Ugen Tshering is the co-founder of Wind Horse Tours. In cold wintry night of 1997, over a log fire in lawn of hotel in Thimphu, along with other guides, the seed of Wind Horse Tours was first sown, and in 1998, it came to life. By that time, as a guide, Ugen had traversed not only nook and corners of Bhutan, but as Tour Leader and Guide, he also also led several trips in southeast Asia, China and central Asia. He spent several years living and travelling in India and Nepal.
He attended his school in Bhutan and went to USA to pursue further Studies. He has also lived for a short time in Netherlands and UK. The lighter story goes that he was bitten by travel bug when he was a kid. The travel exuberance and to seek the unknown was the driving force that took him to places. After Montana and New York city, in 2001, he relocated himself with his family to Minneapolis in USA and set up Wind Horse Sales office . With time his wanderlust hasn’t diminished, he still travels extensively. And visits Nepal, India and Bhutan to take stock of changes that the places have seen.
He came through ranks, with modest beginning as guide, and with time in any trade comes the experience. And this is what sets him apart from the rest. His insights and knowledge is what makes a difference when he frames an itinerary.
Rinzin Jamtsho is among the fortunate few who have seen tourism in Bhutan growing in stature from close quarter in term of tourism infra structures, growth in tourists etc. To a fair degree he has been part of the process of the slow and cautious opening of tourism in Bhutan to the outside world.
After finishing his bachelor degree from Bhutan, he joined Bhutan Tourism Board, as a man behind the formulation andapplication of Bhutan Tourism policies. Sitting behind the desk was hardly the way he perceived his career to roll out, With passage of time, his innate sense of adventure was asking more questions than he could find answers to.
Finally, after serving for 13 years as government officer in Tourism Board in a elite capacity, his intrinsic sense of adventure got better of him. He quit and subsequently met Ugen, whose proposals was congenial to the kind of work he envisioned. He joined Wind Horse Tours in 2008 as a managing partner. He hold the mantle of Promotion & Marketing of Wind Horse office, Thimphu. This jobs takes him far and wides places, sometime as far as London, Berlin, Moscow to attend trade fairs.
In his career spanning under two decades, it took him to Austria, Singapore for studies and training to polish his deep rooted love for adventures and it cultivated a fresh perspective for Tourism in Bhutan.
He is instrumental in materialising the long standing collective vision of Wind Horse Ranch and Riding club, a low carbon footprint products. He is at helm of affairs and being a good horse rider himself, he is at ease at horse ranch, when he is free.
“Being the traveller ourself first” is what Kinga Dechen advocates and guiding philosophy that define him. This trait and wanderlust in him droves him to many places trying to find expression and meaning to his travel craving . Once he said ” Travelling is the best education”. After passing his class 12 from Bhutan, and to take his disposition of travel further up, he enrolled for guide course conducted by Department of Tourism. After completion in 1995, and during the course of journey as a guide, to hone his skills, he relentlessly pursued further towards the new frontiers of Bangok, Thailand, Salburgs in Austria and Israel for training in the arena of Tourism.For him this open up flood gate of new perspectives towards tourism.
He joined office of Wind Horse Tours, Thimphu, Bhutan in 2008 as a local partner, a fitting tribute to company’s core philosophy. Now, he is man behind every tours that are conducted in Bhutan, in other words he is operational head.
During his formative year in his village, birds piqued his interest and mesmerise him especially by the birds distinct call and sound . He knew the name of birds locally by then, later he joined birding workshop and classes to delve deeper into his passion. Since then he has led countless number of birding tour across every nook and corner of the country.
More often than not, the call of the quaint villages, wilderness of trek is so intense that he set aside his desk works and leads the tour, this is how or the only way he knows to unwind himself from stress of daily life.
Since kid, Jambay Dorji was sold to idea of travelling, growing upamidst the bountiful nature in Trongsa, left an indelible imprint in his mind. His fascination grew stronger as the time flew. He joined the travel industry, right after his completion of Bachelor degree from Kalimpong college of arts.
Like most of colleague at Wind Horse, he started his career in travel trade as travel guide, he came through ranks, and now he is a Sale Director. Although he completed his training in both – cultural and trekking aspects. But affiliation towards trek is morestrong.
His love for nature is so deep seated that he find himself at peace in the wilderness of trek as well as the passion that he holds so dearly – Birds.He attended birding classes and workshops that gave wings to his passion and given any opportunity, he is either trekking or amidst the vegetation watching birds in action, probably the only way he know to let his hairs down, after hard days at work.
As a kid, his head start in schooling was in Trongsa, and went to different school in the country.He was instrumental behind the opening of Sale and Support office in Phuentsholing. Currently he is settled in Thimphu. He looks after the sale as well as lend helping hand in the affairs of operation of the tours in Thimphu.
Yonten Jamtsho may concede an air of youthful exuberance, footloose and fancy freenessand laid backness to a larger degree,however beneath these exteriors lies a hard working, focussed, patientand a manager whose skills is par excellence. He joined Wind Horse Tours in 2010 in a modest capacity. But he has worked through ranks gradually and now have reached as overall in-charge and manager of operationalworks. With his sheer diligent, he has not only earn the respects of staffs and colleagues but also earn the stakes at the company.
He is the guy who springs into action, if vehicle break down midway of tours or need replacement at short notice. Largely his passion for travelling or more specifically seeking adventures can contribute to the way he does his works. He simply loves what he do. In prior to joining Wind Horse Tours and after finishing his college with Bachelor Degree with Sociology as major from Darjeeling, he tried many jobs but finally was at home atWind Horse Tours, Thimphu, Bhutan.
You can find him talk endlessly on the subjects that command his passion and enthusiasm specifically about Bhutan and world of travel. To add colours tohis craving for adventures he leads the group, preferably to remote villages, and wilderness of trek that naturally finds natural setting for his new found passion for Photography.
Since his early childhood, every summer Bas visited the European Alps with his parents. Hiking and trekking at first, rock climbing and mountaineering when he was older. Later he started enjoying other mountain activities such as skiing, snowboarding and mountain biking. After completing his studies in Environmental Science, where he specialized in the subject of nature conservation and poverty alleviation in developing countries, he decided to book a plane ticket to Delhi and fulfill a long time childhood dream: see the great mountains of the Himalayas. For about a year he travelled to the remote corners of the Himalaya in India, Nepal and Tibet. During this time he also started studying Tibetan Buddhism.
After returning home he decided to start working as a tourleader in Asia. For 3 years he guided many Dutch trekking groups in Nepal, India and Tibet. During this period he learned that sharing his passion for mountains and Buddhism with other people gave him tremendous satisfaction. In 2008 he started an office job as product manager Asia at the biggest Dutch adventure tour operator in the Netherlands. In the next 7 years he would learn many different aspects of the travel business. During this period he visited Bhutan twice, and instantly fell in love with this Himalayan Kingdom.
In 2016 a new chapter in his career started with the opening of a Wind Horse Tours office in Europe. Here he will engage himself with marketing Bhutan as a amazing destination and with advising customers in order to create itineraries which perfectly suit their wishes and needs. But most of all, he will be able to share his passion for the Himalaya and Bhutan with other people.
Bas lives in Nijmegen (Netherlands) with his wife and two young daughters. His daughters regularly ask him to tell bedtime stories about yaks, tigers and dragons.
Santosh Gupta hails from one of most colourful, vibrant, idyllic state of India – Rajasthan. Growing up in such a historical and picturesque state has its share on leaving an indelible imprints on his young minds. He says ” He used to miss school to visit City Palace, Amer Fort, Jai Mahal in Jaipur and its magic still hold on strong”
He carried his childhood passion to a greater height and it influenced in shaping up his career. He joined travel industry in 1992 and due to his sheer diligent he could carved a niche in the company he was working in Delhi and become a CEO.
His friendship with Ugen (CEO Bhutan office then) goes a long ways in prior to establishment of Wind Horse Tours in New Delhi. Both shared the common visions and travel ideal and it was only matter of time to find a platform to expressed their brand of travel philosophies. Finally office was established in 2005. Santosh Gupta is the director and partner and brainchild behind every tour in India.
Anand Thapa who hail from Jaigoan – one horse town that border with south west commercial hub, Phuentsholing, Bhutan. He had his schooling in Bhutan. Later he went to Darjeeling to pursue further education. With the lush green tea garden, colonial churches and looming Mt Kanchenjunga captured his imagination, this is how travelling struck him deep.
After his studies, he went to Kathmandu and to different cities in India, making a living doing odds jobs. Finally, he joined Wind Horse tours overlooking the affairs of guests relations, marketing in 2013. Meeting and interaction with guests from different walk of life have fuelled his passion to a new height and claims to be a huge influence as alearning experience.
Heera Singh Tamang comes from the hills of Kavrepalanchok near the Kathmandu Valley, but he spent many of his formative years in Bhutan, where he completed his secondary education. After that, he continued his studies in India, earning his higher secondary and bachelor’s degrees there. He has also traveled extensively and visited parts of Nepal, Bhutan, Sikkim, Darjeeling, and the North East Region of India. This wide array of experiences has given him a unique perspective on the region.
After completing his bachelor’s degree, he returned to his home country Nepal. Though he tried different jobs and even went to the UAE and Saudi Arabia in search of better prospects, he could not find the kind of satisfaction he was seeking. He worked in various roles in a healthcare facility for some time before eventually returning to Nepal. Despite the challenges of not finding the ideal job, he continued to be determined to create a better life for himself and ultimately succeeded in doing so.
After returning to Nepal, he joined Wind Horse Tours in 2016. During his time there, he has been able to gain valuable knowledge about the tourism business, which has enabled him to take on an important role in Wind Horse Nepal’s operations. He is extremely proud to be part of the Wind Horse team and looks forward to continuing to grow in the company.
Rajat Gupta is the gun young at Wind Horse Tours, New Delhi. With his advent there is infusion of fresh ideas, exuberance and passion , that changing travel scenario demands. He completed his degree course in Tourism Management in 2014.
At Wind Horse Tour, India, he is setting pace for innovations and fresh perspectives to thrive and to meet new demands. With opening of window for Visa on Arrival for many countries by Indian Government, this has thrown door wide open for travel industries to redesign structural patterns in term of infrastructures and itineraries.
He inherited the passion for the travel business from his father Santosh Gupta. While growing up or still now the travel talks hogs the limelight at the dinner table. He alway knew what he wanted or how he wants to shape up his career. Choosing travel management course was a conscious choice to hone his passion.
Hem Raj Bastola is a permanent inhabitant of Pokhara-22, a rural area in the outskirts of Pokhara. He has been working as a tour and trekking guide since 2010. Formerly he has worked as a guest service agent in a hotel in Pokara. He started his career as a Cave guide, ticket salesman at Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave in Pokhara. So most of his working experience is related to tourism and hospitality industry. Beside his guiding profession, he enjoys reading and writing poetry. His poets have been published in different forums and medias. When he is not Guiding , he is a full time farmer; raising cows, goats and farming with his wife and two children.
Having done all the treks in Annapurna region, upper Mustang and Manaslu area over many times, he is our expert in the area. He is extremely patient, empathetic and joyful person is what each our guests say !
Guest visiting Hem at home
Hem’s Children entertaining in rice fields
Thorangla Pass
Lo Manthang in 2018 – come here soon
Khopra Trek with Katrina and Phelix with Dhaulagiri range in backdroprange
Say Cheers to Tea
Before chipla on Annapurna circuit, lets laugh it out
In his early days, Kumar had to walk for hours to reach his school, passing through small villages, hills, and rivers with beautiful views of snow-capped mountains along the way. This sparked his curiosity about the rest of the country and its culture, leading him to develop a strong interest in learning about new places and meeting new people.
After he completed high school, he started his career as a trekking guide due to his passion for nature, culture, and adventure. Over the course of time, he has received extensive training in mountain safety, trekking, and cultural guiding. Kumar has led several groups on treks to popular regions like Annapurna, Everest, and Langtang, showcasing his expertise as a trekking guide. Furthermore, he is equally well-versed in the cultural attractions of Nepal, serving as a cultural guide as well.
Joining Wind Horse Tours as a Nepal partner was a significant milestone in his career. Kumar believes that working as a guide not only allows him to explore the beauty of Nepal but also provides ample opportunities to immerse himself in the diverse cultures of the country. In his leisure time, he enjoys hanging out with friends and continuing his explorations. He is excited about the prospect of traveling and discovering new places beyond Nepal in the future.
Following the tradition, Pema Choden joined Wind Horse Tours, Thimphu, Bhutan as a reservation trainee in 2008. Right after passing her 12th standard from Thimphu School. Over the time she quickly learn the trade and along with Nidup Gyelmo, they form a competent duo. They are the pillars through which the reservation of hotels fall into its places.
She harbour passion for reading books, dancing and render unconditional support to the cleanliness drive that the Wind Horse undertake regularly.
A good sense of humour is the currency that prevail everywhere regardless of the time or circumstances. An asset that that has potential to make even the ordinary trip into extraordinary. Sonam Loday has this traits in abundance. This is intrinsic and come as naturally as bees to the flower. He wears it in his sleeve in every tours that he conducts and this is one aspects that steal the limelight when we receive the feedbacks from the guests.
He finished his higher secondary school in 2005. Subsequently, he was at loose end trying to find meaning to his life and career, a chance meeting with a group of tourists resurrected his passion for the trade. He did his cultural guide course in 2005 and trekking in 2007. He burn the midnight oils to complete his senior guide course in 2008. He joined Wind Horse Tours in 2009 and has led countless tours with flair and his brand of humour.
Horse Riding in Gangtey
He got something important to say sometimes
With Indian group
He has a way to turn his guest into buddies
river rafting with guest
Assisting Guest wear traditional attire
Sometimes an adventure include Heliride
Receiving Guest at the airport
Carrying Filming Equipment
As a forester searching for exotic birds
with a youth from India
Riding Horses in Gangtey
Sonam in his generic pose
Along with great sense of humour, he is well versed on both aspects cultural as well as trek. The Horse riding course refuelled his passion for horses to a new height in 2010. He is the coordinator and manager of Wind Horse Ranch and Riding Club – a low carbon footprint product. In 2017-18, he also helped start Wind Horse Ranch in Phobjikha (Gangtey).
Horse Riding in Gangtey
He got something important to say sometimes
With Indian group
He has a way to turn his guest into buddies
river rafting with guest
Assisting Guest wear traditional attire
Sometimes an adventure include Heliride
Receiving Guest at the airport
Carrying Filming Equipment
As a forester searching for exotic birds
with a youth from India
Riding Horses in Gangtey
Sonam in his generic pose
When it comes to giving air to his interests and passion, he has varied propensities, it ranges from being cultural and trek guide to horse manager to his new found passion – mountain biking, his new best friend. On weekend, perhaps he will be one among the many guys to come across in Thimphu biking zone. And also among the few to volunteer first for audacious Haa to Phuentsholing Trip.
Yonten Phuntsho is one of our senior most guide. And well versed on his business. Initially, he conceded an impression of a man of a few words but I was in for surprise with the knowledge of his job, great sense of humour and congenial personality- simply one cannot judge a book by its cover. His unwavering focus, dedication, knowledge and passion runs deep for the love of his works. His aptly quote Barbara Kingsolver “I do my best work if I think about what it is I have to offer”.
From the outset, he knew what he wants to do in his life. Right after finishing his Class 12, he enrolled for guide course for culture initially then extended few more month to complete course on Trekking as well in 2008. After doing free lancing for a while, he joined Wind Horse Tours in 2010.
For most Bhutanese, appeals that mountainous terrains throw in for an out door adventures are native. In the case of Yonten, it was no exception. He easily gave in to the temptation of Mountain biking with its advent. He explored and lead tours in his bike but his allegiance is more inclined to off road biking trips that leads to quaint villages. To explore the unknown and love for nature, these attributes that he cultivated while trekking the alpine highlands and wilderness in remote corner of country was what prompt him to readily agree to embark on audacious Haa to Phuentsholing on mountain bike, overcoming challenges of carrying bike in tough terrains, untamed vegetations and unexplored areas.
On Left -Yonten & rest in Phobjika Valley
Second Left – Yonten and the rest – all rest to continue journey further carring the bike
Growth in Tourism in Bhutan has also its share of impact on young minds. With tourists freely moving around, the curiosities to know them, talk to them holds ground firmly on young minds . Namgay is one among many youth whose imagination was captured by razzmatazz of tourism.
He has his career goal cut out, he could have easily opted for some comfortable desk jobs, after passing out in flying colours from prestigious St Joseph college Darjeeling in 2010 but he chose to pursue his dream, he loved to be in field, among the guests, so it was only matter of time to enroll for guiding course.
His first foray into job was in 2013 at Wind Horse Tours and still he is going great guns. Feed Backs from guests that he led are great testimonial to his dedication.
He prodigiously read books that open up new frontiers and interaction with guests coupled with sound command of English takes his outlook towards learning and experiences altogether to different height.
Sonam Palden is smitten by games most notably national sports of Bhutan- Archery. While growing up in beautiful Ura valley in Bumthang, unlike other kid, he played with traditional traditional bows and arrows. He completed his class 12 from Punakha in 2003. Subsequently he pursued his passion for five years that took him to national limelight. But he missed by whisker to qualify for international.
Slightly disheartened, he refocused with same intensity and passion to make a mark as a travel guide. In 2008, brandishing his guide license and dream in his eyes he joined Wind Horse , the rest as they is history…
One of the guest said, ” If not a travel guide, Sonam could be Buddhist scholar and his command over english concedes to be an Oxford educated”.
There is hardly any prize for guessing for what he does during his free time, 145 m (476 ft) between 2 wooden targets in archery ground still rules his passion with frenzy.
Love for sport is inherent in him, when Wind Horse started specialised tour like mountain Biking, he jumped into bandwagon happily, although he was doing mountain biking before but in bits and pieces, an opportunity was served on platter, it largely assisted him to hone his skill as well to live to his sporting adrenaline rushes. Whenever free he does a recce of region lying in Thimphu and leads the tour across country. The most audacious biking trip till date along with Sonam Loday, Sonam Palden was from Haa to Phuentsholing via narrow trail, through untamed vegetation and uncharted territory.
Since 2017, he is also a trained photographer and birder. His photography is mostly with birding and he joins the seasoned birding guides of Wind Horse.
Biking in Phobjika in winter
Sonam Palden on Haa trip, carring Bike due to no roads
Subash is fun, friendly and always entertaining. He is adored by ever group for his frankness, ever readiness to extend a hand.
He is passionate about his job and loves Buddhism. He will entertain, humor you and go to the lengths to make your each day an enjoyable one.
Here is what he says: “I am a great lover of Buddha and his teachings. The importance of King, country and it’s people has be my moto of life with my cute little daughter and beautiful wife.
Watching birds and its habitats is juice of my life which fuels my day to day work. Being the part of Hospitality industry, it really made my life echoes with rhythm of warm heart and the bridge for rest of the world. The only camera that can capture the beauty of my country is our eyes and store in the heart. I take it this way we are bound with same destination but the journey decide the connection of life, accept what Karma hits back and never aspect rather be thankful for the best of what you have and what you got.”
Predominatingly, tour executive or guide as a career option was a male dominated domain. However since last 2 decades, the girls have been foraying into this arena, maintaining a finer balance. Also it is seen that women principally specialises in culture and nature. However a few are venturing into rugged, weatherbeaten trails of trek and Kuenzang is among the few who leads the trek with as much elan as the culture. She says “Since childhood, the nature in its nascent form, mountains’ peaks, natural landscapes intrigues and fascinates her”
She did her schooling from Paro – her hometown. And felt that she should try business so she opted for business studies as a graduate course. However she soon realised that she was not cut out for business. The call of wild – the mountains peaks, the rustic trails, the nature was so overwhelming that she did, what came naturally to her – enlisted for guiding course.
Her first assignment as a guide was with Wind Horse Tours’s guests. And since then she is here and making a difference…..
Tashi Wanchuck is a young guy on the block. It is still a sort of tradition here for every one particularly for fresher
graduate to enroll for the guiding course, which is still in vogue. Tashi was no exception. He claims that it offers a whole new horizon in terms of learning experience. He not just explains the tradition, cultural, social setup that his job demands. Also he gets to know & learn about the guests’ different social backdrop.
The launchpad of his career as guide started from Wind Horse Tours and he is still going strong. And his ride for last 8 years as guide has been enriching , he remarks!!….
Bhutan is covered with almost 70 percent of vegetation. And in this bio rich ecology, many flora thrives and fauna pulsates. Karma Dorji Kardo grew up on this ambience and love for it struck deep. He says” Come mid April, he feels at home amidst the running riots of rhododendron and wild flowers bloom.” Every tour is a learning curve and only exposes more to the nature’s glory.
Karma Dorji did his bachelor degree in commerce from India. Right after it, he listed for guiding course and since 2015, he has been leading tours mainly culture and nature.
Ghanshyam Gupta take care of logistic, specifically of airport assistances and financial bearing of Wind Horse Tours, Delhi. New Delhi, being the capital of India houses one of the biggest and high end airport of the country. Inflow and out of passengers are huge, he keep tracks of all Wind Horse guests and depute guide for the transfer.
Mohit Batra is a highly accomplished and seasoned Travel Expert Professional with a passion for exploring the world and helping others create unforgettable travel experiences. With over 10 years of industry expertise, Mohit has established himself as a go-to resource for travel advice, destination recommendations, and itinerary planning. His extensive knowledge, attention to detail, and dedication to customer satisfaction have earned him a stellar reputation among clients and peers alike. Mohit Batra is a highly skilled and experienced Destination Management Travel Expert, specializing in Ladakh, Bhutan, Nepal, Northeast, Goa, Uttarakhand, Himachal.
Leading cultural & trekking trips for over 20 years in Nepal & Sikkim & Darjeeling. Karma Lama claims working as free-lancer guide best suit his temperament – the space liberates him to conduct tour with renewed vigor. He has worked with major travel outfitters in the region and has earned many accolades for his inviolate honesty and undiminished competence.
He is integral part of Wind Horse (Sikkim & Darjeeling portion) and has been leading tour for us with his usual flair and panache. Born, brought up and studied in Darjeeling – tourism’s Mecca in North East India. Started right after his Bachelor degree, he started as culture guide and over the time he added trekking in his repertoire too.
Dipesh Sapkota hails from the eastern part of Nepal. After completing his master’s degree in Kathmandu, he decided to pursue a career in the travel business as a tour guide and has since been working as a freelance tour guide for a number of Kathmandu-based tour operators. His vast knowledge of Nepal’s culture, history, and society makes him an ideal individual for anyone wanting to explore the nation’s heritage.
He is passionate about sharing his knowledge and experience in order to assist the clients in gaining an enriching experience of Nepal. So far, he has led some of our cultural tours and has become a part of Wind Horse Holidays. He constantly strives to ensure his clients’ comfort and satisfaction during their tours. His dedication to his job is commendable.
Mr. Tashi is from the Amdo region of Tibet. Studied Tibetan Buddhism and English literature in Varanasi India from for 5 years. He speaks excellentEnglish and some Hindi, and wonderful Mandarin Chinese.
His passion for thescenery of his homeland has led him to deepen his knowledge ofTibet’sless traveled paths, particularly in the central and western Tibet (Kailash area), where he traveled and led so many groups to. His patience and detailed oriented personality has earned him a really good judgement from our guests.
Gaurav Goyal remains stalwarts of Wind Horse Tours, India since its inception in 2005. Along with company he gained salience. His friend says ” He aged once he started to work “. Like any other works, it was hardly a stroll in park at the start. In initial days, where every little aspects was overwhelming to learn but he weathered the storm tenaciously and befitting he is in the stage where a rave review from the guests is just like another day in the office.
He grew up in old Delhi locality and did his college from there itself. He is familiar with every nook and corner around Delhi and surrounding regions. This assist in untying knots of intricate history of Delhi and its monuments it harbours in its fold when taking guests on tours.
When not guiding, you can find him in cricket ground with a Kookaburra cricket ball in hand all geared up to disturb the three timbers that batman passionately guard.
As an experienced and passionate Government Approved Tour Guide with 15 years of expertise in Heritage and Cultural tours in India, Manoranjan Pandey possesses a deep knowledge and profound appreciation for the rich history, diverse traditions, and captivating landmarks of this incredible country. With a remarkable track record of 15 years as a Tour Guide, Manoranjan has guided and delighted countless tourists from around the world. He has extensive experience in leading heritage and cultural tours across India, including renowned destinations such as the Taj Mahal, Jaipur’s palaces, Varanasi’s ancient temples, the spiritual city of Amritsar, and the vibrant markets of Mumbai. Manoranjan’s profound knowledge of India’s cultural heritage is his greatest asset. He possesses an in-depth understanding of historical events, architectural styles, religious practices, and local customs. His engaging storytelling skills bring the past to life, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the enchanting narratives of India’s rich heritage. Fluent in English, Hindi, and several regional languages, Manoranjan adeptly communicates with visitors from various parts of the world. His multilingual skills enable him to provide detailed explanations and answer questions with ease, facilitating seamless communication throughout the tour.
Nima Dhondup Bhutia is the senior most guide for Darjeeling, Sikkim and Doars Tour. From past political turmoil to changing tourism scenario in the region, he has seen it all from close quarter. His career as guide started from 1980, and going great gun still. His experience along with amicable nature and soft-spokenness brings forth a subtle difference in every tour that he conducts.
He was born and brought up in Tibetan Self-help camp in Darjeeling, when it was still quaint and serene towns unlike now. He still remember fondly the days of yore and growing changes that the time dictates. He graduated from one of prestigious school – Mt Hermon school in 1977. You will still find vestige of old school of English in his accent.
Mountains has its own way to strike bond with individual . For Pasang Wangchu Sherpa, the romance with mountain or Himalayas to be specific started when he was a kid. Growing up in Darjeeling under constant watchful eyes of pious Kanchenjunga and whole gamut of Himalayas ranges, left an indelible imprint that influenced his adolescent. After his graduation in academic from Darjeeling college , he renewed his love affair with mountains. He trekked countless times into various ranges in Himalayas such as Sandakphu Trek, Dzongri and Goechela trek, Kanchenjuga Base camp. In 2004, he was part of successful Mt Everest trek expedition in Nepal. Also he has led tour in Kashmir (India) such as Stok Kangri in Ladakh. Its been over 25 years and counting and his love for mountain has hardly diminishes.
Kezang is a graduate from Gedu Business School college in Bhutan, but he was always interested in the Buddhist Philosophy, which made him alter his ambition to being a tour Guide.
He is super polite and Buddhist to the core, because his parents and their parents were all affliliated to a monastery as a Lama etc. He comes from Dramtse region, between Mongaer and Trashigang.
Hemant Arya says ” There is no half measure in what ever I do. Its either 100% or nothing”. With these thought driven, it has taken him to many different frontiers, sometime prickly but mostly well charted territory. And this is what guests find an outstanding traits in him that make the tours smooth and informative. Since 2008, He has been leading tours in Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and north India vindicating his above philosophy.
Since kid, he had a strong liking for this trade, he actually studied to be in travel industry. He did his bachelor degree in Art with History as major. He makes best use of what ever he learnt.
He hails from Delhi and grew up watching Delhi grow up into bigger cities as well. He has fond memories of all the attractions and monuments that he visited with his friends and family.
He loves to read, if not home you can find him in his favourite hang out point at National Library in Delhi.
From the outset, Pema Namgyal knew what he wanted to do in life. He love to keep things simple. Right after finishing his Class 12 from school in Thimphu in 2004, he joined guiding course to aspire to be a guide. Initially he started as cultural guide but with time, he felt more connected with wilderness, he did course for trek in 2008.
After a fruitful experiences with other companies, he joined Wind Horse Tours in 2010. He has led many treks, and I seriously doubt, if there are any tourist trails that he hasn’t tread upon. One trek that stand out is challenging Snowman Trek, he comes highly recommended for this. In October, 2014 he successfully completed Snowman trek with 4 guests.
Pema Loves and he is good in archery and he has a loving family with two children
Dawa Lama hails from queen of hills – Darjeeling. He is well versed in cultural aspects but his love for mountains, wilderness of Trek is more profound. For his love for the trek, he treaded many paths less travelled. He feels at peace and at home in mountains and he believes that being in mountainis being close to his root and to his very existence. To give wings tohis passion, he enlisted in mountaineering course in H.M.I. Darjeeling and disaster management course and completed in flying colours after one and half years .
Following the tradition, he started as a a cultural guide in 2008, simultaneously, he was pursuing his degree course also and completed in 2004. His early educationwas in school run by Jesuits father. He grew up watching the sun rises at far horizon of eastern Himalayas from Tiger hill, which still is one of his favorite place.
Pema Dhendup is the one among the few young guns at Wind Horse Tour, Bhutan. He possess an infectious smile and exuberance that rub off to child and old alike. Unwarily, he has a mature head on his young shoulder and it is most conspicuous when he is among guests, untying knots of religion and its intricate iconography with ease and dexterity.
It took him to many different regions in the country to finish his school as his father’s job demanded. This helped to pick up different local dialects of the region. Currently, this stand in good stead for him. In 2011, he completed his Degree in Arts with history as major from Darjeeling, a hill station in India. He knew what he wanted and it was such a easy choice to opt for guide training. He led his first group 2013 at Wind Horse Tours and the rest the guests’ feedbacks and testimonial itself speak volumes.
He harbours a new found passion for birds, which was ignited when he was doing a tour with bird enthusiast and the similar history with the cycling.
His outdoor gymming.
One of most pictured spot with Takstang Monastery at the backdrop
Binita Thapa is lady behind the fact and figure of the company for Sale & Support office, Phuentsholing and USA office. She is a Accountant. To a larger degree, she let us sleep soundly with a feeling that all is well on financial front. Her job doesn’t merely rest as accountant only. Sometime it also include to provide support to booking reservations, when the going get tough specifically during on season. Her versatility come more than handy in smooth functioning of daily affairs in office.
She hails from Jaigoan, bordering with Phuentsholing, Bhutan. She did her initial schooling in Bhutan, after which it took her to many places in India, finally doing her Bachelors of Commerce from Kuersong college in Darjeeling Districts.
Tashi Gyeltshen is like any boy next door. He hails from quaint village in Paro. His initialing school was in and around Paro districts. His love for nature was imbibed while growing up in the beautiful Paro valley and stayed strong till date
His passion for studies took him to Shillong, a hill station in North East India to do degree course in management in 2010. After completing, he felt he could contribute and express himself well by being part of Tourism Industry. Subsequently, he completed his guiding course in 2012. He is as well versed in cultural aspects as in trek. He is more than useful, when it comes to understand flora as well as untying the knot of intricate Buddhists iconography for he did refresher course in 2013.
Well equipped, he joined Wind Horse Tour in October 2013. He has led countless cultural Tours and trek with flair and diligent.
Sonam Tenzin is versatile. Although his primary job is to driver, he started with Wind Horse Tours as a trekking cook in 2010. He is assigned as a driver cum cook, when he we require camping during cultural and birding tour for individual travels. He is nicknamed as Chagpala.
Sonam Tshering Bhutia is the operation head and look after the office affairs of Wind Horse Tours of Sikkim, Darjeeling and Doars region. Under his supervision, the office was established in 2005and after 2 years the office was relocated in Gangtok, Sikkim. This also reinforce our core ideal of having local partner. He is a partner and MD of the Sikkim and Darjeeling office.
He is originally from Darjeeling. He is also among those who started as a travel guide in 2007. Naturally, the attraction towards this trade, can largely be contributedto the place, Darjeeling itself. Hardly anyone can escape from its charms – majestic Mt Kanchenjunga, its colourful history, lush green tea garden imbibed an eternal lovefor this trade, and a desire to pass on this love to every one. As a guide he visited every nook and corner of the region and this is what stands in good stead when he takes the guests on tour to this region.
He has his schooling in Darjeeling and later he completed his Bachelor degree with Geography as major. To reaffirm his conviction and desire for travel trade he completed his Master in Tourismalso.
One of the guest fondly remarked ” Yeshey Penjor may be short in stature but he walks real tall in term of dedication, knowledge and the way he carries and does his work” Except perhaps during the nightmare at night, he wear his smile almost all the time. His soft spokenness and demeanour make him most sought after guide for guests travelling with kids. He gel with kids like as any good adhesive and impress the adults with his profound knowledge on subjects and his conduct.
For over 5 years he has been leading guests with panache and authority both culture and trekking. But he jumped gleefully into when he is assigned to do the trek. For his love for lush natural amphitheatre of vegetation and wildlife date back to growing days in far flung village in Mongar ( Eastern Bhutan).
He make up his lack of interest for sport with serious hiking. The best place to find him over weekend or free time is at camping hotspot within the vicinity of Thimphu.
Some guests remarked ” Travelling around in Bhutan on vehicle on its sinuous roads is itself adventure of sort” For a great trip in Bhutan, a comfortable transport and a good driver is paramount. Yamraj Karki learnt driving at a very young age. In fact his older brother Guddu, who also works in Wind Horse Tours has been instrumental in teaching this craft.
Right after passing his class 10, he knew pretty well to drive but even though he joined driving school to obtain his licence in 2005. In the same years he joined Wind Horse Tours.
He is known by the nick name Baliman. For Tak Bahadur Rana – versatility is just a another word. For he can drive two wheeler of office, to sedan car to buses of the company.Moreover, he didn’t limit himself to being mere driver, he knows nuts and bolts of mechanical aspects of vehicle as well. For any minor ailment of vehicle, he can fix it readily,
Beside that the most notable aspects that stand out is his forbearance, unswerving concentration once he sits behind the driving handle. He gained lot of kudos from guests for his remarkable level of care driving and instilling a sense of safety on sinuous roads of Bhutan.
After joined Wind Horse Tours, Thimphu in 2008. After a brief stint with other Travel companies in Thimphu.
Dawa Tshering ranks among the gentle souls who provide an impression of a man of few words bordering with shyness. A few lines of conversation with the guests he turn red with blushes. He fit the bills perfectly with his traits of gentleness, humbleness, calmness that require most in order to manoeuvre sinuous roads of Bhutan.
He hails from a remote village in far east village of Tashigang. His journey of life from Tashigang to Thimphu has been as sinuous as roads from there. With elementary education to lean on, he tried his hand and luck on various jobs.
After being a driver and with a handful of experience, he joined Wind Horse Tours in 2007. And he has been driving with great level of dedication.
Chimi Rinzin hails from a quaint village in far eastern region of Mongar. And it is adequately reflected on the way he carries himself -soft spoken with gentle demeanour. But when it comes to his driving, he is altogether a different person. He is focused, patience and fiercely guards the driving decorum. He is stickler for cleanliness. Looking for strains or specks of uncleanliness in the vehicle is like proverbial looking for needle in haystack.
He started working for Wind Horse Tours in Thimphu from 2009. And guests always have good words for him for his conducts and driving.
Pema is a former tourist trekking cook from Merak Valley in the remote eastern Bhutan. He joined Wind Horse to take care of our Horse Ranch in Tang valley and accompanies riding treks. When on the trek he can cook as well or assist trekking chef. He has received Horse care and riding training from western trainers. And being from the nomadic enclave, Pema has lived with horses and Yaks all his life.
Shiva Prasad Acharya leads a fulfilling life by intertwining his passions for nature, adventure, and family. Transitioning from the health sector to becoming a trekking guide reflects his pursuit of a profession allowing immersion in natural beauty while sharing that passion with others.
His commitment to nature extends beyond his profession to his personal life, evident in his dedication to farming and animal husbandry. Tending vegetables, paddy fields, and raising buffaloes likely offers him fulfillment and a profound connection to the land. He resides in Kasipira, near Pokhara, with his wife and two sons.
Shiva Prasad extensively travels to regions like Upper Mustang, Annapurna, Everest, Langtang, and Manaslu, gaining insights into local cultures, traditions, and natural beauty. His strong passion for sharing Nepal’s heritage highlights his desire to promote local culture and raise awareness. His invaluable traits—flexibility, knowledge, and patience—would undoubtedly enrich the experiences of travelers alongside him.
His proficiency in English, French, and Hindi widens his accessibility, enabling him to connect with travelers from diverse backgrounds worldwide.
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