Unveil Bhutan’s Spiritual Heart

Upon arrival in Paro, you will be greeted by an escort who will handle all immigration and baggage formalities while you relax in the lounge. Afterward, your guide will transfer you to your hotel in Thimpu. In the evening, visit a prominent spiritual center affiliated with the Drukpa Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism, where you can learn about the lives of Buddhist nuns and join them in their evening prayers, experiencing the serene atmosphere and melodic chants of the temple.

Start the day with a visit to the 13th-century Changangkha Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the Thimphu Valley, followed by a stop at the Takin Preserve Center to see Bhutan’s national animal. Takin is a rare Himalayan animal that looks like a combination of a goat and a cow. Apart from this the animal is also one of the major parts of the Bhutanese religion and resembles the mythology character of Buddhism. Continue to Sangaygang Viewpoint for sweeping panoramic views of the valley. In the afternoon, delve into Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH) during a private session, offering insights into how the country prioritizes spiritual, emotional, and material well-being in its development approach.

In the morning, drive to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan until the reign of the second king. As you travel, pause at Dochu La Pass (3,140 m) to admire the 108 chortens and take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas. After lunch you will make an excursion to Chimi Lhakhang – a Buddhist temple dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenlay who is also known as “Divine Madman” in the west. It is an easy hike through the village of Yuwakha and rice fields. On route to the temple, you will have the opportunity to visit some of the local farmhouses.

Today, delve into Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness while exploring stunning monasteries, picturesque valleys, and unwinding with rejuvenating wellness treatments. Begin with a hike to Khamsum Yuelay Namgyal Choeten, which offers breathtaking views of the Punakha Valley. Next, visit Punakha Dzong, also known as Pungthang Dewa chhenbi Phodrang, meaning “the palace of great happiness or bliss.” Punakha Dzong, constructed in 1637, stands as the second oldest and second-largest dzong in Bhutan. After lunch, enjoy a meditation session at a private temple led by a monk, focusing on blessings for longevity and well-being. Conclude with the ritual of hoisting Lung Dhar prayer flags, a meditative practice that invokes blessings through wind and prayer. The evening is at your leisure.

After breakfast, you will be shuttled back to Paro, where we spend out last couple of nights. Our hotel here is the only 5-star luxury resort that offers wellness-inclusive. In the afternoon, enjoy some Wellness treatments at the Sanctuary, such as a hot stone, full-body massages or daily yoga, and meditation classes.

Explore the sacred Taktshang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest, on a memorable day excursion. Hike along a scenic trail that ascends through the valley to a ridge, where you’ll encounter prayer flags and a large prayer wheel. Reach the Taktshang Cafeteria at 9,200 feet for breathtaking views of the monastery and a hot drink. Depending on your preference, you can either relax at the cafeteria or continue for another mile to reach a stunning viewpoint. Enjoy a Bhutanese buffet featuring dishes like Emadatsi (chili cheese) and vegetables with cheese sauce. End the day with a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath, renowned for its natural healing and relaxation properties.

Retreat into pure tranquility at Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary, embracing ancient Bhutanese healing with hot stone therapy, rejuvenating massages, and mindful yoga and meditation rituals amid the mountains’ quiet grace.