Adventure Tours in Bhutan

In a country where the phrase "gross national happiness" appears on a list of key development metrics, Bhutan encourages us to ask what we can learn about notions of "happiness" as contributors to our own quality of life. Our journey into the Himalayan region gives us rare access to the sacredness of the vast and wild landscapes, challenging us to reevaluate commonly held notions of our role in the natural world. Since the arrival of television in 1999 and a cascade of global influences, Bhutan has experienced a steady increase in foreign tourism, which contradicts long-held traditions. How can we understand the pressures and adaptations of Bhutanese culture in the face of a globalizing world? In our questioning and exploration of Bhutan in this summer abroad program, we hope to understand better the worldviews and assumptions that shape our lives and happiness back home.

A trip to Bhutan is unique in so many ways—from playing baseball with the newly formed, nationally recognized team to hiking up Tiger’s Nest and from meeting with monks and nuns to having personalized stamps made at the Royal Postal Museum! Globe Aware works directly with His Royal Highness Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck and his representatives to allow select groups of guests to explore deeper into Bhutan. Reflecting our deep-seated commitment to local development and sustainability, all of our experiences and projects involve support for the kingdom's most important environmental, community, and/or cultural initiatives. These include wildlife protection programs with the Royal Government of Bhutan and His Majesty’s private initiative to preserve Bhutan's tangible history. Of course, there’s time to engage in leisure and cultural activities. Enjoy an evening stroll through the central downtown, send home postcards with personalized stamps, learn to cook traditional dishes, go on a short forest hike to visit the sacred national animal, and do so much more!

Bhutan, though small in size, offers a rich blend of culture and natural beauty. This nine-day journey takes you through the winding mountain passes and green valleys of the Himalayas to discover the best of this unique kingdom. You'll visit key cultural sites, beautiful temples, and enjoy traditional dance performances. In Punakha, explore the stunning Punakha Dzong, located at the meeting point of two rivers, and the fertility temple Chimmi Lhakang. Travel to the Gangtey region to see black-necked cranes in the scenic Phobjikha Valley. The tour ends in Paro with a memorable hike to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on a cliffside. This trip offers a deep look into Bhutan's heritage and natural wonders.