Luxury wellness retreat Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary offers guests a look into the spirit of its mountain home with Glimpse of Bhutan.
This exquisite offering is a six-day, five-night all-inclusive journey that distills the essence of the Himalayan Kingdom into a deeply restorative and culturally rich experience.
Designed for travellers who value meaning over movement, the programme blends sacred landscapes, living traditions, and traditional wellness into one seamless, unhurried stay.
Including five nights, all meals, wellness treatments, guided excursions, and seamless logistics, Glimpse of Bhutan all-inclusive offers one of the most comprehensive luxury wellness journeys in the Himalayas, designed not to impress quickly, but to resonate deeply.
A transformative journey from start to finish
Guests arriving at Paro International Airport are welcomed by the Sanctuary's Guest Experience team and transferred to the retreat within 15 minutes, a rarity in Bhutan that immediately distinguishes the experience.
The first moments are intentionally quiet: a traditional Buddhist transformation ritual marks the transition from travel to presence, followed by a personal welcome to the guest's room and a refined four-course chef's lunch.
The afternoon introduces the wellness journey which starts with a private consultation with an in-house Traditional Bhutanese Medicine doctor who assesses elemental balance and lifestyle patterns, forming the basis for the days ahead.
The first wellness treatment follows, easing the body after travel, before evening settles in with a six-course dinner, often served on the open terrace as the valley lights fade and prayer flags move softly in the wind.
A gentle approach to acclimatisation
The following day is devoted to acclimatisation, a crucial yet often overlooked element of Himalayan travel.
Mornings begin with optional yoga or meditation, followed by an à la carte breakfast.
Guests are encouraged to move intuitively through the day: a short, guided hike through the Neyphu Valley with a homemade picnic; a herbal walk through the Sanctuary's gardens led by wellness therapists; or time spent in the infinity pool, library, or sundeck.
Wellness treatments are interwoven seamlessly, reinforcing a rhythm of movement and rest. Lunch and dinner are served at the guest's chosen time, underscoring the Sanctuary's commitment to personal pacing.
Where history is alive and well
A journey to Chele La Pass, Bhutan's highest motorable point, offers panoramic views across the Paro and Haa valleys.
Here, guests hang prayer flags, a deeply symbolic act for well-being and longevity, before continuing to explore the remote Haa Valley with a homemade picnic.
Another day brings a cultural immersion into Thimphu, Bhutan's capital, where ancient tradition and contemporary life coexist.
Highlights include the monumental Buddha Dordenma, the Simply Bhutan Museum, and an optional visit to the Choki Traditional Art School, which preserves traditional crafts through education.
Evenings return guests to the Sanctuary's stillness, just in time for dinner and another wellness treatment.
Other elements to look forward to
- Spiritual Encounters and Hands-On Tradition One of the most intimate days involves a guided hike across the valley to Eutok Goenpa Monastery. Welcomed by monks and students, guests witness Buddhist rituals, engage in conversation, and gain rare insight into monastic life. The return journey includes a picnic surrounded by nature, followed by a free-flowing afternoon of wellness, traditional sports, pottery, cooking classes, or just quiet reflection.
- Punakha and the Fertile Heart of Bhutan A full-day excursion to the Punakha Valley introduces a softer, subtropical landscape. Stops at the Dochu La Pass reveal sweeping Himalayan views, while the Punakha Dzong, widely regarded as Bhutan's most beautiful fortress-monastery, anchors the day in architectural and spiritual grandeur. Guests can explore suspension bridges, sacred temples, or take contemplative walks before returning to the Sanctuary for evening wellness treatments and dinner.
- Pilgrimage to Tiger's Nest One of Bhutan's most iconic experiences, the hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is approached as a pilgrimage rather than a challenge. The day begins early with herbal tea and a fruit shot, before a scenic drive to the trailhead. The ascent unfolds slowly over two to four hours, with regular pauses and a packed breakfast enjoyed along the way. At the monastery, which is still an active spiritual site, guests are guided through its sacred chambers and altars, gaining insight into Bhutanese Buddhism and the site's enduring significance. The return to the Sanctuary is intentionally restorative, often followed by a hot stone herbal bath to ease muscles. Evening celebrations include traditional dress photography and an authentic Bhutanese dinner, with stargazing offered on clear nights.
- Departure with Continuity On the final day, guests explore Paro's cultural landmarks, from the Paro Dzong and National Museum to artisan paper workshops and textile galleries before returning for a final afternoon of wellness, swimming, or quiet contemplation. The intention is clear: guests do not simply depart relaxed, but equipped with practices, awareness, and balance that extend well beyond the stay.
