Bhutan·March 15 - 22 2024

A Mindfulness Journey to Bhutan

“Gross national happiness is more important than Gross national product.” ~ His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, 4th King of Bhutan

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Overview

The fragrant, perfumed Kingdom of Bhutan is considered The Last Shangri La on Earth. Secluded high in the Himalayas, it's an ancient empire with mesmerizing natural beauty and a rich cultural and religious heritage. Here, there is no traffic and no pollution. Bhutan is a true spiritual haven, a place to rediscover your inner peace. Bhutan places the well-being and contentment of its people at the forefront of its national priorities, emphasizing Gross National Happiness (GNH) over Gross Domestic Product (GDP). It is a profound experience to witness a culture that values spiritual, mental, and emotional well-being as much as material wealth. Beyond its philosophical approach, Bhutan boasts awe-inspiring landscapes that captivate your heart. Over 70% of the country is covered by forest, earning Bhutan the distinction of being one of the world's few carbon-negative countries. It's a life-changing journey. Join us!

Highlights

Pray with the resident monks at the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Pray with the resident monks at the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Visit Asia’s tallest Buddha Statue

Visit Asia’s tallest Buddha Statue

Enjoy a Bhutanese whiskey tasting while gazing at the stars from around a campfire

Enjoy a Bhutanese whiskey tasting while gazing at the stars from around a campfire

Experience a traditional herbal medicine spa treatment

Experience a traditional herbal medicine spa treatment

Visit the meditation caves and relish a moment of silence

Visit the meditation caves and relish a moment of silence

Enjoy a traditional cooking demonstration and lunch

Enjoy a traditional cooking demonstration and lunch

Visit Chimi Lhakhang-Fertility Temple

Visit Chimi Lhakhang-Fertility Temple

Itinerary

Here's a day-by-day itinerary of the trip

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Day 0: Thursday, March 14th, 2024

It's a long journey to Bhutan, so consider arriving in Asia a day or two early. The best flight connections from the US to Paro (Bhutan) are from Bangkok or Delhi. Each has a one-hour difference from local time in Bhutan. So take a day to rest and relax (in Bangkok, Delhi, or Paro).

See the FAQ section below for more information on getting to Bhutan.




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Day 1: Friday, March 15th, 2024

Plan to arrive in Paro, Bhutan, in the morning. A driver will meet you at the airport, whisking you off to the hotel, The Zhiwa Ling Ascent, in the foothills of the Himalayas. The hotel overlooks Thimphu, the capital and largest city in Bhutan. After a refreshing lunch at the hotel, we'll wander into town to shop for custom “Kira,” the women's national dress, at one of our favorite local design shops, Kelzang Textiles. Historically, a Kira is woven by hand in intricate patterns and folded and pinned with silver brooches. Ms. Kelzang creates these exquisite one-of-a-kind pieces with the help of her two daughters. The family will warmly assist us in finding a special Kira, a unique trip keepsake.

After a short afternoon rest, we'll gather for a traditional dinner at the hotel.

Included

Lunch, Dinner

Not Included

Kira purchase

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Day 2: Saturday, March 16th, 2024

This morning, we'll visit the Vast Art Gallery, where young artists learn traditional art forms.

Afterward, we'll proceed to the Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Center, known for creating ceremonial fabrics for the Bhutanese royal family. Watching these skilled artisans in their intricate work is fascinating.

In the early afternoon, we'll be welcomed by Aum Kesang, who will be our instructor for a traditional cooking class at her home. After our class, we will enjoy the fruits of our labor!

After a short afternoon rest, the group will gather to enjoy panoramic views from the hotel courtyard while tasting Bhutanese whiskey beside a roaring bonfire. We'll enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Included

All meals

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Day 3: Sunday, March 17th, 2024

Today, we'll stand in awe of Asia’s tallest Buddha Dordenma Statue, sitting atop a gilded meditation hall with beautiful city views. The massive, golden Buddha is dedicated to bestowing blessings, peace, and happiness on the world.

After an opportunity to meditate or stare in awe at the gigantic statue, we'll savor lunch with members of BAOWE (Bhutan Association of Women Entrepreneurs). This association promotes female entrepreneurs at the grassroots level. They reduce poverty by enabling women to gain self-reliance by operating businesses from a GNH (Gross National Happiness) perspective.

After lunch, we'll hike part of the Debsi Trail. The recently opened sacred Trans Bhutan Trial, of which the Debsi Trail forms part, has origins that trace back to when it was a part of the ancient Silk Road. The trail connected Dzongs (fortresses) of the nine Dzongkhags (districts) and served as a pilgrimage route for Buddhist monks.  We'll journey through Bhutan’s rich culture and history on this trail while enjoying picture-perfect panoramic views of lush valleys and the highest mountain peaks.

After exploring cultural heritage sites and pristine vistas, relax with a spa treatment at the hotel. We'll travel to a new hotel tomorrow, so tonight, we'll celebrate the time spent here with a large farewell feast.

Included

All meals

Not Included

spa treatments

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Day 4: Monday, March 18th, 2024

Today, we'll carve our way over mountain passes to the majestic town of Punakha, situated at the juncture of two beautiful rivers (the Pho and Mo Chhu). We'll stop along the way to experience the meditation caves at Dochula Pass (3100m) and enjoy the 360-degree panoramic view of the snow-laden Himalayas.

We'll enjoy a traditional Bhutanese lunch at the Lobesa Hotel perched on the slopes of plantations overlooking the Punakha Valley.

After lunch, we're off to the Chimi Lhakhang-Fertility Temple - a sacred Buddhist temple idyllically nestled atop a rotund hill in the Punakha District. Many newly married and childless couples from across the world visit Chimi Lhakhang for fertility blessings and to witness the unusual cultural ceremonies performed here.

After exploring the exquisitely built monastery, we'll end our travel for the day at the Dhensa Boutique Resort. This luxurious enclave, flanked by thick pine forests, overlooks the Punakha River and hundreds of paddy fields that stair-step down to the valley floor.

Included

All meals

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Day 5: Tuesday, March 19th, 2024

After a tranquil breakfast, we'll visit the rural home of Ms. Aum Karma Yangchen. Ms. Yangchen is one of the few female hand textile producers in Bhutan. Her passion and mastery of Bhutanese textiles are legendary. She was privileged to design the 5th King’s Coronation Gho (traditional Bhutanese men's attire). We'll spend the afternoon in the presence of this master craftswoman, witnessing a traditional dyeing demonstration as we enjoy a wonderful meal also prepared by her skilled hands. Ms. Yangchen makes some of the best and heartiest cuisine in Bhutan!

After lunch, we'll cross Bhutan’s longest Suspension Bridge, measuring 180 m. This bridge provides commanding views of the Po Chhu River and the surrounding valley, an ideal place for a one-of-a-kind photoshoot.

Afterward, we'll visit the historic Punakha Dzong. The most beautiful dzong (a complex of fortified buildings) in Bhutan, Punakha Dzong, is known as “The Palace of Great Happiness or Bliss.” Built in 1637-38,  Punakha Dzong is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan. One of Bhutan's most majestic structures, the dzong houses the sacred remains of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the founder of Bhutan.

Take the remainder of the day to rest or go to the hotel spa with the group before dinner at the hotel.

Included

All meals

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Day 6 : Wednesday, March 20th, 2024

After breakfast, we'll make our way back to Paro and trek to the famous Taktsang Palphug, the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Clinging to a cliff, this is the ultimate Bhutan experience - a rigorous physical and spiritual journey. We'll start by joining the High Lama at the base of the monastery for a transformative meditation session. Then, we'll begin a glorious hike, stopping for lunch and some cold refreshments at a spectacular viewpoint. For those in the group who do not wish to complete the full hike, there's an option to return to the base camp at this point.

For those who wish to venture on, the second half of the hike ends with a visit to the sacred cave where the tigress slept and practiced meditation. We're also privileged to visit the resident monks at one of the four main temples, inaccessible to the public. 

After the Tiger’s Nest experience, we'll check into our next hotel, The Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary. Here, we'll find a balance between body, mind, and spirit and experience the essence of Bhutan. Dinner tonight is at the fabulous Sanctuary restaurant. Boasting its own greenhouse and vegetable-herb garden, the restaurant uses as many local products as possible.

Included

All meals

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Day 7: Thursday, March 21st, 2024

Today, we'll join the annual Paro Tsechu Festival - one of the largest festivals in Bhutan. The Paro Tshechu is held at Rinpung Dzong to celebrate the birth anniversary of Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche. Here, you'll discover the unique Bhutanese dance form known as the mask dance.

You'll have time to wander, explore, shop, and enjoy the festive atmosphere before gathering for lunch at a charming local café.

After the festival, we'll reconvene at the Sanctuary, where we'll meet with a traditional Bhutanese medicinal herb expert. Bhutan is well known for harnessing the power of natural herbs and is often referenced as the ‘Land of Herbal Medicine.’  This expert is one of the most respected in Bhutan. We'll each receive an individual health consultation and a rejuvenating herbal treatment. 

Tonight, we'll enjoy a celebratory farewell meal held outside at the Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary overlooking the glorious Neyphu Valley. After dinner, we'll continue to enjoy Bhutanese hospitality with a bonfire and beverages under the stars.

Included

All meals

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Day 8: Friday, March 22nd, 2024

After a final breakfast, it's time to say our goodbyes (unless you're joining the trip extension to Bumthang). You'll be privately transported back to Paro International Airport to catch your flight home and to dream of the cherished friendships and memories created during this adventure of a lifetime.

For those joining the trip extension, onward!

Included

Breakfast

handgoods

Day 1: Friday, March 22nd, 2024 - Optional Bumthang Extension

If you're joining us for the trip extension, you'll board an hour-long flight to Bumthang, revered as the cultural heartland of Bhutan. Ancient Buddhist temples and monasteries stand as a testament to its sacred past. Verdant valleys, pristine forests, and majestic mountains beckon nature enthusiasts.

Upon arrival, we'll stop for a traditional Bhutanese lunch at the Dorjibi Farm Home, nestled in an idyllic apple orchard.

After lunch, we'll enjoy a hands-on textile weaving lesson. Bumthang is famous for its locally produced hand-woven woolen cloth known as Yathra.

The afternoon includes a local honey, apple wine, and beer factory visit. It's called “The Red Panda”.  We'll cap off a peaceful, beautiful day in rural, authentic Bhutan with a spirit.

This evening, we'll check in to The Mountain Lodge in Bumthang’s highlands. Settle in and relax before we meet for dinner at the hotel restaurant. Here, everything on the menu is locally produced. For those with adventurous palates, the mushroom-infused twist on the fiery national dish, Ema Datsi, with red rice and jambuley gnocchi, is a must-try.

Included

All melas

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Day 2: Saturday, March 23rd, 2024 - Optional Bumthang Extension

Today, we'll head out for a spiritual pilgrimage with a High Lama. In the Buddhist tradition, a High Lama is an important spiritual leader from the community who will be our "spiritual guide" for the day. The High Lama will provide insight into the type and style of Buddhism practiced in Bhutan.

We'll stop at a holy site for Buddhist devotees, the Mebar Tsho, which translates to “the burning lake.” The Mebar Tsho is revered as the place where Pema Lingpa, Bhutan's greatest tertön (“treasure discoverer”), found several of Guru Rinpoche's terma in the 15th century. Terma are hidden teachings about certain spiritual traditions, including Buddhism.

After experiencing the burning lake, we'll tour the Ogyen Chholing Museum with special host Ashi (Princess) Kunzang. The museum holds great significance to both Bhutanese and Tibetans. It's a wonderful place, preserving and showing the rich history and values of Bhutan.

In the early evening, we'll engage in a spiritual meditation session with the High Lama.  After the meditation session, we'll freshen up and meet for another fabulous dinner at the lodge.

Included

All meals

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Day 3: Sunday, March 24th, 2024 - Optional Bumthang Extension

After breakfast, we'll fly back to Paro and check into the Tashi Namgay Resort. Then, we'll head out to explore the local handicraft markets in Paro. The Sunday market is a delightful place to shop for authentic Bhutanese handicrafts like prayer wheels, handmade Bhutanese boots, dried yak cheese, and woven goods. If you come across any interesting Bhutanese stamps, buy them! Bhutanese stamps are known as collector’s items.  

We'll enjoy lunch at a local Bhutanese restaurant after shopping.

After a busy day, we'll head to a traditional Bhutanese home for a hot stone bath. Bhutanese hot stone baths are a form of traditional Bhutanese medicine where water is heated by depositing red hot fire-roasted river stones into a chamber of a large wooden tub. The bath is sprinkled with pink Himalayan salt flakes, various colorful wildflowers, and green Artemisia leaves. The tub itself is commonly made of oak, as oak is said to hold the water’s heat better than pine.

We'll meet later for dinner at the resort's multi-cuisine restaurant.

Included

All meals

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Day 4: Monday, March 25th, 2024 - Optional Bumthang Extension

Sadly, our trip must come to an end. We'll savor our time in Bhutan and celebrate our new friendships. After one final breakfast together at the resort, you will be privately transferred to the airport to catch your flight home. You will undoubtedly dream of your rich Bhutanese experiences taking lessons from a culture that should remain with you for a lifetime.  

Included

Breakfast

You'll Be Staying Here

Zhiwa Ling Ascent Hotel

Zhiwa Ling Ascent Hotel

Zhiwa Ling Ascent is on the hills overlooking Thimphu. A truly beautiful and peaceful location

Dhensa Boutique Resort

Dhensa Boutique Resort

Dhensa Boutique Resort is in the heart of the tranquil and lush Punakha Valley. Flanked by thick pine forests, it overlooks the Punakha River and hundreds of paddy fields that stair-step down to the valley floor.

Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary

Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary

The Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary is the first and only 5-star traditional spa-inclusive resort in Bhutan.


The Bhutan Mountain Resort

The Bhutan Mountain Resort

The Bhutan Mountain Resort in the mountains is a gracious, spacious place, rooted in the genuine traditions of Bhutanese hospitality.

Tashi Namgay Resort

Tashi Namgay Resort

The Tashi Namgay Resort is in the heart of Paro Valley but away from the distractions of the main town,

Hosts

L. Leigh Rhoads

L. Leigh Rhoads

Your host for this trip is L. Leigh Rhoads (“Linda Leigh” to her friends. You will assuredly be one after your travels).  Leigh calls the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia home and is a true Southerner, replete with the warmth, manners, and charm for which that region is known.  A Civil Rights attorney by trade and a yogi at heart, Leigh has taken every gift of time, between practicing law and being a mother of fun and mischievous twins, to seek out adventurous and meaningful travel experiences like this one.  She is so looking forward to sharing it with you!

Price

Base Trip - 8 Days/7 Nights - Private Room

Base Trip - 8 Days/7 Nights - Private Room

Everyone gets their own fabulous room!

FROM$9,545.00

Base Trip - 8 Days/7 Nights - Shared Room

Base Trip - 8 Days/7 Nights - Shared Room

Share a room with a friend or family member

FROM$8,645.00

Optional Trip Extensions

Trip Extension to Bumthang - 4 Days/3 Nights  - Private Room

Trip Extension to Bumthang - 4 Days/3 Nights - Private Room

Explore Bumthang, the cultural heartland of Bhutan

FROM$3,635.00/pp

Trip Extension to Bumthang - 4 Days/3 Nights  - Shared Room

Trip Extension to Bumthang - 4 Days/3 Nights - Shared Room

Explore Bumthang, the cultural heartland of Bhutan

FROM$3,535.00/pp

The Land of Gross National Happiness

The Kingdom of Bhutan

Nestled deep in the Himalayas between India and China, Bhutan has preserved its traditional way of life. This is evident from its vibrant festivals, ornate monasteries, and traditional architecture. Bhutan's commitment to Gross National Happiness - prioritizing the well-being of its citizens - creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all who visit. The country's breathtaking landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to lush valleys, offer nature lovers a tranquil and rejuvenating experience.

The Kingdom of Bhutan

What's Included

What's Included

Everything stated in itinerary above including all meals + wine with dinner

All guides and tastings

A traditional hot stone bath

Museums and all entry fees

All in-country transport including transfers to and from the airport in Paro

Sacred song and dance ceremony at camp

Entry and experience the Paro festival

Luxury 4 & 5 star accomodations

Cooking Instruction

Hand Dying lesson

Traditional Bhutanese Meal at a Private home

Roundtrip airfare to Bhutan

Any additional Spa Treatments as desired

Any personal souvenirs or purchases

Personal laundry service

Gratuities for the guide

Additional wine, beer or spirits beyond what is offered

Travel and Medical Insurance (required)

Reviews

Truly a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Extremely well organized incorporating all the highlights and must see experiences of Bhutan. We all had a great time and the group soon became firm friends. If you’ve ever wanted to visit Bhutan but not sure how or when to go, this is the trip to choose. It was an outstanding and memorable experience. Bravo to all involved in making this such a special trip. Thank you!! - Tania E, Bedford, NY

2023 Trip Guest

This is an ideal way to travel solo to exotic or remote places with other curious, interesting women. - Joan K, Armonk NY

2023 Trip Guest

Exceeded my expectations - was worth every penny and more! The itinerary was well developed to highlight the beauties of the country. It was very well organized, felt safe and enjoyed the group. Lillian, C - Los Angeles

2023 Trip Guest

FAQs

The easiest way to get to Bhutan from most US and European cities is to fly through Bangkok or Delhi. If you're investigating flights, fly into one of these international airports. We can help you book a flight on Druk Air from Bangkok or Delhi to Paro International Airport, arriving on the morning of March 15, 2024. We'll meet you at the airport.

The trip officially starts in Bhutan on March 15, 2024. Consider arriving in Asia a day early so you have time to rest, relax, and adjust to the local time zone. If you decide to arrive early, spend a day (or more) in Bangkok or Delhi if you're flying through one of these cities. Pamper yourself at a nice hotel and explore a bit! You could also arrive early in Thimphu or Paro (Bhutan) - we'll help you book into the hotel early.

Your host for this trip is L. Leigh Rhoads (“Linda Leigh” to her friends. You will assuredly be one after your travels).  Leigh calls the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia home and is a true Southerner, replete with the warmth, manners, and charm for which that region is known.  A Civil Rights attorney by trade and a yogi at heart, Leigh has taken every gift of time, between practicing law and being a mother of fun and mischievous twins, to seek out adventurous and meaningful travel experiences like this one.  She is so looking forward to sharing it with you!

The weather in Bhutan this itme of year is generally perfect.

You can expect pleasant maximum average daytime temperatures around 20°C (68°F) and nighttime temperatures around 7°C (45°F) in Thimphu.

It is a moderate rainy time with an average rainfall around 59mm (2.3inch) in Thimphu.




We will have a zoom call about 6 weeks before the trip starts to discuss all that information and give you a packing list Here is a great website that we love that will help you with packing and travel trips.

You need a tourist VISA to enter the country. The government also charges daily tourist fees. These fees are added to the total price, at checkout when you book the trip. We will take care of obtaining the VISA and pay your fees in advance.

Inquire about this trip

A Mindfulness Journey to Bhutan

Bhutan· March 15 - 22 2024· 7 nights

FROM$9545/pp