Bhutan

Paro, Bhutan

M(
122 reviews
Sep 6 - 14, 2024
Group size: 10 - 13
Bhutan
Paro, Bhutan

122 reviews

Sep 6 - 14, 2024
Group size: 10 - 13

About this trip

Please take a few moments to watch this VIDEO from Keith and Michelle prior to booking. It highlights the most important information that we want to point out. 



The last Buddhist Kingdom in the world, this beautiful, largely unspoiled country nestles in the foothills of the Himalaya between two of the most powerful countries in Asia – India and China. With tourism not starting until 1974, Bhutan remains one of the most isolated countries in the world, and its culture and traditions remain very much intact. With one of the world’s greatest concentrations of mountains, the experience begins with the flight into Paro offering close up views of Mt Everest, Mt Kanchenjunga and other great Himalayan peaks. Once on the ground, this is a country of high rugged mountains and deep shadowy gorges, cloaked in dense primeval forest, resplendent with rhododendron blossom in the spring and offering ecosystems that are both rich and diverse. The full glory of this ancient land is discovered through majestic fortress - like dzongs , numerous ancient temples, monasteries and stupas which take prime position in this picturebook landscape. This unique architecture embodies Buddhist culture and sets the scene for the spectacular tsechus (dance festivals) that take place throughout the year. The tsechus are a rich and happy expression of the ancient Buddhist culture; an important social occasion for the community and a period of deep prayer and meditation for the monks who perform the masked dances. The true charm of this tiny kingdom must surely lie in its use of Gross National Happiness as a measure of development, placing real value on such things as heritage, health, education, good governance, psychological wellbeing and community spirit. The people of Bhutan are warm and welcoming, and you will easily become immersed in their traditional way of life.



The Druk Path trek leads from Paro to Thimpu, crossing stunning natural landscapes through blue pine forests, dwarf rhododendrons, high ridges and crystal lakes.


The Buddhist Kingdom of Bhutan lies along the lofty ridges of the eastern Himalayas, bordered by China (Tibet) to the north and northwest, and by India on the east, south and west. With an area of 46,500 square km., Bhutan is comparable to Switzerland both in its size and topography. The mighty Himalaya have protected Bhutan from the rest of the world and left it blissfully untouched through the centuries. The Bhutanese people have protected this sacred heritage and unique identity for centuries by choosing to remain shrouded in a jealously guarded isolation. 


Often referred to as the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’, this tiny Himalayan Kingdom, nestled between India and the People’s Republic of China in the Eastern Himalayas, is one of the most isolated nations on earth. Each part of Bhutan has its own historical, geographical, cultural and religious significance, and any visit to this beautiful and largely unspoiled setting will combine spectacular mountain terrain, ancient monasteries, rich flora and fauna, and a vibrant Buddhist culture. The Druk Path trek is a four day trek, crossing the spectacular natural landscape between Paro and Thimphu. Our tour begins with a visit to the stunning Tiger’s Nest Monastery, located high on the cliffside of the upper Paro valley. We then start our trek, a journey through rhododendron forests and alongside glacial lakes, against a backdrop of snow - capped mountains and dramatic valleys. Along the way you will discover more about the history of Bhutan through unspoilt villages, ancient lhakhangs and dzongs. After completing the trek, we will include city tours of Thimphu and Punakha before returning to Paro.


**Please note, these adventures are planned far in advance, and sometimes things come up that are unforeseen or unplanned. With that forethought, know the group will be accompanied on this adventure by Keith, or Michelle, and/or My1FitLife Ambassador. Activities on the itinerary are subject to change based on guides, weather, availability, etc. **

What’s included

  • 5 Nights Hotel
    Your hotel stay for the 2 nights before and 3 nights after the trek on a full board basis
  • Airport Transfers
    All airports transfers
  • Visa
    Entry Visa to Bhutan
  • Government Fee
    Government Royalty fee
  • Locan guide
    A fully supported trek with a qualified mountain guide
  • Food & Drink
    All food and drinking water on the trek
  • Entrance Fees
    Monument and monastery entrance fee

What’s not included

  • Airfares
    International airfares and transit visas to and from
  • Tips
    Tips for guides and porters
  • Personal Items
    Personal Items
  • Insurance
    Travel insurance (you must be insured, and specifically for treks up to 4500m)
  • Gear
    Personal Trekking Gear
  • Medicines
    Your personal medicines or prescriptions
  • Beverages
    Non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages

Available Packages

Trip Price
$4,735
Deposit:$699

Itinerary

Sept 6 - Day 1
Arrive in Paro

Local guides will meet you at Paro airport and transfer you to your pre - trek hotel . Later in the afternoon there is the option to join a tour of the city . Once a watchtower, built to defend Rinpung Dzong during inter - valley wars of the 17 th century, Ta Dzong was inaugurated as Bhutan's National Museum in 1968 . It holds a fascinating collection of art, relics, religious thangkha paintings and Bhutan's exquisite postage stamps . The museum’s circular shape augments its varied collection which is displayed over several floors . Afterwards, we will take a walk down a hillside trail to visit Rinpung Dzong , which has a long and very interesting history . Built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal , the first spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan, the Dzong houses the monastic body of Paro, the office of the Dzongda (district administrative head) and Thrimpon (judge) of Paro district . The approach to the Dzong is through a traditional covered bridge called Nemi Zam , which offers a good view of the architectural wonder of the Dzong as well as life around it . Later you will attend a pre - trek briefing with your Lead Guide to prepare you for the journey ahead.


Visa approval formalities should be straightforward. Please make sure you have the visa confirmation we email to you in your hand luggage, as you will need to show this at Immigration. When you collect your bags you need to make sure you have your airline baggage tags handy as they check these off against the flight tags on your luggage before you can leave. You will be given a baggage declaration form to complete, this is to ensure that you re - export all items that have arrived with you. Once you have cleared immigration and collected your luggage, make your way to the main doors. Your guide will be outside these doors, holding sign.

Your Organizer


M(
MORE (My1FitLife) Adventures
122 reviews
You can take anyone into the gym and motivate them to live fit for a day, but if you take them into nature, you can inspire them for life! That's the motto of Michelle Steinke-Baumgard and Keith Baumgard from My1FitLife. Six years ago, Michelle and Keith joined together and started what has become much more than just a fitness company; they have created a tribe, a community and a feeling that inspires you long after you leave their retreats. Michelle and Keith take fitness up a notch and remind you that living fit is not about making your body smaller, but instead, fitness is about making your life BIGGER!!! When you come for a retreat with My1FitLife you will accomplish big things; you will learn to be brave, to explore, to stretch your boundaries and to live your life to the fullest.

Reviews

I have been following Michelle on OneFit Widow on Facebook since my husband Herb died in February, 2019. I read her stories, listened to her perspective, and just knew she was real. Real in her grief journey, parenting, and fitness goals. Michelle inspires me to start over everyday. Going on a trip with More Adventures has been a dream. Last spring I saw the option for San Diego and excitedly booked it. I wasn't working at the time and had some extra money. Closer to the time of the trip I had started a new job and was concerned taking the trip wasn't the right time. I thought about it and decided I couldn't give up this opportunity to meet Michelle and take care of myself in this way. I don't regret a single moment of this experience! I am warmed in my soul by each and every woman on this journey. We were instantly connected sharing laughter, tears, joy, and pain. The food by Chef Eileen Elizabeth and her Sous Chef Felicia was absolutely delicious and inspiring. I am grateful for Michelle, Keith, Tiffani, and everyone else who worked to make San Diego such an amazing experience. I would recommend to anyone wanting to go on an adventure trip or immersion to travel with them. Go now! You will not regret it.
By Erin L for San Diego Immersion - Nov. on Nov 21, 2024
One of the best Wellness Adventure!!! I attended the SanDiego Immersion in April 2024 and was excited when they scheduled another for November 2024 There were different ladies at each The wonderful part is it had the same vibe…..a closeness you feel from the time you meet. Chef Eileen teaches you how to enjoy Vegan and eating healthy . The visits to the Wineries….walks along the ocean….massage….group talks..yoga… Sailing….Michelle is a beautiful lady who cares so much for her family and her calling….I highly recommend the Immersion trips …they are smaller and more personal..
By Diana D for San Diego Immersion - Nov. on Nov 20, 2024
I can not recommend an Immersion Retreat with More Adventures more! I have been following Michelle on social media for about 6 years and finally got enough nerve to sign up for the San Diego Immersion. I have never traveled solo in my life and did not know another soul that was attending and it is one of the best decisions I have ever made. A few of us met up before going to the retreat location and there was just an instant connection. Upon arriving at the house and meeting everyone else, there was an indescribable sense of community and belonging. The self care (yoga, sound bath, TRE, massage, just to name a few) was absolutely amazing as well as the wealth of information Michelle shared; I can't even begin to list all the areas she has vast knowledge of that she shared with us. The attention to detail was also amazing; you just need to show up and everything is taken care of for you. The one thing, however, that I will forever be grateful for is the chance to meet the incredible ladies that also attended. We all shared many conversations, laughter, walks along the beach, delicious food and did I mention the laughs? What a healing time I had. And I know I have met new life long friends. If you are even remotely thinking about attending an Immersion, I highly, HIGHLY recommend going for it!
By Carolyn M for San Diego Immersion - Nov. on Nov 18, 2024
If you're considering an Immersion trip with More Adventures, and have hesitation about going, you are not alone. I felt that way when I was doing my research and had some fear about going out and joining a bunch of strangers for a first time trip to a location where I had never been. Let me say that FEAR of the unknown will keep you from growing. Personally, I booked my trip five months in advance and nearly cancelled twice, but if I had done that, my life would have stayed the same. I would have cheated myself out of moving forward and growing in my personal life. The Immersion experience introduced me to Michelle Steinke-Baumgard, a dynamic and inspiring lady with a wealth of knowledge to share about health and wellness. Her love for helping others improve their lives was obvious. There were eleven of us on this trip, learning and growing together. Michelle led us through daily opportunities to practice fitness, utilizing various styles of yoga and incorporated techniques to assist with releasing stress and tension. This was all new to me and to most of us. Michelle guided us through TRE exercises and Somatic Experiencing. These are strategies designed to assist you with release of tension and minimalization of invasive thoughts. All of these activities were optional. We were never made to feel uneasy if we chose not to participate. And the fun? We walked on Mission Beach while getting to know one another. There was free time each day to spend as desired. We had a gorgeous day sailing on Mission Bay, which was a bonus that was added to our itinerary just days before the trip. Additionally, we had a wonderful day visiting three vineyards/wineries, indulging in six tastings per location. At the final vineyard we enjoyed a wonderful dinner. We stayed at a very nice AirBnB right within walking distance to the sand by Mission Bay. Three great meals per day were lovingly prepared by our Chef Eileen and her sister Karen. This was a wonderful introduction to vegan diet for me, and a learning experience that opened my mind to ways of adding plant protein to my daily habits. (Vegan chefs are not used at every Immersion, in case you're wondering). Did I mention, we each had a massage one day and a Sound Bath provided by a woman who practices various forms of yoga and healing techniques for the body and mind? I could really go on and on, as the time was worth sharing in every detail. Finally, the ladies I met were inspiring. We were of all different ages and stages of life and love and loss. We grew from just getting to hear each other's stories and learned to appreciate life from our varying vantage points. Should you go on an Immersion trip? Only YOU know how much you need it. I say yes...GO! Fear not. You will thrive.
By Linda L for San Diego Immersion - Nov. on Nov 14, 2024
The Sicily trip was fabulous. It exceeded all of my expectations. We stayed busy with so many great activities, we hiked, went on a bike ride to historic old cities, went wine and chocolate tasting and much more. The group of women that were on the trip were all so warm, friendly and lots of fun. I went by myself, and I felt very comfortable and safe the entire time. Thank you to Michele, Keith, Tiffany and the rest of their crew for putting together a trip full of beautiful and fun memories.
By Joni B for Sicily2024 on Oct 29, 2024
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References

The Utah immersion was a fantastic experience. I have traveled to and explored this area before on my own but the adventures planned with guides were truly places and moments I don’t think I could have ever had on a solo visit. On top of that, the rest, recuperation and relaxation pieces during this trip were the escape that I very much needed!
By Stephanie C on 02 Dec, 2020