Bhutan: Druk Path Trek

One of my best trips ever. Excellent guide and fellow trekkers. Beautiful country and people.

What an amazing trip which exceeded my expectations. Bhutan has been on my bucket list for many years and I particularly wanted to go on a trip which combined the experience of seeing the Paro festival firsthand, a visit to the Tiger’s Nest monastery and some trekking and this trip does just that. The festival was fantastic and such a wonderful and joyous occasion with the locals in their national dress watching in their hundreds the amazing storytelling through dance. The final day we were treated to a view of the Thangka which was beautiful. It was a real privilege to be able to witness this festival and be part of it. The trek had stunning scenery and was challenging enough I just wish it had been a little warmer at night!. Waking up to snow was a little chilly but the hot water bottles in our sleeping bags at night helped to take the chill off!

Against a background of knowing nothing of Bhutan, I found the trip so educational and broadening of my horizons with regard to the country's culture, customs, history, religion, etc. The trip fulfilled my desire to be immersed in the country's culture. I found it so interesting to listen to the two leaders in an effort to learn as much as possible of the country both of whom went to a great deal of time and effort to impart their knowledge and experience. I also enjoyed being amongst like minded people within the group and enjoyed listening to their stories, especially of their travels already made and those planned in the future.

Loved it, loved it, loved it! I had wanted to visit Bhutan after seeing a film about scientists looking for the Yeti decades ago. Didn't see a yeti but found a country that is so special, with a landscape that is so special and with people that are so special. After the dirty madness of landing in Kathmandu the feeling of peace on landing at Paro airport for the start of the Bhutan trip was very special. Bhutan is a clean, welcoming country at peace with itself. The trek, although not demanding, was lovely and gives a snapshot of a wonderful countryside. The visits to various dzongs and stupas was interesting and the final visit to a monastery where the monks where involved in some of their rituals for a village festival the next day was fascinating. As a vegetarian and an animal lover this country was the nearest to perfect for me. Loved the food and the fact that although there were dogs everywhere (they are mostly cared for by the community or the monks) I never saw any in distress or starving (as I did in Kathmandu).

If seeing Bhutan and hiking in the Himalayan region is on your bucket list, then the Land of the Thunder Dragon tour is for you! This trip was such a good mix, that it made me really feel like I got to see a good variety and experience Bhutan to the fullest. We got to trek for five days, seeing beautiful scenery, visit two festivals (including a really fun, smaller local one, and a more famous and larger one in the city), and visited many cultural sites. Exodus Travels has an amazing local staff in Bhutan, and the guides were all great. Everything was organized down to the last detail, and the trip was executed flawlessly. I can't recommend this trip enough!