Bumthang, in western Bhutan, is four lush valleys where many famous Buddhist yogis lived and practiced. We will spend three-four days here, and will visit, among other sites, the Jakar Yugyel Dzong (Jakar Dzong), the Jambay Lhakhang, oldest temple in Bhutan, the majestic complex of Kurge Lhakhang, and the Tamshing, one of the most historically, spiritually and culturally significant monasteries in Bhutan. Driving to the Tang Valley, we will visit the Tang Rimochen Khakhang, marking a sacred place where Guru Rinpoche meditated. On the way back, we will stop at Membaar Tsho (the burning lake) where treasures hidden by Guru Rinpoche were found.

During the seven-day drive back from Bumthang, we will stop nightly at various places of interest, as well a see the diversity and breathtaking beauty of the valleys and mountains, flora and fauna of Bhutan. The first over night stop will be at Trongsa and its majestic fortress,

The drive from Trongsa to Punakha takes approximately 6 hours and goes through breathtaking scenery. On the way to Punakha we will stop to hoist prayer flags at the top of the Phobjikha pass and visit the Gangteng Monastery.The Monastery is one of the main seats of the religious tradition based on Pema Lingpa's revelations and one of the two main centers of the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism in the country. 

We then climb to Pele la Pass, an alpine environment of rhododendrons and dwarf bamboo. During the clear weather we can view the high snow capped peaks of Mount Chomolhari. Descending into semi-tropical vegetation, we enter into the valley of Wangdue Phodrang, and take an opportunity to photograph the majestic fortress of Wangdue Dzong, which stands on a spur of a hill at the confluence of the Tsang Chu and Dang Chu rivers.

In Punakha, one of the most beautiful and significant regions at the heart of Bhutan culture, we will hike a gentle 45 minute uphill to the Khamsum Yuley temple, a unique and fine example of Bhutan's architectural and artistic traditions.

In Punakha, one of the most beautiful and significant regions at the heart of Bhutan culture, we will hike a easy 45 minute uphill to the Khamsum Yuley temple, a unique and fine example of Bhutan's architectural and artistic traditions. On the way back we'll visit the impressive Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 to serve as the religious and administrative seat of the region. The dzong stands as the symbol for a unified Bhutan.

From Punakha we drive to Thimpu, Bhutan's capital. On the drive there, we will ascend to the Dochula Pass, which on a clear day offers panoramic views of the entire Himalayan mountain range. We will stop at the Druk Wangyal Chortons - 108 stupas built by the Queen Mother. In Thimpu we will visit a memorial stupa, an outdoor market, a monastery, a painting school, and the Taschicho Dzong.

After Thimpu, we return to Paro, and visits to the National Museum and the Drukgyal Dzong, among other sites. The next day is the excursion to the spectacular Taktsang Monastery known as Tiger's Nest, one of the most beautiful and famous cluster of temples in Bhutan, built on a cliff high above the valley floor, where Padmasambhava, Yeshe Tsogyal, Machig Lhadron and Milarepa meditated.

We will fly from Paro back to Bangkok on November 7th, ending the pilgrimage with unforgettable experiences and memories.

Costs

The cost of the pilgrimage is:

Early Bird Discount, apply by Feb. 28, 2024: $8,599.00 (members $8,399.00), payable in four payments over 8 months, see below

After Feb. 28th: $8,899.00 (members $8,659.00)

Payment Schedule (for early birds)

• $2000 payable with registration
• $2000 payable April 15, plus single room supplement if using
• $2000 is payable June 15
• $2,599 (members $2399) is payable August 15

Single room supplement is $575.00

This price includes

• Airfare from Bangkok to Bhutan and return to Bangkok, visa for Bhutan
• While in Bhutan, all hotels (double occupancy), meals, English speaking guides, entrance fees, visa and taxes

Application Process

Opens January 15, 2024

The pilgrimage will be limited to 21 participants, and applications will be accepted on a first come basis.

1. Complete Application
2. Pay $2,000 application fee online
3. Phone interview may be requested if any questions
4. Receive email accepting application within two weeks of application

The application will request information on spiritual background for those not active in Sukhasiddhi. Application will also request information on physical issues which might make the two walking/hiking parts of the pilgrimage difficult.

Priority List

Applications will be officially accepted starting January 15, 2024. However, those receiving this email who are seriously interested in the pilgrimage will be given the opportunity to be on our priority list, and will receive the invitation to apply early, between January 10-15, 2024.