Nestled between India and Tibet, the mystical Kingdom of Bhutan continues to live up to its reputation as the last Shangri-La. Travel back in time where people walk everywhere, yak herders share the streets with vehicles and compassionate Buddist ideals reign. Our host guide is Ugyen Dorji (“Yougs”). Few know this treasured kingdom as well, and few have the knowledge and access that Yougs brings to our guests. He’ll bring us into the towns of Paro, Punakha and Thimphu, but in between take us to remote camp in luxury in an orange grove, where two rivers converge. This tiny Himalayan kingdom strictly limits the number of tourists allowed to enter each year at just a few thousand, making it one of the most exclusive EpicQuest destinations.
This is a country where buying cigarettes is illegal, where the rice is red and where chillies aren’t just a seasoning but the entire dish. With the man who mapped all the rivers in Bhutan as your guide, find an unexploited path through this Kingdom. With pristine water, clear skies and hundreds of miles of spectacular river systems, Bhutan is a paradise for the whitewater enthusiast. Wildlife flourishes in this exquisite kingdom with Bengal tigers, wild elephants, rare monkeys and abundant birds life enjoy the undisturbed habitat.
Our expeditions to Bhutan are highly active, as the best way to see the country is often by bike or by boat. Yet we don’t forsake the highest levels of service – we know of every hidden luxury, and our team is just completing among the very finest luxury eco-lodges.
Bhutan is often described as a natural paradise that time forgot. The kingdom is hidden deep in the folds of the great Himalaya Mountains. The rivers contain a classic grade 2-3 whitewater, making it ideal for kayakers of all abilities. Deep river valleys, heavily forested mountains, temples and monasteries built into sides of mountains provide a diverse landscape, best explored as the locals travel, on foot. Bike access opens up a peaceful path into the valleys, rice fields, villages with traditional homes and folk art. We designed this trip for the adventure traveler that seeks to combine outdoor activities with the magnificent cultural experiences. Our destination is the Punakha Valley. En route we will trek to remote mountain monasteries, raft or kayak pristine river systems, fly fish for Himalayan brown and snow trout, descend by mountain bike from the high passes, and relax in the grandeur of luxurious mountain resorts.