KUZU ZANGPO LA WARM GREETINGS FROM BHUTAN
Join me on a meditation retreat to the mysterious land of the Thunder Dragon where we will immerse ourselves in a unique blend of physical adventure, natural beauty, tranquil calm, deep spiritual engagement, in one of the world’s most unique destinations.
If you are hearing the call to adventure, crave personal time away from the everyday activities to re-imagine, regain clarity or reenergise; with a balanced approach of quiet reflection, and cultural engagement surrounded by abundant natural beauty say yes to adventure with Ancient Paths retreats.
Practice daily mediation focused on your own personal intension, which may include an enhanced sense of vitality and wellbeing.
Meditation will be morning and evening sessions, with plenty time for rich cultural exploration during each day.
Adventuring in Bhutan
Bhutan where nature, spirit and culture provide peace, relaxation, inspiration, where real luxury isn’t just pristine its personal.
For those who yearn for a taste of unspoiled culture amidst the untouched peaks of the Himalayas, there is but one destination, Bhutan. Getting there is part of the adventure. Bhutan is nestled between the Himalayan giants, and dips into green valleys and free flowing rivers. Bhutan is A Kingdom that feels less like a destination and more like a secret kept by majestic mountains.
Bhutan isn’t just another bucket list destination to tick off. It’s a place where happiness isn’t just a slogan, but a guiding philosophy, that guides how nature is protected, how visitors are welcomed, and well-being is prioritised. Every valley of Bhutan has its own unique story from the capital Thimphu where modern is mixed with ancient tradition, to the iconic Taktsang Monastery -Tiger’s Nest – that often looks like its floating above the clouds.
This retreat, cultural tour is brought to you by Ancient Paths; and Dew Drop Travel - who have decades of experience in Bhutan they provide excellent customer service starting from the time of booking, with up to the minute travel advice, including visas, currency, flight booking – critical when travelling to Bhutan. It will be a trip to remember.
Bhutanese retreats are an immersion in authentic spiritual practice, its deeply rooted in centuries-old Buddhist traditions in ancient monasteries. These are rare, opportunities to experience authentic spiritual practice in their original context.
Bhutan lives and breathes with the healing power of nature, with over 70% of Bhutan covered by forests. Bhutan offers untouched, serene landscapes that inherently reduce stress and promote a sense of calm – this is noticeable from the moment you step off your flight!
Adventure is but a step away, hiking through pristine forests, trekking on trails, exploring remote valleys, and walking pilgrimages provide physical adventure that is naturally mediative and elating in unison.
The philosophy of “slow travel” aligns with the ethos of Bhutan, allowing you to savour each moment, breathe the clean Himalayan mountain air, and connect deeply with the environment and your inner self without feeling rushed.
More than a vacation, these retreats integrate ancient traditional practices designed to balance the body, mind, and spirit. You may indulge in therapeutic hot stone baths (Menchu) using river stones and local medicinal herbs, relieving muscular stress. Meals are typically organic, from locally-sourced ingredients, encouraging mindful eating practices.
Walk on the ancient paths of Bhutan, engaging with the warm, welcoming local people, and experience how a culture that priorities well-being over materialism offers a unique perspective on what matters in life. See how the exceptional philosophy of Gross National Happiness permeates through all aspects of life in Bhutan, nurturing an environment of mindfulness and community harmony.
Follow a break from modern distractions to the remote nature of all of our retreat location, disconnect from digital pressure, constant connectivity, and fast pasted daily life, making it easier to be present in the moment.
The core philosophy of Ancient Paths retreats is to offer a balanced meditation travel adventure retreat. Bhutan offers a profound opportunity for self-discover and renewal, with a rare blend of physical adventure and spiritual engagement within one of the world’s most unique and tranquil environment and culture.
Why choose this retreat?
We take all the hard work out of booking your trip
By sourcing the best sites to see and unique places to stay and eat. Your retreat is combined with travel to Bhutan’s top cultural and spiritual destinations.
We help you develop a daily habit of mindful meditation practice
where you can build on skills and produce creative tailored meditation to take back home and utilise in daily life.
A retreat guided by real experience
Julie brings genuine depth to every retreat. You will have two personal sessions; one to set your intentions and the other to assist you in carrying what you’ve learned back into daily life.
Retreat Inclusions:
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Bhutanese Visa procured on your behalf
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Daily Sustainable Development Fee currently USD$100 and local taxes
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All overnight stays/hotels are 3-star & above, including a unique experience stay at Ugyen Choling Heritage House (subject to availability) and local Bhutanese farm stay
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All meals daily (Breakfast, lunch, dinner); daily bottled water
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All transfers within Bhutan with comfortable vehicle
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Fully escorted professionally operated Bhutanese English-speaking travel guide and driver
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All entry fees to all sights visited
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Internal return flight within Bhutan
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Daily meditation including Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) pilgrimage walking meditation hike
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Mo Chhu River (Punakha) river rafting
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Additional pre and post trips personal sessions (2 hours total – retreat aspiration, intensions consultation)
Retreat Exclusions:
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Return Flights from your initial departure port. Recommended routes to Paro Bhutan are: via Bangkok; Singapore; Delhi; Kathmandu (extra Visa’s may be required depending on your chosen route).
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There is a chance a night in transit may be required on inbound or return trip
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Comprehensive Travel insurance (requirement for travel)
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Passport fees (requirement for travel)
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Any accommodation and transport not scheduled on the itinerary or additional/extra room or upgrades
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Spending money
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Any meals and drinks not on the schedule
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Any alcoholic beverages
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Any optional extras such as spa treatments, hot stone bath etc,
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Any personal care items required on the trip, such as laundry, sim cards for mobile data etc.
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Gratuities to guide and driver (recommended gratuities $10-$20 per person/per day)
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Bank charges for payment transfer
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Total Retreat Cost:
Your total investment of AUD $9, 500pp is based on double occupancy shared accommodation or additional solo supplement investment of
AUD $1,500pp.
Deposit Required:
A non-refundable deposit of AUD $1,500pp is required at the time of registration to hold your space. Final payment must be made no later than four months before the departure date.
Airfares to Bhutan:
Airfares to Bhutan are additional, approx. only AUD $1,950pp depending on your departure city.
