Bhutan Pilgrimage Tour

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Monasteries and Meditation – Includes audiences with revered Teachers, along with special access to sacred sites.

TRIP OVERVIEW

This tour grants privileged access to the holiest Buddhist sites in Bhutan. From the famous, majestic Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang) balanced among the clouds high above Paro, blessed by Guru Padmasambhava himself, to Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo, this tour provides a true insight to the rich religious culture of Bhutan.

Bhutan is the last Himalayan Buddhist culture to have survived globalization. The culture remains vibrant and the environment pristine as Bhutan continues to thrive in the 21st-century. Apart from the majesty and grandeur of the natural surroundings, the environment allows communion with the divine through meditation and contemplation.

Bhutan is an abode of Buddhist deities, immortals, and saints in the Himalayas. Scholars wandering yogis, saints, and lay pilgrims have been irresistibly drawn to these remote and rugged mountains throughout the centuries in their search for wisdom and inspiration. Experience the landscapes they have blessed for all pilgrims by following in their footsteps. As you travel to these hidden holy shrines and otherworldly ancient monasteries (Gompas), hiking through an unspoiled Himalayan environment, you will rediscover this peace and solitude.

Visit the last Himalayan Buddhist kingdom in the world and experience this spiritually centered culture. Every aspect of Bhutanese life is influenced by Buddhism. Red-robed monks preside over religious ceremonies and rituals—from celebrating weddings, births and the consecration of monasteries, to exorcizing spirits from village homes, appeasing the rain gods, or simply welcoming a guest. You will have the opportunity to take part in these special religious ceremonies and rituals being performed by Buddhist monks, nuns, and lamas who live their lives in isolation, devotion and meditation.

On all auspicious days, Bhutanese families make pilgrimages to monasteries to offer prayers and butter lamps. This tour provides the opportunity make similar pilgrimages to visit ancient dzongs–sturdy fortresses that combine monastic and governmental functions–and see ancient Buddhist temples (lhakhangs). Countless monasteries, temples, stupas, prayer flags, and prayer wheels dot the pristine countryside, providing a nurturing ground and supportive, clean atmosphere for a life interwoven with faith. Embark on a journey that will open your heart and mind, as you experience Bhutan’s rich spiritual tradition. This is truly a special journey for your inner self.