Adventure and Mindfulness Tour

Get ready for a journey that blends heart-pounding adventure with profound mindfulness. On this 9-day trek along Bhutan’s iconic Druk Path, you’ll explore dense forests, sparkling alpine lakes, and remote monasteries while learning to live in the present moment. From conquering the heights of the Tiger’s Nest to trekking ancient mountain trails, every step will challenge you, inspire you, and transform you.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro – The Gateway to Adventure

  • Highlights:
    • Warm Bhutanese welcome at Paro International Airport with khadar (ceremonial scarf).
    • Explore Paro Dzong and the National Museum to immerse in Bhutanese culture.
    • Evening mindfulness session: “Setting Intentions for the Journey.”
    • Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese welcome dinner featuring dishes like ema datshi (chili and cheese) and hoentay (buckwheat dumplings).
  • Overnight: Paro.

Day 2: Paro Taktsang Hike – The Journey Begins

  • Highlights:
    • Early morning trek to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched on a cliff 3,120 meters above sea level.
    • Guided mindfulness practice at the monastery: “Embracing the Present Moment.”
    • Picnic lunch with stunning mountain views.
    • Evening reflection circle to share experiences from the day.
  • Overnight: Paro.

Day 3: Start of the Druk Path Trek – Paro to Jele Dzong

  • Highlights:
    • Begin the 6-day trek from Paro to Thimphu via the ancient Druk Path route.
    • Hike through dense forests of blue pine and rhododendron.
    • Reach Jele Dzong (3,400 meters), a historic monastery offering panoramic views of Paro Valley.
    • Evening mindfulness exercise: “Finding Peace in the Wild.”
  • Distance: 8 km (4-5 hours).
  • Overnight: Camping near Jele Dzong.

Day 4: Jele Dzong to Jangchulakha

  • Highlights:
    • Trekking through alpine forests with sightings of yak herders along the trail.
    • Pause for meditation near scenic viewpoints overlooking Paro and distant Himalayan peaks.
    • Evening storytelling session around the campfire, sharing Bhutanese myths and legends.
  • Distance: 10 km (4-5 hours).
  • Overnight: Camping at Jangchulakha (3,770 meters).

Day 5: Jangchulakha to Jimilang Tsho

  • Highlights:
    • Hike to the serene Jimilang Tsho Lake (3,870 meters), known for its crystal-clear waters.
    • Practice mindful walking around the lake, appreciating its tranquility and beauty.
    • Enjoy fishing (optional) and a freshly prepared Bhutanese-style lakeside meal.
    • Stargazing session under a clear mountain sky.
  • Distance: 11 km (5-6 hours).
  • Overnight: Camping near Jimilang Tsho.

Day 6: Jimilang Tsho to Simkotra Tsho

  • Highlights:
    • Trekking through high-altitude ridges with awe-inspiring views of Mount Gangkar Puensum, the world’s highest unclimbed peak.
    • Pause for breathwork meditation to adjust to the altitude and connect with nature.
    • Camp near Simkotra Tsho (4,110 meters), a peaceful alpine lake.
  • Distance: 11 km (4-5 hours).
  • Overnight: Camping near Simkotra Tsho.

Day 7: Simkotra Tsho to Phajoding – Descending to Thimphu

  • Highlights:
    • Climb to the highest point of the trek (4,210 meters) before descending toward Thimphu Valley.
    • Stop at Phajoding Monastery (3,600 meters), an ancient meditation retreat for monks.
    • Guided meditation and gratitude session at the monastery.
    • Scenic descent to Thimphu, where hot showers and a cozy hotel await.
  • Distance: 10 km (5-6 hours).
  • Overnight: Thimphu.

Day 8: Exploring Thimphu – The Capital of Happiness

  • Highlights:
    • Morning visit to Buddha Dordenma, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world.
    • Explore the National Textile Museum and the Craft Bazaar to experience Bhutanese artistry.
    • Traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath for relaxation.
    • Farewell dinner with cultural performances showcasing Bhutanese dances and songs.
  • Overnight: Thimphu.

Day 9: Departure – Taking Bhutan with You

  • Highlights:
    • Morning mindfulness session: “Carrying the Lessons Forward.”
    • Visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in Bhutan, en route to Paro International Airport.
    • Bid farewell to Bhutan, carrying memories of adventure, peace, and transformation.

What’s Included

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE:

  • Private ground transportation for all transfers, including airport and hotel pick-up/drop-off.

ACCOMMODATION:

  • Comfortable lodging throughout the tour.

  • Tented camp accommodation during trekking days.

SIGHTSEEING FEES & VISA:

  • All entrance fees to museums, monuments, and cultural sites.

  • Bhutanese Tourist Visa fee.

MEALS:

  • Full board meals, including standard breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

  • Tea and snacks during the tour and trek.

TRANSPORTATION:

  • All ground transportation in a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary.

GUIDE SERVICES:

  • Experienced and professional English-speaking Bhutanese tour and trekking guide.

PORTERS & STAFF:

  • Porter and pack animal services for trekking.

  • Daily wages, salary, equipment, food, and clothing for all Bhutanese staff and porters.

GOVERNMENT TAXES:

  • All government taxes and official expenses.

What’s Not Included

INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE:

  • International flights to and from Paro. For booking assistance, contact us at info@amenbhutan.com.

INSURANCE:

  • Travel insurance (covering trip cancellation, interruption, medical treatment, and repatriation).

PERSONAL EXPENSES:

  • Telephone calls, internet usage, laundry, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and other personal costs.

FILMING & DRONE USAGE:

  • Special filming, camera, and drone permit fees.

PRIVATE & CUSTOMIZED TOURS:

  • For tailored or private trips, please contact us.

GROUP & FAMILY DISCOUNTS:

TIPS:

  • Tips for guides and drivers (tipping is appreciated).

ADDITIONAL SERVICES:

  • Any services, activities, or personal expenses not mentioned in the itinerary or “What’s Included” section.

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