Royal Bhutan Helicopter Services
Description
Royal Bhutan Helicopter Services Limited (RBHSL) was established as a state-owned enterprise on July 9, 2015, under the Companies Act of the Kingdom of Bhutan, 2000. Dedicated to providing a safe, comfortable, and reliable alternative mode of transport, RBHSL aims to enhance connectivity across the country with efficient and affordable helicopter services.
In October 2022, RBHSL merged with Druk Air to improve productivity and cost efficiency, further strengthening its operations. Beyond catering to tourism, the company plays a crucial role in essential services such as search and rescue missions, air medical evacuations, firefighting, and cargo transportation.
Tourists can charter helicopters for valley-to-valley transfers, ensuring a seamless and scenic journey across Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes. Additionally, RBHSL offers exclusive charter packages tailored to unique experiences, which can be arranged upon request.
WESTERN BHUTAN TOURS
Paro Taktsang Tour
Duration: 30 minutes
Points of Interest:
Paro International Airport
Paro Valley – Traditional Bhutanese houses, rice paddy fields & Pa Chu
Ta Dzong (National Museum)
Rinpung Dzong
Kyichu Lhakhang
Drukgyel Dzong & Mt. Jumolhari
This scenic flight offers a breathtaking aerial perspective of the stunning Paro Valley, showcasing its natural beauty and cultural heritage. As you soar through the skies, you'll witness Bhutan’s most revered sacred sites and iconic landmarks from a unique vantage point.
The highlight of this unforgettable journey is the legendary Paro Taktsang, or Tiger’s Nest Monastery, dramatically perched on a sheer cliffside. This iconic site, steeped in history and spiritual significance, stands as a testament to Bhutan’s rich traditions and awe-inspiring landscapes.
Snow-capped Mt. Jumolhari Tour
Duration: 60 minutes
Points of Interest:
Paro Valley & the Airport
Rinpung Dzong & Ta Dzong (National Museum)
Kyichu Lhakhang & Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)
Drukgyel Dzong
Mount. Jumolhari
Turquoise lake
Flying further north along the breathtaking Paro Valley, this exhilarating journey unveils a spectacular panorama of snow-capped peaks, culminating in the awe-inspiring sight of Mount Jumolhari (7,314m). Revered as one of the world’s highest unclimbed mountains, this sacred giant dominates the skyline with its majestic presence.
As part of the tour, travellers will experience a brief yet unforgettable stop at Jangothang Base Camp, where they can soak in the grandeur of Jumolhari from the ground, surrounded by the pristine beauty of the high-altitude wilderness. Amidst this dramatic landscape, keen-eyed visitors may even spot the elusive blue sheep (Pseudo Nayaur) gracefully navigating the rugged mountain slopes.
The return flight promises yet another marvel—on a clear day, travellers may catch a glimpse of the enigmatic ‘Turquoise Lake,’ a hidden gem nestled within the rocky embrace of the Himalayan Range, its vivid blue waters shimmering like a secret treasure waiting to be discovered.
Majestic Himalayan Mountain Tour
Duration: 120 minutes
Points of Interest:
Paro Valley & the Airport
Rinpung Dzong & Ta Dzong (National Museum)
Kyichu Lhakhang & Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)
Drukgyel Dzong
Mount. Jumolhari
Mount. Jichu Drakey
Lingzhi Yugyal Dzong
Beyond the towering presence of Mount Jumolhari (7,314m), this breathtaking journey continues northeast, revealing the majestic Mount Jichu Drakey (6,794m). Renowned for its striking double summit, with the southern peak slightly lower, Jichu Drakey stands as a formidable companion to Jumolhari, adding to the grandeur of Bhutan’s Himalayan skyline.
This helicopter tour offers an unparalleled vantage point to admire the vast expanse of the Himalayan ranges, where snow-clad peaks and dramatic landscapes unfold in all their glory.
On the return flight, travellers will soar above the historic Lingzhi Dzong, majestically perched at an altitude of 4,150 meters. Also known as Lingzhi Yugyal Dzong, this fortress-monastery was built in 1668 to commemorate Bhutan’s triumph over the Tibetans in the war of 1667. With its strategic location and timeless architecture, Lingzhi Dzong stands as a symbol of Bhutan’s resilience and rich heritage, making this aerial journey an unforgettable experience.
Dagala Couple Tour
Duration: 30 minutes
Points of Interest:
South of Paro Valley & the Airport
Mount. Kangchenjunga
Mount. Jomolhari
Mount. Masang Gang
Mount. Jichu Drake & Mount. Gangchen Ta
Talakha Goenpa
Buddha Dordenma Statue
A panoramic view of Thimphu, the Capital city of Bhutan
This extraordinary tour offers an unforgettable journey into Bhutan’s untouched beauty and rich cultural heritage. Flying along the southern Paro Valley, travellers will enter a hidden Shangri-La, where a breathtaking expanse of pristine, crystal-clear lakes reflects the serenity of the Himalayas.
Throughout the journey, travellers are treated to panoramic views of Bhutan’s most iconic peaks, including Mount Jumolhari, Mount Masang Gang, Mount Jichu Drakey, Mount Gangkhar Puensum, and Mount Gangchen Ta. On a clear day, there is even the rare opportunity to catch a glimpse of the world’s third-highest peak, Mount Kangchenjunga (8,586m), standing majestically on the distant horizon.
As the return flight approaches Thimphu, travellers will soar above the historic 15th-century Talakha Goenpa, a serene monastery nestled in the hills south of the capital. The journey culminates with a spectacular aerial view of the world’s largest sitting Buddha statue, the Buddha Dordenma, perched atop Kuensel Phodrang, overlooking Thimphu in all its splendour.
Snowman Trek
Duration: 180 minutes
Points of Interest:
Paro Valley & the Airport
Laya and Lingzhi
Mount. Jumolhari & Mount. Jichu Drake
Mount. Tsherimgang, Mount. Masagang, & Mount. Tiger Mountain
Lingzhi Yugyal Dzong
Gasa Tongmon Dzong
Punakha Dzong
Lunana
Table Mountain & Mt. Gangkar Punsum
Bumthang valley
Zoom in your lenses and embark on an awe-inspiring aerial sojourn into Bhutan’s mystical Northern Shangri-La. As you glide over the world-famous Snowman Trek, Savor every breathtaking moment of this unparalleled journey. In just three hours, this flight condenses the essence of a legendary 26-day trek, unveiling the spellbinding beauty of the Himalayas in a way few have ever experienced.
Soaring over the pristine valleys of Laya and Lingzhi, witness the commanding presence of Mount Jumolhari (7,314m), standing in majestic company with Mount Jichu Drakey (6,662m). As you traverse the northwestern frontier, catch glimpses of the formidable Tsherimgang (above 7,000m), the 17th-century Lingzhi Yugyal Dzong, dramatically perched at 4,150 meters, and the towering peaks of Masangang (7,194m) and Tiger Mountain (6,840m). Along the way, marvel at the scattered nomadic settlements of Laya, where ancient traditions endure amidst Bhutan’s rugged landscapes.
The journey then descends into the picturesque Punakha Valley for a brief but unforgettable pit stop. Here, relish the warm subtropical climate and take a moment to capture a selfie at Jimithang, along the serene Punatsangchhu River. Before departing, allow yourself to be captivated by the timeless grandeur of Punakha Dzong, a 17th-century architectural masterpiece that stands proudly at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu Rivers.
As the adventure continues, prepare to rediscover the untouched Himalayan wilderness while flying into the remote and seldom-explored nomadic villages of Lunana. The journey reaches its pinnacle with mesmerizing views of Table Mountain and Mount Gangkar Puensum (7,570m)—the highest peak in Bhutan and the world’s tallest unclimbed mountain. The sight of these towering giants will undoubtedly leave you speechless.
The final stretch of the tour is nothing short of magical. As the helicopter glides past hidden lakes, meandering rivers, and breathtaking landscapes, you will also behold the sacred Duer Tshachu hot springs—believed to be the very waters where the 8th-century Tantric master Padmasambhava once bathed. The journey culminates in Bumthang Valley, a region steeped in history, spirituality, and natural splendor, leaving you with a sense of wonder and an indelible memory of Bhutan’s untouched majesty.
CENTRAL & EASTERN BHUTAN TOURS
Traditional Textile Tour (Khomo, from/to Paro)
Duration: 160 minutes
Points of Interest:
Tang Valley
Takila Guru
Khoma Village
Soar above the breathtaking landscapes of Lhuntse, a region revered as the ancestral home of Bhutan’s Kings. This mesmerizing flight offers unparalleled aerial views of the region’s untouched beauty, deep valleys, and historic landmarks.
One of the highlights of this journey is the Lhuntse Rinchentse Dzong, an architectural masterpiece perched dramatically on a hilltop, overlooking the serene Kuri Chhu River. The sight of this centuries-old fortress, standing as a guardian of Bhutan’s heritage, is truly a spectacle to behold.
As the flight continues southward, prepare to be awed by the world’s tallest statue of Guru Nangsey Zilnon, an awe-inspiring 157-foot-tall structure majestically positioned atop the hills of Takila. This colossal figure of Guru Rinpoche, the revered saint who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan, radiates an aura of spiritual serenity, offering travellers a profound glimpse into the country’s deep-rooted traditions.
For an enriching cultural experience, the tour includes an optional pit stop at Khoma Village, famous for its exquisite handwoven silk textiles known as Kishuthara. Renowned for their intricate patterns and vibrant colours, these textiles are traditionally crafted by Bhutanese women and worn as Kira, the national dress for women. A visit to this quaint village offers a rare opportunity to witness Bhutan’s rich textile heritage firsthand and engage with the skilled artisans who have preserved this ancient craft for generations.
This aerial expedition over Lhuntse is a perfect blend of natural grandeur, historical significance, and cultural richness—an experience that captures the very essence of Bhutan.
Merak - Sakteng Tour (Sakteng & Merak, from/to Paro)
Duration: 220 minutes
Points of Interest:
Merak
Sakteng
The Merak-Sakteng Tour is a breathtaking aerial journey into one of Bhutan’s most remote and picturesque highland regions, nestled within the Trashigang Dzongkhag, the country’s easternmost province. The names themselves hold poetic significance—Merak, meaning ‘set on fire’, and Sakteng, meaning ‘meadow covered with bamboo’, evoke the region’s stunning landscapes and vibrant natural beauty.
This exotic scenic flight takes you over the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected area renowned for its pristine environment, diverse flora and fauna, and dramatic highland vistas. As the helicopter soars above the pastoral valleys of Merak and Sakteng, travellers are treated to unparalleled views of rolling meadows, lush bamboo forests, and towering mountain peaks that have remained untouched for centuries.
Beyond the mesmerizing landscapes, this journey offers a rare cultural immersion into the unique lifestyles of the eastern Highlanders, the semi-nomadic Brokpa community. Upon landing, visitors have the extraordinary opportunity to roam the villages on foot, interact with the warm and hospitable locals, and witness their time-honoured traditions, distinctive attire, and rich heritage.
This tour is a harmonious blend of natural splendour and cultural discovery, promising an unforgettable experience in one of Bhutan’s most mystical and least-explored regions.
Royal Manas Wildlife Tour (Manas, from/to Paro)
Duration: 190 minutes
Points of Interest:
Royal Manas National Park
Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary
Phrumsengla National Park in the northern centre
Jomotshangkha Wildlife Sanctuary in the southeast
This captivating tour takes you through one of Bhutan’s oldest and most ecologically rich preserved areas, seamlessly connected by an extensive network of wildlife corridors. These corridors link the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park in the northwest, Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary in the southwest, Phrumsengla National Park in the northern centre, and Jomotshangkha Wildlife Sanctuary in the southeast, creating a vast, uninterrupted sanctuary for Bhutan’s diverse wildlife.
Soar into the heart of the Royal Manas National Park, Bhutan’s oldest national park and a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve, where lush subtropical forests and pristine rivers provide a thriving habitat for an astonishing variety of indigenous flora and fauna. As the helicopter glides over this untouched wilderness, travellers may catch glimpses of rare wildlife, including golden langurs, clouded leopards, Asian elephants, and even the elusive Bengal tiger.
This once-in-a-lifetime aerial adventure offers an unparalleled perspective of Bhutan’s extraordinary biodiversity, taking you deep into the country’s most treasured conservation landscapes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, wildlife lover, or simply seeking a breathtaking scenic experience, this tour promises a journey into the very heart of Bhutan’s untamed beauty.
Adventure
Heli-Biking Tour
Payload per trip – 3 Bikes, 3 pax including guide
Heli-Biking Routes:
Paro – Chelela - Paro
Paro – Bumdra - Paro
Paro - Jela Dzong - Paro
Paro – Dongkola - Paro
Take your mountain biking experience to the next level with Drukair’s exclusive heli-biking adventure. This thrilling experience combines the exhilaration of mountain biking with the breathtaking aerial views of Bhutan’s rugged terrain. Our expert biking guides will first take you high into the mountains aboard one of our helicopters, offering a panoramic perspective of Bhutan’s stunning landscapes before guiding you on an unforgettable descent.
From natural trails and ancient tracks to rolling mountain grass slopes and rugged 4WD trails, this adventure promises an exciting ride for every competent mountain biker. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie craving high-speed downhill thrills or an explorer seeking a more scenic backcountry ride, we have a range of curated trips to match your skill level and adventure spirit.
For those looking for a truly custom experience, we can tailor a unique ride just for you—whether it's a remote, off-the-grid journey or an exhilarating downhill challenge.
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