Yoga & Mindfulness Journey in Bhutan

with emily whinney

11 NIGHTS | FROM US$5,225* | DEPARTS: PARO, BHUTAN

26th october - 6th november 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 & mindfulness 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.
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 - 26th october

Arrive in Paro, Bhutan: Settle into the peaceful rhythms of Bhutan as you arrive in the charming town of Paro. Spend the day exploring its 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. In the late afternoon, unwind with a gentle yoga session to ground yourself after your journey.

Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,200 m

Day 2 - 27th october

Bumthang: Take a short and scenic flight to Bumthang, often referred to as the spiritual heartland of Bhutan. Surrounded by rolling hills and sacred sites, this valley is both breathtaking and deeply serene. Begin your day with a 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—Jambay Lhakhang, 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.

Flight time: 30 mins
Overnight: Bumthang
Altitude: 2,800 m

Day 3 - 28th october

Bumthang: Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival
Begin your day with a rejuvenating morning yoga session, setting a calm and centred tone for what promises to be a day rich in cultural immersion. Today, you’ll attend the Jambay Lhakhang Drup, one of Bhutan’s most celebrated and spiritually charged festivals. Held in the sacred grounds of the 7th-century Jambay Lhakhang temple, the festival is renowned for its vibrant masked dances, the evocative fire ceremony, and the legendary naked dance performed under the veil of night—an ancient ritual believed to cleanse sins and bless the land. This spectacular celebration draws both locals and pilgrims from afar, filling the valley with colour, music, and devotion. In the afternoon, there’s the option to enjoy a mindful walk through the surrounding valley or take part in an additional yoga session before dinner.

Overnight: Bumthang
Altitude: 2,800 m

Day 4 - 29th 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 Bumthang and enjoy a visit to the local cheese factory, where you can sample Bhutanese cheeses made using traditional techniques. There's also the option to explore the nearby 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: Approx. 1 hour
Walking time: 3–4 hours
Overnight: Bumthang
Altitude: 2,800 m

Day 5 - 30th october

Phobjikha: Valleys, Cranes & Sacred Spaces
We bid farewell to Bumthang with a morning yoga session, anchoring ourselves before a scenic journey westward. 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.

Continue on to the sweeping valley of Phobjikha, a glacial valley known for its natural beauty and spiritual resonance. Upon arrival, visit the majestic Gangtey Monastery, dating back to the early 17th century and an important centre of the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism.

Driving time: Approx. 4 hours
Overnight: Phobjikha
Altitude: 3,000 m

Day 6 - 31st october

Phobjikha: 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. Late October is also the beginning of the black-necked crane migration—if you're lucky, you may catch a glimpse of these elegant, endangered birds that arrive here for the winter. Your vehicle will meet you at the end of the trail and transfer you 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: 2 hours
Overnight: Phobjikha
Altitude: 3,000 m

Day 7 - 1st november

Punakha: Leaving Phobjikha, we rejoin the main highway descending to much lower altitudes. Take the road to Punakha stopping 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: 1-2 hours
Overnight: Punakha
Altitude: 1,310 m

Day 8 - 2nd november

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 1,310 m

Day 9 - 3rd november

Thimphu – Himalayan Views & Spiritual Connections
Start your day with a refreshing morning yoga session, followed by a scenic drive over the Dochula Pass (3,140 m). From this vantage point, enjoy panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas, with their snow-capped peaks stretching across the horizon.

Continue your journey to Thimphu, where you’ll visit the National Textile Museum, home to Bhutan's rich tradition of textile arts, including intricate weaving and vibrant fabrics. Then, make your way to the Great Buddha Dordenma Statue, a striking 51-meter-tall statue that gazes serenely over the valley below.

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: 2.5 hours
Overnight: Thimphu
Altitude: 2,320 m

Day 10 - 4th november

Paro – Culture, Creativity & Wellness
Begin the day with a revitalising morning yoga session, setting a calm and steady tone for the day ahead. After breakfast, enjoy a few final highlights in Thimphu: visit the Takin Preserve, home to Bhutan’s rare and endearing national animal, and explore the School of 13 Traditional Arts and Crafts, where young artisans keep Bhutan’s rich heritage alive through intricate woodwork, painting, weaving, and more.

Before leaving Thimphu, stop by the General Post Office—a surprisingly fun and uniquely Bhutanese experience where you can create your very own personalised postage stamp as a one-of-a-kind souvenir. After lunch, travel back to Paro, where you’ll check into your upgraded hotel, offering a range of wellness-focused facilities including a dedicated yoga studio, heated indoor pool, sauna, and steam room—perfect for some well-deserved relaxation. Gather in the peaceful yoga studio for an early evening session before sitting down to a nourishing dinner.

Driving time: 1.5 hour
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,200 m

Day 11 - 5th november

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.
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,200 m

Day 12 - 6th november

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