How do ordinary travelers choose a Bhutan travel agency?

Bhutan, often called “the last Shangri-La,” is a mysterious and remote kingdom nestled in the Himalayas. Known for its stunning scenery, ancient monasteries and deep-rooted spiritual traditions, it is an off-the-beaten-path destination that attracts adventurous travelers looking for something truly unique.

Bhutan has been at the top of my bucket list for as long as I can remember, and this year, I finally made it happen! During my planning process, I noticed that much of the information available online was outdated, so I created a series of guides to help other travelers plan their trip to this incredible destination.

Can I travel to Bhutan freely?

Bhutan is committed to protecting its cultural heritage and pristine environment, which is reflected in its “high value, low impact” tourism policy, which limits the number of tourists and will not allow tourists to travel alone until 2022.

Since reopening after the pandemic, Bhutan has updated its travel rules to allow tourists to independently explore cities like Thimphu and Paro. However, if you plan on venturing outside of these cities (and you absolutely should), you’ll still need a guide. Also, if you want to rent a car, you must have a tour guide.

Having said that, booking with a local travel agent is still highly encouraged. Traveling independently in Bhutan can be challenging, and working with a tour company can ensure a smoother experience and a deeper, more meaningful connection with the country’s culture and land.

As someone who has traveled the world solo, I can confidently say that in Bhutan, booking through a travel agent is still the best way to get the most out of your trip.

With so many tour operators to choose from, it can be hard to know which one to trust on your once-in-a-lifetime trip to Bhutan. I have been in contact with Daji Expedition It took several years before finally planning my trip and I’m so glad I chose them to guide me through it this magical kingdom.

Daj Expeditions is run by two best friends, Sonam Yoezer and Namgyel Dorji, who built their company on trust and genuine hospitality. Booking with Daj feels less like hiring a service and more like being welcomed by a friend. The tour guides they provide have over 20 years of experience, making my trip not only smooth, but extremely informative – I knew more about this destination than most places I’ve been!

What to look for in a Bhutan travel agency

Listed below are some of the most important factors to consider when choosing a Bhutan travel agency to make the most of your trip.

license

The first thing you should check is whether they are registered with the Tourism Board of Bhutan (TCB). This is crucial as only licensed operators have the right to organize tours within the country.

TCB licensed tour operators ensure compliance with Bhutan’s strict tourism regulations, giving you peace of mind that your trip will be professionally managed in accordance with the country’s sustainable tourism policies. By choosing a registered operator, you also support Bhutan’s efforts to maintain responsible tourism practices and protect its cultural and environmental heritage.

You can find a list of approved travel agencies here: DOT certification list

Itinerary customization options

Whether you are interested in cultural tours, walking tours or festivals, it is important to communicate your wishes to the tour operator. Ask if they offer itinerary customization options as this will allow you to tailor your experience to include unique activities such as an immersive homestay with a local family and a guided nature trek through the stunning Himalayas Take a trip, or go on a spiritual retreat in an ancient monastery.

I was impressed with how Daj Expeditions customized the itinerary to fit my personal travel style. Finding the best photo spots is always a priority for me and they included many recommended photo spots in my itinerary. Since it’s not easy to find these places in Bhutan just by searching online, having a guide is an absolute must.

Review travel content

When choosing a tour operator in Bhutan, make sure you know what is included. Here are the key elements to check to ensure your trip meets your expectations:

• stay: Verify the type and quality offered.
• transportation: Make sure to include all transfers and travel arrangements.
• meal: Confirm meal quality and meet dietary needs.
• guide: Check their experience, language skills and cultural knowledge.
• daily cost: Clarify coverage to avoid hidden fees.

Assess their reputation

Start by reading reviews on platforms such as TripAdvisor, Facebook, Google or the tour operator’s website. I always read reviews before hiring any company unless the company is recommended by someone I trust.

Finally, evaluate their customer service by seeing how quickly they respond to your inquiries. Daji Expedition Excellent in this regard, being able to respond promptly to my emails and even having text communications via WhatsApp before, during and after the trip.

Need help planning your trip to Bhutan?

As a certified travel advisor, I can help you plan your trip to this beautiful kingdom. The unique tourism logistics of visiting Bhutan can be complicated, so planning with a knowledgeable person who has been there is a must. Contact us If you’re ready to book your Bhutan adventure!

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