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Bhutan

Yoga & Meditation Retreat: 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.

Itinerary Overview

Each day blends movement, mindfulness, and meaningful connection. Expect flexibility, presence, and plenty of surprise moments along the way.

  • Land in Paro and transfer to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital

    Settle into your boutique hotel and rest from travel

    Light hike to Wangditse Monastery with panoramic valley views

    Welcome dinner featuring local cuisine

  • Practice yoga at the base of the Buddha Dordenma statue

    Receive a traditional astrology reading

    Visit a local art and craft school

    Scenic drive to Punakha, with tea and blessings at Dochula Pass

  • 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

  • Yoga or meditation at a peaceful nunnery

    Experience Bhutanese village life at a local farmhouse

    Enjoy a home-cooked lunch and rural traditions

    Raft down the clear waters of the Punakha River

  • Scenic drive back to Paro through forested mountain roads

    Learn the art of sand mandala creation with local artists

    Free time to explore the charming town of Paro

    Evening yoga or journaling circle at our camp near Tiger’s Nest

  • Hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest, one of Bhutan’s most sacred sites

    Enjoy a traditional hot stone bath to soothe your body

    Farewell dinner with live cultural music and dance

  • Morning reflections and heartfelt goodbyes

    Depart from Paro with a full heart and an inspired spirit

Note: This itinerary is subject to change based on weather, group energy, and the natural flow of our shared experience. Trust that everything will unfold exactly as it’s meant to.

Group of people practicing yoga outdoors on a tiled open space with mountainous background, some participants raising arms, others seated in cross-legged positions, and a few standing or walking around.

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 woman smiling and leaning on a railing on a bridge, with a traditional Bhutanese Fortress in the background.

FAQ

  • Not at all. All practices are beginner-friendly and optional. You’ll be guided through everything, whether it’s your first time on a mat or you’ve been practicing for years.

  • Yes! Most of our retreat guests come alone and leave with a whole new soul-family. You’ll be paired in a shared room with a same-gender roommate unless you choose a private room.

  • You’ll fly into Paro, Bhutan (PBH) — but this can only be accessed via connecting flights from either Bangkok (BKK) or Kathmandu (KTM). Our team will help you book this flight separately (it ranges from $400–$950).

  • Yes! All in-country transportation is fully included. You’ll be met at the Paro airport by our trusted guides and drivers and supported every step of the way.

  • Nope — we’ve got you covered. We’ll provide mats so you don’t have to travel with one.

  • Curious, compassionate, adventurous. This retreat is capped at 12-16 guests — mostly solo travelers looking for connection, growth, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

  • Retreat deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. All other payments are non-refundable due to the nature of international travel. We recommend purchasing your own travel insurance in case Life happens.

  • Absolutely. After booking, we’ll ask for your dietary needs. Bhutanese chefs and our hotel partners are happy to accommodate most dietary preferences — including vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free — and we’ll make sure you’re well taken care of.

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

Investment & Room Options

  • Private Room
    Ideal for solo travelers seeking privacy. Includes a comfortable bed, ensuite bathroom, and peaceful ambiance.


    Shared Room
    Two separate beds (or one large bed for couples), ensuite bathroom. Sign up with a friend or we’ll pair you with a same-gender roommate.

  • Early Bird Pricing (through October 10, 2025, or while space remains):

    • Shared Room: $4,100

    • Private Room: $5,800

    After Oct 10, prices increase by $200.
    Deposit is included in total price.

    • $1,000 deposit (shared) or $1,500 (private) secures your spot

    • Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable

    • Pay in full or set up a flexible payment plan

    • Full balance due by March 4, 2026

  • What’s Included

    • 6 nights / 7 days of curated retreat programming

    • Boutique hotel, lodge, and mountain camp accommodations

    • All meals, private transportation, and local guides

    • Daily yoga, meditation, and spiritual offerings

    • Cultural ceremonies, astrology, and art workshops

    • Adventure excursions (rafting, hiking, archery)

    • All entry fees, hot stone bath, and farewell dinner

    • Bhutan visa & tourist tax included

    • Present Practice retreat journal & more

  • Not Included

    • International flights to Bhutan (routed via Bangkok or Kathmandu, $400–$950) — We’ll coordinate your roundtrip flights to Bhutan after registration. Our team handles all visa and travel logistics so you can arrive with ease.

    • Flights to gateway city (BKK/KTM)

    • Travel insurance (recommended)

    • Tips, alcohol, and personal shopping

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