Sacred Bhutan

Day 1 - Kathmandu Arrival

Touch down in Kathmandu and transfer to your boutique hotel within walking distance of the famed Boudhanath Stupa. Late in the day, the area will be filled with devotees lighting butter lamps and circling the stupa. Your guide will walk with you through the area and accompany you to meet a high lama for a personal blessing as you begin your journey.

Day 2 - Morning Prayers & Namobuddha

Rise early to join the ancient ritual of a puja ceremony in the monastery alongside the monks. Transfer to the countryside for a walk through the rolling hills to a village and Namobuddha, one of Nepal’s most sacred Buddhist sites where you’ll stay the night in the monastery. Join the monks for evening chants, a powerful immersion in contemplation and mindfulness.

Day 3 - Monasteries & Swayambhunath

After time at the monastery, visit Pharping where Guru Rimpoche attained the level of a Mahamudra Vidyadhara. Continue to Swayambhunath, the most ancient and enigmatic of the holy shrines in Kathmandu Valley before returning to Kathmandu. Tonight you’ll dine with a monk in your hotel’s garden, wrapping your time in Nepal with a sense of peace and connection.

Day 4 - Travel to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon

Day 5 - Astrology and Other Traditions

Today is a full day of exploration, immersing yourself in Bhutanese culture. Start with a visit to Pangrizampa Monastery School of Astrology, where you’ll learn how astrology guides daily life in Bhutan. You’ll also receive a reading from a traditional astrologer. Next, explore the Painting School, which offers a six-year course in the country’s 13 traditional arts and crafts, and visit the impressive Buddha Dordenma located on a hilltop with beautiful valley views.

Day 6 - Enchanting Glacier Valley of Gangtey

Day 7 - Buddhas, the Divine Madman, and Punakha Dzong

Day 8 - A Night at Nalanda Monastery

Begin your day at Sangchen Dorji Lhendrup Nunnery, a tranquil temple for nuns focused on higher studies and meditation, perched on a ridge with stunning views of the Punakha and Wangdue valleys. Next, explore the villages of Talo or Nobgang, the ancestral homes of Bhutan’s Queen Mothers, renowned for their beauty. Finally, visit Nalanda Monastery where you will spend the night.

Day 9 - Mandalas & Candles

Spend the morning exploring the world of mandalas with a local expert! These stunning cosmic diagrams embody profound Buddhist meanings. You’ll craft your own colourful seed mandala, then symbolically destroy it, embracing the teaching of impermanence. Next, visit the Phuba Mandala Display Center for a captivating sand mandala demonstration. Finally, explore the ancient Kyichu Lhakhang, where you’ll light 108 butter lamps, representing the dispelling of ignorance and enhancing your meditation journey.

Day 10 - Soaking in Blessings While Hiking to Tiger's Nest

Today, set out on a 4-5 hour hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest. Along the way, you’ll hoist vibrant Lung Dhar (prayer flags) with your guide, representing the five elements and filled with prayers. As the wind activates their blessings, this act becomes a meditative experience, engaging all your senses. The prayer flags must be first blessed in a sacred ceremony by a monk. After this remarkable adventure, enjoy the rest of the day relaxing and soaking in the tranquility at your peaceful hotel. It’s a day of beauty and serenity!

Day 11 - From the Himalayas to the Tropics

Today, head to the airport for your international flight to Thailand. Upon arrival in the bustling city of Bangkok, your guide will greet you and take you to your lovely hotel by the iconic Chao Phraya River, offering beautiful and relaxing views. For a memorable evening, we recommend adding a food tour to savor delicious Thai dishes at a lively night market!

Day 12 - Monks, Canals & Rooftop Terraces

Kick off your day in Bangkok with a heartwarming alms-giving experience to saffron-robed monks. Afterward, enjoy a scenic boat ride to the stunning Wat Arun. Explore the charming canals on a traditional long-tail boat, stopping at Baan Silapin for coffee and art. Wrap up your adventure at a riverside restaurant, sipping drinks while watching the sunset over the Chao Phraya River.

Day 13 - Temple Trails and Prayers

Experience authentic Bangkok with a guided tour using public transport. Discover key sites like Wat Pho, where you’ll witness monks’ morning chanting and see the impressive reclining Buddha. Visit the Lak Mueang City Pillar and the Grand Palace, home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. This journey offers a glimpse into Thai culture and history, with an option for private transport if preferred.

Day 14 - Departure

Today, you will be transferred to the airport for your international flight back home. This inspiring journey concludes here with cherished memories and deep insights. As you reflect on your experiences, from serene temples to vibrant cultures, carry the spirit of Buddhism with you. We hope you return home enriched and inspired, ready to share your adventures with loved ones.