Whispers of the Monpas

As we embark on our journey to the Kingdom of Bhutan, the flight offers breathtaking aerial views of the Eastern Himalayas. Towering peaks such as Kanchenjunga (28,169 ft / 8,586 m), the third-highest mountain in the world, and Bhutan’s revered Mount Jhomolhari (24,029 ft / 7,326 m) dominate the skyline, setting the tone for our adventure ahead.

Upon arrival in the serene Paro Valley, we complete immigration formalities and are greeted by our Bhutanese guide and driver, who will be our companions throughout this immersive experience. Our journey begins with a profound and symbolic butter lamp lighting ceremony at the sacred 7th-century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most spiritually significant temples. This ritual is performed to invoke blessings for a safe and meaningful journey. A short, gentle hike along a peaceful farm road brings us to our hotel, allowing us to begin acclimatizing to the Bhutanese landscape and atmosphere.

We settle into the Zhiwaling Heritage, a stunning Bhutanese-owned lodge that seamlessly blends traditional architecture with modern comforts, offering a tranquil retreat amidst the valley’s natural beauty.

Today, we delve deeper into the enchanting Paro Valley. A scenic drive takes us to Lhaidhing Monastery, a mystical site believed to house statues of deities that miraculously appeared on their own accord. The resident monk shares the fascinating history and spiritual significance of this monastery, with our guide translating his insights. This experience offers an opportunity for silent meditation, allowing us to absorb the profound energy of the site.

A delightful picnic lunch awaits us, set against the dramatic backdrop of the valley below and the majestic mountains above. After lunch, we embark on a leisurely hike, immersing ourselves in the pristine surroundings before returning to the hotel for an afternoon of relaxation.

A short domestic flight takes us from Paro to Bumthang, the cultural heartland of Bhutan and the ancestral home of Queen Jetsun Pema Wangchuck. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel before beginning our exploration of this sacred valley. We visit the 7th-century Jampa Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, followed by Kurjey Lhakhang, a revered monastery where Guru Rinpoche’s body imprint is preserved on a rock. Our journey continues with a walk to Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in 1501 by Pema Lingpa, a blacksmith-turned-spiritual master, before concluding our day at the Swiss Farm, a pioneering agricultural initiative in Bhutan. For those seeking relaxation, the Six Senses Bumthang offers a serene spa experience amidst a pine forest, ensuring a restful evening after a day of cultural immersion.

Today, we embark on a six-hour journey into the heart of central Bhutan. Our route takes us over the Yotong La Pass (12,000 ft / 3,658 m), leading to the bustling village of Trongsa, home to the imposing Trongsa Dzong and the Ta Dzong, which houses Bhutan’s Monarchy Museum. A brief visit allows us to appreciate the historical and strategic importance of this fortress before continuing our journey south.

From Trongsa, a three-hour drive along a scenic farm road brings us to Jangbi, the heart of the Monpa community. Here, we receive a warm welcome from the villagers, who greet us with traditional songs, dances, and offerings of local fruits and moonshine. The Monpa people, one of Bhutan’s earliest indigenous communities, practice ancient shamanistic traditions, which we will have the privilege of witnessing firsthand.

Our accommodation for the next three nights is a custom-built deluxe tented camp, offering an authentic yet comfortable experience in the wilderness. A hot stone bath awaits, providing a perfect way to unwind under the starlit sky.

Over the next two days, we fully immerse ourselves in the unique traditions of the Monpa people. The Monpa Festival, first celebrated in 2019, aims to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of this indigenous community.

We engage in various activities, including visiting traditional Monpa homes, participating in rice pounding and wooden utensil making, and learning traditional cooking techniques. Adventurous participants can try wearing the paagay, the Monpa’s distinct white nettle-bark attire, traditionally used for carrying essentials. One of the most meaningful experiences will be a communal dinner, where we cook traditional Bhutanese dishes alongside our hosts. The evening culminates in a mesmerizing tribal dance performance and storytelling session led by Ap Tawla, the village’s shaman, who shares insights into Monpa healing practices and folklore.

Over the next two days, we fully immerse ourselves in the unique traditions of the Monpa people. The Monpa Festival, first celebrated in 2019, aims to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of this indigenous community.

We engage in various activities, including visiting traditional Monpa homes, participating in rice pounding and wooden utensil making, and learning traditional cooking techniques. Adventurous participants can try wearing the paagay, the Monpa’s distinct white nettle-bark attire, traditionally used for carrying essentials. One of the most meaningful experiences will be a communal dinner, where we cook traditional Bhutanese dishes alongside our hosts. The evening culminates in a mesmerizing tribal dance performance and storytelling session led by Ap Tawla, the village’s shaman, who shares insights into Monpa healing practices and folklore.

Leaving Jangbi, we journey towards the breathtaking Phobjikha Valley, home to the endangered black-necked cranes. En route, we pass through diverse landscapes, from sub-tropical forests to alpine meadows, before arriving in Gangtey.

In the afternoon, we visit Gangtey Monastery, a revered 15th-century institution. A nature trail hike through pine forests and wetlands offers opportunities to observe the cranes’ roosting sites and ends at the historic Khewang Lhakhang.

Our stay at Gangtey Lodge provides a luxurious sanctuary, where we can reflect on the day’s experiences while enjoying the warmth of a traditional Bhutanese fireplace.

Today, we make our way to Thimphu, crossing the Dochula Pass (10,000 ft / 3,048 m), where 108 stupas stand against the backdrop of the Eastern Himalayas. As we descend into the capital, we visit the Takin Reserve, home to Bhutan’s national animal, and enjoy a leisurely walk along a forested path.

The evening offers a special opportunity to dine with Bhutanese dignitaries, engaging in insightful conversations about the country’s unique approach to governance, sustainability, and happiness.

Our morning begins with a visit to the Buddha Dordenma, the world’s tallest seated Buddha statue, followed by a deep dive into Bhutanese craftsmanship at the National Textile Museum and the School of Zorig Chusum, where students master traditional arts.

In the afternoon, we return to Paro and visit the National Museum, housed in a former watchtower, before exploring Paro Rinpung Dzong. A final stroll through Paro town provides an opportunity for last-minute shopping and cultural appreciation before our farewell dinner at Zhiwaling Heritage.

As our incredible journey through Bhutan comes to an end, we bid farewell to this mystical land and the friendships forged along the way. Our guide and driver accompany us to the airport, ensuring a smooth departure as we carry with us memories of an unforgettable adventure.