Bhutan, often called the “Last Shangri-La,” is a mystical and remote kingdom nestled in the Himalayas. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, ancient monasteries, and deep-rooted spiritual traditions, it’s an off-the-beaten-path destination that appeals to adventurous travelers seeking something truly unique.
Bhutan has been at the top of my bucket list for as long as I can remember, and this year, I finally made it there! During my planning, I noticed much of the available online information was outdated, so I’ve created a series of guides to help fellow travelers plan their journey to this incredible destination.
Can You Travel Independently to Bhutan?
Bhutan’s dedication to protecting its cultural heritage and pristine environment is reflected in its “High Value, Low Impact” tourism policy, which limits the number of visitors and up until 2022, visitors were not allowed to travel independently.
Since its post-Covid reopening, Bhutan has updated its travel rules, allowing visitors to explore the cities of Thimphu and Paro independently. However, if you plan to venture beyond these cities (and you definitely should), a guide is still required. Additionally, having a guide is mandatory if you wish to rent a car.
That being said, it is still highly encouraged to book with a local tour operator. Independent travel in Bhutan can be challenging, and working with a tour company ensures a smoother experience and a deeper, more meaningful connection to the country’s culture and land.
As someone who has traveled solo all over the world, I can confidently say that Bhutan is still a place where booking with a tour operator is the best way to make the most of your trip.
With so many tour operators to choose from, it’s difficult to know which ones to trust with your once-in-a-lifetime trip to Bhutan. I had been in contact with Daj Expeditions for several years before ultimately planning my trip and I’m so glad I chose them to guide me through this magical kingdom.
Daj Expeditions is run by two best friends, Sonam Yoezer and Namgyel Dorji, who have built their company on trust and genuine hospitality. Booking with Daj feels less like hiring a service and more like being welcomed by friends. The guide they provided had over 20 years of experience, making my trip not only seamless, but also extremely enriching—I learned more about this destination than most places I’ve traveled!
What to Look for in a Bhutanese Tour Operator
Listed below are some of the most important factors to consider when choosing a Bhutanese tour operator to make the most of your journey.
Licensing
One of the first things you should check is whether they are registered with the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB). This is crucial, as only licensed operators are authorized to organize tours within the country.
A TCB-licensed tour operator ensures compliance with Bhutan’s strict tourism regulations, providing peace of mind that your trip will be managed professionally and in accordance with the country’s sustainable tourism policies. By choosing a registered operator, you also support Bhutan’s efforts to maintain responsible tourism practices and protect its cultural and environmental heritage.
You can find the list of approved tour operators here: DOT Certified List
Itinerary Customization Options
Whether you’re interested in cultural tours, trekking, or festivals, it’s important to communicate your desires to your tour operator. Ask if they offer itinerary customization options, as this will enable you to tailor your experiences to include unique activities, such as immersive homestays with local families, guided nature treks through the stunning Himalayas, or spiritual retreats at ancient monasteries.
I was impressed with how Daj Expeditions tailored an itinerary to match my personal travel style. Finding the best photography spots is always a top priority for me, and they had plenty of recommended photo locations included in my itinerary. Since finding these locations in Bhutan isn’t easy when simply doing a search online, having a guide was absolutely essential.
Review Tour Inclusions
When choosing a tour operator in Bhutan, make sure you know what’s included. Here are the key elements to review to ensure your trip meets your expectations:
- Accommodations: Verify the types and quality offered.
- Transportation: Ensure all transfers and travel arrangements are included.
- Meals: Confirm meal quality and accommodation of dietary needs.
- Guides: Check their experience, language skills, and cultural knowledge.
- Daily Fees: Clarify what is covered to avoid hidden costs.
Evaluate Their Reputation
Start by reading reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor, Facebook, Google, or the tour operator’s website. I always read reviews before I hire any company, with the excpeiton of situations where the company is recommended by someone I trust.
Finally, evaluate their customer service by seeing how quickly they respond to your inquiries. Daj Expeditions excelled in this area, promptly answering my emails and even staying accessible through WhatsApp for text communication before, during and after my trip.
Need Help Planning Your Trip To Bhutan?
As a certified travel advisor, I can help you arrange your own journey to this beautiful kingdom. Navigating Bhutan’s unique travel logistics can be complex, so it’s essential to plan with someone knowledgeable who has been there. Reach out here if you’re ready to book your adventure to Bhutan!
Read more: How to Visit Japan on a Budget
Plan Your Trip
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Let us book your trip! Looking for a Travel Advisor to help you plan your trip? Contact us here for more information!
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