Sonam Therchen | Founder & CEO

Born and raised in the foothills of the Himalayas, I have always been deeply connected to nature, culture, and adventure. Travel has never been just a profession for me—it is a way of life, a means of storytelling, and a bridge between people, traditions, and landscapes. Over the past 17 years, I have dedicated myself to curating immersive travel experiences that go beyond the ordinary, allowing travelers to explore Bhutan and its neighboring regions in a way that is authentic, engaging, and transformative.

As the founder of Truly Bhutan Travel, my mission is to create journeys that inspire, broaden perspectives, and leave a lasting impact. Whether it’s trekking through Bhutan’s pristine mountains, immersing in centuries-old festivals, encountering rare wildlife, or indulging in rejuvenating wellness retreats, I believe that travel should be more than just an itinerary—it should be an experience that lingers in the heart and soul.

My Journey in Tourism

My career in travel began in 2008 as a guide, where I had the privilege of leading extraordinary individuals, including the King of Tonga (2012), the Chief Justice of Canada, and a host of distinguished dignitaries and world travelers. These experiences deepened my understanding of what truly makes a journey unforgettable—attention to detail, cultural authenticity, and a sense of wonder.

Beyond tour guiding, I have been managing Luxury Travels in Bhutan since 2011, curating high-end, tailor-made experiences for discerning travelers. My passion for sustainable and responsible tourism led me to become the Country Chapter representative for The International Ecotourism Society in 2019, advocating for ethical travel practices that preserve Bhutan’s rich heritage while benefiting local communities. I am also a lifetime member of the Guide Association of Bhutan, further strengthening my commitment to excellence in Bhutanese tourism.

A Deeply Personal Approach to Travel

What sets Truly Bhutan Travel apart is the philosophy that travel is about forging genuine connections—not just with places, but with people, traditions, and the stories that make a destination come alive. My team and I go beyond standard itineraries to craft journeys that blend adventure, culture, wellness, and sustainability.

We ensure that every traveler:
✅ Explores Bhutan’s untouched landscapes with experienced, knowledgeable guides
✅ Engages with local communities through homestays, cultural exchanges, and immersive activities
✅ Experiences authentic Bhutanese traditions, from monastic ceremonies to indigenous crafts
✅ Travels responsibly, staying in eco-friendly accommodations and supporting local artisans and businesses

A Commitment to Sustainable & Meaningful Travel

Sustainability is at the heart of everything I do. At Truly Bhutan Travel, we focus on:
🌱 Low-impact travel—protecting Bhutan’s natural and cultural heritage
🛖 Community-driven tourism—ensuring that locals benefit from every journey
🎭 Cultural preservation—promoting Bhutan’s unique traditions and way of life

Every trip with Truly Bhutan Travel is designed to honor the spirit of Bhutan, fostering respect, reciprocity, and a sense of discovery.

Beyond Travel

In addition to my work in tourism, I am a multilingual storyteller, fluent in English, Nepali, Hindi, Chinese, and Spanish. Writing, photography, and meaningful conversations fuel my creativity. Whether I’m crafting new itineraries, capturing Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes through my lens, or simply sharing travel stories, my passion remains the same—to connect people with the magic of exploration.

For me, travel is not just about movement—it is about awakening curiosity, embracing new perspectives, and creating moments of wonder. Through Truly Bhutan Travel, I strive to turn dreams into reality, one extraordinary journey at a time.