Solo Wildlife Adventure in Bhutan's Phobjikha Valley

Finding Serenity in Trongsa: Waterfalls and Bird's-Eye Views

Today was a day of exploration and quiet contemplation, a journey through the heart of Bhutan's Trongsa region. From cascading waterfalls to panoramic viewpoints, I embraced the serene beauty and rich culture that define this enchanting land. It’s days like these that remind me why I traded the predictable comfort of Kongsvinger for a life of adventure, a life where every corner turned reveals a new vista, a new story etched in the landscape.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Kuenphen Norbuling Restaurant. The familiar aroma of freshly brewed tea and the sight of ema datshi on the buffet table was a welcome start to the day. I savored every bite, knowing that a day of hiking and exploration awaited me. It's funny how food can transport you, even in a place as new as Bhutan. A simple taste can evoke memories of Liam's hearty Irish stews back in Banff, a comforting reminder of home amidst the unknown.

Fueled and ready, I set off to Bubja Waterfall. The drive itself was a scenic prelude, winding through lush forests and past quaint villages. As I arrived, the sound of rushing water grew louder, a symphony of nature beckoning me closer. The waterfall was a sight to behold, a cascade of shimmering water tumbling down rocky cliffs into a serene pool. The surrounding forest was alive with the songs of birds, their melodies intertwining with the rhythmic roar of the falls. I spent a blissful hour simply sitting on a smooth rock, letting the mist kiss my face and the sounds of nature wash over me. It was a moment of pure tranquility, a reminder of the simple, profound beauty that exists in the world. The hike to the waterfall was relatively short but invigorating. The trail was well-maintained, and I passed a few locals along the way, each offering a warm smile and a “Kuzu-zangpo la.” I even managed to capture a few decent shots of the surrounding flora, adding to my growing collection of Bhutanese botanical portraits. It’s moments like these, surrounded by nature's grandeur, that I feel most connected to my purpose as a wildlife photographer.


Discover the enchanting Bubja Waterfall in Bhutan, where nature's beauty and tranquility come together for a breathtaking experience.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After immersing myself in the tranquility of Bubja Waterfall, my next destination was Tongphu Te, a viewpoint offering a bird's-eye view of Trongsa Town. The drive to Tongphu Te was an adventure in itself, navigating winding roads that climbed steadily upwards. As I reached the viewpoint, I was greeted by a breathtaking panorama. Trongsa Town lay spread out below, a tapestry of traditional Bhutanese architecture nestled amidst rolling hills and verdant forests. The majestic Black Mountains formed a stunning backdrop, their peaks shrouded in mist. I spent a long time at Tongphu Te, simply absorbing the view and capturing its beauty through my lens. The town seemed so peaceful from above, its daily rhythms unfolding in miniature. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the vastness of the world and the smallness of my place within it.


Experience the stunning bird's-eye views of Trongsa Town at Tongphu Te, a must-visit attraction in Bhutan's breathtaking landscape.

Before heading back to the valley, I made a stop at K-L Varieties, a general store in Trongsa. It was a chance to experience a slice of local life, browsing through the everyday essentials and unique trinkets on offer. I picked up a few small souvenirs for Liam and a couple of notebooks for my travel journal. It's these small, tangible reminders that help me keep the spirit of adventure alive when I return to Banff.

For lunch, I stopped at ST WiFi- Tourist Lunch Place. The name might not be the most inspiring, but the food was delicious and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. I opted for a traditional Bhutanese meal, savoring the spicy flavors and fresh ingredients. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying a midday respite. I struck up a conversation with a fellow traveler from Germany, sharing stories and travel tips over steaming cups of tea. It’s these unexpected connections that make solo travel so rewarding.

In the evening, I treated myself to dinner at Leki restaurant, khuruthang. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with traditional Bhutanese decor and a warm, welcoming ambiance. The menu featured a variety of local dishes, and I decided to try the Ema Datshi, a classic Bhutanese dish made with chilies and cheese. It was fiery and flavorful, a true taste of Bhutan. The staff were incredibly friendly, sharing stories and insights about the local culture. As I savored my meal, I reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of Bhutan.

Tomorrow marks the last day of my adventure in Bhutan. I plan to visit Omley Tshozhaw and Gangkar Pinsum, soaking in the last moments of this magical landscape. I'm also considering stopping by Kichu Resort Phobjikha for a farewell drink, a final toast to this incredible journey. While I'm eager to return home to Liam and share my stories, a part of me will forever remain in this serene and captivating kingdom. It feels like just yesterday I was in Banff preparing for this trip, ensuring Liam had everything he needed at the brewery. Now, as the trip nears its end, I realize how much I've grown, both as a photographer and as a person.

The sun sets here much like it does back home, painting the sky with hues of orange and purple. As I sit here, penning these thoughts, I can’t help but feel a sense of contentment. Maybe it's the altitude, maybe it's the serenity, or maybe it's the sheer magic of Bhutan. Whatever it is, I'm holding onto it, storing it away for those days when the mountains of Banff seem a little too familiar and the call of adventure beckons once more.

I think that it is important to reflect on my time in Bhutan and to make sure to pass on the lessons learned, and the experiences had to others.