Bhutan Travel Guide: Days 8-11, Travelling Solo, Flight To Bangkok With The Royal Family, Costs & Final Thoughts

In this penultimate episode of my Bhutan Series on Winging It, I wrap up my 11-day trip to Bhutan and share my final experiences exploring Thimphu and Paro, plus my biggest takeaways from travelling through one of the most fascinating countries in the world.

After originally planning a trek in the Haa Valley, I changed my itinerary and spent my final days wandering Bhutan’s capital Thimphu, experiencing Bhutan’s National Day celebrations, visiting local cafés, exploring markets, and eventually heading to Paro for my final night before flying back to Bangkok. I also give an idea of what budget day-to-day life is like when travelling solo in Bhutan.

Along the way I stayed in luxury glamping tents in hills of Paro, met incredible locals, and had an unexpected moment on my flight to Bangkok when I discovered the King and Queen of Bhutan were on the same plane. I managed to speak to one of their closest advisors during the flight, which was a very interesting chat indeed!

To wrap up the series, I also share my favourite experiences in Bhutan, practical Bhutan travel tips, what it actually costs to visit Bhutan, and advice for anyone planning their own trip to the Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon.

If you're wondering how to visit Bhutan, what an itinerary looks like, or whether Bhutan is worth visiting, this episode brings together everything I learned from my time there.

Check out my previous Bhutan episodes

Episode 1 Interview with Ugyen Rinzin - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000743770563

Episode 2 - IMMERSIVE Hiking to Tiger's Nest Monastery - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000744754502

Episode 3 - Days 1-3 solo episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000745691316

Episode 4 - Interview with a female monk - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000747763604

Episode 5 - IMMERSIVE Day in Bhutan - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000748856300

Episode 6 - Ama Om Homestay Interview - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000750963609

Episode 7 - Days 4-7 solo episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000752831510

🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be.

This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series.

Huge thanks to Breathe Bhutan for creating an authentic, culture-focused itinerary and making experiences like this possible. Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making this series possible.

Breathe Bhutan

Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathebhutan/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breathebhutan/

If you enjoyed this episode:

1. ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app
2. ☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit
3. 🌍 Explore more episodes at wingingittravelpodcast.com

00:00 Intro to the Bhutan trip recap (Days 8–11)

01:45 Why I cancelled the Haa Valley trek

03:45 Returning to Thimphu and saying goodbye to my guides

06:00 Exploring Thimphu solo for the first time

07:30 Coffee at Ambient Café

08:45 Bhutan National Day celebrations at the National Stadium

10:00 Centenary Farmers Market and meeting locals at Hope Café

11:30 Discovering Bhutan’s only coffee roastery

12:45 Traveling from Thimphu to Paro

13:30 Staying at Ten Zingaling luxury glamping tents

14:35 Sunrise breakfast in the Himalayas

16:00 Exploring Paro and souvenir shopping

17:30 Dinner with locals at Himalayan Kitchen

19:00 Final morning in Paro

19:20 The surprise: flying with the King and Queen of Bhutan

22:20 My top experiences in Bhutan

23:30 Bhutan food, coffee and culture

24:15 Why Breathe Bhutan made the trip special

25:30 The cost of traveling to Bhutan explained

27:30 Flights to Bhutan and practical travel tips

28:30 Best coffee, souvenirs and cultural spots in Bhutan

29:30 When to visit Bhutan and weather tips

30:00 Final reflections on my Bhutan trip

--------------------------------------------------------------

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/

Winging It Travel Podcast - Website

Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts!

--------------------------------------------------------------

Winging It Travel Podcast Credits

Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond

Contact me - [email protected] or [email protected]

Social Media - follow me on:

Instagram

TikTok

Facebook

--------------------------------------------------------------

Support My Podcast - Memberships

Patreon - Here

Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Affiliate Links

If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here

Use Revolut Travel Card - Here

Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here

Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here

Booking.com - Here

Book Experiences With Viator - Here

Discovery Car Hire - Here

Book Buses With Busbud - Here

Book Trains With Trainline - Here

Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here

Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here

Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here

--------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for supporting me and the podcast!

Cheers James.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world

This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.

Voyascape Podcast Network

Check out the Smart Travel Podcast

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I continue my Bhutan travel series covering Days 4–7 of my guided journey through one of the most unique and spiritual countries in the world.

These were some of the most immersive days of the entire trip.

It begins high in the mountains at the Druk Wangyel Festival, held annually at Dochula Pass. Surrounded by 108 chortens and Himalayan peaks, this patriotic festival honours Bhutan’s Fourth King and celebrates peace, unity, and national identity. Wearing the traditional Bhutanese gho, I experienced mass dances, military performances, storytelling, and a powerful display of modern Bhutanese culture.

From there, we descend into the warmer Punakha Valley — home to the breathtaking Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most important historical and spiritual landmarks. Built in 1637 at the meeting point of two rivers, this former capital remains a living monastery and royal ceremonial site — and yes, it’s where Bhutan’s King and Queen were married.

I also hike to the hilltop temple Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, walk through rural villages to reach the famous fertility temple Chimi Lhakhang, and cross the swaying Punakha Suspension Bridge with dramatic valley views below.

One of the most special experiences? Staying in a traditional Bhutanese homestay — helping churn butter, cooking local dishes, and learning about family history in a farmhouse perched above the valley.

The journey then takes me east into the stunning Phobjikha Valley, often called the “Switzerland of Bhutan” for its wide glacial landscape and alpine feel. Here, I overnight at Gangtey Monastery, witness an emotional end-of-year monk ceremony, and experience Bhutan’s spiritual depth in complete silence — and freezing temperatures.

Check out my previous Bhutan episodes

Episode 1 Interview with Ugyen Rinzin - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000743770563

Episode 2 - IMMERSIVE Hiking to Tiger's Nest Monastery - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000744754502

Episode 3 - Days 1-3 solo episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000745691316

Episode 4 - Interview with a female monk - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000747763604

Episode 5 - IMMERSIVE Day in Bhutan - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000748856300

Episode 6 - Ama Om Homestay Interview - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000750963609

🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be.

This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series.

Huge thanks to Breathe Bhutan for creating an authentic, culture-focused itinerary and making experiences like this possible. Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making this series possible.

Breathe Bhutan

Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathebhutan/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breathebhutan/

If you enjoyed this episode:

1. ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app
2. ☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit
3. 🌍 Explore more episodes at wingingittravelpodcast.com

Want to travel with me to El Salvador?

Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340

Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142

00:00 – Intro & overview of Bhutan Days 4–7

02:00 – Wearing the traditional Bhutanese gho

03:45 – Druk Wangyel Festival at Dochula Pass

07:00 – Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple) walk through villages

09:30 – Sunset views over Punakha Dzong

11:30 – Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten

14:30 – Exploring Punakha Dzong (Bhutan’s former capital)

16:30 – Traditional Bhutan homestay experience

17:45 – Crossing the Punakha Suspension Bridge

18:30 – Visiting a Bhutanese nunnery

19:30 – Arriving in Phobjikha Valley (Switzerland of Bhutan)

20:30 – Overnight stay at Gangtey Monastery

21:45 – Witnessing a powerful monk ceremony

22:30 – Reflections & cancelling the winter trek

--------------------------------------------------------------

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/

Winging It Travel Podcast - Website

Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts!

--------------------------------------------------------------

Winging It Travel Podcast Credits

Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond

Contact me - [email protected] or [email protected]

Social Media - follow me on:

Instagram

TikTok

Facebook

--------------------------------------------------------------

Support My Podcast - Memberships

Patreon - Here

Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Affiliate Links

If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here

Use Revolut Travel Card - Here

Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here

Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here

Booking.com - Here

Book Experiences With Viator - Here

Discovery Car Hire - Here

Book Buses With Busbud - Here

Book Trains With Trainline - Here

Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here

Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here

Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here

--------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for supporting me and the podcast!

Cheers James.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out the Smart Travel Podcast

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world

This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.

Voyascape Podcast Network

What is it really like to stay in a traditional homestay in Bhutan?

In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I’m coming to you from rural Bhutan, where I sit down with Ama Om — the owner of a traditional Bhutanese homestay located in a small village outside Punakha. With the help of a translator, Ama Om shares her life story and what it truly means to welcome travellers into her home.

Ama Om has been hosting guests for over a decade, offering far more than just accommodation. We talk about daily village life in Bhutan, balancing farming with tourism, cooking traditional food, caring for animals, and preserving a way of life that’s slowly disappearing due to modernisation.

This conversation explores Bhutanese Buddhist beliefs, especially the idea of karmic connections — the belief that people don’t arrive in our lives by accident. Ama Om explains why hosting guests brings her so much joy and why she believes homestays offer the most authentic way to experience Bhutanese culture.

You’ll also hear about:

1. What daily life in a rural Bhutanese village looks like
2. Why homestays are important for local livelihoods in Bhutan
3. Traditional Bhutanese food, farming, and household skills
4. Hot stone baths, milking cows, making cheese, and cooking together
5. Why staying outside cities like Thimphu and Paro offers a deeper travel experience

You might notice my voice is a little rough in this episode — I was battling a cough and cold during the recording — but this story was far too special not to share.

If you’re planning a trip to Bhutan, curious about authentic travel experiences, or interested in staying in a traditional homestay, this episode offers a rare and honest insight into rural Bhutanese life and the people who make it unforgettable.

🔗 More information about Ama Om’s Homestay

You’ll find links to the homestay below in the show notes. If you’d like to add this experience to your Bhutan itinerary, booking through Breathe Bhutan and requesting Ama Om’s homestay is the best way to do it.

Ama Om's Homestay

https://www.instagram.com/amaoms_homestay/?hl=en

https://www.bhutanhimalaya.com/lodges-and-accommodations/ama-om's-homestay

Check out my previous Bhutan episodes

Episode 1 Interview with Ugyen Rinzin - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000743770563

Episode 2 - IMMERSIVE Hiking to Tiger's Nest Monastery - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000744754502

Episode 3 - Days 1-3 solo episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000745691316

Episode 4 - Interview with a female monk - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000747763604

Episode 5 - IMMERSIVE Day in Bhutan - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000748856300

🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be.

This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series.

Huge thanks to Breathe Bhutan for creating an authentic, culture-focused itinerary and making experiences like this possible. Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making this series possible.

Breathe Bhutan

Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathebhutan/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breathebhutan/

If you enjoyed this episode:

1. ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app
2. ☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit
3. 🌍 Explore more episodes at wingingittravelpodcast.com

Want to travel with me to El Salvador?

Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340

Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142

00:00 – Introduction & setting the scene in rural Bhutan

01:05 – Who is Ama Om? The story behind the homestay

02:10 – Life beyond accommodation: family, farming, food & faith

03:40 – Karmic connections & why hosting guests brings Ama Om joy

05:00 – Daily life in a Bhutanese village

06:50 – Helping out in a homestay: cooking, curiosity & cultural exchange

09:10 – Why homestays matter for local livelihoods in Bhutan

10:55 – Farming life: cows, orchards, rice fields & self-sufficiency

12:40 – Family life: children, grandchildren & life between village and city

14:45 – Traditional Bhutanese cooking & learning from her grandmother

18:30 – Why Ama Om believes people should visit Bhutan

20:45 – Why guests should stay at her homestay specifically

22:55 – Authentic Bhutan vs modern cities like Thimphu & Paro

25:10 – Preserving traditional life: hot stone baths, farming & food

26:55 – Gratitude, goodbyes & the impact of tourism

28:30 – Final reflections & closing thoughts

--------------------------------------------------------------

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/

Winging It Travel Podcast - Website

Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts!

--------------------------------------------------------------

Winging It Travel Podcast Credits

Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond

Contact me - [email protected] or [email protected]

Social Media - follow me on:

Instagram

TikTok

Facebook

--------------------------------------------------------------

Support My Podcast - Memberships

Patreon - Here

Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Affiliate Links

If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here

Use Revolut Travel Card - Here

Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here

Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here

Booking.com - Here

Book Experiences With Viator - Here

Discovery Car Hire - Here

Book Buses With Busbud - Here

Book Trains With Trainline - Here

Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here

Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here

Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here

--------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for supporting me and the podcast!

Cheers James.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world

This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.

Voyascape Podcast Network

Check out the Smart Travel Podcast

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

Travel isn’t always sunsets, summit views, and perfect Instagram moments — and in this episode, I get honest about the other side of life on the road.

Before diving in, I acknowledge just how much of a privilege travel is, especially in a world where many people face conflict, instability, and restrictions on movement. This episode isn’t about criticising countries, cultures, or places — it’s about the very human moments that unfold while traveling.

From getting violently sick at sacred sites, to terrifying border crossings, brutal overnight bus rides, running out of money abroad, and nearly dehydrating in the desert, I share ten of the lowest — and often unintentionally funny — moments I’ve experienced so far.

Some of these stories are uncomfortable, some are reflective, and others are light-hearted in hindsight. But all of them highlight a truth we don’t talk about enough: travel doesn’t always go to plan, and sometimes the hardest moments become the best stories later on.

If you’ve ever had a trip go sideways, questioned why you’re doing this at all, or found yourself laughing through the chaos — this one’s for you.

Let me know what your lowest moments have been.

00:00 – Travel is a privilege & episode introduction

01:05 – What Winging It Travel Podcast is all about

02:30 – Why this episode isn’t about judging places or cultures

03:00 – #1: Bodh Gaya, India – food poisoning at a sacred site

05:15 – #2: Vanuatu flight cancellation & the “prison hotel”

09:00 – #3: Being seriously ill in India & Laos

10:15 – #4: Chitwan National Park, Nepal – promised wildlife, saw nothing

11:40 – #5: Mount Fuji, Mount Kinabalu & hikes with zero views

15:05 – Listener support & podcast housekeeping break

15:55 – #6: Laos–Thailand border scam with guns involved

17:30 – #7: 30-hour bus rides from Vietnam to Laos

18:55 – #8: Near dehydration in the Atacama Desert

20:30 – #9: Running out of money in Australia

22:45 – #10: Giant ants while wild camping in Oman

24:45 – Bonus: Brutal mine-site kitchen work on a work permit

29:20 – Final reflections & listener call-to-action

--------------------------------------------------------------

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/

Winging It Travel Podcast - Website

Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts!

--------------------------------------------------------------

Winging It Travel Podcast Credits

Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond

Contact me - [email protected] or [email protected]

Social Media - follow me on:

Instagram

TikTok

Facebook

--------------------------------------------------------------

Support My Podcast - Memberships

Patreon - Here

Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Affiliate Links

If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here

Use Revolut Travel Card - Here

Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here

Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here

Booking.com - Here

Book Experiences With Viator - Here

Discovery Car Hire - Here

Book Buses With Busbud - Here

Book Trains With Trainline - Here

Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here

Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here

Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here

--------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for supporting me and the podcast!

Cheers James.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out the Smart Travel Podcast

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world

This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.

Voyascape Podcast Network

In this episode, I take you along for one unforgettable day in Bhutan that perfectly captures the country’s culture, spirituality, and everyday life.

The day begins dressed in a traditional gho before heading high into the Himalayas for the Druk Wangyel Festival at Dochula Pass. With clear skies, snow-capped peaks in the background, and vibrant performances by the Royal Bhutan Army, this festival is one of Bhutan’s most visually striking and patriotic celebrations.

After the festival, we descend into the Punakha Valley, stopping for lunch before setting off on a walk through authentic Bhutanese countryside. This walk takes us through Sopsokha Village and Teopronghu Village, passing rice paddies, prayer flags, family homes, and locals going about their daily lives — offering a real glimpse into rural Bhutan away from the usual tourist trail.

The walk ends at Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple, dedicated to the legendary Drukpa Kunley, the “Divine Madman.” While often misunderstood for its playful symbolism, this sacred site is deeply spiritual and an important place of faith for Bhutanese people, set against stunning views of the Punakha Valley.

To end the day, I arrive at a hilltop hotel overlooking the Punakha Dzong, watching it transition from daylight to night — a quiet, reflective moment after a day full of colour, culture, and connection.

This episode blends immersive sounds, personal reflections, and on-the-ground experiences to give you a true sense of what a day in Bhutan feels like — from high-altitude festivals to peaceful village life.

Check out my previous Bhutan episodes

Episode 1 Interview with Ugyen Rinzin - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000743770563

Episode 2 - IMMERSIVE Hiking to Tiger's Nest Monastery - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000744754502

Episode 3 - Days 1-3 solo episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000745691316

Episode 4 - Interview with a female monk - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000747763604

🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be.

This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series.

Huge thanks to Breathe Bhutan for creating an authentic, culture-focused itinerary and making experiences like this possible. Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making this series possible.

Breathe Bhutan

Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathebhutan/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breathebhutan/

🎧 Next up: The next episode will be me experiencing a traditional homestay in Bhutan and visiting the Punakha Zhong.

If you enjoyed this episode:

1. ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app
2. ☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit
3. 🌍 Explore more episodes at wingingittravelpodcast.com

Want to travel with me to El Salvador?

Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340

Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142

00:00 – Introduction & setting the scene for Day 4 in Bhutan

03:10 – Wearing the traditional gho & heading to Dochula Pass

06:00 – Druk Wangyel Festival: dances, symbolism & Himalayan views

11:40 – Walking through Sopsokha & Teopronghu Villages to Chimi Lhakhang

16:45 – Chimi Temple, Punakha Valley views & ending the day overlooking Punakha Dzong

--------------------------------------------------------------

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/

Winging It Travel Podcast - Website

Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts!

--------------------------------------------------------------

Winging It Travel Podcast Credits

Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond

Contact me - [email protected] or [email protected]

Social Media - follow me on:

Instagram

TikTok

Facebook

--------------------------------------------------------------

Support My Podcast - Memberships

Patreon - Here

Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Affiliate Links

If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here

Use Revolut Travel Card - Here

Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here

Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here

Booking.com - Here

Book Experiences With Viator - Here

Discovery Car Hire - Here

Book Buses With Busbud - Here

Book Trains With Trainline - Here

Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here

Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here

Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here

--------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for supporting me and the podcast!

Cheers James.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out the Smart Travel Podcast

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world

This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.

Voyascape Podcast Network

Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan Interview with Nun at Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery - Life as a Buddhist Nun in Modern Bhutan

In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, an all-female Buddhist nunnery located above the Punakha Valley in Bhutan. This episode offers a rare look into the lives of Buddhist nuns and the important role this nunnery plays in supporting women within Bhutan’s monastic system.

Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery was established to provide both religious and practical education to nuns from across Bhutan, many of whom come from rural and remote regions. Alongside intensive training in Buddhist philosophy, meditation, chanting, and ritual practices, the nuns also study English, computer skills, and vocational crafts—helping prepare them for life both within and beyond the monastery.

During my visit, the nunnery was preparing for final examinations, offering a unique insight into the academic structure of monastic life. You’ll also hear immersive background sounds from the nunnery itself, adding context to the daily rhythm of study, prayer, and discipline.

Following the introduction, I share a 10-minute interview with one of the resident nuns, conducted in English. In our conversation, she explains her daily routine, what she has studied over the years, her perspective on Buddhism in Bhutan, and what life looks like after completing the nine-year monastic education. She also shares why visitors should take the time to visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery and one key idea from Buddhism that she believes everyone should understand.

This episode offers a thoughtful, grounded look at female monastic life in modern Bhutan, blending spiritual insight with real-world structure and purpose.

🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be.

This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series.

🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be.

This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series.

Huge thanks to Breathe Bhutan for creating an authentic, culture-focused itinerary and making experiences like this possible. Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making this series possible.

Breathe Bhutan

Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathebhutan/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breathebhutan/

🎧 Next up: The next episode will be an immersive experience of a Bhutanese festival, and be ready for all the sounds in this one!

If you enjoyed this episode:

1. ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app
2. ☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit
3. 🌍 Explore more episodes at wingingittravelpodcast.com

Want to travel with me to El Salvador?

Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340

Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142

00:00 – Introduction to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery and today’s visit

01:40 – Life, education, and training at the all-female Buddhist nunnery

03:25 – Interview begins: meeting a Buddhist nun

05:15 – A day in the life, exams, and the nine-year monastic path

08:30 – Buddhism, visiting the nunnery, and final reflections

--------------------------------------------------------------

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/

Winging It Travel Podcast - Website

Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts!

--------------------------------------------------------------

Winging It Travel Podcast Credits

Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond

Contact me - [email protected] or [email protected]

Social Media - follow me on:

Instagram

TikTok

Facebook

--------------------------------------------------------------

Support My Podcast - Memberships

Patreon - Here

Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Affiliate Links

If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here

Use Revolut Travel Card - Here

Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here

Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here

Booking.com - Here

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Discovery Car Hire - Here

Book Buses With Busbud - Here

Book Trains With Trainline - Here

Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here

Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here

Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here

--------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for supporting me and the podcast!

Cheers James.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out the Smart Travel Podcast

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world

This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.

Voyascape Podcast Network

After experiencing Bhutan — a destination that sat at the very top of my travel list for years — I found myself in an unexpected place. Not rushing to plan the next trip, not chasing the next highlight, but sitting in a quiet lull and asking myself a simple question: what places won’t leave my mind now?

In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I share 16 places I can’t stop thinking about travelling to right now — not as a bucket list, not as recommendations, but as an honest reflection on how travel inspiration shifts over time.

Some of these destinations are familiar and grounding. Others are remote, challenging, or expansive in ways that feel both exciting and intimidating. From places shaped by silence and space, to cultures that feel like crossroads, to one destination that represents a deep exhale after years of movement, this episode explores why certain places keep calling — even when you’re not ready to book a flight.

Rather than counting down landmarks, I talk candidly about:

1. What draws people to these places in the first place
2. Why they keep resurfacing in my mind
3. How travel motivation changes after a trip that truly delivers

This is a reflective, solo episode for travellers who’ve ever finished a big trip and thought, “What now?”

🎧 Expect honest reasoning, personal perspective, and a reminder that travel inspiration doesn’t always arrive as urgency — sometimes it arrives as a quiet pull.

1. One place on this list surprised me by how familiar it feels, even though I’ve never been
2. There’s a destination here people visit for luxury — but that’s not why it’s calling me
3. A road trip idea that’s less about distance and more about time and light
4. And the number one place? It represents something very different than adventure

If you enjoyed this episode:

1. ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app
2. ☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit
3. 🌍 Explore more episodes at wingingittravelpodcast.com

Want to travel with me to El Salvador?

Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340

Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142

00:00 Introduction to Winging It Travel Podcast

01:33 Top 16 Travel Destinations: An Overview

02:29 A Camper Van Adventure

04:24 Isles of Scilly

05:48 The Indian Himalayan Dream

06:46 A Culinary Road Trip in Eastern Europe

07:39 Island Hopping Paradise

09:06 Newfoundland: Canada’s Eastern Frontier

10:31 The Undiscovered Mediterranean Jewel

11:59 A Journey Through History

14:51 Turks and Caicos: Caribbean Bliss

15:48 A South American Cultural Exploration

17:14 A Vast Adventure Awaits

19:35 Safari and Culture

21:00 Deserts and Silence Wonders

22:27 Central Asia: Silk Road Treasures

24:49 An Unbeaten European Summer Road Trip

25:48 The Ultimate Island Escape

--------------------------------------------------------------

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/

Winging It Travel Podcast - Website

Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts!

--------------------------------------------------------------

Winging It Travel Podcast Credits

Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond

Contact me - [email protected] or [email protected]

Social Media - follow me on:

Instagram

TikTok

Facebook

--------------------------------------------------------------

Support My Podcast - Memberships

Patreon - Here

Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Affiliate Links

If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here

Use Revolut Travel Card - Here

Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here

Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here

Booking.com - Here

Book Experiences With Viator - Here

Discovery Car Hire - Here

Book Buses With Busbud - Here

Book Trains With Trainline - Here

Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here

Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here

Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here

--------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for supporting me and the podcast!

Cheers James.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world

This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.

Voyascape Podcast Network

Check out the Smart Travel Podcast

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

Solo Episode - Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan - Days 1–3: Everest Views, Sand Mandala Art, Epic Walks & A Breakfast with a Lama

In this solo episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I take you through Days 1 to 3 of my journey in Bhutan, sharing the sounds, stories, and real travel context behind one of the world’s most fascinating destinations.

From the unforgettable flight into Paro Airport with Himalayan views stretching all the way to Mount Everest, to my first encounters with Bhutanese food, culture, and daily life — this episode is designed to give you a true sense of what it feels like to arrive and begin travelling in Bhutan.

I break down how travel in Bhutan actually works, including flights, visas, costs, accommodation standards, weather in December, and why guided travel is essential to experiencing the country properly. You’ll hear about traditional sand mandala art, gentle acclimatisation walks through the Paro Valley, and the rhythm of life in Bhutan’s cities and temples.

The episode finishes with one of the most memorable moments of the trip: breakfast at a hilltop temple overlooking Thimphu called Wangditse Lhakhang, followed by a translated conversation with a Bhutanese lama, where we talk about happiness, belief, spirituality, and life in Bhutan today. A cool way to finish the episode!

This is an audio-only episode built to let your imagination do the work — placing you right there through natural sound, reflection, and honest storytelling.

In this episode, I also mention the two accommodations I stayed at, called Tiger's Nest Camp and Access Suites Hotel, both of which were fantastic!

All in all, this is a classic episode to break down my first three days in Bhutan. For more information on Tiger's Nest, check out my immersive episode on the hike below.

https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000744754502

https://open.spotify.com/episode/5R95iDSlJm84s1GjfMgHQK?si=bYR8RKubRWa4tX0_OWMmuA

My first episode of the series takes a deep dive into Bhutanese culture, Buddhism, and history through a great guy I met in Thimphu called Ugyen Rinzin. Check out this episode below.

https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000743770563

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1a4hmlsGoLvYmNRP52f2ps?si=x7UVHkJlRiKeczeYCKRxUA

1. Flying into Paro and why it’s one of the most spectacular landings in the world
2. What it really costs to travel in Bhutan and how the visa and tour system works
3. First impressions of Bhutanese culture, architecture, and daily life
4. Traditional Bhutanese food explained — from chilli and cheese to butter tea
5. The meaning behind sand mandala art and impermanence in Buddhism
6. Gentle walks and hikes used to acclimatise to Bhutan’s altitude
7. Morning sounds and views overlooking Thimphu from a remote temple (Wangditse Lhakhang)
8. A translated interview with a lama on happiness, belief, and spirituality
9. Why do authentic experiences in Bhutan rely so heavily on local knowledge

🎙 Translated interview with Lama Dorji Tshering

Recorded during a morning breakfast at a hilltop temple overlooking Thimphu, discussing:

1. Daily life as a lama
2. Bhutanese happiness and contentment
3. Spirituality in the modern world
4. His perspective on belief and non-belief

🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be.

This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series.

Huge thanks to Breathe Bhutan for creating an authentic, culture-focused itinerary and making experiences like this possible. Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making this series possible.

Breathe Bhutan

Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathebhutan/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breathebhutan/

🎧 Next up: The next episode in this series will be an interview with a female monk.

If you enjoyed this episode:

1. ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app
2. ☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit
3. 🌍 Explore more episodes at wingingittravelpodcast.com

Want to travel with me to El Salvador?

Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340

Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142

00:00 – Welcome & Bhutan Series Overview

02:05 – Why I Travelled with Breathe Bhutan

05:00 – Flying into Paro & Himalayan Views

08:20 – First Impressions of Bhutan

11:10 – Bhutanese Food & Daily Life

14:40 – Sand Mandala Art Experience

18:30 – Paro Valley Walks & Acclimatisation

22:10 – Reflections on Days One & Two

25:40 – Breakfast at a Hilltop Temple

28:16 – Interview with a Bhutanese Lama

39:29 – End of Episode

--------------------------------------------------------------

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/

Winging It Travel Podcast - Website

Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts!

--------------------------------------------------------------

Winging It Travel Podcast Credits

Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond

Contact me - [email protected] or [email protected]

Social Media - follow me on:

Instagram

TikTok

Facebook

--------------------------------------------------------------

Support My Podcast - Memberships

Patreon - Here

Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Affiliate Links

If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here

Use Revolut Travel Card - Here

Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here

Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here

Booking.com - Here

Book Experiences With Viator - Here

Discovery Car Hire - Here

Book Buses With Busbud - Here

Book Trains With Trainline - Here

Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here

Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here

Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here

--------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for supporting me and the podcast!

Cheers James.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world

This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.

Voyascape Podcast Network

Check out the Smart Travel Podcast

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

IMMERSIVE – Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan – Hiking to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang) EPIC

In this immersive, audio-only episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I take you with me as I hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang) in Bhutan — one of the most iconic and spiritual hikes in the world.

This episode starts early in the morning in Paro, with pre-hike nerves, breakfast, and my first distant glimpse of Tiger’s Nest clinging to the mountainside. From there, we journey to the trailhead and begin the steady uphill climb through pine forests, open valleys, and sweeping mountain views.

As I hike, I share real-time reactions, heavy breathing, and honest reflections as the monastery slowly reveals itself through the trees. About halfway up, I stop at the famous café for a much-needed coffee — and the first truly jaw-dropping view of Tiger’s Nest sitting impossibly in the distance, tucked into the mountains.

From there, the trail continues toward the most iconic viewpoints on the hike, where the scale of the monastery really sinks in. I take you to the famous photo spots before descending hundreds of steps, crossing bridges and waterfalls, and finally entering the temple itself.

Inside Tiger’s Nest, there are no cameras — only flickering butter lamps, chanting monks, incense in the air, and a deep sense of stillness. I reflect on what it felt like to experience the monastery without distractions, and why this hike is considered one of the most unforgettable experiences in Bhutan.

The episode finishes with the walk back down to the parking lot, lunch in Paro, practical hiking tips, and reflections on why Tiger’s Nest isn’t just something you visit — it’s something you feel.

This episode is part of my Bhutan Series, recorded while travelling with Breathe Bhutan, a locally owned tour company creating immersive, meaningful journeys across Bhutan.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, this episode is for you.

🎒If this episode sparks your imagination and makes you want to visit Bhutan, you won’t regret it.

Across the Bhutan Series, you’ll hear:

1. Conversations with local Bhutanese voices
2. Immersive episodes on hiking, culture, food, and daily life
3. Solo breakdowns explaining how travel in Bhutan actually works

This is not just a travel podcast episode — it’s an invitation to slow down, listen, and understand Bhutan on a deeper level.

🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be.

This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series.

Huge thanks to Breathe Bhutan for creating an authentic, culture-focused itinerary and making experiences like this possible during the first days of my journey. Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making it possible.

Breathe Bhutan

Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathebhutan/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breathebhutan/

🎧 Next up: The third episode will feature an interview with the llama at Wangditse Lhakhang, whom I had the pleasure of having breakfast with before the temple opened to tourists. The view of Thimphu was breathtaking, and we had a fascinating conversation.

Want to travel with me to El Salvador?

Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340

Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas.

Buy me a coffee if you like, for $5, this helps with the production costs of the podcast - Here

00:00 Introduction to the Journey

02:49 The Hike Begins

06:02 The Ascent to Tiger's Nest

09:02 Reaching the Halfway Point

11:59 The First Glimpse of Tiger's Nest

14:51 Approaching the Temple

17:52 Inside Tiger's Nest Monastery

20:58 Reflections on the Experience

23:59 Conclusion and Next Steps

--------------------------------------------------------------

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/

Winging It Travel Podcast - Website

Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts!

--------------------------------------------------------------

Winging It Travel Podcast Credits

Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond

Contact me - [email protected] or [email protected]

Social Media - follow me on:

Instagram

TikTok

Facebook

--------------------------------------------------------------

Support My Podcast - Memberships

Patreon - Here

Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Affiliate Links

If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here

Use Revolut Travel Card - Here

Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here

Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here

Booking.com - Here

Book Experiences With Viator - Here

Discovery Car Hire - Here

Book Buses With Busbud - Here

Book Trains With Trainline - Here

Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here

Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here

Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here

--------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for supporting me and the podcast!

Cheers James.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out the Smart Travel Podcast

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world

This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.

Voyascape Podcast Network

Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan - A Conversation with Ugyen Rinzin - Bhutan's History, Buddhism Basics + Modern Bhutanese Culture

In this opening episode of my Bhutan Series, I sit down for a deep, thoughtful conversation with Ugyen Rinzin, a Bhutanese local from Paro, to explore the heart and soul of one of the world’s most fascinating countries.

Recorded in Thimphu, Bhutan, this episode is a beginner-friendly introduction to Bhutan’s history, Buddhist philosophy, and modern Bhutanese culture, told through the lived experience of someone who grew up before television and the internet arrived in the country.

We unpack what makes Bhutan so unique — from its deep-rooted connection to Buddhism, its people-first philosophy, and the idea of Gross National Happiness, to how the younger generation is navigating a rapidly changing world.

If you’ve ever wondered:

1. What is Bhutan really like?
2. How does Buddhism shape everyday life in Bhutan?
3. Why is Bhutan considered one of the most meaningful travel destinations on Earth?

— this episode is the perfect place to start.

Across the Bhutan Series, you’ll hear:

1. Conversations with local Bhutanese voices
2. Immersive episodes on hiking, culture, food, and daily life
3. Solo breakdowns explaining how travel in Bhutan actually works

This is not just a travel podcast episode — it’s an invitation to slow down, listen, and understand Bhutan on a deeper level.

🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be.

Huge thanks to Breathe Bhutan for creating an authentic, culture-focused itinerary and making experiences like this possible during the first days of my journey. Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making it possible.

This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series.

Breathe Bhutan

Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathebhutan/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breathebhutan/

🎧 Next up: the second episode in my Bhutan series, recorded on location on the Tiger's Nest Monastery hike, will be an immersive soundscape to bring you along for my hike to one of the most amazing temples in the world.

Want to travel with me to El Salvador?

Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340

Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas.

Buy me a coffee if you like for $5, this helps with the production costs of the podcast - Here

00:00 Introduction to Bhutan and the Podcast

01:22 Meeting Ugyen Rinzen: A Local Perspective

03:47 Bhutan's History and Cultural Preservation

10:07 Bhutanese Youth and Global Influences

17:05 The Future of Bhutan's Youth

20:06 Understanding Buddhism: A Simplified Overview

23:21 Who is Buddha? The Essence of Buddhahood

25:11 The Geographic Spread of Buddhism

28:11 Understanding the Four Noble Truths

31:43 Roles of Priests, Monks, and Lamas

34:37 Buddhism in a Capitalist World

36:41 Exploring Buddhism: A Beginner's Guide

40:27 The Nature of Time in Buddhism

43:46 Transcending Boundaries: The Essence of Humanity

--------------------------------------------------------------

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/

Winging It Travel Podcast - Website

Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts!

--------------------------------------------------------------

Winging It Travel Podcast Credits

Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond

Contact me - [email protected] or [email protected]

Social Media - follow me on:

Instagram

TikTok

Facebook

--------------------------------------------------------------

Support My Podcast - Memberships

Patreon - Here

Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Affiliate Links

If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here

Use Revolut Travel Card - Here

Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here

Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here

Booking.com - Here

Book Experiences With Viator - Here

Discovery Car Hire - Here

Book Buses With Busbud - Here

Book Trains With Trainline - Here

Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here

Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here

Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here

--------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for supporting me and the podcast!

Cheers James.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out the Smart Travel Podcast

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world

This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.

Voyascape Podcast Network