Chauffeur-Driven and Stress-Free: AVIS Bhutan Launches in the Himalayas
MICE Bhutan partners with Avis Budget Group to offer tailored mobility services for corporate delegations, long-term visitors, leisure travellers and event organisers.
A new chapter in Bhutan’s premium travel offerings has begun with the official launch of AVIS Bhutan by SoulTrips, a leading travel services provider in the Kingdom. This marks the arrival of chauffeur-driven, high-quality mobility solutions designed to offer comfort, safety, and efficiency amid Bhutan’s breathtaking but challenging terrain.
(From left to right: Mr. Hans Mueller, Vice President of Global Licensees & European Operations (Zone 2), Avis Budget Group, Mr. Damcho Rinzin, Director of the Tourism Council of Bhutan, Dasho Karma Wangchuk, Hon’ble Secretary, Ministry of Infrastructure and Transportation, Mr. Joni Herison, Managing Director of Druk Asia & SoulTrips, Ms. Lizam Dorji, Country Head of AVIS Bhutan & MICE Bhutan, Mr. James Richmond, Regional Director for Asia & the Middle East, Avis Budget Group)
Tailored Transport for Leisure and Business
Through its business division MICE Bhutan, SoulTrips will offer bespoke vehicle charter services, catering to both business and leisure travellers. AVIS Bhutan's daily car-hire service features an array of vehicles including all-terrain SUVs, spacious minivans for up to six passengers, and comfortable Coaster buses accommodating up to 22 — all designed with passenger comfort in mind.
As a member of the global AVIS network, MICE Bhutan gains direct access to best-in-class training and operational standards. These will be applied locally to elevate the skills and professionalism of AVIS Bhutan’s chauffeur team, ensuring a world-class experience tailored to the unique requirements of those journeying through the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Travel with Peace of Mind in the Land of the Thunder Dragon
In accordance with local road regulations, all foreign visitors must hire a licensed driver and be accompanied by a certified guide at all times. Self-driving is not permitted unless special permits are pre-approved for travel within Paro and Thimphu. These rules reflect the government's emphasis on safety, considering Bhutan's mountainous terrain, high-altitude routes, and winding roads — all requiring expert navigation.
Bhutan’s growing appeal as a destination known for its cultural richness, pristine nature, and commitment to Gross National Happiness has led to increased tourism and business travel. With this rising demand comes a need for dependable, premium transport services — a gap AVIS Bhutan is poised to fill.
AVIS Car Lease: Designed for Long-Term Guests and Professionals
The launch comes at a pivotal moment in Bhutan’s development. The Gelephu International Airport is under construction, and plans for a forward-looking administrative region known as the Gelephu Mindfulness City are underway. This ambitious vision is expected to attract long-term visitors, entrepreneurs, and professionals seeking a harmonious lifestyle rooted in innovation and sustainability.
To support this influx, AVIS Bhutan introduces AVIS Car Lease — a flexible, long-term car leasing service aimed at residents and businesses requiring reliable mobility without the responsibilities of ownership. Backed by a partnership with Bhutan Insurance, the service offers comprehensive vehicle maintenance and motor insurance, making it a seamless choice for extended stays.
Whether it's airport transfers, business site visits, or guided group tours, AVIS Bhutan aims to offer a blend of logistical ease, premium comfort, and peace of mind. The company is actively pursuing collaborations with five-star hotels in Bhutan and is exploring partnerships with international car manufacturers and distributors.
Seamless Airport Transfers and Hotel Pickups
Travellers can book chauffeur-driven rides in advance from any hotel or arrange AVIS airport pick-ups upon arrival at Paro International Airport. More information is available at www.avis.bt.
Driving in Bhutan: A Cultural Experience in Itself
Driving in Bhutan isn’t merely about getting from one place to another — it’s part of the journey. Road signs throughout the country reflect the warmth and wit of the Bhutanese, offering gentle but memorable safety reminders such as “Going faster will see disaster”, or the poetic “On the bend, go slow friend.” For those still tempted to speed, a more sobering line reads: “Don’t hurry, be cool, since heaven is already full.” These quirky signs are the result of Project Dantak, an initiative by India’s Border Roads Organisation, and are now a beloved feature of Bhutanese roads.
Interesting facts further highlight Bhutan’s unique driving culture:
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No Traffic Lights: Thimphu is one of the few capitals globally without traffic lights. Instead, white-gloved traffic police direct vehicles with graceful, dance-like gestures.
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Right-Hand Drive, Left-Side Roads: Vehicles are right-hand drive, yet Bhutan follows the British system of driving on the left side of the road.
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Low-Speed Limits: Speed restrictions prioritise safety, especially on steep or winding roads prone to unexpected wildlife crossings.
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Monsoon Challenges: Wet seasons bring risks of landslides and roadblocks, making local driving expertise essential.
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Rural Access: While major cities are well-connected, many remote villages are only reachable via rugged, unpaved routes.
Amidst all this, AVIS Bhutan offers visitors the chance to sit back, relax, and savour the majesty of the Himalayas — letting experienced chauffeurs handle every turn, pothole, and scenic distraction.
About Avis Budget Group:
Avis Budget Group, Inc. is a leading global provider of transportation solutions, operating over 11,000 rental locations in around 180 countries under the AVIS, Budget, and Zipcar brands. Headquartered in Parsippany, New Jersey, the Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep industry expertise. Visit avisbudgetgroup.com for more.
About AVIS Bhutan:
Part of the international AVIS network, AVIS Bhutan delivers premium chauffeur-driven transport tailored to the needs of both leisure and business travellers. In collaboration with MICE Bhutan, the company provides bespoke vehicle charters, daily rentals, and long-term leasing solutions. Learn more at avis.bt.
