Quest for Happiness

Begin the journey with a visit to the Buddha Dordenma, one of the world’s largest statues of the Buddha, and a talk on Gross National Happiness, before exploring the capital of Thimphu. Stroll through the market and visit museums and temples, gaining insight into the Bhutanese way of life.  

On day two, spend time with the children of Gawaling Happy Home, reading stories and playing games. Positive interaction helps them gain confidence and learn about the world around them. Alternatively, visit the Draktsho Vocational Training Centre for Special Children and Youth, purchase crafts and join a sign language session to support their programme. 

Journey to Punakha and stop at Dochula Pass for a picnic with 360-degree panoramic views of the Himalayas. After settling in, visit Chime Lhakhang then spend some at the first Retirement Home for Buddhist Monks in Bhutan. Created by an Amankora guest, the facility cares for monks who retire with no families to return to.  

Begin the following day with a morning hike up the Khamsum Chorten, before exploring Punakha Dzong. Head back to the home and purchase a meal for a monk who will appreciate the gesture and the company. 

Travel to Gangtey and after a leisurely lunch. Visit the magnificent Gangtey Goemba Monastery and the town’s meditation centre to learn about the life of hermits, their commitment to spiritual learning and importance in Bhutanese culture. Learn how you can support a community programme that offers meals and clothing to those in need.  

An early start on day six offers the chance to visit the Bayta Community School in Phobjika Valley’s nature reserve, dedicated to preserving endangered, Black-necked cranes. Assist in the development of the school’s library, reading room, counselling space and playground. 

After the scenic transfer to Bumthang Lodge, visit the Trongsa Dzong, the Watch Tower Museum and Wangdicholing Palace, as well as Shingkhar and Nga Lhakhangs – two temples housing priceless cultural assets. Help the monks to digitalise their archiving and storage systems, helping preserve irreplaceable artefacts. 

Day eight will see the spiritual exploration of Jakar Valley’s most sacred sites, visiting remote temples such as Dorji Tse Goempa and Lugi Rawa Lhakhang. Help with structural upkeep or English lessons and donate robes and educational books to younger monks. 

The fertile valley of Bumthang is the breadbasket of Bhutan. Spend time visiting and supporting farming communities in which weaving, herbal tea cultivation and beekeeping are important industries. Those able can share marketing, commerce and merchandising expertise, all invaluable to entrepreneurs, who include the widowed weavers of Dorjibi Village.  

The next morning, journey to Paro, and after settling in, visit the National Museum and Paro Dzong. 

Choose between two community assistance programmes or make time to get involved in both. The first works to provide safe drinking water and efficient irrigation systems to farmers. The second initiative supports the Drukgyel Central School, and its ‘Future Farmers’ programme.  

On your final day, take a pilgrimage to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, and end the journey with a farewell dinner in traditional gho or kira attire.