Environment
Offsetting Our Carbon Footprint: We have partnered with a monastery in Wangduephodrang, located in Western Bhutan. Every guest who visits the monastery will participate in planting a tree, contributing to a healthier climate, preserving wildlife habitat, protecting biodiversity, and maintaining Bhutan as a negative carbon destination.
Vehicles: Traveling by road is an integral part of experiencing Bhutan. To ensure minimal environmental impact, all our vehicles comply with the National Environment Commission’s (NEC) Emission Standards. All of our vehicles are at most five years, and each undergoes regular servicing and emission checks.
Waste Management: We are dedicated to maintaining Bhutan’s pristine landscapes. During our treks, guides and porters collect all waste, ensuring it’s properly disposed of and recycled. We avoid washing utensils or setting up bathing tents near streams and rivers, vital water sources for high-altitude communities. Toilet tents are set up away from water sources and are properly managed upon camp breakdown. Non-biodegradable waste is always brought back or left at designated disposal sites.
Preservation: To prevent deforestation and the risk of forest fires, especially during peak trekking seasons, we avoid using firewood. Instead, we use gas stoves for cooking and refrain from lighting bonfires, even though 70% of Bhutan is covered by forests.
Eco-Friendly Accommodations: We promote low-carbon tourism by partnering with eco-friendly hotels and lodges that utilize renewable energy and source supplies from local, organic farmers.
Our Tours: Our tours strike a perfect balance between nature engagement and cultural immersion. We encourage visits to less-traveled destinations and routes to reduce pressure on popular tourist sites. Activities like day hikes, bicycle tours, and short treks are included in our itineraries to reduce carbon footprints while promoting an appreciation for Bhutan’s natural heritage.
Employee Welfare: We value our employees and their contributions. We recognize the importance of holistic employee welfare and the crucial role of a safe and positive work environment in ensuring employees’ well-being and productivity. Our appreciation is shown through various bonus plans and welfare schemes. Permanent employees benefit from the Provident Fund Scheme and a monthly rental allowance. We also sponsor workshops, educational tours, and short-term courses for those seeking to broaden their knowledge. Regular holidays and excursions are organized to foster camaraderie and team spirit.
Ethical Tourism:
- We do not employ child labour.
- We encourage the participation of women in tourism and uphold equal rights for all employees.
- We adhere to strict government guidelines for compensating temporary workers like porters and cooks.
- We do not arrange illegal substances or banned activities for our guests.
- All environmental guidelines are strictly followed in our operations.
- In order to be more immersive, we encourage our guests to interact with locals and appreciate cultural institutions without pressure for monetary contributions.