Bhutan Helicopter Services

Let's face it: Helicopters are just cool. These machines are capable of hovering, an ability that heretofore belonged only to hummingbirds and insects. They can fly low over glimmering waterways or sweeping forests, and are incredibly dexterous, turning sharply in midair. Without a doubt, they are one of the most enjoyable and effective ways to travel. As far as we here in Bhutan are concerned, however, they are much, much more. They are a huge step forward in the country's transportation sector, and commerce overall. The birth of Royal Bhutan Helicopter Services Ltd marked a new era in this landlocked country, and our company continues to offer new benefits today.

Bhutan Helicopter Services began operations in November 2015 and has safely transported more than 1,000 travelers. It has flown over 1,500 hours since operation begins.

To outsiders, Bhutan is known for its jeweled jungles and soaring peaks, situated as it is on the slopes of the Himalayas. Every year, thousands of tourists flock to the country to take in its gorgeous countryside, hike its trails and pay homage to Taktsang Palphug Monastery – a.k.a. the Tiger’s Nest – which is one of the most stunning Buddhist sites on Earth. Clinging to the side of a cliff, and so named for the “tiger lair” caves that tunnel through it, the temple is a remarkable example of 17th century architecture.

In the last several decades, Bhutan has become more and more accessible to outsiders, especially given the motivation tourism provides. As of 2014, Bhutan’s two airlines delivered almost a quarter million passengers to their destinations. It’s an impressive number – but a problem remained.

To Bhutan’s inhabitants, the country is not nearly so navigable. With steep mountain terrain, choked jungles and rivers too fast to use for transport, our nation relies on its network of farm roads. Despite building more than 10,000 kilometers of road in the last 50 years, the terrain still poses a challenge, and goods and services often face interruption.

Plus, Bhutan is landlocked between Tibet and India. As such, it has no ability to transport goods and trade by sea. Given the lack of feasible land on which to build airports, an effective helicopter network becomes even more important to the establishment of viable air services. Together, these reasons provided a solid impetus for the formation of an imperial helicopter company.

The heli scenic tour will begin by low overflying Paro valley covered in fertile rice fields along the meandering pa Cu rover which divides Paro valley. It passes over ancient rural villages followed by some of Bhutan’s most famous and prominent sights like Paro Rinpung Dzong built in 15th century which currently houses the administrative and monastic body of Paro. Slightly above the ridge is the Taa Dzong (currently National Museum) and minutes later a close up of the famous Tiger Nest Monastery! It's a breathtaking experience to see the monastery from the sky.

Further heading North towards Mount Jumolhari flying along the Pa Chu over the ruins of Drugyel Dzong built in 1649. Mouth Jumolhari which stands at 7,320 metres above the sea level is straddled between the autonomous region of Tibet and Bhutan. It is also one of the highest virgin peaks in the world. Climbing is banned as Bhutanese believe that deities live on top of the mountain. The helicopter would then land at the base of Jumolhari (Jangothang) for a quick snack and selfie time.

If you are lucky, you will get a chance to see the herds of Blue sheeps, Pseudonayaur, which are only found in the Himalayas.