5-day Spiritual Pilgrimage at Amankora, in the Land of the Thunder Dragon
The richness of life is found in the still simplicity surrounding the remarkably unscathed geophysical and biological existence in Bhutan today. Due to a sincere Buddhist belief, adhered to since the 7th century, the co-existence of nature and nurture has resulted in a unique eco-system and a thriving mosaic of different peoples all linked by a common belief system that regards all life forms as sacred. This prevailing ethos washes the staggeringly beautiful undulating valleys, plains, deep gorges, and mountainous landscape with a force of supreme greatness; that of genuine harmony and environmental compatibility.
Sacred Mount Jhomolhari
Amankora’s Spiritual Pilgrimage offers guests both humbling and enriching experience. Visits to ancient monasteries, prayers with monks, meditation with nuns, long life blessings and the bestowing of a a Buddhist name are just part of the activities available.
Itinerary
Day 01 / Arrive Paro – Thimphu
From the flight in, weaving through the valley, arrival in Bhutan is like no other. Day 1 – The scenic transfer take guests from Paro’s International Airport to Amankora Thimphu. After lunch, hike through beautiful farmland and forest to the secluded Wangditse Lhakhang (temple) to receive a blessing and yak-butter lamps for a safe pilgrimage through the Kingdom. Take time to reflect in the tranquility of the ancient altar room. A visit to nearby Dechenphodrang Geomba (monastery) allows time with novice monks who reside there for up to three years for their initial training. Back at the lodge, enjoy a relaxing aromatherapy massage.
Overnight Amankora Thimphu.
Day 02 / Thimphu
Following early morning prayers and meditation in a neighbouring ancient monastery overlooking the Thimphu Valley, hike to Cheri Geomba, the first monastery established in Bhutan in the 17th century. Absorb the vibrant spiritual energy of the Geomba’s altar room through reflection or meditation. After a picnic lunch along the bank of Thimphu Chhu (river), visit a cottage industry of religious artifaces, a school of religious art painting and slate carving. The rest of the afternoon will be left to stroll, shop and explore downtown Thimphu. In the evening, a private talk on Tantric Buddhism and reincarnation will be held in the lodge.
Overnight Amankora Thimphu.
Monks and novices in Thimphu
Day 03 / Thimphu – Paro
Transfer to Paro after an early morning medition with the nuns of the Ziliku Goemba. Visit the National Museum, the Paro Dzong (fortress) and Dumtse Lhakhang for further insight into Buddhism and the spirituality of the Bhutanese people. In the evening, enjoy a hot stone bath and traditional oil massage.
Overnight in Amankora Paro.
Day 04 / Paro
Begin with a guided meditation at Amankora Paro. Hike up to the revered 7th century ‘Tiger Nest’ or Taktsang Lhakhang, following the trail of one of the most frequented pilgrimages in the Himalaya. After a picnic lunch, a long life blessing will be bestowed at the 7th century temple of Kyichu Lhakhang, concluding with a Buddist naming ceremony. In the evening, a healing deep tissue massage will be offered, with international departure the next morning.
Overnight in Amankora Paro.
Day 05 / Depart Paro
Early morning transfer to airport for international departure. Tashi Delek!
Tour Cost
- USD $6,090 Suite (Double Occupancy)
- USD $5,460 Suite (Single Occupancy)
Other Costs
- USD $916 Return airfare from Bangkok to Paro
- USD $460 Return airfare from Kathmandu to Paro
- USD $540 Return airfare from Calcutta to Paro
Above airfares are indicative only. Actual cost will be advised at the time of booking.
Tour Validity
- Oct 01, 2008 – Sep 31, 2010
Tour Inclusions
- Rates listed include accommodation for 04 nights in Amankora suites, all meals and house beverages, laundry, airport and lodge transfers between Paro and Thimphu, visa processing assistance.
- Rates are subject to 15% government tax and service charge, daily FIT surcharge of US$40 (single occupancy) / US$60 (double occupancy), government royalties of US$65 per person per day, and Tourism Development Fund (TDF) tax of US$10 per person.
- A visa application fee of US$20 will be charged at time of booking.
- Rates and government taxes are subject to change without notice.
Tour Validity
- Oct 01, 2008 – Dec 31, 2009