Spiritual Retreat

Arrive in Paro, where the gentle rhythm of Bhutan begins to unfold. Transfer to Thimphu, stopping at Tamchog (Tashog) Temple for a first quiet meditation by the river. In the afternoon, visit Buddha Point and the Memorial Chorten, where prayers flow continuously with the turning of prayer wheels. Evening journaling and rest at the hotel.
Night in Thimphu.

Morning yoga session to awaken body and breath. Later, hike to Wangditse Monastery, perched on a forested ridge, and meet the resident monk for an intimate exchange on monastic life. At the end of the afternoon, offer butter lamps at the Memorial Chorten — a gesture of light and compassion.
Night in Thimphu.

Drive across Dochula Pass, lined with 108 chortens and crowned by Himalayan peaks. Hoist prayer flags for blessings before descending into the lush Punakha Valley. Visit Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a temple built for peace and harmony, reached by a gentle hike through rice fields.
Night in Punakha.

Travel to Wangdue Phodrang and hike to a secluded monastery nestled on a cliffside, overlooking the river and valley below. A day of quiet reflection and connection with the stillness of the mountains.
Night in Wangdue.

Journey to the serene Phobjikha Valley, winter home of the black-necked cranes. Visit Gangtey Monastery and enjoy a gentle walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail. On Christmas Day, join a Buddhist prayer and light-offering ceremony for peace and compassion, a truly soulful celebration of winter. Night in Phobjikha.

Drive east through pristine valleys toward Bumthang, the spiritual heart of Bhutan. Settle into the serene rhythm of monastic life at Pema Choling Nunnery in Tang Valley. Participate in the nuns’ daily practices — morning prayers, meditation, yoga, and chanting — and join their mindful work in the garden. Spend afternoons in silence or on gentle hikes through the surrounding hills. One day will include a reflective hike to Membar Tsho, the “Burning Lake,” a sacred site where the spiritual treasure revealer Pema Lingpa discovered hidden teachings.
Nights in Tang Valley at Pema Choling Nunnery, in Bumthang.

Drive to Jakar Valley for a final day in Bumthang. Visit three of the valley’s most sacred temples: Jambay Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest; Kurjey Lhakhang, where Guru Padmasambhava meditated; and Tamshing Lhakhang, known for its spiritual murals. Gentle silent walks connect each temple, allowing space for contemplation.
Night in Jakar Valley.

In the soft morning light, take the domestic flight from Bumthang to Paro (subject to availability). As the valleys unfold beneath you, reflect on the stillness and devotion experienced in the heart of Bhutan. Back in Paro, visit Rinpung Dzong — the Fortress of the Heap of Jewels — where monks chant in ancient rhythm and incense drifts through the courtyards. Spend the afternoon quietly wandering through the town’s temples and shops, choosing small objects of meaning to carry home as reminders of your inner journey.
Night in Paro.

Hike to Taktsang Monastery, the Tiger’s Nest — Bhutan’s most revered pilgrimage site, clinging to the cliffs high above the valley. In the afternoon, take part in a personal blessing ritual in a traditional Bhutanese home, performed by a local spiritual community — a private and heartfelt experience, not open to the public. Night in Paro.

Transfer to Paro International Airport for your flight home, carrying with you the serenity and warmth of Bhutan’s winter light.