Yoga & Meditation Journey in Bhutan

with danette watson

11 NIGHTS | US$5,325* | Early bird price US$5,225**
DEPARTS: PARO, BHUTAN

11th october - 22nd october 2026

Join the experience of a lifetime on a guided yoga & meditation journey in magical Bhutan! Bhutan is undoubtedly one of the world's most fascinating travel destinations. Our carefully planned 11-night Bhutan yoga & meditation journey explores Bhutan's stunning scenery, ancient temples and thriving monasteries. Deepen your yoga practice with this is a once-in-a-lifetime journey!

* Price based on twin-share accommodation. Single room supplement available for US$45 per night, subject to availability.
** Early bird price until 31st March 2026.
Find out approximate trip price in your own currency here 

Trip Inclusions

• Transport by private vehicle

• Domestic flight from Bumthang to Paro

• All meals, mineral water, tea and coffee

• 11 nights handpicked hotel accommodation including 2 nights in a 4 star hotel with pool, sauna & steam

• All entrance fees at monasteries and museums

• Bhutan daily fee including visa, Bhutan government tourism royalties and local taxes

• English speaking Bhutanese guide

• English speaking tour leader

• Use of yoga mats

TRIP Itinerary

Day 1 - 11th october

Thimphu: Your journey in Bhutan begins with a scenic drive from Paro to Thimphu, which takes just over an hour and offers beautiful first glimpses of Bhutan’s landscapes. En route, visit Tachog Lhakhang, a picturesque temple famous for its traditional iron chain bridge.

Arriving in Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital, you’ll discover a city where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly. Highlights include a visit to the school of Arts and Crafts and the National Institute of Traditional Medicine to learn about Bhutan’s ancient healing practices.

After lunch, visit the National Textile Museum, home to Bhutan's rich tradition of textile arts, including intricate weaving and vibrant fabrics. In the evening, enjoy a short introductory yoga session before dinner—a wonderful chance to relax, ground yourself, and get to know the rest of the group.

Driving time: 1 hour
Overnight: Thimphu
Altitude: 2,334 m

Day 2 - 12th october

Thimphu – Himalayan Views & Spiritual Connections
Start your day with a refreshing morning yoga session. Drive up to the Great Buddha Dordenma Statue, a striking 51-meter-tall statue that gazes serenely over the valley below. From here embark on a lovely 2- hour hike to Changangkha Temple. From here we drive back towards Thimphu stopping at the National Takin Reserve to see Bhutan’s unique national animal before enjoying lunch in the city. In the afternoon visit the National Textile Museum, home to Bhutan's rich tradition of textile arts, including intricate weaving and vibrant fabrics.

In the afternoon, head to Zilukha Nunnery, located just 5-10 minutes outside Thimphu. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to attend the afternoon prayer session .This peaceful and spiritually enriching experience at the nunnery provides a chance to connect with the monks and nuns through chanting, meditation, and reflection.

Driving time: 1 hour
Walking time: 2 hours
Overnight: Thimphu
Altitude: 2,334 m

Day 3 - 13th october

Punakha: After morning yoga, visit the Post Office where you can create our own personalised stamp. Then travel eastwards towards the Dochula Pass at 3,100 metres, where 108 memorial chortens honour fallen soldiers. From this vantage point, enjoy panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas, with their snow-capped peaks stretching across the horizon.

On the road to Punakha you will stop at Sobsokha village for the short hike through the paddy fields to Chimi Lhakhang the Fertility Temple. Continue to your accommodation for the next two nights set on a hill overlooking Punakha Dzong. There will be a late afternoon yoga session before dinner.

Driving time: 3 hours
Walking time: 1 hour
Overnight: Punakha
Altitude: 1,200 m

Day 4 - 14th october

Punakha: River Walks & Spiritual Reflections
Begin your day with a rejuvenating morning yoga session, followed by a scenic 7km walk along the Pho Chhu River. This peaceful stroll takes you along the riverbanks, with opportunities to spot the rare white-billed heron in the surrounding waters. The walk gradually climbs to a viewpoint offering stunning vistas before descending to the iconic suspension bridge. Continue your journey towards Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan's most majestic and historically significant landmarks, where the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers converge. In the evening, head to Sangchen Dorji Nunnery to join the nuns for a heartfelt prayer session. The chanting and meditation provide a beautiful way to end the day, connecting you with the serene energy of the place before dinner.

Driving time: 45 minutes
Walking time: 2.5-3 hours
Overnight: Punakha
Altitude 1,200 m

Day 5 - 15th october

Phobjikha: Valleys, Cranes & Sacred Spaces
We bid farewell to Punakha with a morning yoga session, anchoring ourselves before departing. The route to Phobjikha ascends through winding mountain roads, offering breathtaking views of lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and traditional Bhutanese villages. As you climb higher, the landscape transforms into open meadows and pine forests, eventually leading to the serene Phobjikha Valley, a glacial valley situated at an altitude of about 3,000 meters.

Upon arrival, visit the majestic Gangtey Monastery, dating back to the early 17th century and an important centre of the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism.

From here, enjoy a gentle nature trail walk down through the village and into the valley. The trail winds through tranquil blue pine forests and open meadows, offering peaceful vistas and a deep connection with the land. Your vehicle will meet you at the end of the trail and transfer you to your hotel.

Driving time: 4 hours
Walking time: 1.5-2 hours
Overnight: Phobjikha
Altitude: 3,000 m

Day 6 - 16th october

Phobjikha: After morning yoga, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive to Lawala Pass (3,400 m), where your hike begins. The trail winds through open pastures and dense rhododendron forests, with chances to spot grazing yaks and take in sweeping views of the Phobjikha Valley below. You’ll visit Ku-bum temple (3,060 m), a peaceful hillside sanctuary, before continuing to the nearby 15th-century Khewa Lhakhang—renowned for its impressively large Buddha statues and quiet spiritual presence. Your vehicle will meet you at the trail’s end for the return transfer to your hotel.

Later in the day, join the nuns at Gangtey Nunnery for evening prayers—a serene and soul-stirring experience.

Driving time: 30 minutes
Walking time: 3.5-4 hours
Overnight: Phobjikha
Altitude: 3,000 m

Day 7 - 17th october

Bumthang: Departing from Phobjikha, the journey to Bumthang crosses the scenic Lawala Pass (3,400 meters), offering sweeping views of the valley below. As the road winds through pine forests and charming villages, stop at Chendebji Chorten—a prominent 18th-century Nepali-style stupa resembling Kathmandu’s Boudhanath, with its white dome, all-seeing eyes, and surrounding prayer wheels nestled in a serene, forested setting.

Continuing onward, the route leads to the Waterfall Café, a cozy rest stop beside a picturesque cascade, perfect for refreshments. The journey then proceeds to Trongsa, a historic town that marks the gateway to central Bhutan and the final stretch toward Bumthang. Drive towards Trongsa, where you’ll pause to explore the Ta Dzong Museum, housed in an ancient watchtower that once guarded the region. The exhibits offer a fascinating glimpse into Bhutan’s royal history and warrior culture.

Bumthang, is often referred to as the spiritual heartland of Bhutan. Surrounded by rolling hills and sacred sites, this valley is both breathtaking and deeply serene. You will visit to Jakar Dzong, known as the “Castle of the White Bird,” perched on a ridge overlooking the valley. From there, enjoy a peaceful walk between two revered temples—Jambahy Lakhang, dating back to the 7th century, and Kurje Lhakhang, where Guru Rinpoche is believed to have meditated. As the sun sets, join the monks at Tamshing Lhakhang Monastery for evening prayers—a deeply moving experience of chant, incense, and stillness. Return to your charming hotel for a nourishing dinner and rest.

Driving time: 4.5 hours
Walking time: 2.5-3 hours
Overnight: Bumthang
Altitude: 2,800 m

Day 8 - 18th october

Bumthang: Jakar Festival
Today you will experience Jakar Tshechu which is a vibrant three-day festival held each autumn at the magnificent Jakar Dzong—also known as the “Fortress of the White Bird”—perched above Jakar town. Celebrated in honor of Guru Rinpoche, the festival features elaborate masked Cham dances such as the Black Hat Drum Dance, Dance of the Lords of the Cremation Grounds, and the Guru Tshengye (Eight Manifestations).

In addition to sacred performances, the event includes folk music, playful jesters (atsaras), and, on the final day, the ceremonial unfurling of the sacred thongdrel—a huge tapestry believed to cleanse sins when seen. Jakar Tshechu is a deeply spiritual and culturally rich celebration that draws locals and travellers alike.

After lunch walk between two revered temples—Jambahy Lakhang, dating back to the 7th century, and Kurje Lhakhang, where Guru Rinpoche is believed to have meditated. As the sun sets, join the monks at Tamshing Lhakhang Monastery for evening prayers—a deeply moving experience of chant, incense, and stillness. Return to your charming hotel for a nourishing dinner and rest.

Driving time: 20 minutes
Walking time: 1-2 hours
Overnight: Bumthang
Altitude: 2,800 m

Day 9 - 19th october

Bumthang – Hike to Nga Lhakhang & Local Flavours
Begin your morning with a grounding yoga session, welcoming the day with intention and breath. After breakfast, take a short drive to Toktok Sampa, where your day hike to Nga Lhakhang begins. This scenic trail winds through peaceful villages and forested hills, leading to a quiet temple nestled in nature—perfect for reflection and light exploration.

In the afternoon, return to the hotel to relax. There will be an optional visit to the nearby Red Panda micro-brewery, a favourite stop for those curious about Bhutan’s small but growing craft beer scene. Before dinner, wind down with a short guided meditation back at the hotel, allowing body and mind to fully relax after a day of walking and discovery.

Driving time: 1 hour
Walking time: 3–4 hours
Overnight: Bumthang
Altitude: 2,800 m

Day 10 - 20th october

Paro: Enjoy a relaxing yoga session in Bumthang before your flight back to from Bumthang to Paro. The short flight offers a breathtaking aerial journey across Bhutan’s majestic Himalayan landscapes.

Once in Paro, you’ll spend the day exploring it’s rich heritage. Visit the impressive Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong), a fortress-monastery that offers insight into Bhutanese architecture and spirituality. Wander through the National Museum, housed in a former watchtower, and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s unique culture and history. Later, take time for quiet reflection at Kyichu Lhakhang, a 7th-century temple and one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred sites—perfect for a moment of meditation or simple stillness. Your upgraded hotel, offers a range of wellness-focused facilities, including a dedicated yoga studio, heated indoor pool, sauna, and steam room—perfect for some well-deserved relaxation. In the late afternoon, gather in the peaceful yoga studio for a gentle session before sitting down to a nourishing dinner.

Driving time: 30 minutes
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,200 m

Day 11 - 21st october

Paro: Day Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktshang Gomba)
Embark on a day hike to one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks—the awe-inspiring Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The trail winds through a forest of blue pine trees, with water-powered prayer wheels quietly spinning along the way. As you ascend, the monastery gradually reveals itself, perched dramatically on a sheer cliff, almost defying gravity.

Upon reaching the top, take time to meditate within the temple’s serene chambers, soaking in the sacred atmosphere. The panoramic views of the Paro Valley from this sacred perch are absolutely breathtaking—a reward for both the body and the soul. Return to the hotel for a game of archery in the garden with your guide.

Driving time : 1 hour
Walking time: 6 hours
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,200 m

Day 12 - 22nd october

Paro: Bid farewell to the group as you make your way to Paro Airport for your departure. Take a moment to reflect on the transformative journey through Bhutan’s serene landscapes, sacred sites, and soul-nourishing experiences as you depart this mystical kingdom.

Please contact us by clicking the button below! You can also email info@beyondtheclouds.org.nz