I recently had the pleasure of visiting Bhutan with my family through the Bhutan Travel Club, and I cannot recommend their services enough, especially for older travelers like myself. Bhutan itself was incredibly beautiful, fulfilling a long-standing dream of mine. It had been on my bucket list for many years, even before COVID, but the timing had never felt right until now.
Even from the moment we were descending into Paro Airport, the view already amazed me. The airport is situated in a deep valley surrounded by mountains, making the experience truly unique and breathtaking—unlike any other landing I've ever experienced. Fun fact: Paro Airport has one of the most challenging approaches in the world.
We visited Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. The stunning landscapes, sacred architecture, serene monasteries, and rich culture of Bhutan left me in awe.
From the first day, I was amazed at how delicious the Bhutanese food was, especially at a local home restaurant on our first night there! The flavors were rich and authentic, providing a perfect culinary complement to our travel experience. I particularly loved the famous local chili cheese dish, Ema Datshi, and the Bhutanese milk tea, Suja. Name same Simbe! Dining at the local homestay allowed us to experience the warmth and hospitality of Bhutanese culture firsthand.
One of the highlights of our trip was the hiking. I particularly loved the hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery in Paro, a place that is truly a must-visit. The breathtaking views and the sense of peace and accomplishment upon reaching the monastery were unparalleled. It was so satisfying to be able to reach the top of Tiger's Nest Monastery; it was definitely one of my best hikes ever!
Another highlight was the Punakha Dzong, the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan, surrounded by blooming jacaranda flowers. The vibrant flowers, impressive architecture, and the serene rivers flowing through the Dzong made it a truly enchanting experience.
Our driver, Subba, and our tour leader, Bijay, were incredibly helpful and attentive. Both Subba and Bijay were polite, punctual, and always ready to assist us. Subba’s driving skills were excellent, and we felt comfortable and safe throughout our journey. Bijay's knowledge about Bhutan was really impressive, and he shared insightful information that enriched our experience.
I am prone to motion sickness, and the winding roads from Punakha to Paro eventually took a toll on me. When I felt like I was going to throw up, Bijay quickly asked to pull the van to the side. He then came to my aid with a drink, even stepping out of the vehicle to ensure I was okay. His attentiveness extended to the entire group, as he consistently checked on everyone, even those at the back of the line.
The van was always clean at the start of the day and well-stocked with plenty of drinking water, which was greatly appreciated. It was also spacious and comfortable for all of us, making our travels even more enjoyable.
Overall, the Bhutan Travel Club exceeded all expectations, making our journey to Bhutan an unforgettable adventure. From the stunning landscapes to the warm hospitality, every moment was truly magical. I cannot recommend their services enough, especially for travelers seeking a memorable and immersive experience in the Land of the Thunder Dragon.