For rare travellers
drawn to the sacred
An ancient kingdom
unlike anywhere else
Bhutan
Awaken
Retreat
May 26 - June 2, 2027 · Paro
Kingdom of Bhutan
A Himalayan pilgrimage to ancient Buddhist temples in a 4-star sanctuary.
8 Days of Transmission & Embodied Transformation.
▶ THE ESSENCE OF THE JOURNEY · WATCH BEFORE APPLYING
limited to an intimate group by design
AS FEATURED IN
Bhutan has protected
what the world has lost
For centuries, this hidden kingdom remained largely closed to the outside world.
Even today, it follows a philosophy of High Value, Low Volume tourism, prioritizing cultural preservation, environmental protection and quality of experience over mass visitation.
Ancient monasteries still cling to mountainsides.
Prayer flags move across Himalayan passes.
Spiritual practice remains woven into daily life.
There are still no traffic lights in the entire country.
And while Bhutan has modernized, it has done so deliberately, choosing carefully what to embrace and what not to lose.
That is part of what makes arriving here feel so extraordinary.
Don't just see Bhutan,
Experience it deeply.
Of course we’ll visit extraordinary temples, hike to Tiger’s Nest, explore sacred landscapes and experience Bhutanese culture.
But this trip isn’t about collecting another destination.
The journey is designed so there is time to absorb what we encounter, reflect on it, and allow it to inform the inner work we do together.
Bhutan is not simply the setting for the retreat.
Its culture, spiritual traditions and landscape are woven into the work itself.
You can't read your way into
becoming a butterfly.
You can study meditation.
Read spiritual philosophy.
And learn the language of healing.
However, at the end of the day, knowing more is not what changes you.
The contemplative traditions have always understood the importance of direct experience…
sitting with teachers, practicing in sacred places, entering ritual, pilgrimage and relationship with ancient teachings.
This is the process of receiving transmission.
Not receiving more information, but experiencing so deeply that it changes the way you experience yourself and the world around you.
The caterpillar does not learn how to become a butterfly.
It enters the chrysalis.
8 Days of Pilgrimage,
Practice & Transformation
This overview is designed to give you a flavor of the program. Exact timings and individual activities may shift according to weather, local conditions, temple access and what best serves the group.
Landing
Arrive in Paro and settle into the Himalayan landscape. Our first afternoon together begins by grounding into the group, setting intentions for the journey ahead and opening the inner work through a shamanic breathwork experience focused on karmic imprints.
What old parts of myself am I ready to meet and shed?
Discovery
Begin the morning with yoga before visiting Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered temples, dating back to the 7th century. In the afternoon, Delphine guides a somatic healing workshop, creating space to process what has been experienced through the body.
What happens when I stop trying to understand purely with the mind and begin to receive with my whole being?
Initiation
Begin the day with chanting and meditation before traveling to the mystical temple of Dzongdrakha, a sacred place where holy relics of Guru Rinpoche were found. The afternoon moves into a profound shamanic medicine journey, followed by an evening integration circle.
Which old limitations am I willing to break through?
Embody
Begin with morning yoga before traveling to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, for a visit to the monumental Buddha at Buddha Point. After time to explore the city and its artisan markets, return for an afternoon embodied contact improvisation workshop with Delphine, followed by an evening integration circle.
Can I engage my intuition to sense beyond my thinking mind?
Joy
Begin with chanting and meditation before stepping into a lighter, more playful day. Experience Bhutanese archery, the country’s national sport, followed by time in nature and a river dip if conditions allow. In the afternoon, we turn inward through a workshop devoted to reconnecting with joy, spontaneity, and the forgotten wisdom of the inner child.
What have I forgotten because I became so busy becoming someone?
Pilgrimage
Begin the day with early morning yoga before setting out for the pilgrimage to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan’s most iconic cliffside temple. More than a hike, this is a moving meditation through the mountains, inviting presence with every step. The evening is reserved for restoration through a floating sound bath or massage.
With each step I take, can I become fully present in each moment?
Harmony
Begin with morning yoga before visiting Paro Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most striking fortress monasteries. After time in the Paro markets, the afternoon turns toward mindful action and integration, helping you distill the retreat into meaningful next steps. In the evening, we gather for a closing fire ceremony.
Who am I willing to become to move forward with clarity and purpose?
Return Home
Begin the final morning with chanting and meditation before gathering for breakfast and our closing circle. We take time to honor the journey, the connections formed, and what you are choosing to carry forward before departing Bhutan.
What am I ready to carry home and live differently?
4 weeks later, we reconnect online for a post-retreat integration session to support your continued evolution.
We created this retreat because there comes a point when understanding alone is no longer enough.
Bhutan offers a rare environment for deeper listening, and to truly connect to your higher self, and embody your transformation.
Even the timing chosen
holds a special meaning
Our dates fall within the Fire Goat year recognized in both Chinese and Tibetan calendrical traditions, and during the sacred fourth lunar month of the Bhutanese Buddhist calendar (a period associated with spiritual practice, awakening and liberation).
Johnson Chong
Shaman, Yogi, Best-selling Author & TedX Speaker
Johnson Chong is the best-selling author of Sage Sapien: From Karma to Dharma. He is also a TedX Speaker, shaman and the founder of Sage Shamanic Yoga where he trains aspiring yoga & breathwork teachers. Through the synthesis of the most applicable teachings of yoga, meditation, breathwork, coaching and shamanic healing, his trainings are designed to help people quiet the mind, awaken the heart and free themselves of the roadblocks that keep them from living more authentically and joyfully. He has spoken and led workshops at companies like Unilever, Facebook, Nike, Macquarie, Insight Timer, UBS, UOB and more.
Johnson is also initiated as a paqo shaman of the Andean Q’ero priests, a Four Winds Energy Medicine Health Coach, and a Reiki Master. He is a native New Yorker, and currently is based in Sydney, Australia.
He speaks, English, Cantonese & Spanish.
Delphine Supanya Berger
Integrative Healer, Systemic Therapist & Spiritual Coach
Delphine Supanya Berger is a Thai-French therapist and facilitator whose work brings people into deeper contact with themselves through the body, relationship, sound, stillness and direct experience.
A former international lawyer, her path into this work was shaped not only by more than a decade of therapeutic and contemplative practice, but by her own experiences of recovery, loss and transformation. These experiences deepened her understanding that meaningful change cannot be reached through the mind alone. It must also be felt, experienced and lived.
Her work brings together systemic and somatic therapy, applied neuroscience and hypnotherapy with Buddhist meditation, sound and aquatic bodywork. Having practised Buddhist meditation since childhood, Delphine bridges contemporary therapeutic understanding with embodied wisdom and ancient contemplative practice.
At the heart of her work is an invitation to slow down, listen and meet what is present. She creates spaces where people can encounter themselves more fully, reconnect with what is essential and allow the intelligence of the body and spirit to reveal what is ready to move.
Delphine has facilitated transformational experiences for individuals, leaders and organizations internationally.
Dr. Karma Wangchuk
ex-monk & Ph.D in Buddhism
Dr. Karma Wangchuk is a practitioner of the Nyingmapa and Kagyupa traditions of Mahayana & Vajrayana Buddhism for many years. His dharma is to serve and guide spiritual seekers through theoretical and practical experiences while in the Kingdom of Bhutan.
For eight years between 1986 – 1994, he lived as a Buddhist monk under Kalu Rinpoche and Drupchen Rinpoche. During his monk-hood, he acquired a Gold Medal in his M.A Buddhist Studies Program, and proceeded to earn a PhD from the University of Delhi in Buddhist Studies.
He is a sought after lecturer in Tibetan Buddhism and Spirituality, and has held various positions in the government and privately. Currently, Dr. Karma is the lead trainer in the Tourism Council of Bhutan teaching other guides how to present Buddhism.
Dr. Karma speaks English, Bhutanese & Tibetan.
Journey into the land of the Thunder Dragon,
where ancient wisdom still shapes the rhythm of life.
8-14 participants. 8 days. A powerful container with life changing transformation.
Everything Is Taken Care Of.
From the retreat experience to your journey through Bhutan, the details are thoughtfully arranged so you can focus on being fully present.
Retreat Inclusions
- Daily movement, yoga and meditation practices
- Shamanic breathwork
- Shamanic medicine journey
- Somatic and systemic workshops
- Inner healing workshops
- Floating sound baths
- Buddhist teachings and cultural guidance with Dr. Karma
- Evening integration circles
- Creative reflection and rituals
- Pre-retreat 8-module Introduction to Buddhism course
- Group orientation before Bhutan
- Post-retreat integration gathering
Also Included
- 4-star accommodation in a unique boutique hotel
- World-class spa with massage and pool
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Tea and refreshments
- Private ground transportation during the retreat
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure
- Licensed Bhutanese guide
- Sacred-site visits and applicable entry fees
- Thimphu day journey
- Bhutanese archery experience
- Tiger’s Nest pilgrimage
- US$840 Visa / Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
- A curated, intimate community of like-minded retreat participants
Not Included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal shopping
- Gratuities and personal expenses
Your Home in the Himalayas
For seven nights, we return to one peaceful sanctuary in Paro — a boutique mountain resort designed for rest, beauty and integration.
Naksel Boutique Hotel & Spa
Nestled on the edge of Bhutan’s national forest in the hills above Paro, Naksel is a 4-star boutique mountain resort where traditional Bhutanese architecture meets quiet modern comfort. Surrounded by forest and sweeping Himalayan views, it gives us a beautiful sanctuary to return to after each day of pilgrimage and inner work.
Set across more than six acres at approximately 2,700 meters above sea level, Naksel blends locally crafted Bhutanese design with modern comforts, creating an atmosphere that feels secluded, peaceful and deeply connected to the landscape.
Deluxe Twin Share
A beautifully appointed Deluxe room shared between two retreat guests. Designed with traditional Bhutanese character and modern comforts, this option offers an elegant and welcoming space to rest and integrate at the end of each day.
Deluxe Single
Your own private Deluxe room for the full retreat. Ideal for guests who value personal space, solitude and the ability to retreat inward between the shared experiences of the journey.
A 50% deposit is due upon acceptance into the program to secure your place.
Rare By Design
Bhutan’s High Value, Low Volume approach protects an experience that remains remarkably removed from mass tourism.
A Living Buddhist Kingdom
Ancient temples, monasteries and pilgrimage sites where Buddhist philosophy remains woven into everyday life.
Sacred Himalayan Pilgrimage
Journey from 7th-century temples to the legendary Tiger’s Nest and Bhutan’s most revered sacred sites.
4-Star Mountain Sanctuary
Stay at Naksel Boutique Hotel & Spa, surrounded by forest, Himalayan views and traditional Bhutanese craftsmanship.
More Than Sightseeing
Meditation, breathwork, somatic healing and ritual are woven throughout the journey for a deeper transformational experience.
Everything Taken Care Of
Accommodation, meals, transport, airport transfers, sacred-site entry, local guidance and US$840 Visa/SDF fees are included.
Are You Ready for
the Next Step?
This Retreat May Be For You If...
- You have already done meaningful personal or spiritual work and are ready for something deeper than an introductory wellness retreat.
- You are drawn to rare places and meaningful travel with cultural, spiritual and historical depth.
- You want inner work that engages the body, emotions and intuition, not only the thinking mind.
- You value beautiful surroundings, thoughtful comfort and spiritual substance in the same experience.
- Bhutan has been on your bucket list, or something about the Land of the Thunder Dragon keeps calling you.
This Is Not The Right Container If...
- You are mainly looking for a sightseeing vacation with a few wellness activities added.
- You want a passive retreat and have little interest in movement, meditation, workshops or group process.
- You are looking for someone to give you all the answers or tell you who you should become.
- You are primarily seeking luxury for luxury’s sake rather than meaningful travel, spiritual depth and cultural immersion.
- You are not open to engaging respectfully with Bhutanese culture, Buddhist traditions and sacred places.
What Past Participants Have Said
Watch Judith's Story
We did this fabulous trek up to Tiger’s Nest. I had an injury where I couldn’t walk down, and somebody carried me for half the way and then found me a horse. When we tried to thank these people, they said, “It was our honor.” You saw the real generosity and compassion people had, and the unconditional pleasure they got from doing things for others. That was a very moving experience.
Watch Howard's Story
We went to the oldest temple in Bhutan. Although I don’t always pick up on energy, I felt enormous energy in that place. The Buddhist approach to symbols has helped me get into a good, clear state of meditation.
Watch Helit's Story
I loved that this was not only a combination of seeing Bhutan and its people, but also going through a personal journey. Dr. Karma seems to know everyone and is incredibly knowledgeable about local Buddhism. I was surprised by how wonderful it was to have people coming together from all over the world.
Watch Saul's Story
The insights into Buddhism and simply how to live your life on a day-to-day basis have been absolutely amazing. It’s a highly spiritual experience. It feels very authentic and increasingly rare in travel these days.
Watch Teri's Story
One of my favorite things about being here is the beautiful energy of this country. Witnessing Tiger’s Nest was one of the most emotional experiences I’ve had in a long time. What impressed me most was the energy of all the beautiful people who were here together.
Watch Mayra's Story
I did yoga, meditated with monks and went through massive emotional healing in shamanic journeys. I’ve had an incredible journey that connected me with my real essence, which allowed very important healing to happen.
Watch Andrew's Story
Bhutan was like going into a new paradigm. The energy is quite pure and light. Each day we worked through different themes, and being able to integrate both the cultural experiences and our own inner journey was a highlight and a great balance. I feel refreshed and very grateful to have experienced this beautiful country.
Watch Mika's Story
Something that stood out to me was learning about the Divine Madman. His wisdom of embracing both the light and dark opened my heart to embrace all parts of myself without having to hide certain things. I was able to come out of my shell in a way that was incredibly powerful.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s always exciting to meet like-minded seekers on retreats. If you want to paired with a roommate, please email us your preferences (i.e are you a light sleeper, do you snore, etc?). We will pair you with someone who we believe would be a good match for you.
Children are not permitted on the retreat. This is an adult only retreat and is only available to those accepted into the program.
Wifi will be available at the hotel. You can also purchase an e-sim or a traditional sim at the airport to stay connected.Though, we highly encourage that you switch off your mobile devices during the retreat so that you can get the most our of this important time for yourself.
Yes, laundry is available for an additional service charge.
Flights to and from Bhutan, international travel insurance, personal shopping, and any expenses outside the retreat program. Your $840 USD visa fee will be included in your program fee.
There are no refunds on this retreat if you cancel. And so, we ask that you commit to blocking out time for yourself and to be sure that you’re coming before you book. We also know that life is unpredictable. As with all our retreats, you are responsible for acquiring your own travel insurance in the event that life takes a sudden turn for you.
Let’s keep in touch
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