In The Flow Of Peace – Bhutan and Bangkok

Arrive in Bangkok, Thailand (Krung Thep, meaning “City of Angels”) and transfer to Amaranth Suvarnabhumi Hotel. Savor the food, rest from your travels, and bask in the excitement of the journey ahead.

Today is a day to fully soak in the vibrant spirit of Bangkok before we journey onward to Bhutan. After breakfast, our morning begins with our first group gathering – setting intentions and getting to know one another. Next, we go out and explore some of the city’s rich cultural treasures and visit awe-inspiring temples, bustling markets, and serene spaces that reflect Thailand’s deep-rooted Theravada Buddhist traditions. This includes Wat Po, the oldest and largest temple complex in Bangkok.

This sacred site is home to over 1,000 statues, murals, and images—more than any other temple in the country. It’s most famous for the awe-inspiring Reclining Buddha, a gold-plated, 148-foot-long and 50-foot-high statue representing Buddha’s entry into Nirvana. Notice the intricate mother-of-pearl inlays covering the soles of his feet, and take in the peaceful energy of the surrounding 91 Chedis (Buddhist stupas), chapels, gardens, and bell towers.

From Wat Po, we take a short ride to the breathtaking Grand Palace of Thailand, established in 1792. This historic complex dazzles visitors with its ornate architecture, shimmering gold embellishments, and mythical carvings. Here, we visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, home to one of Thailand’s most revered Buddhist statues and a powerful center of national devotion.

Both sites offer an exquisite introduction to the spirit and history of Thailand, leaving you inspired and perhaps eager to return for deeper exploration in the future.

We end our day together with a beautiful Welcome Dinner, gathering in community to share intentions and excitement as we prepare to journey to the mystical Kingdom of Bhutan.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

With much excitement, we arise early to depart for Bhutan. Your included flight from Bangkok flies over the Himalayan ranges. Soak up the breathtaking views of the world’s highest and most majestic peaks as the plane approaches the Dragon Kingdom’s cloud-scraping airstrip at the Paro International Airport at an altitude of 7,330 feet. Moments before the landing, catch glimpses of the fertile valley of Paro and the winding Paro Chu (river) and the historical Rimpung Dzong (fortress) more popularly known as Paro Dzong. As we step out of the aircraft, the feeling of peace and tranquility is palpable upon arriving in Bhutan.

Tshering Jamtsho, our highly rated Bhutanese guide, is there to welcome us into his country. We begin our travels and follow the Paro River,  providing plenty of photo opportunities. On the way, we stop and cross the Paro River on an iron chain bridge built by Thangtong Gyalpo in 1433 and he is said to have built 108 of these bridges around Tibet and Bhutan. Many of them are still in use today. Continuing our drive, we reach the confluence of two rivers, one flowing from Thimphu and the other from Paro. From the confluence, we follow the Thimphu River for another hour. This is a morning and early afternoon of beautiful scenery. 

Upon arriving in Thimphu, we check into the Hotel Phuntsho Pelri, which translates to ‘palace of great contentment’. After lunch we visit the magnificent Buddha Dordenma Statue at Buddha Point. Standing as one of the largest Buddha statues in the world, this iconic monument encapsulates the essence of tranquility amidst the breathtaking Himalayan landscape. This bronze statue, overlooks the Thimphu city at about 100 meters (330 ft) above the Wang Chu River. The statue is an incredible 169 feet tall, housing over 100,000 smaller Buddha statues, each of which, like the Buddha Dordenma itself, are made of bronze and gilded in gold.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, we explore the grand fortress-monastery, Trashi Chhoe Dzong, Bhutan’s royal and governmental seat – offering more than just breathtaking architecture—it is an encounter with the very soul of the nation.

It represents the sacred union of governance and Dharma, where political leadership and spiritual stewardship walk hand-in-hand—a reflection of Bhutan’s deep commitment to leading through wisdom, compassion, and the values of Gross National Happiness. The monastery’s prayers, rituals, and daily practices radiate blessings across the land, helping to maintain balance and harmony for the Bhutanese people.

We then travel just outside Thimphu. Nestled under ancient, whispering cypress trees, lies Pangri Zampa, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most serene monasteries. This sacred place is more than a monastery—it is a living school of spiritual astrology, where young monks study the ancient wisdom of the stars and the delicate energies that weave the fabric of our lives. We’ll use this time as a gateway to Sacred Wisdom and Cosmic Harmony – for this place offers a unique blend of spiritual insight and astrological wisdom. You’re invited to explore future predictions in your own life!

We also visit the 21 Tara Temple—invoking the compassionate, feminine wisdom of the divine. Choose an optional hike to Tango or Cheri Goemba Monastery for breathtaking views and sacred quietude. Afterwards, we have a riverside picnic lunch along the river amidst the pristine nature of Bhutan.

We then return to Thimphu when you’re invited to discover local artisans practicing paper making, incense rolling, and other ancient crafts.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, we head to Punakha, the old capital of Bhutan. The journey will take about three hours and we will break up the drive with spectacular experiences. We take you across the Dochula Pass at 10,150 ft elevation with a spectacular view of the eastern Himalayas. The pass is also marked by 108 stupas dedicated to world peace by Her Majesty the Queen of Bhutan, Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck. The descent will take us through sub-tropical vegetation and into Punakha.

After lunch, we visit and experience the mad monk’s Chimi Lhakhang Temple. It is also known as the “Fertility Temple.” The single building site was originally built in 1499 on a short hill that had been blessed by rogue Buddhist leader Drukpa Kunley, known as the “Mad Saint” or “Divine Madman” for his unorthodox ways of teaching Buddhism by singing, humor and outrageous behavior.

We check-in to the Zhingkham Resort in Panakha. With one of the most beautiful, breathtaking scenic views of the Punakha valley, the resort is located on a mountain high above the valley. Well-being at the resort is enhanced at the Keith-nyam spa which offers variety of holistic services to rejuvenate health, beauty, and relaxation.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Punakha, once the ancient capital of Bhutan, is a lush, fertile valley steeped in history, beauty, and profound spiritual energy. This sacred land, cradled between two rivers—the Pho Chhu (Father River) and the Mo Chhu (Mother River)—holds deep significance as a center of both political power and spiritual devotion.

Our time in Punakha begins with a memorable one-hour hike through peaceful rice fields and gentle hills to the stunning Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. Built by the Queen Mother, this exquisite three-story temple was constructed to bring peace, harmony, and protection to all beings—not just within Bhutan but throughout the world. As we ascend, the surrounding landscape unfolds in breathtaking views of the valley below, inviting reflection and connection to the sacred elements of earth, air, and sky. Upon reaching the Chorten, we’ll explore its intricate architecture and powerful symbolism, designed according to ancient spiritual texts to subdue negative energies and amplify blessings.

After descending from the Chorten, we’ll continue to one of Bhutan’s most majestic and revered landmarks: Punakha Dzong, often referred to as the “Palace of Great Happiness.” Strategically located at the sacred confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, Punakha Dzong is a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture and spirituality. With its towering whitewashed walls, richly adorned courtyards, and intricate woodwork, the Dzong feels like stepping into a living embodiment of Bhutan’s spiritual heritage.

As we walk through its sacred halls, you’ll feel the deep sense of peace and timelessness that permeates the space, a profound reminder of Bhutan’s unwavering commitment to harmony between humanity and the divine.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, we journey back over the Dochula Pass to Paro and step into one of Bhutan’s most hallowed spiritual sites: Kyichu Lhakhang, a revered seventh-century temple that beats at the very heart of the Kingdom’s spiritual life. As one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, Kyichu Lhakhang radiates an atmosphere of profound devotion, timeless serenity, and mystical beauty.

Originally built in 659 AD by the Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo, legend holds that Kyichu Lhakhang was constructed overnight to pin down the left foot of a powerful ogress who lay sprawled across the Himalayas to prevent the spread of Buddhism. Along with 107 other temples built across the region, Kyichu Lhakhang was a vital force in ensuring that the teachings of the Buddha could flourish throughout the land.

The temple grounds invite us into an ancient and living mandala of prayer and devotion. Pilgrims of all ages softly spin the many prayer wheels encircling the temple as they circumambulate in clockwise reverence, chanting mantras and offering heartfelt prayers. Each spin of the wheel is believed to release blessings and merit into the world, magnifying the sanctity of this holy place.

Kyichu Lhakhang holds deep connections to great spiritual masters. It is said that Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava)—the 8th-century saint who brought Vajrayana Buddhism to Bhutan—visited this temple, blessing it, and concealed many spiritual treasures within its sacred walls. Furthermore, the site is home to a revered chorten containing the ashes of Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, one of Bhutan’s most beloved modern teachers and the esteemed mentor of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

After our sacred time at Kyichu Lhakhang, we will retreat to the serene comfort of Hotel Olathang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most charming hotels. Nestled amidst a lush pine forest overlooking the Paro valley, Hotel Olathang offers a peaceful and authentically Bhutanese atmosphere, perfect for rest and reflection.

Originally built for royal guests during Bhutan’s coronation ceremonies, the hotel blends traditional Bhutanese architecture with simple, welcoming comforts. Colorful hand-painted motifs, carved wooden pillars, and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains create a warm, timeless setting. As you relax here, you’ll feel immersed in the rhythms of Bhutanese life—close to nature, tradition, and spirit.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is one of the most sacred and unforgettable highlights of our journey: a pilgrimage to Taktsang Monastery, famously known as Tiger’s Nest.

After breakfast, we set off early to begin our ascent. The trail winds gently upwards through a fragrant pine forest with prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, guiding our way. With every step, the air feels thinner and more alive, as if the very mountains are breathing with us. About halfway up, we pause at a charming tea house, where we enjoy a warm cup of tea and soak in the stunning view—Tiger’s Nest clinging impossibly to the cliffs high above the Paro Valley, 900 meters (nearly 3,000 feet) below.

According to legend, Guru Rinpoche, the beloved saint who brought Buddhism to Bhutan, flew to this sacred site on the back of a tigress and meditated in the caves that now form the heart of the monastery. As we continue upward, you may sense the layers of devotion and myth woven into the stones and trees around you.

Upon reaching the monastery, we’ll have precious sacred time inside the hallowed shrines, connecting deeply with the spirit of this extraordinary place. Words often fall short to capture the feeling of standing within Tiger’s Nest—it’s as if the veil between worlds becomes thin, and stillness itself becomes tangible.

After our visit, we descend slowly, carrying the blessing of the experience within us. Back in Paro, you’ll have the option to soothe and rejuvenate your body with a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath—a nourishing ritual that feels especially wonderful after the climb (highly recommended).

This day is sure to live in your heart forever—a personal encounter with one of the world’s most mystical places.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, we immerse ourselves in the vibrant heart of Bhutanese culture at one of the country’s most sacred and celebrated festivals — the Paro Tshechu. This extraordinary gathering, held annually in honor of Guru Rinpoche, the beloved “Second Buddha” of Bhutan, is a dazzling display of color, rhythm, devotion, and community spirit.

As we step onto the festival grounds, we are greeted by a lively sea of Bhutanese people dressed in their finest silk garments, their attire shimmering in the light, adding even more brilliance to the already colorful scene. The air is alive with the deep sounds of traditional horns, cymbals, and drums as elaborately costumed monks and lay performers enact sacred Cham dances. These ritual dances, performed with striking masks and flowing robes, are not just a feast for the senses — they are profound spiritual offerings, depicting the triumph of compassion over ignorance and the transformative power of Guru Rinpoche’s teachings.

Midday, we take a break from the festivities to enjoy a special farmhouse lunch, a warm invitation into the heart of Bhutanese hospitality. Here, you’ll savor traditional dishes lovingly prepared from fresh, local ingredients — a delicious and intimate experience of the land’s culture and generosity.

After lunch, we return to the festival grounds to soak up more of the vibrant energy and deepen our connection to this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether witnessing a rare dance performed only once a year or sharing a smile with a local elder, the memories made today will linger long after the journey is over.

It’s a day of joy, reverence, and true cultural immersion — a living expression of Bhutan’s soul.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Our final full day in Bhutan begins in the most extraordinary and auspicious way. In the pre-dawn stillness, we make our way to the festival grounds by 3:00 a.m. to witness one of the most sacred events of the Paro Tshechu — the unfurling of the Giant Thongdrel. This immense and revered tapestry, depicting Guru Rinpoche and other sacred figures, is displayed for just a few precious hours once a year.

Thongdrel means “liberation upon seeing,” and it refers to the giant holy scroll that devotees believe that at the mere sight of it, it would liberate a sentient being from the three lower realms.

The atmosphere is thick with devotion as monks and lay practitioners perform the traditional Chipdrel ceremonial procession under the darkened sky. The Thongdrel is unfurled before sunrise to protect it from the sun’s rays, which could damage its delicate beauty. As the first light of morning gently illuminates the tapestry, it is lowered once more, symbolizing the fleeting, precious nature of life and blessings. It is believed that simply viewing the Thongdrel bestows immense spiritual merit and purification of past misdeeds — a truly rare and powerful gift.

After this sacred and unforgettable experience, we return to the hotel for a hearty breakfast. We will be offered some choices for the remainder of the day with those choices unfolding a few days before. 

We have a Celebration Dinner and share the profound symbolism, beauty, and grace that has been experienced and the transformation that Bhutan has brought to our lives and shall forever live in our spirits.

Today, we bid farewell to the Kingdom of Bhutan — a land that has touched our hearts with its peace, beauty, and profound spiritual energy. After breakfast, we make our way to Paro International Airport for our flight back to Bangkok. As we lift off, the emerald valleys and sacred mountains of Bhutan slowly fall away, but their spirit remains alive within us.

Upon arrival in Bangkok, we transfer back to where we began at the Amaranth Suvarnabhumi Hotel. Now is the time to rest and reflect, spending one final night before continuing your journey home. It’s a time to integrate all you’ve experienced — the serenity of ancient monasteries, the blessings of sacred rituals, the breathtaking landscapes, and the connections formed along the way.

As we prepare to return to our everyday lives, we do so transformed — carrying with us the deep peace, inspiration, and renewed sense of presence gifted by this sacred pilgrimage. Bhutan will forever be a part of us.

As our sacred journey comes to a close, carry the peace, happiness, and quiet strength of Bangkok and Bhutan with you as you return to your own corner of the world. The blessings we have received — from the ancient temples, the vibrant Paro festival, the sacred mountains, and the warm-hearted people — are not just memories; they are seeds planted within us.

May the spirit of Bhutan — its profound simplicity, reverence for life, and deep-rooted joy — continue to blossom in your heart. Let it inspire your days, soften your challenges, and remind you that happiness is not found outside of us, but within.