Passion and Purpose: A Life Devoted to Sharing Bhutan's Stories
Discover the inspiring journey of Bhutanese filmmaker and tour guide Ugyen Tashi as he shares insights on storytelling, hidden valleys, and the soulful art of guiding in Bhutan.
Can you share a little about your background?
My name is Ugyen Tashi, and storytelling has shaped most of my life. For nearly 19 years, I’ve worked in Bhutan’s film industry, focusing on cinematography and visual editing. I’m also a self-taught drone operator, which means I don’t just see Bhutan from the ground, but from the sky as well.
In 2012, I received my tour guide licence, and since then I’ve had the privilege of guiding travellers from around the world. Currently, I work with Druk Asia and SoulTrips as a tour guide. For me, filmmaking and guiding are not separate professions — both are about perspective, emotion, and storytelling.
As a filmmaker, which valley in Bhutan has the most magical natural light?
Sarpang, especially Singye County in Southern Bhutan.
The light there is soft, almost meditative. In the early morning, mist floats gently above the paddy fields, and when the sun rises, it slowly paints the landscape in gold. As a cinematographer, I often feel like nature has already done the lighting design for me.
Which is your favourite Bhutanese film?
Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom.
It is a story that whispers rather than shouts, yet it stays with you long after the screen fades to black. The film beautifully captures Bhutan’s quiet strength — our simplicity, resilience, and emotional depth — without ever trying to impress.
What moves me most is how it reveals the dignity and warmth of life in the most remote corners of our country. It reminds me that even in isolation, there is connection; even in hardship, there is grace. As a filmmaker, I deeply admire how authenticity becomes the film’s greatest power.
If you were to make a documentary about a lesser-known part of Bhutan, where would you set it?
I would choose Laya or Merak-Sakteng in the northern part of Bhutan.
These communities carry traditions that feel untouched by time. A documentary there would not only capture breathtaking landscapes but also explore resilience, identity, and the delicate balance between tradition and modernity — and most importantly, their culture.
After 15 years, what still excites you about being a tour guide?
The people.
Every group brings a new energy. Even if I walk the same trail a hundred times, the experience changes because of who I’m walking with. I enjoy being a cultural bridge, helping visitors understand Bhutan beyond postcards and photographs.
Which spot do you personally love but feel is overlooked?
Haa Valley, Western Bhutan.
It’s peaceful, raw, and beautifully understated. There’s something very honest about Haa — it doesn’t try to impress, yet it leaves a deep impression.
What’s the most unforgettable guest you’ve ever guided?
I once guided a solo traveller who came to Bhutan during a very difficult chapter in his life. Over the course of the journey, I watched him slowly open up through conversations, hikes, and quiet monastery visits.
On the second last day, after the Tiger’s Nest hike, he told me this trip had changed his perspective on life and thanked me for being his companion. Moments like that remind me that guiding is not just about destinations — it’s about transformation as well.
What’s the funniest thing a guest has ever said or done?
Near the café at Tiger’s Nest, a guest accidentally spun a prayer wheel in the opposite direction and confidently said, “I think I just reversed my karma!”
We all laughed — including our driver — and it turned into a meaningful discussion about intention and mindfulness.
Can you share a time when uncertainty turned magical?
Once, thick fog covered Tiger’s Nest just as we reached the first viewpoint. The group was disappointed. Instead of rushing back, we decided to wait in the cafeteria with a warm coffee.
Slowly, the fog began to lift, revealing the monastery piece by piece. The guests were speechless. That day reminded me that sometimes the unplanned moments are the most memorable ones.
With Gelephu Mindfulness City, how do you see Bhutan’s tourism narrative evolving?
Bhutan has always been known for Gross National Happiness and spiritual depth. With Gelephu Mindfulness City — a visionary initiative of His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck — I believe the country is stepping into a new chapter that blends ancient wisdom with thoughtful innovation.
His Majesty’s vision reflects mindful development, rooted in our culture and values. For tourism, this could mean a deeper shift towards wellness, sustainability, and conscious travel — not just visiting Bhutan, but truly experiencing its philosophy.
If nurtured carefully, Gelephu Mindfulness City may position Bhutan as a global example of how progress and tradition can move forward together.
What do you hope visitors take home besides photos?
A sense of stillness.
When they return home and pause a little more, appreciate simple moments, or reflect more deeply, then Bhutan as their selected destination has done its job.
What do you hope travellers remember about you?
I hope they remember me not just as a guide, but as someone who genuinely shared his country and heart with them. Moreover, I always tell my guests it’s always good to follow the middle way, since human desires will never end — and when they cannot quench their thirst, they can destroy one’s existing happiness as well.
So it’s very good to be content with what we have.
What advice would you give first-time visitors to Bhutan?
Do not rush.
This is not a country to “check off” immediately. Walk slowly, listen carefully, and let the mountains, monasteries, and people speak to you. And enjoy every breath from nature — unlike any other country.
This interview is part of the Passion and Purpose series where we shine a spotlight on the extraordinary individuals shaping Bhutan’s industries and communities across the different industries. Each feature explores the unique journeys, challenges, and achievements of Bhutanese professionals across diverse fields—tourism, arts, entrepreneurship, and more. Through heartfelt stories, we uncover what fuels their dedication and how they contribute to preserving Bhutan’s heritage, sustainability, and Gross National Happiness ethos.
