Travelling solo as a woman in Bhutan

Slow travel Bhutan

Bhutan encourages travellers to slow down. Staying at Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary allows visitors to experience the country without long car rides or frequent hotel changes. The pace is calm, the days unhurried. It’s the ideal environment to settle, reflect, and reconnect.

All-in-one destination

Bhutan offers a unique blend of culture, spirituality, nature, and wellness. Travellers can hike to monasteries, participate in traditional ceremonies, take part in yoga or meditation sessions, or relax in a hot stone bath at the Sanctuary’s spa. Every experience feels close and connected. 

Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary – a place for wellbeing and reflection

Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary, located in the peaceful Neyphu Valley, is an ideal base for solo travellers who want to experience Bhutan without rushing. The property has been selected for the Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) Wellbeing Collection, a recognition given only to hotels that go beyond the traditional spa concept. Hotels in this collection must offer experiences that support physical, mental, and emotional health, helping guests make meaningful, long-term changes to their overall wellbeing. Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary meets these standards through its deep integration of Bhutanese healing traditions, guided meditations, art sessions, and holistic wellness treatments. Guests can walk in the surrounding hills, write, or simply enjoy the stillness of the valley.

Why Bhutan works so well for solo female travellers

Bhutan feels naturally respectful. People are kind without being intrusive. You’ll feel it in the way they greet you, or simply acknowledge you with a quiet smile. You’re given space, but never left to feel alone. Bhutan also invites you to slow down. You don’t have to rush from sight to sight. A walk through the forest, a visit to a monastery, or tea in a small village can easily fill a day. Many women who stay at Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary arrive alone. Some come to find solitude, others to pause. What they often discover is how easy it feels to be on their own here.

In recent years, Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary has seen a clear rise in women travelling solo — from all ages and nationalities. These travellers often come seeking independence, stillness, and a sense of renewal. Bhutan is one of the safest countries in Asia. Each guest is accompanied by the same driver and licensed English-speaking guide throughout the trip. This provides familiarity, comfort, and flexibility — a combination that suits solo travel well. Bhutan is a destination where everything comes together: nature, culture, spirituality, and wellness. This balance makes it particularly appealing for solo female travellers looking for a grounded, restorative experience. 

Praktische informatie Reizen naar Bhutan

Getting there

Bhutan has one international airport, located in Paro — just a 15-minute drive from Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary. Flights are operated by Drukair and Bhutan Airlines from Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, Kolkata, and Singapore.

Safety and flexibility

Bhutan remains one of the safest countries to visit. The continuity of having the same driver and guide throughout the trip ensures comfort and security. Schedules can easily be adapted; plans are flexible, not fixed.

Tourism policies, visa and Development Fee (SDF)

There is no limit to the number of tourists allowed to visit Bhutan each year — a common misconception. A visa is required but easily arranged online. Only a valid passport is needed, and a one-time visa fee is included in most travel packages. Bhutan also charges a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which supports education, healthcare, and environmental conservation, ensuring that tourism directly benefits local communities. 

Seasons and weather

Bhutan is an all-year destination. Spring brings wildflowers, summer is lush and green, autumn offers clear skies and colourful festivals, and winter has crisp air and quiet light. Each season has its own charm.

Festive season tip

Festive season tip: both airlines offer a 25% discount on flights to Bhutan in December 2025. It’s a pleasant time to visit, with comfortable weather and lower room rates. Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary also organises special festive programmes on 24 and 31 December, included in the room rates for in-house guests.

About Marleen

This blog is written by Marleen, founder of PureandCure.com (established in 2005). She travels around the world in search of the best Health & Wellbeing Hotels, Spas and Retreats and shares her insights, experiences and observations through her blogs.