BHUTAN YOGA RETREAT SMALL GROUP JOURNEY A journey of yoga and meditation

Transcription

1 BHUTAN YOGA RETREAT SMALL GROUP JOURNEY A journey of yoga and meditation

2 A JOURNEY OF YOGA AND MEDITATION Explore the enchantingly beautiful destination of the Kingdom of Bhutan, the sacred land of the thunder dragon, the perfect destination to embark on a journey of discovery, wellness and vitality. &Beyond s privately guided, 10-day Bhutan Yoga Retreat Small Group Journey offers an exclusive opportunity to venture through the pristine landscapes of awe-inspiring Thimphu, Gangtey, Punakha, and Paro, whilst experiencing world-class meditation and yoga sessions. This extraordinary set-departure journey offers a wonderful way to gain personal insight and the opportunity to delve into a rich tapestry of culture, in the company of renowned English-speaking guide Tashi Phuntsho and specialist healing facilitator, Zoe Nash. The Bhutan Yoga Retreat Small Group Journey caters for intimate groups, and offers special access to a series of unique experiences that are exclusive to &Beyond guests. It has been specially designed with spiritual and wellness enthusiasts, spiritualism and Buddhism devotees, active travellers and cultural enthusiasts in mind. What we love about the Bhutan Yoga Retreat Small Group Journey: Exclusive set-departure date: 11 May 2019 to 20 May 2019 Small group of just 4 to 8 guests, which means plenty of flexibility and privacy Enjoy a unique 10 day / 9 night itinerary spanning Thimphu, Gangtey, Punakha and Paro Guided throughout by Tashi Phuntsho, a well-known and experienced English-speaking local guide Balance body, mind and soul with Zoe Nash, a specialist healing facilitator Be captivated by breath-taking mountain views from Do chu La pass Explore the spectacular fortresses and temples of Thimphu and Punakha Marvel at the beautiful Phobjikha Valley Hike up to the iconic Tiger s Nest monastery in picturesque Paro

3 Puna Tsang Chhu AT A GLANCE INDIA SIKKIM Gangtok Darjeeling Haa TORSA STRICT NATURE RESERVE Torsa Chhu Paro 4-6 Laya JIGME DORJI NATIONAL PARK 1 THIMPHU Chukha Gasa 3 Punakha Daga Wangdue 2 Gangtey Mangde Chhu Chamkhar Chhu BHUTAN Damphu TIBET (CHINA) EASTERN HIMALAYAN MOUNTAIN R Trongsa JIGME SINGYE WANGCHUCK NATIONAL PARK Jakar Zhemgang Lhu THRU NATIO Delve into the cultural and spiritual riches of Bhutan 11 May 2019 to 20 May days / 9 nights Private Guides: Tashi Phuntsho, Zoe Nash Specialist healing facilitator: Zoe Nash Minimum guests: 4 Maximum guests: 8 Rate: USD per person sharing Samtse Phuentsholing Sunkosh Chhu Sarpang PHIBSOO WILDLIFE SANCTUARY Galephu ROYAL MANAS NATIONAL PARK MANAS TIGER RESER 1 2 SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES 2 NIGHTS, TAJ TASHI Thimphu, Bhutan - Explore the National Memorial Chorten, constructed in memory of the father of modern Bhutan - Discover the gigantic Buddha Dordenma, a massive Buddha statue that brims with over smaller Buddha statues - Venture into the Takin Preserve in Motithang, and observe the national animal of Bhutan - Stock up on wonderful arts and crafts at the Farmers Market - Hike to Tango Goenpa and reach the monastery that was founded in 12th century - Visit the institute for Zorig Chusum, a well-known arts, crafts, and painting school - Appreciate the beauty of Bhutan fabric at the Weaving Centre and Textile Museum - Glimpse the 380 year old Tashichho Dzong housing the throne room of His Majesty, the King of Bhutan - Balance mind, body and spirit with a yoga and meditation sessions with Zoe - Dress up for dinner in traditional clothing and enjoy a cultural program with Bhutanese performances 2 NIGHTS, GANGTEY LODGE Gangtey, Phobjikha Valley - Visit Dochu La and the 108 stupas built in honour of fallen Bhutanese soldiers - Capture magnificent sightings of Jhomolhari Mountain and Jichu Drake - Explore the Gangtey Goemba (monastery), overlooking the spectacular green expanse of the Phobjikha valley - Learn about the black-necked crane at the Crane Information Center - Head to the Shedra Monastic School and participate in a meditation session with monks - Enjoy a half day Longtey Hike through rhododendron forests - Sink into a guided meditation session of Anapana Sati - Try your hand at traditional archery or darts (khuru) on the lodge grounds - Breathe deeply with gentle Flow and Yin yoga sessions in serene surrounds

4 AT A GLANCE 3 2 NIGHTS, AMANKORA Punakha Valley, Bhutan - Participate in an energetic Vinyasa yoga session with the sun rising over picturesque mountains - Hike to the famous fertility temple of Chimi Lhakhang, dedicated to the great yogi of the 14th century, known as Drukpa Kuenley (the Divine Madman ) - Visit the Sangchhen Dorji Lhendrup Lhakhang Nunnery and view stunning statues - Let your thoughts drift away with a mindful meditation session - Hike to the majestic views of Khamsum Yuelley, built by Her Majesty the Queen Mother, for the protection of the country - Unwind with a traditional Hatha yoga session on the temple courtyard - Visit the beautiful Punakha Dzong, the second largest in Bhutan, and for many years its seat of government 4 1 NIGHT, UMA BY COMO Paro, Bhutan - Participate in an early morning Hatha Flow yoga session at the lodge s archery grounds - Visit the Ta Dzong or the National Museum, housing a fascinating collection of art, relics, religious thangkha paintings and Bhutan s exquisite postage stamps - Explore an authentic farmhouse and gain insight into the lifestyle of a farmer - Enjoy a Yin yoga class in the Uma s yoga studio followed by a yoga Nidra Meditation 5 1 NIGHTS, BUMDRA CAMP Paro, Bhutan - Embark on an exhilarating two-day Bumdra trek to the Rock of One Hundred Thousand Foot Prints - Appreciate magnificent views of the Paro and Dochhu Valleys - Climb up to a pretty temple, which boasts commanding views - Trek through ruins and fluttering prayer flags into an ancient forest and meadow dotted with chortens (shrines) - Sleep peacefully in the Bumdra monastery (cave of thousand prayers) with enchanting views of the Himalayan range 6 1 NIGHTS, UMA BY COMO Paro, Bhutan - Unwind with a meditation session - Hike from Bumdra to the Tiger s Nest Monastery, a venerated and sacred Buddhist sight on the edge of a steep cliff - Explore the gardens of Zangtopelri (Heaven on Earth) and peer over the edge onto the ornate roofs of the Taktshang, hanging on the cliff far below - Relax into a Yin yoga session in the Uma s yoga studio

5 SIGNATURE TRADEMARKS ICONIC DESTINATIONS Explore the majesty and magnificence of Bhutan and traverse through a spectacular fiercely protected country that remains flawless and completely authentic in its natural beauty, spirituality, culture, revered temples and places of worship. Bhutan is the last Himalayan kingdom and the only carbon-negative country in the world, with 70% of the land covered in forest. THIMPHU The capital of the tiny Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, Thimphu is a stronghold of traditional Bhutanese art, architecture and culture. Considered the country s most modern city, it has retained the unique character of a charming Bhutanese town. Here, an array of restaurants and internet cafés sit alongside old fortresses, monasteries and forests. Thimphu is also the only national capital city in the world to not have any traffic lights. Visitors can embark on beautiful scenic hikes, travel along adventure-filled cycling routes, explore the grand Thimphu Dzong that houses the throne room of the King and venture to the General Post Office, where personalised stamps can be commissioned. GANGTEY Set close to the centre of Bhutan, Gangtey is in a remarkably attractive glacial valley called Phobjikha. One of the most beautiful destinations in Bhutan, it is the winter home to a group of globally endangered black-necked cranes that arrive every year from the Tibetan Plateau. The region boasts various nature trails as well as a Crane Information Centre to educate visitors. Gangtey boasts its own important religious sites such as the Gangtey Goempa Monastery, situated at the head of the valley, from where you can take in exceptional views. PUNAKHA Beautiful Punakha has been linked with momentous occasions in Bhutanese history, and two of Bhutan s most significant rivers converge here. At their confluence is the majestic Punakha Dzong, an absolute marvel. The route from Thimphu to Punakha is quite spectacular and takes travellers over the renowned Dochula Pass, which showcases interesting monuments along its course and offers the awe-inspiring opportunity to view the great Himalayan Mountain Range. PARO The historical town of Paro lies at the centre of a valley rich in sacred sites and ancient buildings, and forms part of the core of exceptional destinations in Bhutan. This pretty destination is covered with terraced paddy fields and quaint farmhouses scattered throughout the valley in the lower areas. In the upper reaches, coniferous forests look down onto the beautiful Paro Chhu River, which snakes its way below. Among the many temples in the area Paro is most famous for the iconic Takhtsang Lakhang (also known as the Tiger s Nest), situated at the northern end of the valley. It is also home to the National Museum, which displays hundreds of ancient Bhutanese artefacts and artwork. BUMDRA WILDERNESS CAMP The Bumdra Wilderness Camp is located cosily under the deeply revered Bumdra monastery and features spectacular scenic views of the Himalayan range. Bumdra is known as the Cliff of a Hundred Thousand Prayers, or the Rock of One Hundred Thousand Foot Prints, and myth reveals that over 800 years ago one hundred thousand Dakinis (angels) left their gentle footprints on this sacred area when they appeared. * Terms and conditions apply

6 SIGNATURE TRADEMARKS EXCLUSIVE ACCOMMODATION TAJ TASHI (THIMPHU) Boasting sweeping views of the mountains that rise above Thimphu Valley, the Taj Tashi features a spectacular blend of Bhutan s traditional fort-monastery architecture with the ultimate in modern design. The 66 elegant rooms and suites are decorated with colourful regional art, and are elegant, expansive and luxuriously appointed. The Jiva Spa offers signature treatments based on traditional Indian healing therapies and guests can tantalise their taste buds with a range of culinary experiences that combine fiery Bhutanese cuisine with Tibetan and European influences. GANGTEY LODGE (GANGTEY) The spectacular setting is a real draw at Gangtey Lodge, a lodge built from stone and wood to a design inspired by traditional Bhutanese farmhouses. The 12 rooms are very natural looking, but not short of luxurious trimmings, with stone floors, exposed brick walls, dark wooden beams, and furniture dressed in earthy tones. From the informal lounge-restaurant there are spectacular views of the beautiful Gangtey Valley, gorgeous to gaze at while relaxing in a leather sofa or over a bowl of delicious soup at a communal dining table. AMANKORA (PUNAKHA) Located in a beautiful green valley between the Dochu La Pass and the majestic Punakha Dzong, the remote and spectacular Amankora Punakha is accessed by means of a suspension bridge over the Mo Chhu river. Eight suites located in three rammed-earth buildings are situated in a fragrant orange orchard with scenic views across the rice fields and up the Punakha Valley. The main guest area in the old farmhouse incorporates a dining room and traditional Altar Room, as well as a courtyard with a tea pavilion for al fresco dining. UMA BY COMO (PARO) Entwining Bhutanese tradition with contemporary style, Uma Paro is graciously poised on the Paro valley. Offering nine private villas and 20 luxury rooms, all boast spectacular views of the lush forest and sprawling mountains. Each room is tucked into a sheltered glade of azaleas and rhododendrons and feature wooden furniture and hand-stitched bed linen embellished with patterns that pay homage to Bhutan s Buddhist culture. The award-winning Bukhari restaurant offers a fine dining menu that incorporates both traditional and international dishes. BUMDRA WILDERNESS CAMP (PARO) Spacious tents are situated under the Bumdra monastery, an ideal place to get comfortable and cosy on this cliff of a Hundred thousand Prayers. Be utterly encapsulated by the sweeping vistas of the dramatic Himalayan range, and picturesque snow draped mountains, the ideal spot to contemplate your existence and appreciate your immersion in exquisite surrounds.

7 SIGNATURE TRADEMARKS PRIVATE GUIDES - IN OUR HANDS FROM BEGINNING TO END From the moment guests touch down in Bhutan, to the moment they leave, &Beyond will be at their side throughout their adventure. Our wealth of expertise found in our private and specialist guides, ground logistics teams and over 2000 &Beyonders means that guests will experience a journey unlike any other! MEET YOUR PRIVATE GUIDES TASHI PHUNTSHO During his 10 years of guiding, Tashi has accumulated an excellent wealth of historic, cultural and wildlife knowledge that he eagerly shares with his guests. Originally qualifying in the field of Computer Science, Tashi, a keen and experienced hiker, accompanied a friend on an expedition leading a British couple to the base camp of the Masangang Mountain. This expedition made him realise how much he enjoyed exploring the extraordinary landscapes of Bhutan and showcasing the rich cultural heritage and flora and fauna of his country with others. He has since lead travellers of various nationalities on numerous cultural and trekking tours, and has a wonderful ability of understanding the needs and expectations of his guests. He is a young, energetic and humble man, who speaks fluent English and always offers a welcoming smile. When Tashi is not guiding his guests, his other passions include soccer and travelling. ZOE NASH - SPECIALIST HEALING FACILITATOR &Beyond is excited to collaborate with Zoe Nash, who will take guests a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience Bhutan, enhanced with a journey into yoga. Each day guests will move together in guided yoga practice, whilst fully immersing themselves in all this beautiful land has to offer; hiking amongst nature, visiting the temples, experiencing the Buddhist way of life, and exploring meditation. Zoe is a specialist healing facilitator who has extensively travelled the world-leading retreats, including in Bhutan. From her first visit, she instantly fell in love with the country and the people, as Bhutan so beautifully combines her passion for pure nature, untouched culture, Buddhism, travel, and wellness.

8 EXPECT THE EXTRAORDINARY May 2019 Taj Tashi Thimphu Bhutan Board your flight to Paro and as you descend marvel at the magnificent scenery of lush hills, sparkling rivers and significant temples and monasteries below. You will be warmly welcomed by an &Beyond representative and chauffeured to your beautiful hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring colourful, bustling Thimphu and visit the National Memorial Chorten. Marvel at the huge Buddha statue Buddha Dordenma, and observe the fascinating Takin, Bhutan s national animal that looks like a blend of a goat and a cow. Interact with the locals at the Farmers Market and purchase unique arts and crafts and taste delicious local fare. On your first evening, adorn yourself in Bhutan s traditional dress and enjoy a cultural program followed by a superb Bhutanese dinner, a wonderfully authentic experience. Embark through a lush rhododendron forests on a hike to Tango Goenpa monastery that was founded in the 12th century. Today it is a Buddhist university and 280 monks study there. Relax with a guided meditation and then interact with artists at the Voluntary Artists Studio, a buzzing environment where you can purchase unique art. Weaving is woven into the tapestry of Bhutan and you can appreciate this at the Weaving Centre and Textile Museum. If time permits make your own paper at the Jungshi paper making factory using ancient traditional methods. Drive past the Tashichho Dzong known as the Fortress of the Glorious Religion, serving as a winter residence and housing the throne room of His Majesty, the King of Bhutan. End off your day with a relaxing Yin Yang yoga session.

9 EXPECT THE EXTRAORDINARY May 2019 Gangtey Lodge Gangtey Bhutan After an early start this morning, you will be driven to Gangtey (6-hour drive). Along your journey, stop at picturesque forests of pine and cedar trees at Dochu La paying homage to Bhutan s fallen soldiers. After a gentle flow yoga session and a delicious breakfast, marvel at the 108 stupas built on this 3,150-metre-high pass with sweeping views of the Himalayas. Later on, after lunch, climb up the Lawa La pass capturing sensational views of Jhomolhari Mountain and Jichu Drake. Observe how the landscape and vegetation transforms as dwarf bamboo replaces lush dense forest. After visiting the Gangtey Goemba (monastery), spend a beautiful evening at the Shedra monastic school with a meditation and a prayer service. Absorb this incredible experience as you observe 300 monks chanting their holy evening prayers. Embark on a half day Longtey Hike from the Longteng village and pass colourful clusters of village houses as you traipse through bush bamboo and pretty rhododendron forests. Marvel at stunning views of Gangtey Goemba, and the Shedra and stop for a serene meditation session of Anapana Sati. Relish a scrumptious picnic overlooking the spectacular valley and spend the afternoon practicing traditional archery or darts (khuru) or indulge in a spa treatment. Unwind with a calming Yin yoga session breathing in the freshest air.

10 EXPECT THE EXTRAORDINARY May 2019 Amankora Punakha Bhutan Start your day with an invigorating Vinyasa yoga class and then be chauffeured to Punakha. On the way enjoy a scenic hike to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to Divine Madman Drukpa Kuenley. A revered yogi in the 14th century he used songs to relay the Buddhist teachings and it is said that if you are seeking fertility this esteemed temple blesses women. Once you have checked-in to your hotel and had lunch you will be driven to the Sangchhen Dorji Lhendrup Lhakhang Nunnery. This fascinating temple complex is dotted with statues of Avalokiteshvara, Gautama Buddha and the 21 Taras, and is a higher learning and meditation centre for nuns providing life skills training including embroidery and Thangka painting. Drift into solitude with a mindfulness meditation session with Zoe on the nunnery s courtyard overlooking the valley. Wake early for a hike to the Khamsum Yuelley, built by Her Majesty the Queen Ashi Tshering Yangdon for the protection of the country. Meander through the butterfly trail and observe whimsical farmlands and magical forests. Enjoy a traditional Hatha yoga session on the temple courtyard and honour the sun with sun salutations. Enjoy a delicious picnic breakfast and visit a temple to light butter lamps. Begin the beautiful hike back and spend the afternoon at leisure. In the late afternoon visit the Punakha Dzong, once the seat of government and from this setting look back to see Khamsum Yuelley poised on the hillside way off in the distance. Retreat into silence with a deep meditation on the courtyard of the old farmhouse where you are staying.

11 EXPECT THE EXTRAORDINARY May 2019 Uma by COMO Paro Bhutan Rise with the sun and enjoy a Hatha yoga session, and after breakfast you will be driven to Paro (4-hour drive). Once you have checked-in to your hotel and had a delicious lunch visit the fascinating Ta Dzong or the National Museum. A spectacular collection is on display here including religious Thangka paintings, art, relics and beautiful postage stamps. Gain insight into the life of a local farmer and visit a traditional farmhouse that is beautifully embellished. Treat yourself to a relaxing spa treatment or massage and enjoy an evening yoga session in the Uma s yoga studio, followed by yoga Nidra Meditation for a complete wind down.

12 EXPECT THE EXTRAORDINARY May 2019 Bumdra Camp Paro Bhutan Wake this morning and drive up to the Sang Choekor Buddhist College, and from here you will embark on an exhilarating two-day Bumdra trek. As you walk, capture sensational views of both the Paro and Dochhu Valleys, and observe the Chhoe Chhoe Tse Lhakhang (temple) tucked in the mountainside. A steep climb reveals a charming temple with sweeping views of the landscape. Make your way to beautiful ruins adorned with fluttering prayer flags, and venture through lush forests that open on to a meadow dotted with hallowed chortens. Your home for the night is tucked in under Bumdra monastery (cave of thousand prayers). Explore the monastery and climb the high peak to the north for sensational views, and get back in time for a hearty dinner. The hike takes between four to five hours from Sangchokor Buddhist College.

13 EXPECT THE EXTRAORDINARY May 2019 Uma by COMO Paro Bhutan Contemplate life with a mindfulness meditation session this morning and after a delicious breakfast, hike from Bumdra to the Taktshang or the Tiger s Nest Monastery. Meander across the mountainside between places of worship, temples and monasteries. Be captivated by the beauty of the deep gorge, and cascading waterfall as you near, and enter the sacred Tiger s Nest. One of the most venerated of all Buddhist sights around the world, explore this temple complex. Once you have climbed back down (about 1 hour), you will be picked up and driven back to your hotel where you can spend the afternoon at leisure. Unwind with a relaxing massage, wade in the pool or simply gaze at the perfection of your surrounds. This evening engage with body, mind and spirit with a gentle Yin yoga session at the Uma s yoga studio, balancing your harmony after today s arduous yet extraordinary trek.

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