Bhutan in style
Bhutan’s religious festivals are held annually across Bhutanese districts feature masked "Cham" dances performed by monks and laymen in elaborate brocade costumes and carved wooden masks
My first guiding season in Bhutan was in 2001, when the kingdom still felt like a whispered secret—far beyond the usual tourism map. In those days, hotel infrastructure was modest, though Aman had already planted a flag of quiet excellence with a handful of lodges, shaped by Adrian’s remarkable vision. Twenty-five years—and many journeys—later, I’ve watched Bhutan slowly navigate its own path through mass tourism, adopting a rare, principled embrace of exclusivity and sustainability through its “High Value, Low Volume” policy, an approach I wholeheartedly admire. And for those willing to make the journey (only two Bhutanese airlines fly in and out), Bhutan rewards you richly: soulful hiking, extraordinary culture, and refined lodges set against landscapes that feel both timeless and alive—an enigmatic destination that holds tradition and modernity in elegant balance.
Bhutan’s two main cities—Paro and Thimphu—hold court with many of the country’s finest stays, including Aman, Uma, Six Senses, and Pemako. Both Aman and Six Senses, in fact, offer five properties each across Bhutan, thoughtfully spaced across Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Gangtey, and Bumthang—inviting guests to move from valley to valley, discovering Bhutan’s shifting landscapes and living traditions. & Beyond’s new resort in Punakha is a compelling addition, and one of my enduring favourites is Gangtey Lodge, set in the township of Gangtey with sweeping views and located right amongst the village. Each lodge is small averaging 15-20 suites and most include all meals. But what makes the lodges so special is the interaction with local Bhutanese staff.
Longitude 80 artistry lies in how we weave these lodges together—then layer in hikes, ceremonies, meeting locals, experiencing unhurried moments that let Bhutan reveal itself gradually and maybe, hopefully allow you to actually not care about your phone and Instagram . With decades of experience in the kingdom, and guided by our exceptional guide and drivers, we craft journeys that feel both deeply considered and delightfully unexpected—among the most exclusive itineraries in Bhutan.
On a hike with travellers, I struck a conversation with this woman in front of her house. We chatted for a few minutes while our guide translated about crops, weather and us as tourists. I explained I was from New Zealand, a little country surrounded by water. Sharp as a tack she replied her country was surrounded by mountains…
LITTLE KNOWN FACT:
Bhutan is the world’s only carbon-negative country, absorbing more CO2 than it produces. With more than 70% forest cover, it acts as a net carbon sink—absorbing over 6 million tonnes of carbon each year.
BEST MONTHS TO VISIT
April +May and September till early November
Longitude 80 offers a private Bhutan expedition, custom made departures with pre and post trips from New Delhi, Singapore and Bangkok. See our Bhutan itinerary under our Dream Journeys section.