Spiritual Journey
9 Days
Overview
Buddhism and spirituality are central to Bhutanese culture, influencing its religious practices, societal values, traditions, and governance. Bhutan follows Vajrayana Buddhism, a mystical form of Tibetan Buddhism that focuses on meditation, rituals, and achieving enlightenment within one’s lifetime. This tradition, rooted in the teachings of Guru Rinpoche, shapes daily life in Bhutan
The arrival of Guru Rinpoche in the 8th century transformed Bhutan into a Buddhist kingdom, with his teachings influencing the country’s architecture, art, festivals, and laws. Sacred sites like the Tiger’s Nest Monastery commemorate his legacy.
Bhutan’s dzongs, or fortress-monasteries, symbolize the unity of spiritual and political power and serve as centers for both religious and administrative functions. They maintain Bhutan’s spiritual identity alongside being hubs for meditation and religious study.
The annual Tshechu festivals, celebrating Guru Rinpoche’s life, are among the most significant cultural and spiritual events, featuring sacred dances performed by monks. These festivals are a time for devotion, blessings, and spiritual renewal. You can plan to join this trip colliding with one of the festivals in Bhutan.
Trip Highlights
- Plan your trip to coincide with one of Bhutan’s vibrant festivals, such as those in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, or Gangtey in the west, Trongsa, Jambay Lhakhang Drub, Thangbi Mani, or Jakar Tshechu in the central region, or Gom Kora, Drametse, and Mongar Tshechu in the east.
- Visit key sites connected to Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), the revered spiritual figure credited with bringing Buddhism to Bhutan.
- Explore the majestic Punakha Dzong, one of the most magnificent fortresses in the world, set at the confluence of two rivers. Its stunning architecture is a prime example of Bhutan’s artistry and craftsmanship.
- Spend time in solitude, allowing yourself to connect with the spiritual energy of Bhutan in its sacred monasteries like Taktsang and Goen Tsephu.
- Visit the sacred hot springs of Chubu Tsachu, known for their therapeutic properties, where pilgrims seek both physical and spiritual rejuvenation.
- Participate in guided meditation sessions, engage in teachings with a Buddhist master, interact with reincarnated lamas, attend a blessing ceremony for long life, or support a monk by sponsoring their Buddhist studies in a remote monastery in Trongsa for just USD 25 per month.If your pilgrimage coincides with one of Bhutan’s vibrant Tshechu festivals, witness sacred dances, rituals, and prayers that honor Guru Rinpoche’s teachings. These festivals are profound expressions of Bhutanese devotion and spirituality.
Itinerary
Arrive in Paro and drive to Thimphu (1hr). In the afternoon, attend a session with a Buddhist Master, followed by a Q&A. In the evening, explore the city. On day two, enjoy an astrology session at Pangrizampa, meditation at Tara Lhakhang, and visits to the Memorial Stupa, Buddha Dordenma, and Tashichho Dzong in the afternoon.
Visit Tashigang Gonpa for blessings from Pelden Lhamo, Bhutan's chief deity, then embark on the Lungchutse Hike (3-4hrs). Stop at Dochula Pass for Himalayan views before continuing the drive to Gangtey (4hrs). On day two in Gangtey, attend morning prayers at Gangtey Shedra, followed by breakfast with monks. Enjoy a guided meditation session with Lama Nima, visit Gangtey Monastery, and take a leisurely nature trail hike (1.5hrs). In the evening, relax with a traditional hot stone bath and sample ark (moonshine).
Drive to Punakha (2hrs), hang prayer flags at Lawala Pass, visit Chimi Lhakhang, and explore Punakha Dzong. On day two, drive to Goen Tsephu and relax at Chubu Hot Springs.
In the morning, visit Wolakha Nunnery and participate in the drum ceremony performed by the nuns. Drive back to Paro (3.5hrs), with a stop to enjoy local delicacies at Aum Toebzam’s Heritage Home and visit the National Museum of Bhutan. On the last day, hike to Taktsang Monastery, offer butter lamps at Kichu Lhakhang, and enjoy coffee and shopping in Paro town.Day 9- Depart from Bhutan
Depart from Bhutan
Cost Inclusion
- Bhutan Government visa and Daily SDF (Sustainable Development Fee)
- 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 8 dinners
- Airport transfers
- English speaking Guide
- Good location Accommodation with breakfast & dinner included
- Private SUV with professional driver
- Entrance fees to all national monuments and museums
- Sightseeing as listed (can be kept flexible)
- Mobile Hotspot
- Unlimited Himalayan bottled water
Cost Exclusion
- Air fare
- Personal Expenses like health & travel insurance, alcoholic beverages, laundry, telephone bills
- Tips & gratuities to service providers.
Cancellation Policy
For a trip booked and subsequently cancelled, the following applies:
More than 60 days before start of travel program, USD 200 flat rate/per person + Advance payments made to hotels (if any) + Transfer charges
Between 60 – 10 days: 45% of the package cost retain
Less than 10 Days, 100% payment will be retained
For air tickets issued and subsequently cancelled, the following apply.
75% refund permitted for tickets cancelled more than 30 days from the date of travel.
50% refund permitted for tickets cancelled between 30 – last 10 days from the date of travel.
25% refund permitted for tickets cancelled prior to 04 (four) days from the date of travel.
No refund for tickets cancelled within 4 days of travel date.
For air tickets issued and subsequently rescheduled, the following applies:
USD 40 rescheduling fee or equivalent local currency for every flight reschedule less than 72 hours prior to date of travel. No charges for business class passengers
KORA can also help you book flights without any commission involved.
For a detailed itinerary and trip cost, feel free to contact us. Let us help you plan the journey of a lifetime
