Bhutanese-owned · Based in Thimphu
Your Local Travel Agency in Bhutan
Gu-Mar Travels & Tours is a Bhutan-based travel agency and tour operator with 15+ years of experience. We plan private, guided journeys across the Kingdom: culture and heritage tours, festival tours, luxury escapes, educational exchanges and special-interest trips, with 50 itineraries from 5 to 14 days, each one tailored to you.
- Private guide & driver
- Visa & SDF arranged
- Fully customisable itineraries
- Local team in Thimphu
exist?
Purpose
Vision
Name
Logo
Believe
connect
feels like
can trust us?
We connect travelers to Bhutan the way we would want to be connected to a place we love, honestly, and without a filter.
Every itinerary we build carries the same intention behind our name: the richness of human connection, so a conversation with a farmer in Haa, an afternoon with a local community group, or a shared meal at a family table becomes as much a part of the journey as the monasteries and mountain passes.
We also connect Bhutan outward. Working with tour leaders based beyond our borders, we make sure the first conversation someone has about visiting Bhutan already carries the trust our own families have built here for generations,
so by the time a traveler lands, they are not arriving as a stranger; they are arriving as someone we have already begun walking the road with.
Every journey begins with a name, and for us, Gu-Mar carries a meaning that goes beyond simply identifying a travel company.
Together, the name is inspired by the idea of a Mirror of Prosperity, a reflection of good fortune, growth, abundance, and positive energy, drawn from a Buddhist and Tibetan astrological perspective tied to the birth sign, where Gu-Mar is known as the Ninth Red Mewa.
What makes this name meaningful to us is how naturally its essence connects with travel. A journey opens doors to new places, new people, new cultures, and new possibilities, and that is exactly what Gu-Mar reflects: journeys filled with discovery, connection, opportunity, and meaning. To us, prosperity extends beyond material wealth. It means the richness of culture, the richness of human connection, the richness of experience, the richness of memories, and the richness of personal growth.
We started this company because we noticed something. Travelers would call Bhutan beautiful, would say the air felt different, the forests felt wonderful, and yet leave without feeling truly satisfied, something incomplete, something unfinished. Gu-Mar exists to change that.
Travel. Explore. Breathe. Experience. But above all, leave a footprint, not only a memory, but a journey taken with purpose.
Bhutan was never meant to be rushed through. It was meant to be felt, in the slow curl of incense smoke inside a four-hundred-year-old dzong, in the silence between prayer flags snapping on a mountain pass, in the taste of ema datshi shared at a farmhouse table with people who treat you like family before they even know your name.
We started Gu-Mar Travels and Tours because too many visitors leave Bhutan having seen it, but not having known it. Gu-Mar carries a piece of who we are, our roots, our land, our story. And that is exactly what we want to hand you, not a checklist of monasteries, but a doorway into a Bhutan that is lived in, breathing, and real.
We believe in journeys, not itineraries, the kind that leave you a little changed, not just a little tanned.
We exist because we are Bhutanese, telling Bhutan's story ourselves, not through a borrowed lens, but through the eyes of people who grew up under these same mountains. We believe the best trips are built on trust, the same trust our own families have carried for generations, now extended to you.
This is why we exist. This is Gu-Mar. Welcome to Bhutan. Welcome home.
It feels like the quiet weight of incense in an old dzong before you have said a word to anyone.
It feels like the pause between prayer flags snapping in the wind on a mountain pass, when the whole valley seems to hold its breath with you. It feels like being handed a plate of ema datshi at a farmhouse table by people who welcomed you like family before they knew your name.
Traveling with Gu-Mar should feel unhurried even on a full day, and it should feel like every stop was placed there with a reason, not to fill a schedule.
By the end, it should not feel like a trip you photographed and left behind. It should feel like a chapter you carry home, one that keeps showing up quietly in the way you see the world afterward.
Every element of our emblem has been thoughtfully woven together to represent Bhutanese identity, heritage, spirituality, adventure, prosperity, and our vision of meaningful travel.
At the heart of the mark sits a stylised number nine, the sacred figure behind Gu-Mar itself. In Himalayan tradition, nine is regarded as auspicious, associated with completeness and fulfillment, its flowing form resembling a path or a journey. Resting at its centre is the Endless Knot, known as Palbeu, one of the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism, representing wisdom, compassion, interconnectedness, and the idea that the relationships built through a journey continue long after the journey itself has ended.
Rising above the symbol are the Himalayan mountains, a reflection of Bhutan's extraordinary landscape and the courage to explore new horizons. A flowing golden cloud, drawn from traditional Bhutanese and Tibetan art, evokes blessing and prosperity, while a small aircraft represents the modern dimension of travel, connecting a company rooted in Bhutanese heritage to travelers from around the world. Surrounding all of it is a circular form representing the globe, the complete journey, and the idea that travel is not only about reaching a destination, but about the whole experience along the way.
Our colours carry meaning too.
Together they form our wordmark, Gu-Mar: Wisdom and Adventure, where blue speaks to wisdom and stability, and red speaks to energy and action.
Not simply a journey. A journey with meaning.
At Gu-Mar Travels and Tours, we believe travel should leave you with more than photographs. Our purpose is to craft journeys that inspire transformation, honour culture, create meaningful connections, and contribute positively to the places we visit.
- We want every journey to create meaningful experiences that go beyond sightseeing, toward memories that stay with you.
- We want to honour culture by experiencing Bhutan with respect, curiosity, and appreciation.
- We want to create a positive impact by supporting local communities and responsible travel.
- We want to travel with trust and care, serving every traveler with honesty, warmth, and attention.
- And above all, we want to give every journey purpose, because where you go matters, but how you travel matters even more.
For us, travel is not simply about moving from one destination to another. It is about the people we meet, the stories we carry, the culture we respect, and the difference we leave behind.
Trust, for us, is not a promise we print; it is something built the same way our name was chosen, with intention, and carried the same way a family carries its word across generations.
Deep midnight blue sits at the centre of our colours for that exact reason, trust, reliability, and professionalism, because travelers are placing their journey, and often their first experience of Bhutan, entirely in our hands.
We are Bhutanese, telling our own story rather than a borrowed one, and we serve every traveler with the honesty, warmth, and attention we would want shown to our own family. We are transparent about what a journey will involve, sincere in the service we give, and committed to making sure every itinerary we curate leaves both the traveler and the community behind it a little better off.
That is not a slogan. It is the same trust that has carried our families for generations, now extended to you.
At Gu-Mar Travels and Tours, we believe travel is not simply about where you go. It is about how you go, what you discover, and what you leave behind. We believe a journey should create more than beautiful photographs; it should create understanding, respect, connection, and meaning.
- We believe every journey should have a purpose.
- We believe culture should be experienced with respect, not merely consumed.
- We believe local people should be part of the value created by tourism.
- We believe nature should be explored without compromising its future.
- We believe travelers should arrive with curiosity and leave with gratitude.
For us, Bhutan is not just a destination to sell. It is a living story of people, mountains, traditions, spirituality, and communities, one that deserves to be encountered thoughtfully. We do not simply want to take you somewhere. We want to help you understand where you are.
The best journeys do not end when you return home. They continue in the way you think, remember, and see the world.
To be a trusted gateway to authentic Bhutanese experiences, inspiring purposeful journeys that connect travelers with Bhutan's culture, people, nature, and timeless way of life.
We envision travel as more than reaching a destination. We believe every journey should have a purpose, a chance to discover, experience, connect, and create memories that last a lifetime. We aspire to showcase Bhutan beyond its well-known attractions, taking travelers closer to its sacred monasteries, vibrant festivals, Himalayan landscapes, rich traditions, local communities, and unique way of life.
Our vision is to grow as a professional, responsible, and proudly Bhutanese travel company, creating journeys that are authentic for our guests, meaningful for local communities, and respectful of Bhutan's culture and natural heritage.
Ultimately, we want Gu-Mar Travels and Tours to be remembered not simply as a travel agent, but as a trusted companion in discovering Bhutan, where every journey becomes a story, every experience creates a connection, and every visit leaves a lasting impression.
About Gu-Mar
Our Tour Packages
Experience the essence of Bhutan in comfort. Visit iconic dzongs, monasteries and valleys, stay in clean, government-approved 3-star hotels, and travel with a licensed guide and private vehicle throughout.
8 Journeys · 5–14 days
View DetailsA step up in comfort and depth. Stay in hand-selected 4-star hotels and heritage boutique resorts with a senior specialist guide and private luxury SUV, plus curated immersions — a hot stone bath, a farmhouse cooking demonstration and a private archery lesson.
7 Journeys · 7–10 days
View DetailsBhutan at its most exceptional. Fully private journeys at ultra-luxury lodges such as Amankora, Six Senses, Pemako and COMO Uma, with an executive chauffeur, a senior scholar guide, bespoke dining, signature spa rituals and closed-door access to sacred dzongs.
8 Journeys · 7–14 days
View DetailsLearning journeys for schools, universities, educators and youth groups — with institutional clearances, guest lecturers and Gross National Happiness researchers, a senior academic liaison guide, and stays in 3-star hotels, school dormitories or homestays.
7 Programmes · 8–10 days
View DetailsBhutan, designed around you — journeys built around who you are and what you love: honeymooners, solo travellers, families, seniors, photographers, birders, food lovers, wellness and spiritual seekers, walkers, artists, filmmakers and riders.
14 Journeys · 7–12 days
View DetailsOccasions that can be experienced — masked dances at the Punakha and Thimphu Tshechus, midnight fire rituals in Bumthang, nomad games in Laya, the Haa Summer Festival and the winter return of the Black-Necked Cranes.
6 Journeys · 8–10 days
View DetailsWhy Choose Gumar Travels?
Your local guide to the Land of the Thunder Dragon
From the cloud-wrapped monasteries above Paro to the quiet sacred valleys of Punakha, we build trips that reach far beyond the usual checklist of sights. Here's why travellers pick Gumar Travels to see the Bhutan that guidebooks miss.
What Drives Us
We see travel as more than a checklist. Our aim is to introduce the world to Bhutan's living culture, untouched landscapes and the spirit of Gross National Happiness, done the right way.
Care That Doesn't Stop
From the moment you first reach out until we wave you off at the airport, our team stays close. Every itinerary gets our full attention and a personal touch.
Honest Pricing
Clear, upfront rates with nothing hidden. Every ngultrum goes toward making your time in Bhutan genuinely worthwhile.
Homegrown Knowledge
Our guides grew up here — they know the history, the festivals and the trails most tours never find. Travel with people who call this home.
Thoughtful Standards
Well-chosen hotels, comfortable private rides and itineraries with breathing room built in. We handle the details so you can just take it all in.
Peace of Mind
Licensed, insured and safety-minded at every stage. With Gumar Travels, you travel knowing a dependable team has your back.
Gu-Mar Friendship Book
Make a friend on the other side of the world
Share your story, your dreams and the things you love, and discover people who feel the same. Open to everyone, free, and no booking needed.
No Autos yet. Be the first to share yours, and your profile will appear right here!
How to Book Your Bhutan Trip
-
01
Tell Us Your Dream Trip
Share your dates, interests and pace. We craft a personalised itinerary around them, free of charge, and refine it with you until it feels just right.
-
02
We Arrange Everything
Flights on Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines, hand-picked hotels, a licensed English-speaking guide and private transport, all organised by our team in Thimphu.
-
03
Secure Your Visa & Payment
Confirm with a deposit and we process your Bhutan visa and Sustainable Development Fee on your behalf. No embassy visits, no queues, no guesswork.
-
04
Fly In and Begin
Your guide greets you at Paro airport with a warm kuzuzangpo la. From that moment every detail is taken care of. All you do is travel with purpose.
Fixed Departure Bhutan Tours
Carefully planned journeys on set dates, timed to Bhutan’s festival calendar and led by licensed local guides. Travel in a small group, share the experience, and leave the logistics to us.
Upcoming Events
23–24Oct 2026
Laya, Gasa · 3,800 m
Royal Highland Festival
Meet the nomadic Layap people beneath the snow peaks bordering Tibet — decorated yak parades, high-altitude races, wrestling and ancient Layap dances.
Join it on our Royal Highland Experience · 10D/9N
26–29Oct 2026
Jambay Lhakhang, Bumthang
Jambay Lhakhang Drup
One of Bhutan’s oldest temple festivals — walk beneath the flaming Mewang fire arch for purification and witness the sacred midnight Tercham dance.
Join it on our Jambay Lhakhang Drup Experience · 10D/9N
11Nov 2026
Gangtey Goenpa, Phobjikha Valley
Black-Necked Crane Festival
The valley celebrates the return of the sacred Black-Necked Cranes from Tibet with crane dances, folk songs and conservation plays by local schoolchildren.
Join it on our Black-Necked Crane Season · 9D/8N
Festival dates follow the Bhutanese lunar calendar and are tentative until confirmed each year. See all Festival Tours →
Good to Know
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything travellers ask us before planning a journey to Bhutan with Gu-Mar Travels & Tours.
What is Gu-Mar Travels & Tours?
Gu-Mar Travels & Tours (also written Gumar Travels) is a proudly Bhutanese travel company that designs purposeful journeys through Bhutan: culture and heritage tours, festival tours, luxury escapes, educational exchanges and special-interest trips. We are Bhutanese, telling Bhutan’s story ourselves, and we believe in journeys, not itineraries.
What does the name “Gu-Mar” mean?
Gu means the number nine and Mar means red. Together, Gu-Mar is known as the Ninth Red Mewa in Buddhist and Tibetan astrology, and the name is inspired by the idea of a Mirror of Prosperity: a reflection of good fortune, growth, abundance and positive energy.
What tours does Gu-Mar offer in Bhutan?
We offer 50 tour packages from 5 to 14 days in six collections:
- Standard Tour Packages: essential Bhutan with 3-star hotels
- Deluxe Tour Packages: deeper journeys with 4-star hotels
- Luxurious Tour Packages: 5-star resorts and private experiences
- Educational Exchange Tours: for schools, universities and educators
- Special Tour Packages: honeymoon, family, photography, birding, wellness, cycling and more
- Festival Tour Packages: timed to the Tshechu festivals and crane season
You can compare them all on our Tour Packages page.
Do I need a tour operator to visit Bhutan?
Yes, for most visitors. All non-Indian, non-Bangladeshi and non-Maldivian nationals must travel through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator such as Gu-Mar. We process your visa clearance and the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) on your behalf before you arrive.
What is included in a Gu-Mar tour?
Our packages include a private vehicle with an English-speaking licensed guide, hotel accommodation, all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) as per the itinerary, the Sustainable Development Fee, government royalty and applicable taxes, and bottled water during transfers and sightseeing. International flights to Paro, the visa processing fee, travel insurance and personal expenses are not included.
When is the best time to visit Bhutan?
March to May and September to November bring clear skies and the main festival seasons. Highlights include the Punakha Tshechu (February–March), the Thimphu Tshechu (September–October), the Jambay Lhakhang Drup (October–November) and the Black-Necked Crane Festival on 11 November, with crane season running from November to February. See our upcoming events for the next festivals.
Can Gu-Mar customise a trip for me?
Yes. Every itinerary can be adapted to your dates, interests and pace, hotels can be upgraded to 4-star or boutique heritage properties, and educational programmes can run from 7 to 21 days. Tell us what you would like to experience and we will shape the journey around you.
How do I book a tour with Gu-Mar?
Choose a tour and send us an enquiry using the form on its page, or contact us directly. Prices are on request: we reply with a full quote for your group size and travel dates, then arrange your permits, visa clearance, guide and hotels.
Explore the Land of the Thunder Dragon
From the golden halls of Tashichho Dzong to the cliffside Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan is a kingdom where ancient tradition and untouched Himalayan nature live side by side. Travel with Gu-Mar’s local guides through sacred dzongs, high mountain passes and living festivals, on a journey shaped around you.
Getting to Bhutan
Discover the beauty of Bhutan with ease and comfort.
Bhutan is accessible by air from the only International Airport in Paro valley or by land from various parts of the country. The overland travel serves only as a transit destination without much activities to engage in and only recommendable if you are combining your India trip with Bhutan.
Guest Stories
Travelled with Gu-Mar?
We would love to hear about your journey in Bhutan. Share your experience with us and, with your permission, we may feature it here.
Guest Stories
