BHUTAN SERENITY: YOGA, NATURE, AND CULTURE

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. 
 

Nestled in the bustling heart of the city, City hotel boasts 32 rooms, including 2 service apartments, 3 superior deluxe rooms, and 27 deluxe rooms, catering to diverse preferences. Alongside comfortable accommodation, they offer a range of amenities to enhance your stay. Facilities include conference rooms for business meetings or special events, a banquet hall for celebrations, a restaurant serving delectable multi-cuisine dishes, and a spa and fitness center for relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can enjoy uninterrupted connectivity with free Wi-Fi available throughout the premises. Their dedicated staff provides round-the-clock front desk assistance and bellman services for your convenience. Whether you're here for business or leisure, hotel strives to make your stay memorable and comfortable. 

Hotel Phobjikha, located in Gangtey Valley, Bhutan, offers luxury accommodations amidst beautiful Himalayan landscapes. Surrounded by Gangtey Monastery and greenery, the lodge blends traditional Bhutanese charm with modern comforts and nature. Whether you want peace, cultural experiences, or adventures, Hotel Phobjikha guarantees a memorable stay in Bhutan's heart. 

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. 

• Embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu, the vibrant capital city. 

• Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the rich flavors of Bhutanese cuisine. 

• Next, experience a profound welcome & a spiritual blessing & cleansing from the High Lama of Bhutan. 

• Partake in a soulful evening prayer ceremony. 

• 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: City Hotel in Thimphu 

Meals: L, D 

Overview of the day:  

• Awaken your senses with a rejuvenating yoga session at the base of the Buddha Dordenma statute. 

• Enjoy a leisurely picnic, soaking in the spiritual ambiance & panoramic views.  

• Explore the Royal Textile Academy in Thimphu, to discover Bhutanese weaving and cultural heritage. 

• Indulge in diverse local cuisine for lunch. 

• Retreat to the hotel for an evening yoga class, reflecting and relaxing after cultural exploration. 

• Conclude with a group dinner, sharing Bhutanese hospitality. 

  Accommodation: City Hotel in Thimphu 

  Meals: B, L, D 

Today, we will embark on a mesmerizing journey towards 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:  

• Awaken your senses with a rejuvenating yoga session at the base of the Buddha Dordenma statute. 

• Enjoy a leisurely picnic, soaking in the spiritual ambiance & panoramic views.  

• Explore the Royal Textile Academy in Thimphu, to discover Bhutanese weaving and cultural heritage. 

• Indulge in diverse local cuisine for lunch. 

• Retreat to the hotel for an evening yoga class, reflecting and relaxing after cultural exploration. 

Accommodation: Phobjikha Hotel 

Meals: B, L, D 

Bid farewell to the serene Phobjikha Valley, and embark on a journey to the vibrant Punakha Valley!

Overview of the day: 

• Begin your day with a harmonious yoga session in the embrace of Phobjikha Valley. 

• Bid farewell as you embark onwards to Punakha Valley, passing through charming villages. 

• Venture into the heart of Punakha Valley to visit the iconic Chimi Lhakhang, a temple that offers a uniquely spiritual experience. 

Accommodation: Zhingkham Resort 

Meals: B, L, D

Overview of the day: 

• Embrace the serenity of the morning with a rejuvenating yoga session at the hotel. 

• Embark on a picturesque hike to the Khamsum Yulley monastery. 

• Brace yourself for an exhilarating river rafting adventure, navigating rapids against the stunning backdrops of Bhutan. 

• Relish a well-deserved riverside picnic. 

• Head on to Punakha Dzong, crossing Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge. 

• Conclude the day with a delightful dinner and bonfire evening at a farm home. 

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: 

• Begin the day with a serene yoga session, embracing the tranquility of the morning. 

• Immerse yourself in the beauty of Bhutan’s natural tapestry. 

• Delight in a flavorful lunch at a local restaurant, savoring regional cuisine. 

• Arrive in Paro and lose yourself in the charm of the quaint town. 

• Reconnect with yourself in the evening through a yoga session. 

• Conclude the day with a delicious dinner at the hotel, full of local flavours. 

Accommodation: Tashi Namgay Resort 

Meals: B, L, D 

Overview of the day: 

• Start the day with a soul-soothing yoga session at Dungtse Lhakhang, a Buddhist temple. 

• Dive into Paro’s flavors through a delightful breakfast at a charming local cafe. 

• Embark on the scenic drive to Chelela pass, a vantage point at 13,000 feet. 

• Luxuriate in a high-altitude picnic, enjoying the panoramic views around you. 

• Partake in a restorative yoga session, guiding yourself towards a state of tranquility and inner balance. 

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: 

• Early morning hike to the icnoic Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest.

• Partake in a picnic breakfast, fueling your spirit with nourishment. 

• Immerse yourself in the history of Tiger’s Nest. 

• Engage in meditation guided by a lama at the monastery. 

• Spend the afternoon wandering through the enchanting town of Paro. 

• Indulge in the therapeutic tradition of a hot stone bath, soothing your muscles. 

• Gather for a final yoga session to absorb the ambiance of your surroundings. 

Accommodation: Tashi Namgay Resort 

Meals: B, L, D 

• End the day with a group breakfast, savoring the flavors of Bhutan. 

• Embark on a scenic journey to the Paro airport. 

• Board your flight out of Bhutan; as you soar homeward, carrying the spirit of Bhutan with you! 

Thank you for traveling with us!