Hi Ugyen Rinzin,
I recently embarked upon BGT’s 14-day ‘Best of Bhutan’ Tour which included the Thimphu Drubchen Festival and a trek up to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. This tour comprised 1-night in Paro before an early morning domestic flight to Yonphula in the far East of the country; an experience in itself. Then back to Paro by minibus over the next 2-weeks. This gave us a wonderful overview of Bhutan; a perfect balance between beautiful scenery, magnificent architecture, and their devout culture. BGT were exceptionally professional from start to finish. Pre-tour communication and arrangements were clear, including flights and visas, and we were completely cared for from the moment we landed at Paro Airport. We had a small group of 3 friends which ensured an intimate, relaxed experience with flexibility to go at our own pace and tweak the itinerary slightly to suit our interests. Our guide and driver were exceptional. Our guide, Namka, was very passionate and knowledgeable for such a young man. He is so enthusiastic about Bhutanese culture and Buddhist religion. He spoke clear English and took the time to fully explain the significance of each place of interest. He was also very attentive to our needs and constantly checked our wellbeing and happiness. He was instrumental in making our trip so enjoyable and memorable and I intend to keep in touch with him. Our driver (sorry, ‘pilot’), Kinga, was more than ‘just’ a driver, which in itself was a massive responsibility on some Bhutanese roads which are long and winding at significant elevation (up to c. 3,500m) and require great care to navigate and I always felt completely safe. However, it was the care and attention he gave us that made such a difference. He was always at hand to help us from and into the minibus and to escort us around the sites. His devotion to duty extended beyond his normal working day, and he often greeted us first thing in the morning before breakfast, and after dinner. His daily routine of washing the minibus and providing fresh bottles of water did not go unnoticed. It was great having a minibus for the 3 of us. It gave us plenty of room and eased mobility in and out. Some days involved many hours on the road necessitated by the remoteness of some sites. I didn’t mind this as I loved the ever-changing mountain scenery, though those who suffer from motion sickness and/or vertigo may enjoy the experience less so. I enjoyed all of the hotels, and was pleasantly surprised by the quality and amount of food we were served during the tour, especially the lunches which were more like banquets. I never felt hungry (& I can eat) and the food was usually of very good quality, especially at the homestays. Thoroughly recommended and I’m already in contact with them for another trip.
Stephen, Chester, England, UK
