MORE I am a title 04 This is a paragraph. It is connected to a CMS collection through a dataset. Click “Edit Text” to update content from the connected collection. Handpicked from our favorite itineraries We're pleased to share our personalized journeys tailored to your needs, based on everything we have learned on the road, and on the ground, since 1999. We look forward to sharing our insider knowledge, authentic experiences, and our personal connections across the kingdom with you! Your brief to us A milestone celebratory trip for a group of three friends with a trek, festival, hiking and culture with stays at traditional local lodges. Tentative dates from October or early November 2027. Approximately 10 days duration (we recommend a minimum of 12 days if combining with a classic high Himalayan trek). I am a title 04 This is a paragraph. It is connected to a CMS collection through a dataset. Click “Edit Text” to update content from the connected collection. This is a paragraph. It is connected to a CMS collection through a dataset. Click “Edit Text” to update content in the connected CMS collection. The CMS can be used to store website content, or to collect data from site visitors when they submit a form. The CMS collection is already set up with some fields and content. To customize it with your own content, import a CSV file or simply edit this placeholder text from the collection. You can also add more fields, which you can then connect to other page elements to display content on your published site. Previous Item Next Item 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