A Sojourn in the Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon
"We travel not to escape life but for life not to escape us."
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Bhutan has been on our bucket list of places to visit for a long time. The draw of a secluded kingdom newly opened to the world from 1974 and its tight control on mass tourism seems even more attractive compared to the rapid rise in tourist destinations determined to play catch up in countries like Burma and Laos. It meant however, that FIT travel is out of the question as access to Bhutan is available only through organised itineraries provided by registered tour companies.
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With the inauguration of DrukAir's flights connecting Singapore to Bhutan via a brief stopover in Kolkata, getting there has never been easier. The flight itself takes around 5 hours in total and we landed at Paro in Western Bhutan where we commenced our tour.
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Our 9-day tour was booked through ThimDorji Tours based in Singapore and Bhutan and it was meticulously handled from start to finish. Our itinerary was designed specifically to fit our tastes and interests. All hotel bookings, permits and travel visas were taken care of by the agency and we had a very smooth journey throughout.
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Our small party of two was met at Paro airport by our guide Sonam and our driver Chimi, who accompanied us for the duration of the tour. They both turned out to be excellent travel companions with Sonam's extensive knowledge of Bhutanese culture, history and religion and Chimi's skill at bringing us where we needed to go. They took care of all aspects of the logistics of travel including hotel check-ins, transfers of luggage and arranging of meals and menus throughout our stay. This allowed us the luxury of a totally care-free journey where the goal was to experience all Bhutan has to offer.
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We are both enthralled and enchanted as each day's itinerary unfolds and brings about new dicoveries in landscapes and gorgeous scenaries untouched by mass development, an architectural style that pays homage to their unique history and culture and most of all, the resilience and dignity of the Bhutanese people who welcomed us as guests everywhere we went.
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Sonam and Chimi, our guide and driver both deserve high praise for their professionalism and unerring effort put in to ensure that every aspect of our stay there met or exceeded our expectations.
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Finally, kudos to ThimDorji Tours who made this journey such an unforgettable experience for the both of us.
"Though we travel the world over to find the beautiful, we must carry it with us, or we find it not."
Ralph Waldo Emerson
A Delightful Bhutan Experience of a Christian
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A delightful Bhutan experience for me and thanks to Bhutan Thim Dhorji Tours (BTDT) and the diversity of the group tour members. I was in for much pleasant and spontaneous surprises.
First and foremost, the BTDT team provided genuine caring services paying close attention to the needs of each individual especially when scaling the difficult terrians of the mountains and the selection of food. The personalised efforts of all members, from the skilful driver to the approachable tour guides made this trip even more memorable. Sharing their deep knowledge of the traditional cultures and customs not only enriches and enlightens what Iittle I know of Bhutan, it showed me the pride and love they have for their country and people.
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The richness of the Bhutanese culture, the glorious & majestic views of the places of interest and the spiritual discovery and reverence to the monarchy and the gurus from generation to generation, to a Christian like myself, are amazing and intriguing. The intricate and artistic architectural designs especially the Dzongs and the monasteries and the famous '4 friends' and phallic representations show how deep seated their beliefs, meanings and traditions are in their daily lives. The paintings and motifs in cafes and houses reflect their respect for symbols and meanings in their lives. The respectful display of King and Queen portraits and symbolic representations and propriety like wearing the national dress when one stepped into a Dzong and creating an altar room for prayers even in the humblest homes have evoked some strong thoughts about my cultures in my own country.
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The unspoilt beauty & pristine environment of the Taksang and Phojibkha Valley enchant me. Taksang, this ancient and majestic monastery, standing tall in the mountains, away from civiliaztions is such a mystic place. It is just pure simple joy to hike across the vastness wetlands of the Phobjikha Valley, depicting the simplicity of rural life and the contentment of its people. It brings out the contemplative me as a city dweller who loves nature and learn to be thankful for God's creations and His blessings.
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The team's tagline and commitment to 'offer that something extra' is not just lip service but demonstrated through their cohesive teamwork, genuine care, gentleness and flexibility in managing constructive feedback and most important of all - customized to personal needs to make this a vivid experience for each and everyone one of us.
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Extra efforts to gel the group from different walks of life were amazing. The refreshing outdoor lunch by the river of gushing waters and delightful birthday celebration cum sumptuous dinner in a pratical and well set-up tentage by the beach @ Punakha were wonderful memories etched in my mind for a long long time.
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The team has gone the extra mile to offer authentic experiences. First and foremost was the afternoon tea in a humble home, run by an old couple who interacted naturally with the group, soaked in the splendour and breathtaking view of the Phobjikha Valley. The highlight of this trip was the farewell performance cum home cooked Bhutanese dinner in a multi generation home@Paro to share the joy and happiness where cross cultures come together in spontaneity to celebrate new-found friendship and thankfulness for great companionship throughout the trip. Though we have our language barriers but the hospitality and friendliness by the host family is heartwarming.
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Kudos to the BTDT team of Thim, Rinzin, Sonam and Pema. Thanks for everything and with much appreciation. Without you guys, this trip will not be twice as fun and hilarious. Your actions of love, care and sharing, grounded in simplicity and authencity to offer that something extra, is what strikes me most.
Immerse yourself in this intimate and once-in-a- lifetime experience with BTDT in discovering Bhutan.
Comments from the 18-Pax 12-22 Feb 2017 Group (Bhutan Escapade)
"The trip was spectacular as we had lunches up in the hill and river bank and hot-pot dinner food."
- Siew Ngo
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"The trip was very interesting because of over-board caring and concerns from all the peoples from thimdorjitours by serving us with their sincere hearts and love. We are touched by your love of sincerity. You take the trouble all the way to please and make your guests enjoy comfortably and happy. Well done, really appreciate all your hard work."
- From Rose Lim with Love
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"A memorable trip. It gives an insight to Bhutanese way of life and their country. Enjoyed the hiking and the climb to Tiger's Nest."
- Foo Ming Foea
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"A well-planned trip. Small hike to prepare us for the most difficult one up to Tiger's Nest. Very good teamwork, care and concern for each other between participants and also with the guides. Sonam and Chimi (were) very helpful. Driver (has) very good driving skill. We feel safe with him. Really enjoy this trip with the laughters, jokes and songs we sang. I like most is the nature of the place, the beautiful mountains, stars and cold weather."
- Florence
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"Thim-Dorji Tours is small but impactful in creating great memories that is going to last a lifetime.
Our group of 18 had a lovely time bonding over a bonfire and dance, being entertained and becoming a group of entertainers ourselves. Leaving our footprints in Bhutan beautiful and ancient dzongs, nature trails, lovely picnics places, memories of distant and near mountains. Well done Bhutan Thim-Dorji Tours. And thank you for being such a caring team, even going the extra mile to secure a copy of your country calendar for each tour member. We all loved your happy royal couple with the handsome prince."
- Felicia