05 Dec 2023
I booked our trip with Bhutan Travel Club knowing that they were one of the top agencies from 2016-2019 and true enough they did not disappoint.
From the moment I inquired on the trip to actually booking and flying there, all touch points were handled very well. All my queries and requests were answered and accommodated. They proposed an itinerary for us to follow but also gave us enough time to see and do what interested us. We requested to add several several activities to our itinerary like river rafting in Punakha (definitely a must try experience!), and archery. Aside from this, we also wanted to try on their attire and to these three they definitely delivered.
Upon landing in Bhutan, our driver and guide gave us a traditional Bhutanese welcome. They were both of great help during the trip as they accompanied us to all the sites and experiences we went on. I was amazed by how our driver expertly navigated the winding roads like it was nothing. Our guide on the other hand was knowledgeable on all things Bhutanese.
The hotels booked for us were clean and spacious. The food for all meals may it be breakfast, lunch and dinner were all filling. (Don’t expect continental meals though!) We got to try local dishes like momos and ema datshi. We also got to try fruits in season at the local market. (We got to try pomegranates, pears and persimmons. We also bought puthka honey there too!)
Our itinerary was well paced, not too fast nor too slow. We spent just enough time at each destination. The better adjective to describe the itinerary is immersive. We went to several dzongs and temples and we got learn a lot on the history and culture of Bhutan. We met locals making and selling art and we got to know their stories too. (Buying art is a great way to help the locals, it does make a great souvenir too!) To top it all off, we felt as if special guests since we didn’t encounter any tourist crowds.
I would say though that the highlight for our trip were the hikes we took. We went on at least four hikes during our short stay. The first hike we took was from the Bhudda Dordenma to Changka Lakhang (if memory serves me right). We enjoyed the crisp mountain air and the majestic view of Thimpu. We went on another walk in punakha through rice fields and local villages to get to Chimi Lakhang. The views of rice paddies during harvest season is one of the little things that lends Bhutan its bucolic charm. Little things like these are proof of a well thought of itinerary not all visitors get to enjoy that truly adds to our memorable stay in Bhutan.
Of course the highlight of the trip was our hike to the Tiger’s nest monastery. En route to the monastery, we got to learn more about the country’s history. Our guide adjusted to our pace which actually allowed us to enjoy both the journey and the destination.
From the scenic drives and hikes, to the spiritual temples and dzongs, Bhutan definitely lived up to the beauty and spirituality of the postcard perfect pictures online. (We felt right at home during our stay!) All this was delivered thanks to the impeccable service and hospitality of Bhutan Travel Club.