Bhutan, known for its GHP or Gross Happiness Product, pristine forests, sacred mountains, and deep-rooted traditions, is home to an astonishing fungal biodiversity. With over 500 documented species—and many more yet to be identified—the country’s mushrooms are central to its cuisine, medicine, and conservation efforts. British Designer, photographer and amateur forager Peter Roden and Bhutanese photographer guide Ugyen Wangchuk founded Bhutan Mushroom Tours, an immersive travel experience that blends foraging, photography, conservation, and cultural exploration.
From Forest to Table: A Forager’s Dream
Among the most sought-after mushrooms in Bhutan is the Matsutake (Tricholoma matsutake), locally called "Sangay Shamu" (Buddha Mushroom), a prized delicacy exported to Japan. Guests of the expedition have the opportunity to experience the Matsutake Festival in Genekha, where locals celebrate the mushroom harvest with music, dance, and cooking demonstrations. The journey also features outdoor forest cooking as well as a hands-on cooking class with a Bhutanese chef, where foraged mushrooms are turned into traditional dishes, often paired with Bhutan’s famed red rice, chilies, and yak cheese.
Macro Photography: Revealing the Hidden Fungal World
One of the most exciting aspects of Bhutan Mushroom Tours is the exclusive macrophotography workshops led by Max Mudie, a highly renowned mushroom photographer and cofounder of the infamous Sussex based mushroom festival ‘All Things Fungi Festival’
These workshops are designed for all skill levels, from beginners using smartphones to seasoned photographers with professional cameras. Max will guide guests through the techniques needed to capture the intricate details, textures, and colours of Bhutan’s diverse fungi, revealing the hidden beauty of mushrooms through a macro lens.
Roden and Wangchuk want to invite guests to explore some of the country’s most ecologically rich regions, including its high-altitude forests (2,500m - 4,000m), which are ideal habitats for rare fungi. The tour includes traditional foraging excursions with local villagers, where guests will learn to identify and harvest wild mushrooms under the guidance of local expert mycologist Sabrita Pradhan.
A Scientific and Cultural Immersion
Beyond culinary experiences, the tour offers a deeper look into Bhutan’s commitment to fungal research and conservation. A visit to the National Mushroom Centre in Thimphu will introduce travellers to ongoing efforts in sustainable mushroom cultivation and biodiversity protection. Bhutan’s constitution mandates that at least 60% of the country remain forested—a goal it far exceeds, with over 70% forest coverage, making it an unparalleled haven for fungi and wildlife alike.
Fungal conservation is increasingly recognised as crucial to Bhutan’s carbon-negative status, as its forests act as a massive carbon sink. Sustainable foraging practices are strictly regulated, ensuring that rare species like Cordyceps sinensis (Caterpillar Fungus) — highly valued in traditional medicine—are not overharvested.
Night Walks and Glow-in-the-Dark Fungi
For those drawn to the surreal, UV-guided mushroom walks offer a rare glimpse of Bhutan’s bioluminescent fungi, revealing species that glow under ultraviolet light. Guided by British Mycological photographer Max Mudie, this experience highlights the lesser-known, almost mystical side of fungal biodiversity, adding a scientific yet adventurous element to the tour.
Beyond Mushrooms: A Journey into Bhutanese Life
While mushrooms are at the heart of the experience, Bhutan Mushroom Tours also incorporates broader eco-tourism and cultural experiences. Guests can hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, visit bustling local markets selling various dried mushrooms and traditional fungal medicines, and meet Bhutanese artisans—weavers, woodcarvers, and painters—whose crafts are integral to the nation’s heritage.
For thrill-seekers, white-water rafting on the Punakha River provides an adrenaline-fueled contrast to the serene forest walks. Throughout the trip, travellers will enjoy authentic Bhutanese cuisine, where mushrooms play a key role in soups, stews, and side dishes.
The Bigger Mission: Fungal Conservation Through Eco-Tourism
Beyond offering an unforgettable adventure, Bhutan Mushroom Tours aims to raise awareness about fungi’s ecological importance. Often overlooked in conservation efforts, fungi play a critical role in soil health, forest regeneration, and biodiversity support.
Through responsible ecotourism, the tour hopes to promote fungal conservation, support local communities, and foster a deeper appreciation for Bhutan’s extraordinary natural heritage. As mycology gains global recognition, Bhutan is poised to become a leading destination for mushroom enthusiasts, scientists, and nature lovers alike.