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Bhutan

A journey to Joy

A 7-day cultural immersion into the heart of happiness

May 3 - 9, 2026

the retreat:

Step into the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan — a place where success is measured in Gross National Happiness and the rhythm of life is slow, sacred, and deeply intentional. Nestled in the Himalayas, this 7-day retreat is a soul-stirring journey through forested valleys, mountaintop temples, and vibrant villages untouched by the pace of modern life.

More than just a yoga retreat, this is an immersion into what it means to live a truly happy life — rooted in the timeless Buddhist teachings of joy, compassion, and devotion. You'll practice yoga with panoramic mountain views, meditate in centuries-old monasteries, raft the crystal-clear rivers of Punakha, and connect with Bhutanese culture through food, art, and heartfelt encounters.

Bhutan is unlike anywhere else in the world — and this retreat is your invitation to disconnect from the noise and reconnect with yourself, in a place designed for presence.

A large, ornate monastery built into the side of a steep cliff with a forested mountain in the background.

The Journey: Through the Heart of Bhutan

This retreat is more than a stay — it's a soul-led journey through the most breathtaking corners of western Bhutan. Unlike traditional retreats rooted in one place, we'll explore the region from east to west, traveling together as a group through the misty mountains, sacred valleys, and colorful towns that make Bhutan one of the most captivating destinations on Earth.

We’ll begin in Thimphu, the capital city steeped in tradition and alive with local color, where prayer wheels spin beside coffee shops and monks walk through morning markets. From there, we travel east through mountain passes to Punakha, home of the famed riverside Dzong and bright rice paddies, and eventually onward to the lush valley of Paro, where we’ll hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched high on the cliffside.

Each night, we’ll stay in handpicked boutique lodges and family-run guesthouses — warm, welcoming, and deeply connected to the land and people. Think cozy rooms, nourishing meals, and quiet moments to reflect after days filled with awe.

Our group will be cared for by dedicated local guides and drivers who have led our past retreats in Bhutan and feel like family. They’re not just here to drive or translate — they’re your cultural bridges, storytellers, and adventure companions. With their deep knowledge and warmth, you’ll feel not only supported, but truly immersed.

Whether you’re meditating in a mountaintop monastery, sipping tea with monks, rafting beneath a Himalayan skyline, or strolling through the quiet streets of Paro — this retreat brings you into the heart of Bhutan, one magical step at a time.

Two monks in red robes walking towards a temple entrance surrounded by trees and a stone pathway.

What to Expect

Yoga & Meditation
Throughout the journey, we’ll practice yoga and meditation in some of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth — from temple courtyards to mountaintop overlooks. Each session is designed to help you reconnect with presence, joy, and inner stillness, with the natural beauty of Bhutan as your guide.

Local Cuisine
We’ll enjoy nourishing Bhutanese cuisine made from fresh, local ingredients — think red rice, seasonal vegetables, warming stews, and the famous ema datshi (chili and cheese). You’ll also have the chance to try traditional butter tea, a staple of Bhutanese hospitality. Many of our boutique accommodations offer Western options as well.

Culture
This retreat is a full cultural immersion. Expect:
Astrology readings at the Buddha Dordenma statue
Ritual cleansing ceremonies with monks
Visits to sacred temples and monasteries
Bhutanese art and traditional crafts
Moments of quiet reflection and connection with the Bhutanese way of life


Adventure
Bhutan’s wild beauty invites you to move, explore, and play. Highlights include:
A breathtaking hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, one of the most sacred sites in the world
Whitewater rafting in the Punakha Valley
Hiking forested trails through the mountains
Practicing your aim with Bhutan’s national sport: archery
Every day offers something new — a balance of movement, meaning, and magic.

People practicing yoga on mats outside a traditional building with ornate architecture, set against a mountainous background.

Sample Itinerary

Each day blends movement, mindfulness, and meaningful connection.

Expect flexibility, presence, and plenty of surprise moments along the way.

Example day:

Morning yoga at a mountaintop monastery

Participate in a traditional cleansing ritual

Try your hand at Bhutanese archery

Visit the sacred fertility temple, Chimi Lhakhang

Explore Punakha Dzong, the country’s most iconic fortress

A performer wearing a colorful traditional costume and a lion mask dances on grass during a cultural festival.

Meet your retreat leaders

Morgan O’Hare

Retreat Leader | Founder of Present Practice Yoga

Morgan is the founder of Present Practice Yoga and the visionary behind our global retreats. Known for her grounded presence, poetic cueing, and ability to hold deep, soulful space, Morgan’s teaching blends philosophy, embodiment, and mindfulness into every practice. She invites you to slow down, feel fully, and reconnect with your truest self — on and off the mat.

Bhutan is Morgan’s favorite place in the world, and this retreat is a true homecoming. After falling in love with the people, landscapes, and cultural richness of the Kingdom, she knew she had to return — again and again — with a new group of seekers ready to experience the magic. Morgan has built lasting relationships with our Bhutanese guides and believes they are one of the most special parts of the journey. You're in for something truly unforgettable.

On retreat with Morgan, you can expect gentle, intuitive guidance, thought-provoking journaling prompts, and the kind of open-hearted leadership that creates lasting transformation.

Retreat Coordinator & Photographer

Morgan will be joined by one of Present Practice’s trusted retreat coordinators and a dedicated photographer to ensure your journey is seamless, well-supported, and beautifully documented. From logistics to laughter, you’ll be fully held every step of the way.

A smiling woman with long blonde hair standing in front of Tiger's Nest Monastery built on a mountainside with lush green forest in Bhutan.

Join us in Bhutan

Starting Investment (per person)

Early Bird Pricing starts at $4,100

Prices increase by $200 after October 10

Click the “Reserve Your Spot” button below to view available room types and secure your space. A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit of $1,000 is required to reserve your spot and is included in the total cost.

Want a full breakdown of what's included? Download our guide.

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