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Pema Dawa

Birding, Cultural & Botany Guide
Pema Dawa was raised in a breathtakingly beautiful area, surrounded by pristine forests, in a remote village located in the Upper Kheng of the Zhemgang district. He is now a full-time employee of Wild Nature Quest, previously known as Off to Bhutan.
After graduating from Sherubtse College, the oldest university in Bhutan, with honors in English and Dzongkha, Pema developed a keen interest in working and interacting with people, which led him to become a tour guide.
Pema has been serving as both a co-guide and an independent tour leader for the past ten years, providing exceptional nature-based tours and leading successful birding expeditions for both international birding partners and private clients. His extensive knowledge of Bhutan’s diverse ecosystems and bird species has allowed him to provide an unforgettable experience for his clients, who highly recommend him for his professionalism, excellent communication skills, and friendly demeanor. He is always willing to share his knowledge and provide guidance, ensuring that his clients learn as much as possible during their tour. Pema is one of the few individuals to have received specialized training in nature guiding, which was conducted by the Ugyen Wangchuck Institute of Conservation and Environment. His exceptional performance on the botanist section of the exam highlights his passion for Bhutan’s rich flora and fauna. In addition to his birding tours, Pema has also worked as a leader and co-guide for botanist tours, where he has been highly successful in his endeavors.

Your Guide to Bhutan’s Wonders

As a passionate Birding, Cultural, and Botany Guide in Bhutan, I bring not only a wealth of knowledge but also a deep love for my country’s natural and cultural heritage. With years of experience in the field, I have led travellers through remote valleys, pristine forests, and vibrant communities, unveiling the stories and wonders that make Bhutan unique.

From the thrill of spotting rare Himalayan birds in their natural habitats to immersing in age old traditions and discovering Bhutan’s diverse and often medicinal flora, I strive to create journeys that are both educational and deeply personal. My guiding style blends expert interpretation with genuine hospitality, ensuring you connect with the landscapes, the wildlife, and the people in meaningful ways.

Let me share Bhutan’s hidden treasures with you, every step designed to inspire, every moment crafted to be truly unforgettable.

Pema would notice the flea on a monkey’s eyelash in the dark!

And as Om expertly navigated past large trucks on one-lane, ice-coated roads with sheer drop-offs and no guardrails, I never once felt unsafe!

Lynn Zechiedrich – United State

    Join Pema on these trips

    Bhutan Heron Quest

    A shorter itinerary focused primarily on the White-bellied Heron, one of the rarest herons in the world, along with other wintering species.

    Wings of Bhutan

    Our most comprehensive winter birding tour especially targets the species that winter in Bhutan such as Thrushes, Wallcreeper, and Finches.

    Bhutan Echoes

    This itinerary combines Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage with natural beauty, featuring iconic sites, ancient monasteries, temples, and traditional festivals.

    Elusive Heron Expedition

    This short tour of 6 nights and 7 days was designed for our customers who are particularly interested to see the White-bellied Heron, a critically endangered bird with a population of 60 individuals worldwide

    Wings of Bhutan

    Our most comprehensive winter birding tour especially targets the species that winter in Bhutan such as Thrushes, Wallcreeper, and Finches.