Bhutan Reflections: Mountains, Monasteries & Moments of Magic
About Our Bhutan CME Hiking Tour
The mountains do something different for the soul. Maybe it’s the crisp air, the vast horizons, or simply the chance to unplug and be still in nature. Mountains and monasteries? That is one an entirely new level of wonder.
I just returned from leading our first MedTreks journey through Bhutan, a ten-day adventure across misty valleys and monastery-lined hillsides in this small Himalayan kingdom. Known for its philosophy of Gross National Happiness, Bhutan has sparked curiosity around the world for decades. It’s a place deeply committed to its people, its land, and its culture.
This trip was especially meaningful to me. My family began running trips to Bhutan more than 30 years ago. The itinerary I led this year was crafted over decades by my father, a physician who has dedicated much of his life to travel and global health. I knew Bhutan would be special, but I didn’t realize just how much it would move me until I experienced it firsthand.
What Inspired Me Most About Bhutan
A Sense of Calm
Bhutan carries a calm that you can feel everywhere—from terraced rice fields and quiet hillsides to the twisting roads over mountain passes with snowcapped peaks on the horizon. Monks chant in the distance, prayer flags ripple in the breeze, and life unfolds at a gentler pace. It is one of the most peaceful and intentional places I’ve ever been.
The Monasteries
Perched on mountaintops and tucked into valleys, the monasteries of Bhutan are breathtaking. Stepping inside, each one reveals its own character—different statues of the Buddha, different deities, and walls painted with intricate, centuries-old designs. The air feels alive with the energy of devotion, the sound of chanting, and the footsteps of countless visitors over generations.
Culture That Lives and Breathes
What struck me most was how seamlessly tradition is woven into daily life. Festivals pulse with centuries-old dances, homes and dzongs follow traditional architecture, and even the nation’s policies reflect a commitment to cultural preservation. So yes, Bhutan has embraced progress thoughtfully, without sacrificing the values that make it unique.
The Food
Bhutanese cuisine is hearty, flavorful, and yes—spicy. Chiles and cheese are staples, and red chile paste accompanies nearly every meal. After long days of hiking and exploring, the warmth of these dishes felt both comforting and energizing. Oh, and the momos—steamed dumplings—were an unusual and surprising highlight!
Quiet Trails, No Crowds
After a year of traveling through places crowded with tourists, our Bhutan CME Hiking Tour felt like a rare gift. Outside of the main festival days, we often had the trails and monasteries nearly to ourselves. Whether hiking or sharing meals in family-run farmhouses, there was space—both physically and mentally—to soak in the experience.
Archery, Cheese & Beer
Of course, one of my favorite days of our Bhutan CME Hiking Tour was in Bumthang Valley, the spiritual heartland of Bhutan. We played archery—the national sport—in the backyard of a farmer’s home, after a delicious local lunch. Then, that same afternoon, we sampled cheese from a tiny factory and visited Bhutan’s very first microbrewery, the Red Panda. It’s these kinds of moments that make our itinerary different—woven with fun, authentic, everyday experiences.
Tiger’s Nest: Beyond the Photos
Finally, we’ve all seen the iconic images of Tiger’s Nest clinging to a cliffside. But standing there in person, after the climb, was unlike anything I could have imagined. As our group hiked higher, the view became more dramatic at every turn. Reaching the monastery felt like a bit of a party—a mix of awe, accomplishment, and celebration. We had a perfect blue sky day and it felt like the perfect ending to such an incredible trip.
In conclusion, Bhutan left me inspired and humbled. Its landscapes, culture, and people make it unlike any place I’ve traveled.
Last but not least, I can’t wait for next year’s Bhutan CME Hiking Tour, and share this incredible country with our MedTreks guests.
