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Bhutan Yoga Retreats

A Once in A Lifetime Bhutan Yoga and Adventure Tour

A Bhutan adventure yoga retreat is an experience full of wonders and charms, an adventure that will inspire and enrich you for years to come.

Bhutan culture is preserved by issuing only a limited number of tourist visas each year, so they are able to welcome visitors sustainably, preserving its endemic and natural beauty. In this world apart, you’ll discover a moving feast of culture, nature, and infectious local smiles. It’s an ideal destination for personal enrichment – and for deepening your yoga practice.

Your Bhutan yoga retreat will weave together the best of the country’s culture and nature. Explore ancient fortresses and temples, where you’ll mingle with monks and hang prayer flags. Bhutan hiking, culture and nature are all at your fingertips as you ride rapids, explore mountain trails and discover this fascinating country.

Set aside your stresses and bring your sense of wonderment and humor to this awe-inspiring place they call the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Your Bhutan adventure trip will take you alongside welcoming locals who measure their life and success by Gross National Happiness; not a bad way to find a little peaceful bliss of your own.

Yoga Retreat Adventure Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights • Starting at $7395 per person

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October 11 - 20, 2020 Kristin Clark Cork
Kristin Clark Cork

Heart of Happiness Bhutan Yoga Adventure :: October 11-20, 2020

Have you ever been to a country that values the happiness of everyone that lives there? Bhutan is the only country in the world that measures the GNH or Gross National Happiness of individuals as a sign of prosperity.  Bhutan is also the only country in the world to hold the title of being a negative carbon country with over 70% of its country under forest cover. Bhutan has only been open to visitors since 1974 and takes conservation of its culture and the tourist footprint very seriously limiting the number of visitors each year.

Join me on this unique journey to the heart of our hearts where we will meet ourselves in breath, in body and in spirit as we explore our inner nature as a reflection of that which will surround us. Gentle Vinyasa and Yin Yoga will sharpen our senses as will our daily meditation practices that will intentionally connect us to our heart of hearts as we immerse ourselves into Bhutan culture, Buddhist monasteries and the landscape of the land. This journey will truly be a meditation of movement in motion and one unlike any other.

Kristin Cork has been teaching yoga and leading meaningful yoga adventure retreats for 18 years. She leads yoga immersions and trainings that dive deep beneath the surface with the belief that we take our yoga wherever we go for there we are.

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What's included

  • Ten days in-country with an expert local English speaking guide
  • Bhutan visa and permit management
  • Round trip flight from Bangkok to Bhutan
  • Breakfast each morning at our hotels
  • All lunches including local eateries and picnic(s)
  • All dinners in a local restaurant or at our hotels
  • Morning and evening yoga on most days (please see the full itinerary for yoga schedule)
  • Three nights luxury boutique hotel in Thimphu
  • Three nights luxury boutique hotel in Punakha
  • Three nights luxury boutique hotel in Paro
  • Full day excursion and hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery
  • White water rafting on the Mo Chu River
  • Nature encounter with Bhutan’s national animal, the takin, at the Motithang Takin Preserve
  • Hike to the Cheri Goempa Monastery
  • Visit with Buddhist monks and individual blessing (if desired)
  • Opportunity to hang your own prayer flag
  • Explore Pangri Zampa Monastery
  • Up close and personal with one of the worlds largest Buddha statue – the Buddha Dodernma
  • Explore Chimi Lhakhang – the temple of the “Divine Madman”
  • Drive through and time to explore the Chelala Pass’s vibrant flora and views of Mt. Jomolhari
  • Day trip to Haa
  • Visit Lhakhang Karpo (the White Temple) and Lhakhang Narpo (the Black Chapel)
  • All entry fees for the above sights and additional activities as listed on the itinerary

What's not included

  • Flights to Bangkok, Thailand (BKK)
  • Any video or still camera fees assessed by the monuments or places of interest
  • Alcohol
  • Gratuities (for your Bhutanese guide – all other gratuities are covered)
  • Items of a personal nature (phone calls, souvenirs, spa services, etc)
  • Travel Insurance (required)

Thimphu

Our first nights during our adventure travels in Bhutan grant you stunning panoramic views and a blend of natural beauty and modern comforts.  Soak up the local Bhutanese artwork, the organic garden and the artful architecture of your own room, designed to enhance the sunlight and wonder of the natural scenery just outside your door.

Punakha

From the river, we head to the forest and gorgeous views of the Punakha Valley below. The contemporary design melds perfectly with cultural aesthetics from the quiet of reception to the simple luxury of the rooms with their individual meditation-inspiring balconies.

Paro

Bhutanese art and culture are felt in the colors and woodwork of the awe-inspiring reception hall and in the subtle accents in each room of this 5-star, wholly Bhutanese owned, boutique hotel.  Spacious rooms, all with sitting areas and balconies, include the modern comforts of wifi and heated floors for a luxury in-room experience.  The hotel boasts a temple, built from the 450-year-old timber of the Gangtey Monastery, on the second floor and an outdoor Meditation and Tea House to complete the beauty out-of-doors.  Noted as one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World, your stay is a stunning way to end your time with our Bhutan wellness retreat adventure.

Board your included flight from Bangkok to Paro and to begin your unique Bhutan yoga retreat and ten days of amazing cultural exploration.

Day One

  • Fly into Bhutan through the Paro Valley and spy the Pa Chu (Paro river) and Ta Dzong (watchtower)
  • Exit the arrivals at the airport to meet up with our guide and head out for the 1 hr drive to Thimphu
  • Stop to visit Tamchogg Lhakhang – one of the 108 chain link bridges built in the 14th century
  • Check in and unwind and relax (for a little bit)
  • Head to Thimpu to explore the King’s throne room and nation’s largest monastery at Tashichho Dzong
  • Opening yoga circle and class
  • Group dinner and welcome to Bhutan!

Day Two

  • Early morning yoga and hearty breakfast
  • Morning hike across the Thimphu River to the Cheri Goempa Monastery
  • Time to meet and learn from the monastery’s Buddhist monks and receive a special blessing
  • Transfer back to town for a lunch sampling the local cuisine
  • Explore the oldest monastery in Bhutan, Pangri Zampa, which is still in use today as a school of astrology
  • Return to the hotel for the evening yoga class
  • Group dinner at the hotel
  • Optional – if you’ve got the energy, head out to one of Thimpu’s dance clubs (electronic beats anyone?)

Day Three

  • Early morning yoga and breakfast
  • Visit Memorial Chorten, set up for the man popularly thought of as the Father of Modern Buddhism
  • Travel on to the beautiful Buddha Dodernma, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world
  • Sample authentic Bhutanese cuisine in a local restaurant
  • Visit Motithang Takin Preserve and learn the folklore and history of the takin – the national animal of Bhutan
    • Enjoy a hike through the preserve among the prayer flags and small temples
  • Afternoon visit to the National Library and the superb examples of old and new Buddhist manuscripts
  • Explorations of Thimphu including the Folk Heritage Museum and the school of Zorig Chusum
  • Evening yoga practice
  • Group dinner at the hotel

Day Four

  • Early morning yoga session and breakfast
  • Drive to Punakha up and down through the Dochula Pass in the gorgeous Himalayan mountains
  • Mid-drive stop to visit the 108 stupas at Dochu La and the Druk Wangyel Lhakhang
  • Hike to the Chimi Lhankhang – a temple dedicated to a great yogi known as the “Divine Madman”
  • Lunch at a local restaurant en route to Punakha
  • Explore the Punakha Dzong – the religious and government center of Punakha between the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers
  • Dinner at the local hotel (no evening yoga)

Day Five

  • Early morning yoga and breakfast at the hotel
  • Head out for a big day on the river rafting either the Mo Chu or Po Chu rivers
    • Raft through the stunning Bhutanese backdrop and by the 17th century Punakha Dzong – no experience necessary, just a willingness to paddle and get wet!
  • Freshening up and lunch at the hotel and a small rest
  • Drive to visit the Nalanda Buddhist College and walk down to Punakha Dzong on an ancient walking path
  • Dinner at the local hotel (no evening yoga)

Day Six

  • Early morning yoga and group breakfast
  • Drive to the suspension bridge and begin a hike to the gorgeous lhakhang of Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch and stunning view of the valley after the hike
  • Visit to the Sangchhen Dorji Lhendrup Lhakhang Nunnery
    • Explore the beautiful statues of Avalokiteshvara, Gautama Buddha – the nunnery also acts as a center of meditation
  • Walk back to the hotel and enjoy the quick stroll through the pine trees and town
  • Evening outdoor yoga (weather dependent) at the hotel
  • Group dinner at the hotel

Day Seven

  • Early morning yoga and breakfast at the hotel
  • Transfer to the historic town of Paro
  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in town
  • After lunch stroll to the National Museum
  • Head down a hillside trail to visit Rinpung Dzong with a commanding view of the Paro Valley
  • Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, the oldest and most sacred shrines of the Kingdom dating back to the 7th century
  • Evening yoga session at the hotel
  • Group dinner at the hotel

Day Eight

  • Get an early start this morning for breakfast
  • A short drive to the north of Paro Valley to Ramthankha to begin your hike to the Taktsang Monastery Tiger’s Nest
    • This most famous of Bhutan landmarks requires a hike of approximately 5 hours to reach the monastery
  • Learn the history and significance of the monastery as one of the most sacred and venerated sites in Buddhism
  • Hike down and head back to the hotel for a late afternoon rest
  • Evening yoga to unwind hiking muscles
  • Group dinner at the hotel

Day Nine

  • Early morning yoga and breakfast
  • Head out for a journey to Haa via the stunning scenery of the Chelela Pass
    • Stop along the Pass to enjoy the stunning roses, irises, rhododendrons and prayer flags
    • On a clear day take in stunning views of the sacred mountain of Jomothari
  • Enjoy a relaxed lunch in Haa at a local restaurant
  • Visit the main seat of Haa’s guardian deity, Ap Chundo, at Lhakhang Karpo (the White Temple)
  • Explore the duality of the region by following up the White Temple with the Black Chapel, Lhakhang Narpo
    • Built on a lake in the 7th century by Tibetan King Gampo in his mission to build 108 monasteries in a day
  • Head back to Paro for the adventure’s final yoga class
  • Group farewell dinner and (sniff) packing

Day Ten

  • Group breakfast and final Bhutan goodbyes
  • Transfer to the Paro airport for your flight to Bangkok and onward back home

It’s hard to say what I enjoyed most, because the trip was so awesome. What made it truly wonderful was the spectacular yoga teacher, Gia Parker, and the spectacular local guide, Tashi. The scenery was magnificent and awe inspiring. The spiritual atmosphere of the entire country is remarkable. The local people are lovely. The accommodations were excellent.

- Beth S.

The hike to the Tiger’s Nest and the yoga – all so amazing! Tashi was a fantastic guide and the hikes to prepare us were beautiful!!!

- Amanda L.

Each of our 3 hotels went above and beyond my expectations and I’m sure we got the best guide in the entire country. I was nervous because the trip was so involved but The Travel Yogi was so helpful and quick to respond when I emailed questions. Thank you!

- Rachel W

Bhutan was beyond amazing, it’s beauty can’t be imagined. This is my fourth trip with Travel Yogi; Galapagos with Liz Arch, Iceland with Elizabeth Rowan, Kenya with Liz Arch and now Bhutan with Erica Jung. Travel Yogi is easy to deal with and I trust that the accommodations will always be top notch, I haven’t been disappointed yet. The yoga is always equally spectacular as well, I enjoy getting personal instruction from A-list instructors. They have all been a treat. I can’t think of a better way to see the world and have made great friends on every trip. I can’t wait to start planning my next adventure to Vietnam and Cambodia! My wife and I love The Travel Yogi!

- Roger N.

Enthusiastic and helpful yoga teacher. Listened to the group and tailored accordingly.

Locations showed different parts of the country, which was nice (e.g., city vs. countryside).

Wonderful hikes. Visiting local schools, houses and monasteries. Unique experience which will be very memorable.

Would recommend using the same guide as he was able to organize some pretty cool stuff for us outside the itinerary. He was also knowledgeable and approachable. The driver was friendly and informative too.

- Fiona C.
What airport will I be flying into?
You'll want to schedule your flight into Bangkok (BKK) at least one day before the trip begins.  We have your flight from Bangkok to Paro, Bhutan taken care of on day one of your trip, but flight times are determined closer to the trip so everyone needs to be in the night before. We'll also fly you back to Bangkok on the last day of your adventure and we require that you not book any outbound flight from Thailand any earlier than 9pm on the last day.
What is the passport/visa situation?
All U.S. travelers will need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of arrival and have at least one blank page for entry stamps.  We will be taking care of visas for all travelers and will require a full color, scanned copy of your photo passport page (photographs are not allowed).  Entry information can change so please visit the State Department's website for up to date information. Travelers from all other countries should check with their government for passport entry requirements.  We will obtain visas for all travelers.
What is the electrical currently/outlet situation in Bhutan?
Electricity in Bhutan runs on 220V. Most U.S. based devices that need to be charged (including camera batteries, mp3 players, etc.) work with outlets ranging from 110–240 volts, so they typically do not require a power converter. However, it will be up to you to check your individual electronics. This information is located on the plug itself and is usually very easy to find. Outlet configurations in Bhutan are normally European-style: round, two- or three-pronged. As outlets can change from place to place, we recommend you bring an outlet adapter to ensure you do not have problems plugging your devices in. Hotel Zhiwa Ling in Paro uses U.S. outlets.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes!  Please note that travel insurance in required for all travelers and proof on insurance will be required on day one.  All plans must include medical evacuation coverage.  Please contact The Travel Yogi with any questions.
Will there be internet access?
Yes, all of our lux hotels will have wifi available.
Do I need to bring my own mat?
On this adventure, yes, it is necessary that you bring your own mat with you.  Our guides will carry them for you, along with your luggage.  A mat and a strap are good options but unless you absolutely need a block, we recommend you leave that at home.  The Travel Yogi teachers that head out to Bhutan devise classes without props.
Do I need any inoculations?
There are no inoculation requirements at this time but it is suggested that you be up to date on your tetanus, typhoid and hepatitis A.  Any questions about your specific inoculation needs to should directed to your personal physician in advance of this adventure.
After I book and pay my deposit, can I make payments on my yoga retreat?
Yes!  Of course.  Once you're booked you'll receive an email with important logistical information and a link to your invoice.  You can pay any amount at any time on the invoice; you can use it as a payment plan or leave it alone until the final due date. Remember that deposits are non-refundable so, on all trips, we recommend purchasing travel insurance.