By Julie S., Texas USA Pure Bhutan (Feb 2024)
I’m sitting at home now, back in San Francisco, and still trying to process everything that happened over the last two weeks. My husband Richard and I just returned from the Pure Bhutan tour with Travel Empowers, and I can honestly say it was one of the most incredible experiences of our lives. From the breathtaking landscapes to the rich cultural heritage, and the amazing group of fellow travelers, this trip was everything we hoped for—and more.
Why Bhutan? Why Now?
Bhutan has always intrigued me. I’d heard about its pristine beauty, the way it blends ancient traditions with modern values, and its focus on Gross National Happiness over economic growth. So when Richard and I found the Pure Bhutan tour with Travel Empowers, it felt like the stars had aligned. We’d traveled a lot before, but this trip seemed different—more meaningful. And from the moment we touched down in Paro, I knew we’d made the right decision.
The Guides: More Than Just Guides
Let me start by talking about our incredible guides, Pema and Sonam. They weren’t just knowledgeable—they were passionate about their country and their culture, and they made sure we felt the same way by the end of the trip. From navigating the winding mountain roads to leading us on epic hikes, they were with us every step of the way, explaining the history behind every temple and sharing local stories that brought the places to life.
I’ll never forget Pema’s expression when Richard mistook a dzong (a fortress) for a “fancy hotel”—she laughed so hard she had to sit down. After that, we couldn’t walk past a dzong without Richard saying, “I wonder how much a room costs in that one?”
The Group: Friends for Life
We traveled with 12 other people, and by the end of the trip, we felt like we had made friends for life. You know how sometimes group tours can feel a bit impersonal? Not this one. We spent our days exploring Bhutan together—whether it was hiking the Trans Bhutan Trail, visiting the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, or having dinner under the stars at our glamping site in Phobjikha—and by the evenings, we were swapping stories and laughing like old friends.
One night at the campfire, we tried some local archery (turns out, it’s much harder than it looks!). Richard gave it his best shot and missed the target entirely, only to have one of the local women show him how it’s really done with perfect aim. Needless to say, the group got a good laugh out of that!
Empowering Communities—and Ourselves
One of the most special aspects of the Pure Bhutan tour is the way it empowers not only the communities we visited but also us as travelers. We didn’t just pass through these villages—we got to meet the people, learn about their way of life, and understand the challenges they face. One of my favorite moments was visiting a small farming village, where we helped plant vegetables for the local school. The joy and gratitude of the community were palpable, and it felt good knowing that our presence was making a positive impact.
But this trip didn’t just empower the communities we met—it empowered me. There’s something deeply fulfilling about stepping outside your comfort zone, challenging yourself, and realizing that you’re part of something much bigger than yourself. Hiking to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery—a strenuous climb that took us hours—was physically demanding, but the sense of accomplishment when we reached the top was worth every aching muscle. I realized that travel isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about growing, learning, and making a difference.
Tour Highlights: What Stood Out
- The Trans Bhutan Trail: Hiking this newly restored ancient route was like stepping back in time. The trail offered incredible views of Bhutan’s untouched landscapes, from lush valleys to towering mountains. At one point, we stopped for lunch near a suspension bridge, and Richard joked that he’d “never had a picnic with a better view.”
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery: This was the crown jewel of the trip. Perched dramatically on a cliffside, it’s one of Bhutan’s most iconic sites. The hike up was tough, but the serenity and beauty of the monastery made it all worthwhile. When we reached the top, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of peace and gratitude.
- Glamping in Phobjikha Valley: This was one of the most unique accommodations we’ve ever experienced—luxury camping in one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan. At night, we gathered around the campfire, shared stories with the locals, and enjoyed some of the best home-cooked meals I’ve ever had. Falling asleep under the stars with the crisp mountain air felt magical.
- Punakha Dzong: This stunning fortress is located at the confluence of two rivers, and its grandeur left me speechless. But what made it even more special was the story Pema shared about how the people of Bhutan come together to maintain and preserve these important historical sites. It made me realize just how connected the Bhutanese are to their heritage.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Journey
As we boarded our flight back to San Francisco, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. This trip had been more than just a vacation—it had been a transformative experience. Richard and I both agreed that the memories we made, the people we met, and the lessons we learned would stay with us for the rest of our lives.
I can’t recommend the Pure Bhutan tour enough. Whether you’re an experienced traveler or someone looking to try something new, this trip offers a perfect blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and personal growth.
If you’re thinking about visiting Bhutan, do it. And if you want to make the most of your journey, reach out to Travel Empowers. Their focus on sustainable, impactful travel is what makes them stand out, and they’ll make sure your adventure is one you’ll never forget.
Ready to Experience Bhutan?
If you’re ready to explore Bhutan and have an adventure like no other, get in touch with Travel Empowers. Trust me, you won’t regret it. And don’t forget to sign up for their newsletter for a $100 USD travel voucher—the perfect way to kickstart your next journey!
