Join Global Family Travels and retreat leader Ramone on a transformative journey to the mystical Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan, where ancient wisdom, vibrant culture, and pristine nature converge to nurture your body, mind, and spirit. This immersive 9-day retreat is more than a yoga getaway—it's a path to regeneration, rooted in Bhutan's guiding philosophy of Gross National Happiness.
Through daily yoga and meditation with Ramone, meaningful cultural exchanges, nature hikes in sacred valleys, and stays in locally run lodges, you’ll deepen your practice while gaining a profound connection to Bhutanese traditions and the natural world. From exploring majestic dzongs and temples to sharing meals with local families, this journey offers the chance to slow down, reflect, and realign with what truly matters.
Let Bhutan’s breathtaking beauty and mindful way of life awaken your sense of presence, purpose, and joy.
Guided by Global Family Travels' three travel pillars of “Learn, Serve & Immerse,” we have developed an enriching yoga journey to Bhutan that will transform you from day one!
Learn: At Global Family Travels, we believe that the most powerful way to learn is through first-hand experience. We let the country and its people be your teachers, while taking in the charm and history of Bhutan’s various regions, including Phobjikha Valley, Punakha Valley, Paro Valley, and more. While on the trip, you will be immersed in the community, meet community members, and learn about their powerful connections to our sacred earth.
Learning themes and experiences unique to this trip include:
Visit well-known Bhutanese historical and cultural sites including the Buddha Dordenma statute, Royal Textile Academy, and Chimi Lhakhang.
Learn why Bhutan is called the Happiest Country on Earth (Read our blog about this!)
Learn about Buddhism, visiting monasteries, meeting monks, including the High Lama of Bhutan.
Learn how to effectively engage in yoga that centers your mind and body
Serve: During this unique itinerary, you are being of service by visiting our non-profit partners and engaging with and supporting humble Bhutanese locals and the various communities we work with! Once you learn more about the various organizations doing impactful work, feel free to contribute further to their work. As part of this trip, your are also contributing to Bhutan’s sustainable development initiatives, through a small payment towards their Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), a daily tax that all tourists visiting Bhutan must pay. The fee is collected from all tourists coming to Bhutan on a travel visa.
Global Family Travels has also included a small donation to of $25 (or more) to Tomorrow’s Air, to help contribute to technology that removes carbon emissions from our atmosphere. (Read this blog: Climate Change and Travel to Support Tomorrow’s Air.
Immerse: While on the trip, you will be immersed in the welcoming communities and culture of Bhutan. The trip will bring you outside of the country’s main tourist attractions, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s history, culture, and people. You will delve into Bhutan's rich cultural tapestry through visits to iconic landmarks such as the Buddha Dordenma statue and the Royal Textile Academy, where centuries-old craftsmanship comes to life. Embark on thrilling adventures with river rafting escapades and contemplative hikes to Khamsum Yulley Monastery, finding serenity amidst the rush of adrenaline.
A highlight of this trip is its focus on regenerative yoga, which will allow you to immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings of Bhutan while centering your mind, body, and spirit on regeneration. You will also enjoy a hot stone bath in Paro Valley, allowing for further rest and relaxation.
Global Family Travels' vision is to unite humanity and inspire travelers to take responsibility for the challenges and opportunities facing our increasingly interconnected planet. Much more than a traditional tour operator, Global Family Travels’ mission is to provide authentic community-based “Learn, Serve and Immerse” travel experiences, as means to foster cross-cultural understanding and create global citizens. By using tourism to help solve community challenges, we organize sustainable travel experiences in partnership with local and global non-profit organizations. Our local Seattle Community tours and global trips often support United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including education, access to clean water, conservation, gender equality, and the preservation of diverse and indigenous cultures.
Global Family Travels also offers travel advisor services, to help plan custom trips for families, multi-generational travel, individual adventurers, or spiritual seekers.
Expect to Expand Your Family Circle when you embark on a Global Family Travels trip! Visit our website for more information.
Founder of Wild Sage Wellbeing, Ramone is a Senior Yoga Teacher and Trauma-Informed Psychotherapist.
With a Bachelor of Science and Masters in Environmental Sustainability, she has worked with governments and conservation organizations to develop and manage successful environmental protection and conservation policy and programs internationally.
Her passion for nature and deep respect for its healing potential led Ramone to transition from wilderness guiding to creating and hosting Yoga adventure retreats in Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bali, Japan, Italy and Australia over the last 10 years.
Her psychotherapeutic practice of Embodied Integration combines neuroscience, mindfulness and trauma-informed principles to help teachers, leaders, healers, health professionals and humanitarians understand their own motivations and maintain healthy boundaries so they can amplify their positive influence safely and sustainably.
She works with individuals and groups to provide therapy, workshops and both online and in-person training in Trauma-Informed Leadership and Facilitation and Trauma-Informed Yoga Teacher Training.
Carbon Removal: According to the State of Global Carbon Dioxide Removal Report by University of Oxford, natural methods of removing carbon from the atmosphere are not enough by themselves due to the amount of pollution currently in the atmosphere. Innovations in removing and permanently storing carbon emissions are needed to conserve nature and reverse the course toward further climate change.
Tomorrow’s Air: Global Family Travels is passionate about encouraging tourism that is not only sustainable but regenerative. To help with our mission, we seek to partner with like-minded brands such as Tomorrow’s Air, which operates within the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA).
Tomorrow’s Air is a collective of carbon removal innovators that work to permanently remove and store carbon from the atmosphere. Travel is a large contributor to global emissions, and we feel it is important to educate and empower travelers to support efforts that combat climate change! Clients can opt-in for a $25 donation to Tomorrow’s Air through the payment page.
Bhutan Peaceful Residency & Spa is a refined, eco-minded boutique retreat nestled in a tranquil blue pine forest on Thimphu’s Motithang hillside, just minutes from the city’s cultural landmarks. Launched in 2022 by H.B. Bajgai, this family-run hotel was thoughtfully designed to address common traveler needs, offering quiet surroundings, restful sleep, and consistently warm service. With 22 rooms, including two suites and interconnected deluxe options ideal for families, the property creates a peaceful yet well-connected hideaway in Bhutan’s capital.
Enjoy an immersive stay at the Monastic Guest House in Gangtey, located within the Sampelkhang Temple complex. Operated by the monks, this peaceful guest house features 18 simple yet comfortable rooms in a secluded hillside setting above Gangtey. The presence of a monastic school and active temple offers guests an opportunity to experience the rhythms of monastic life. Meals are lovingly prepared and served by the monks.
Enjoy a meal at the hotel restaurant or order room service (limited hours). Unwind with a drink at the bar/lounge. Continental breakfasts are served daily from 7 AM to 9 AM for an extra charge. Amenities include a business center, 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage. Free self-parking is available onsite. Stay in one of the 40 guestrooms with minibars. Stay connected with free Wi-Fi and watch cable TV for entertainment. Bathrooms have shower/tub combinations and free toiletries. Additional amenities include complimentary newspapers, electric kettles, and daily housekeeping. Zhingkham Resort in Punakha is a 7-minute drive from Punakha Dzong.
Tashi Namgay Resort, managed by Bhutanese, stands out as one of the top resorts. Situated near Paro International Airport, it's bordered by the Pa Chhu river. Spread across 8 acres of lush green fields, it offers panoramic views. The resort blends traditional Bhutanese architecture with modern comforts for a unique stay. Unlike others in Paro valley, it boasts high-standard spa, fitness center, and traditional activities like archery and khuru. Guests can also enjoy BBQ and bonfire facilities along with the traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath experience.
Welcome to Bhutan!
Overview of the day:
Descend into the picturesque Paro Valley, being captivated by breathtaking views of Paro River.
Emjoy a scenic drive to Thimphu, the vibrant capital city.
Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the rich flavors of Bhutanese cuisine.
Unwind and center yourself with an opening yoga class, surrounded by the serene landscapes of the Himalayas.
Conclude the day with a group dinner, savoring delectable Bhutanese dishes and relishing the warm welcome to the Land of the Thunder Dragon
Accommodation: Bhutan Peaceful Residency & Spa
Meals: L, D
Overview of the day:
Awaken your senses with a rejuvenating yoga session, either at hotel or at the base of the Buddha Dordenma statute.
Enjoy a short meditative forest walk around Kuenselphodrang to deepen mindfulness and connection with nature.
Explore the Royal Textile Academy in Thimphu, to discover Bhutanese weaving and cultural heritage.
Indulge in diverse local cuisine for lunch.
Stroll through the vibrant Centenary Farmers Market, where farmers from around the country gather to sell produce and crafts. A wonderful place to experience Bhutan’s local flavors and community spirit.
Visit the sacred Zilukha Nunnery (Drubthob Goema), perched on a promontory with views of the Thimphu valley. Interact with resident nuns and gain insight into their daily spiritual lives.
Retreat to the hotel for an evening yoga class, reflecting and relaxing after cultural exploration.
Conclude with a group dinner, sharing Bhutanese hospitality.
Accommodation: Bhutan Peaceful Residency & Spa or similar 4-star
Meals: B, L, D
Today, we will embark on a mesmerizing journey towards Gangtey in the Phobjikha Valley, a scenic odyssey that leads you through the breathtaking Dochula Pass and the picturesque Punakha Valley. Traverse landscapes adorned with prayer flags and dotted with ancient monasteries.
Overview of the day:
Begin the day with yoga and breakfast before setting off on a scenic drive over Dochu-La Pass (3,088m), where 108 chortens and Himalayan views await.
Pause for reflection or a short standing yoga pose, then continue through lush forests into the serene Phobjikha Valley, where we will take a gentle walk through Kilkorthang village to visit Damchoe Lhakhang.
After checking in to our accomodations, we will explore the Black Neck Crane Information Centre to learn about the valley’s unique wildlife and culture.
Conclude the day with a restorative yoga session facing Gangtey Monastery, followed by a nourishing dinner and peaceful overnight stay at the monastery’s guesthouse
Accommodation: Sampelkhang Temple Stay - Monastic Guests House in Gangtey, run by monks
Meals: B, L, D
Bid farewell to the serene Phobjikha Valley, and begin your journey to the vibrant Punakha Valley!
Overview of the day:
• Morning yoga or meditation
Overview of the day:
Morning yoga before departure
Scenic drive to Punakha and enjoy a short and easy hike to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of Fertility. Perched on a hillock in the center of the Punakha Valley, this temple is believed to bless couples hoping to conceive. The trail leads through picturesque rice fields and the charming village of Pana (meaning 'field'), offering intimate glimpses into daily Bhutanese life.
Visit Punakha Dzong (Palace of Great Happiness), built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal at the confluence of the Phochu and Mochu rivers.
Evening: Sunset yoga or walking meditation by Mo Chhu river
Accommodation: Zhingkham Resort
Meals: B, L, D
Immerse yourself in the scenic journey to the historic town of Paro. As the landscapes unfold, relish the beauty of Bhutan's natural tapestry during this tranquil transition.
Overview of the day:
Riverside or garden yoga session
Morning River rafting on the Mo Chhu or Po Chhu rivers, offering scenic thrills with views of Punakha Dzong (no prior experience necessary)
Afternoon visit to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery
Evening: Return to hotel for rest and optional Yoga nidra or chanting session before dinner
Accommodation: Tashi Namgay Resort
Meals: B, L, D
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Overview of the day:
After a morning yoga and breakfast, enjoy the scenic return drive to Paro
Explore National Museum and Paro Dzong
Evening yoga on hotel lawn or riverside
Optional hot stone bath experience ($40 p.p., advance booking recommended)
Enjoy dinner at our hotel.
Accommodation: Tashi Namgay Resort
Meals: B, L, D
Embark on a transformative journey to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, famously known as Tiger's Nest, perhaps Bhutan’s most famous site. Each step up the mountainside is infused with the energy of morning yoga, setting a harmonious tone for the day.
Overview of the day:
Morning yoga session at Dungtse Lhakhang
Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) (approx. 5 hours round-trip) - Optional: Pony ride to midpoint ($30 one-way)
Picnic breakfast en route with panoramic views
Explore Sacred Caves and inner sanctums of the monastery
Optional guided meditation with a Lama
Visit historic Kyichu Lhakhang (7th-century temple)
Post-hike stretching at the hotel and optional hot stone bath for muscle recovery
Final group yoga session and farewell dinner with gratitude circle
Accommodation: Tashi Namgay Resort
Meals: B, L, D
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After breakfast, transfer to the airport for flight to onward destination.
Commence your last day with a group breakfast, savoring the flavors of Bhutan one last time. Amidst the shared moments, bid heartfelt goodbyes to the Bhutanese landscape that has woven itself into your journey.
Enjoy one last scenic ride en route to Paro airport, where every turn holds memories of the enchanting landscapes, cultural treasures, and spiritual revelations experienced in the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Board your flight from Paro to Bangkok or Delhi, retracing the skies that witnessed your arrival. As you soar homeward, carry the spirit of Bhutan with you—a treasure trove of experiences, insights, and the gentle echoes of Bhutanese goodbyes
Thank you for traveling with us!
Bhutan
