Passion and Purpose: Beyond the Scenery, The Soulful Encounters of Bhutan
Through the eyes of a local female tour guide, this article explores the profound moments that make Bhutan special, from witnessing travellers’ deep emotional connections at sacred sites to sharing the timeless legends and traditions of the land. It delves into the joys and challenges of guiding, the unique values that shape Bhutanese culture, and the reasons why this Himalayan kingdom leaves such a lasting impact on visitors.
1. Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired you to become a tour guide in Bhutan?
My name is Tshewang Dema, and I hail from Trashigang, in the far east of Bhutan. After completing high school in 2005, I embarked on a fulfilling journey in the travel industry, dedicating 13 years to a travel agency where I honed my skills in customer service, itinerary planning, and cultural exchange. This invaluable experience laid the foundation for my transition into guiding. In 2019, I became a licensed Cultural and Trekking tour guide, a path that allows me to merge my deep love for travel with my passion for sharing Bhutan’s rich heritage.
Guiding is more than a profession to me—it’s a calling. It’s about forging meaningful connections with people from all walks of life, weaving engaging narratives, and bringing Bhutan’s landscapes, history, and traditions to life. I strive to make each tour an educational and enjoyable adventure.
2. What were some challenges you faced as a female tour guide in Bhutan?
As a female tour guide in Bhutan, earning immediate trust and authority can sometimes be challenging. There’s an unconscious bias where some travellers initially assume male guides have more experience. However, I see this as an opportunity to challenge perceptions and prove that knowledge, passion, and dedication transcend gender.
3. What are the advantages of being a female tour guide in Bhutan?
Being a female tour guide has been an enriching journey. With the growing number of solo female travellers and women’s travel groups, there’s an increasing demand for female guides who provide not only cultural insight but also a sense of comfort and security. Many guests appreciate the warm, empathetic connections we foster, creating an environment where they feel at ease to ask questions, share thoughts, and immerse themselves fully in Bhutan’s beauty and traditions.
4. What do you love most about being a tour guide?
The opportunity to connect with people from around the world, exchanging stories and perspectives, is what I cherish most. Each traveller brings a new lens, making every tour an adventure filled with discovery and shared learning.
5. What’s the most rewarding experience you've had while guiding a tour?
One of the most rewarding experiences was leading a trekking tour through Bhutan’s breathtaking mountains, sharing stories of our cultural heritage and natural wonders. Witnessing my guests’ awe as they took in the scenery, listened to ancient legends, and immersed themselves in the tranquillity of the Himalayas was profoundly fulfilling.
6. What’s the most important Bhutanese value that travellers should understand?
Understanding Bhutan’s deep-rooted Buddhist influences, respect for traditional attire, commitment to environmental conservation, and cultural etiquette enriches a traveller’s experience. These values shape our way of life and embracing them allows visitors to form a deeper, more meaningful connection with the country and its people.
7. What’s your favourite season for guiding tours, and why?
I find Autumn season, particularly October and November to be specially rewarding. The skies are crisp and clear, and the landscapes transform into a stunning canvas of gold, red, and orange as the forests and villages embrace the changing seasons. It’s a time of vibrant festivals, breathtaking views, and a perfect blend of warmth and freshness in the air—an ideal season for exploration and cultural immersion.
8. What’s one of the most memorable questions a tourist has ever asked you?
A traveller once asked me, “Have you ever had a guest who was difficult to handle?” It was a thoughtful question that made me reflect on the different personalities I encounter as a guide. Every traveller is unique, bringing their own expectations, experiences, and perspectives. What stood out about that question was the traveller’s curiosity—not just about Bhutan, but about my experiences as a guide, the behind-the-scenes challenges, and the human aspect of this profession.
9. What is one of the most touching or memorable encounters you had while guiding?
Seeing a guest become emotional while visiting a holy place is one of the most profound moments in guiding. There’s something incredibly moving about witnessing someone’s deep spiritual connection unfold before you. I remember a guest who had travelled thousands of miles to Bhutan, and the moment she stepped inside a temple, fortress, or sacred site, she was overwhelmed—tears filled her eyes as a wave of peace, awe, and reverence washed over her.
Being there in that moment, offering quiet support while respecting her space, felt like a true privilege. It was a powerful reminder of how deeply certain places can resonate, carrying immense spiritual or personal significance. Those are the moments that stay with me long after the tour is over.
10. What’s a Bhutanese folk tale or legend that you love sharing with tourists?
One of my favourite stories to share is the legend of Pema Tshewang Tashi. He was a devoted servant and a Zimpoen (chamberlain) to his lord, known for his unwavering loyalty. When war broke out, he rode into battle on behalf of his master, knowing he might never return. Facing capture, he made the ultimate sacrifice, leaping from a cliff in Trongsa rather than surrender. His tale is one of courage, loyalty, and duty—core values that continue to shape Bhutanese identity today. It’s a story that never fails to captivate my guests, offering a glimpse into Bhutan’s history and the spirit of its people.
11. What’s one thing about Bhutan that always makes you smile?
The genuine warmth and happiness of our people. No matter where you go, you’ll find kindness, whether in the form of a heartfelt greeting, a shared meal, or a quiet moment of connection.
12. What advice would you give to first-time visitors to ensure they have the best possible experience in Bhutan?
While Bhutan is a developing country, its infrastructure and facilities may not always match the standards of more developed nations. However, this is part of its unique charm, offering an experience that is authentic and untouched by mass tourism. Embracing patience and flexibility will allow you to fully appreciate Bhutan’s beauty, culture, and way of life.
---
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.
