What to Expect at the Bhutan Adventure Retreat

Bhutan has recently opened its borders for tours. We will be part of an exclusive offering designed to give you an unparalleled experience to discover the culture, its people, the Bhutanese way of life, daily yoga and meditation practice, hiking the spectacular landscapes and rafting in Punakha.

We’ll then venture further into the country-side by car visiting our Bhutaneze leaders mother’s village in Trongsa to experience the authentic rural lifestyles of Bhutan – a totally off-the-beaten-path exclusive experience. We proceed to the central heartland of Bumthang Valley to witness a beautiful festival and enjoy an incredible hike.

Then, we fly back to Paro to visit Bhutan’s ultimate highlight – a visit to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

 The tour is designed for Women’s Quest participants with basic endurance and a sense for adventure! Colleen Cannon, Women’s Quest founder, will lead the tour and be supported by the BEST and most experienced local guides with excellent hiking skills.

Highlights of the Journey 

✦ Spiritual Immersion 

• Sacred Rituals: Participate in ancient Buddhist ceremonies, including a private blessing with  Lopen Dorji, an old monk who lives in a hermitage and do meditation and prayers. ∙ Crafting Tsa Tsa: Create your own Tsa Tsa (miniature stupas) as a symbol of merit and  spiritual offering. 
• Prayer Flags: Hoist colorful prayer flags and send your prayers and wishes of good karma  across the world. 

✦ Hiking Adventures Every Day 

• Daily Hiking: Explore Bhutan’s rugged terrain with hiking adventures each day. Whether it’s a  trek to a remote monastery or a mountain climb offering panoramic views of the valleys, these  hikes will lead you deep into the heart of Bhutan’s sacred landscape. 
• Sacred Sites: Your hikes will take you to famous landmarks, including Tiger’s Nest Monastery,  perched high above Paro, and other spiritual and natural wonders that will stay in your  memory forever. 

✦ Yoga and Meditation

• Yoga and Meditation: In addition to the physical adventure, find peace and inner balance with  yoga and meditation sessions. These mindful practices will help you connect deeply with  Bhutan’s natural beauty and sacred energy, providing a perfect balance between physical  activity and spiritual reflection. 
• Spiritual Awakening: Whether it’s an early morning yoga session or a peaceful meditation in  suitable temples or beautiful scenery, the practices will enhance your overall experience,  allowing you to leave Bhutan with a renewed sense of tranquility. 

✦ Rafting on the Female River 

• Rafting Adventure in Punakha Valley: Experience an exciting rafting trip on the Female River (also known as Mo Chu), which flows through the lush and stunning Punakha Valley. This is  an amazing chance to enjoy the beauty of Bhutan from a completely different angle, as you raft  through its tranquil waters surrounded by terraced fields, forests, and towering mountains and  enjoy picnic lunch by the river. 

✦ Architectural & Cultural Wonders 

• Dzongs and Temples: Visit the magnificent Dzongs, Bhutan’s fortress-monasteries from 17th century, and explore temples dating back to the 7th century. These historical structures are  not only architectural marvels but also spiritual hubs that have stood for centuries. 
• Tshechhu Festival: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Tshechhu Festival at Jakar Dzong, one of  the most colorful and important festivals in Bhutan. Watch the masked dances, try traditional  foods, and interact with friendly locals. You’ll even be dressed in traditional Bhutanese attire for the occasion! 

✦ Explore Phobjikha Valley on E-Bikes 

• Glide through the peaceful Phobjikha Valley, one of Bhutan’s most scenic and serene  landscapes, on an E-bike. Effortlessly take in views of the valley’s beautiful meadows, dense  forests, and traditional farmhouses. This is one of the most tranquil places in Bhutan, and  biking allows you to experience it at your own pace. 

✦ Bumthang: The Spiritual Heartland 

• Authentic Farmhouse Stay: Spend a night in a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse, where you’ll  experience rural life in the heart of Bhutan’s cultural and spiritual epicenter. 
• Local Cooking: Join Aum Tshomo, a renowned local chef, to cook traditional Bhutanese dishes  such as Ema Datshi (spicy chili cheese) and Tshok (decorative fried dough). Aum Tshomo’s  family has served important figures for generations, and her cooking is a true reflection of  Bhutan’s culinary heritage. 

✦ Hike to the Legendary Tiger’s Nest

• Conclude your journey with a pilgrimage hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), one of the  most iconic and spiritual sites in Bhutan. Situated on a cliffside 3,050 meters (10,000 feet)  above the Paro Valley, this awe-inspiring site offers breathtaking views and a profound sense of  spiritual connection.