Hotel details
Hospitality, peace, beauty, mysticism, and spirituality converge in the magical and mysterious kingdom of Bhutan, the land of happiness. Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary stands as the sole 5-star wellness resort, presenting an all-inclusive wellbeing concept.
Where you are going...
The Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary is perched high in the stunning Neyphu Valley within the kingdom of Bhutan, nestled in the majestic Himalayas. This hidden gem, situated between China and India, is one of the world’s most breathtaking countries, known for its lush green forests, ancient wisdom, and centuries-old traditions. Bhutan is famously known as the 'Land of Happiness', where mysticism, rituals, and customs are deeply embedded in daily life. The people of Bhutan lead a traditional lifestyle, upholding customs that have withstood the test of time.
Why you’ll love it...
The government and people in Bhutan are dedicated to preserving nature and traditions, allowing tourists to visit in a carefully regulated manner. Bhutan is known for valuing happiness as its true measure of success, making it more than just a holiday destination, it’s a spiritual journey that draws a select group of travelers. This spiritual essence becomes immediately apparent when you pass through the imposing red gate of the Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary. In Bhutan, you are not seen as a tourist; the team warmly welcomes you as part of the 'Zatsang', meaning 'family' in Bhutanese. The resort is also a hub for thought-provoking encounters, with notable figures such as writers, singers, historians, and philosophers from Bhutan and around the world often staying as guests. Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary functions as a wellness resort with an all-encompassing well-being concept that includes holistic activities, lectures, treatments, outdoor adventures, walks, excursions, healing programs, meals (alcoholic drinks excluded), and even laundry services - all included in the overall price.
Wellness, Spa and Health
"To have a restful mind is to relax in your nature.” This philosophy, inspired by the teachings of His Eminence Gyalwa Dokhampa, is woven into everyday life at the Sanctuary. The team’s goal is for guests to depart with a lasting sense of positive change and to carry this renewed mindset into their daily lives at home. Two resident traditional Bhutanese doctors serve as wellness guides, crafting personalized plans for each guest. The spa boasts six treatment rooms offering distinctive healing therapies, including Kunye (a signature Bhutanese massage), Moxibustion (a traditional Chinese medicine practice), and Numtsug (a signature hot oil compression). Guests can also enjoy facilities such as steam rooms and saunas for men and women, two traditional hot stone baths with individual treatment beds, a gym, a heated indoor pool, and a yoga and meditation room. For a unique form of relaxation, guests can even partake in supervised sessions at the ceramic/art studio.
Holistic Activities and Sports
- Yoga
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Gym
- Archery (Bhutanese way)
- Cooking classes
- Lecture about local culture
- Hiking, difficulty levels differ
- Library
- Darts (Bhutanese way)
- Pottery classes
- Forest bathing
- Herbal walks
What’s on the Menu
The Culinary Team prepares a variety of delicious dishes in an open kitchen, using locally sourced produce. Ingredients are harvested fresh from the resort’s own garden or greenhouse and nearby farms, with a focus on seasonal vegetables, fruits, and fresh herbs. The kitchen is happy to customize meals to accommodate any dietary intolerances. In the mornings, guests can opt to assemble their own breakfast and enjoy it in the comfort of their rooms for a more relaxed experience.
We love
- The eastern signature treatments such as the Kum Nye (Tibetan massage) and Numtsug (compression with hot oil).
- The use of wild therapeutic herbs and spices in the spa. Bhutan has a strong tradition of herbal medicines and is the ‘land of therapeutic herbs’.
- The walk to the Tiger’s Nest: a stunning monastery that looks as though it’s hanging onto the rockface of a steep cliff. Not an easy hike - 5 hours there and back – along a steep rocky path and at height, so take your time! Once at the top, breathe in the fresh air and hang your prayer flag from the cliff, enjoying views over the valley.
Good to know
- For all stays in Bhutan, the government requires a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) per person per night. This fee helps improve infrastructure and services, enhance the tourist experience, and support carbon-neutral tourism efforts.
- From 2022 onwards, visitors can plan their own holiday but must use an official registered guide and stay at an approved hotel. Costs for transportation, drivers, guides, and entry fees are added to the hotel price. Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary has an in-house travel agency to manage all these arrangements for you.
- In return for this cost, you gain the unique opportunity to explore an authentic, untouched country without the presence of tourist buses rushing through major sites. It’s a chance to fully immerse yourself in the rich local culture and find tranquility in unspoiled nature.