Local Hearts · Dedicated Specialists · Since 2008

Our Story

We listen to you. We understand exactly how you want your trip to be. And then we make it happen. As a trip planner, I have always wanted our guest to experience Bhutan, the way we locals do, a bit of popular sites, a bit of our local back alleys, lesser visited sites & events […]

The Local Perspective

Experiencing Bhutan the way locals do.

We began offering trips to Bhutan when these silent valleys inspired our first trekking adventures over eighteen years ago.

As trip planners and guides born in these valleys, our philosophy has always been simple: our guests should experience Bhutan as we live it. A blend of renowned historical dzongs, hidden monastery footpaths, quiet alleyways, and seasonal celebrations that mass tourism never touches.

We deliberately keep our agency boutique and family-run. We do not sell dozens of countries from an anonymous overseas office. We sell only one country—our home—and an experienced specialist shapes every itinerary personally.

Expect real value, certified high-altitude safety, handpicked heritage lodges, and the warmth of a family that stands behind every mile of your journey.

We listen to you. We understand exactly how you want your trip to be. And then we make it happen.

As a trip planner, I have always wanted our guest to experience Bhutan, the way we locals do, a bit of popular sites, a bit of our local back alleys, lesser visited sites & events and most importantly creating meaningful experiences and camaraderie with local folks and communities.

We will introduce you to Bhutan, in a way that lets you experience it fully. We’ll show you the popular sites, and then the sites beyond the popular sites and create experiences to make you feel like you’re not just visiting a place, but you re a part of it.

We feel Bhutan can truly touch your heart in little BIG ways, the way we lead our life, its simplicity, rusticity entwined in deep rooted Buddhist culture and the off course the pristine environment makes your journey to Bhutan a transformational one.

Our Process

Three simple steps to your journey.

From your first conversation with a specialist to the day you step onto the tarmac in Paro.

Speak to a specialist

Tell us about your interests, timeline, and travel pace. We listen attentively and offer honest advice on valleys, festivals, and seasons.

We plan, you relax

We tailor-make an itinerary based entirely on what you want. We refine every hotel and trail until you are completely satisfied before securing reservations.

Travel worry-free

Your private vehicle, dedicated driver, and licensed cultural guide are with you from arrival to departure, backed by 24/7 on-the-ground support.

Bespoke Luxury

Why discerning travelers choose HKE.

Close to two decades of meticulous planning, certified expertise, and deep local roots.

Custom Curation

100% Tailor-made

• Designed from scratch around your passions and walking pace
• Flexible day schedules with spontaneous village detours
• Handpicked heritage lodges, luxury retreats, or farmhouses
• No rigid bus tour groups or off-the-shelf itineraries

Native Insight

Expert Knowledge

• Born and operating directly in Paro & Thimphu
• The same dedicated specialist manages your journey end-to-end
• Unrivaled access to secluded hermits, monks, and master artisans
• Intelligent routing that optimizes high altitude acclimatization

Field Mentors

Experienced Guides

• Handpicked professionals with minimum 5 to 15+ years experience
• Formally certified by the Department of Tourism (TCB)
• Fluent English command and deep knowledge of Mahayana Buddhism
• Storytellers who bring art, flora, and folklore to life

Accredited

Trusted & Endorsed

• Official Tourism Council of Bhutan License No. 1046412
• Active member of Association of Bhutanese Tour Operators (ABTO)
• Independent editorial endorsement by Lonely Planet
• 24/7 dedicated ground concierge throughout the kingdom

Our Commitment

Tourism that leaves Bhutan intact.

We operate as an impact-driven agency dedicated to preserving the environment, heritage, and welfare of the local communities who welcome us.

Plan a responsible journey

Fair Trade & Tariff Integrity

We operate strictly in accordance with royal government tourism regulations. We never undercut tour tariffs, ensuring drivers, guides, horsemen, and lodge owners receive generous and prompt compensation.

Fair Wage & Social Dignity

All guides and operational staff receive well above national living wage standards, medical coverage, and equal opportunity for both women and men.

Grassroots Community Benefit

By prioritizing locally-owned heritage farmhouses, community craft cooperatives, and farm-to-table village meals, we ensure your expenditure benefits remote mountain families directly.

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) Contribution

We handle and remit 100% of the royal government SDF levies with absolute transparency. This statutory fund finances universal free healthcare, schooling, and carbon-negative forest preservation across Bhutan.

The Faces Behind HKE

Meet our planners & guides.

From our founders to senior expedition leaders Thinley and Tek, get to know the individuals who accompany you through the valleys.

View Our Entire Team →