Bhutan boasts some of the most unspoiled trekking areas in the South Himalaya region, offering spectacular views of Bhutan’s sacred summits – Mt Jumolhari and Jichu Dranke. The Pioneer team, alongside our local partners have a fantastic knowledge of Bhutan and a real love of developing unique experiences in this wonderful country to ensure you have a holiday of a lifetime. So join us, as we guide you through these unforgettable landscapes, timeless temples and colourful festivals celebrating the monuments of mother nature – the white peaks of the mountains. Best times to take part in this adventure is between March and June, or between September and November.
Known to the Bhutanese as ‘The Land of The Dragon’ Bhutan has an abundance of unspoilt culture and festivals which are built on the country’s unique and religious traditions. The Bhutanese treasure their landscape which is perfect for the most spectacular trekking experience. The few visitors to Bhutan experience not only a deeply captivating culture; but the overwhelming natural landscape: snow capped mountains, lush valleys, crystal clear rivers and springs, remarkable Bhutanese architecture amongst the hills, grazing land and wild flowers as well as a huge variety of other flora and fauna, which is recognised as some of the world’s best.
Bhutan is a small kingdom located in the eastern folds of the Himalayas, it sits between two much larger countries: China- in the north and India- to its south. The sovereign nation of Bhutan lies between 88° 45’ and 92°10’ longitude east and 26°40’ and 28°15 ’ north. The country’s territory totals an approximate 46,500 square kilometres; Bhutan is widely identified as the ‘Switzerland of Asia’ due to its size, shape and landlocked setting, as well as for Bhutan’s mountainous terrain which covers most of the country apart from a small flat strip in the southern foothills.
The term GNH (gross national happiness) was coined in 1972 by Bhutan’s former King; it was used to outline his commitment to developing the economy on unique Buddhist values. Today the population’s happiness still remains a political objective for Lyonchen Jigme Y. Thinley who heads the Druk Phunsum Tshogpa, the governing body in power, with a major victory (45 elected members). While the People’s Democratic Party stands as opposition in the parliament. Bhutan became a two-party parliamentary democracy after elections in March 2008.
Though Bhutan’s economy is one of the smallest, it has the second fastest-growing economy in the world mainly due to a large ‘Tala’ Hydroelectricity project. The currency in Bhutan is ‘Ngultrum’. In Bhutan, the main industries include agriculture, cement and plaster production, tourism and more increasingly the sale of hydro- electricity to India.
English is widely spoken but other languages include German, Oshiwambo, Rukwangari, Silozi, Otjiherero, Damara, Nama, Khisan and Satswana.
The Buddhist religion plays a fundamental role in Bhutanese culture and society, this is reflected by the fact that Bhutan is the only country that recognises Buddhism as its official religion, and is endorsed by the government. Approximately seventy per cent of Bhutan’s population practice disciplines of Mahayana Buddhism in the form of Drukpa Kagyupa or Ningmapa Buddhism. Though derived from Tibetan Buddhism, the Bhutanese Schools differ in rituals and monastic organisation. With yearly financial subsidies from the government to shrines and monasteries the value and strength of religion in the country is clear from the support it receives. Roughly one-quarter of the population is those of Nepalese origin that practice Hinduism. Christians, both Roman Catholic and Protestant, and non-religious groups comprise less than one per cent of the population.
The best time to travel to Bhutan is generally between March and May and September to November, when skies are usually clear and conditions are ideal for exploring monasteries, valleys and mountain landscapes. Spring brings rhododendron blooms across the hillsides, while autumn offers crisp air and excellent Himalayan views. These months also coincide with many of Bhutan’s colourful religious festivals, making them a particularly rewarding time to visit.
"A visit to Bhutan feels different from almost anywhere else in the world. Rather than measuring success through wealth alone, the country famously values Gross National Happiness, shaping policies that protect culture, nature, and community life. You'll encounter dramatic Himalayan landscapes, ancient monasteries, and traditions that remain deeply woven into everyday life. Strict tourism policies also limit visitor numbers, helping preserve Bhutan’s environment and authenticity."
Whatever you want from your trip, our team of experts are ready to help.
These are trips which are perfectly created, organised, and lead specifically for you. If you are considering one of our wildlife, multi-activity adventures, small group trips or family holiday adventures then we would be delighted to design a tailormade itinerary, to meet your interests, travel dates and accommodation requirements. Just get in touch!
Learn MoreWe operate small group holidays for a maximum of 8-12 persons. As well as multi-activity trips we offer trekking trips, kayaking, rafting, wildlife, cycling and photography. These small group trips make ideal holidays for singles and couples, particularly for those wishing to visit Madagascar, the Galapagos islands, explore Borneo or kayak the Komodo Dragon islands, Indonesia.
Learn MoreWe are delighted to offer a number of specialist trips, depending on your interests. We organise a number of specialist holidays such as family adventure holidays that can be designed to meet the requirements for children of certain ages. We also design unique and interesting luxury holidays and honeymoon trips as well trips for celebrating special events and anniversaries.
Learn MoreYou will need a visa to enter and exit Bhutan. Visas are only issued on arrival, but are applied for in advance and applications are submitted by the tour operator. All visas are approved from Thimphu and are only issued to tourists booked with a local licensed tour operator, either directly or through a foreign travel agent. Have a photocopy of your passport and flight ticket and keep them separate from the originals when travelling. PLEASE CONTACT US FOR INFORMATION
Please note, if your flights transit a country, you will also need to check if an additional visa is required as a number of countries now require a transit visa
The currency is the ngultrum (Nu), which is pegged to the Indian rupee. Indian rupees may be used anywhere in Bhutan (don’t be surprised if you get change in rupees). It is OK to bring a reasonable amount of Indian currency into Bhutan, though Indian regulations prohibit currency export.
For your convenience we have partnered up with a currency exchange company that offer you next day delivery on any currency orders. Please note not all currencies are available. Order details along with any terms and conditions can be found at https://ttngtravel.money/pioneerexpeditions
Adequate travel insurance is mandatory for everyone who participates in a Pioneer Expedition; this will need to cover you for emergency medical evacuation. The sooner you book your insurance, the sooner you are covered if you have cancel your trip due to personal or family illness.
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