Rediscover serenity: 5 transformative wellness experiences in the heart of the Kingdom of Bhutan

Bhutan, with its lush landscapes, serene atmosphere, and spiritual surroundings, exudes tranquillity through its way of life. With three-quarters of its land blanketed by forests, the Land of The Thunder Dragon is the perfect place to release life’s stresses and reconnect with yourself. Travellers can immerse in the spiritual calm of a Bhutanese monastery, indulge in traditional hot stone baths, free the mind with some yoga, and embark on treks through unspoiled landscapes, experiencing unparalleled serenity unique to this Himalayan Kingdom.

Experience Ultimate Wellness with Yoga in Bhutan

Since Bhutan opened its door to tourism 50 years ago, passionate yogis have flocked to the secluded Himalayan destination to develop their yoga skills. Whether a traveller is looking out onto a mountainous expanse or waking up to sunrise yoga within a Bhutanese Dzong or temple, there is no better place to tap into inner peace. The blend of spiritual tranquillity and natural beauty creates the perfect backdrop for a transformative yoga experience. Bhutan has an array of yoga retreats, including gentle morning stretches where you can breathe in the fresh air of the Himalayan Kingdom. Visitors can find yoga centres in all the country’s major towns to find their inner yogi.

Seek Tranquillity in a Bhutanese Monastery

An iconic Monastery is the Punakha Dzong in Punakha district. Standing tall as the second oldest and second biggest Dzong in Bhutan, this is one of the Kingdom’s most majestic structures. Known as the ‘palace of happiness’, the Punakha Dzong is the administrative centre of the district, located on the confluence of Mo Chuu and Pho Chhu rivers. Another significant site is the Gangtey Monastery in Gangtey Valley, dedicated to the teachings of Buddhism. This monastery offers a serene retreat amidst the lush, untouched beauty of the valley, welcoming all who seek solace and meditation.

Rejuvenate with a Traditional Bhutanese Menchu Hot Stone Bath

Travellers can unwind and rejuvenate with a traditional Bhutanese menchu hot stone bath, a unique medicinal soak made with fresh water and wormwood leaves, a recipe unlike any other in the world. River stones are heated until burning hot and then placed in the bath, releasing minerals that help treat arthritis, hypertension, joint pain, and stomach disorders.

Experience this traditional healing practice at Bhutan’s homestays. Guests can immerse themselves in a traditional Bhutanese family setting and enjoy a healing hot stone bath. Travellers can immerse in a traditional wooden tub, reminiscent of ancient bathing rituals. This activity is built upon traditional healing practices, local medicinal herbs, minerals and waters, and indigenous ingredients. Whether you choose a traditional or luxurious setting, a hot stone bath in Bhutan offers a blend of luxury, healing, and cultural richness.

Trek through Bhutan’s Natural Landscape

Bhutan’s serene and pristine natural environment offers a perfect backdrop for its famous Himalayan hikes. Trekking through the Kingdom allows travellers to breathe in the clean air and find a restorative retreat in nature. Whether seeking a challenging adventure or a gentle stroll, Bhutan provides the ideal setting for relaxation and connection with the natural world.

Get personal consultation from Traditional Medicine Doctors

Besides modern medicine, Bhutanese people still largely believe in and rely on traditional medicine. Bhutan’s traditional medicine is one of the most valuable cultural legacies. Known colloquially as so wai rigpa, this is one of the oldest medical traditions. Traditional medicine is still popular among Bhutanese as it is based on the principles of Buddhism and is built on the idea that a person is said to be healthy when the three main elements – air, bile and phlegm – that a human body is composed of, are balanced in the body. Treatment can include behavioural changes, herbal medicine, physiotherapy and spiritual healing. Further, various types of mushrooms and the cordyceps Sinensis are traditionally valued for their medicinal properties and benefits. Travellers can visit the Institute of Traditional Medicine Services in Thimphu to get personal consultation and learn about traditional medicine.