A Wellness Escape in Bhutan

At andBeyond Punakha River Lodge, travelers can experience Bhutan through a holistic journey of healing, nature, and mindful travel

 Bhutanese Dotsho hot stone bath

Bhutan has long drawn travelers seeking more than scenic Himalayan landscapes. Known for its spiritual traditions, pristine valleys, and philosophy of mindful living, Bhutan offers a natural setting for wellness travel. In 2026, visitors can deepen that connection through the Wellness Masters in Residence program at andBeyond Punakha River Lodge, an experience designed to blend holistic healing with a journey through Bhutan.

Set in the peaceful Punakha Valley, andBeyond Punakha River Lodge sits among rice fields and riverbanks that showcase Bhutan’s tranquil natural beauty. The lodge’s approach reflects the pace of life in Bhutan itself: slow, reflective, and deeply connected to nature. Rather than following a rigid retreat schedule, the wellness program allows guests to explore Bhutan while engaging with wellness sessions that complement their stay.

The Wellness Masters in Residence program welcomes respected holistic healer Vijaya during two residency periods in 2026: from 1–31 May and again from 1–31 December. Guests visiting Bhutan and staying at andBeyond Punakha River Lodge during these dates can participate in complimentary 30-minute group wellness sessions held every other day, typically three to four times per week. Travelers looking for a more personal experience can also book private one-on-one healing sessions at an additional cost.

Vijaya brings more than two decades of experience in integrative healing. Before entering the wellness field, she worked in law, later following a path that led her to some of Asia’s most renowned wellness destinations including Aman, Six Senses, Soneva, and Kamalaya. Her work combines intuitive guidance with therapies such as reiki, cranio-sacral techniques, breathwork, energy healing, sound therapy, and Access Bars. Each session is tailored to the individual guest, allowing visitors to Bhutan to experience wellness practices aligned with their personal needs.

Wellness at andBeyond Punakha River Lodge extends beyond the residency program. Guests visiting Bhutan can begin the day with yoga or meditation sessions led by in-house instructors, often held in an open-air studio overlooking the valley or in peaceful natural surroundings. These practices reflect Bhutan’s long-standing traditions of mindfulness and spiritual balance.

The lodge’s spa further connects guests to Bhutan’s wellness heritage through treatments that blend Bhutanese healing traditions with contemporary techniques. One of the most distinctive experiences is the traditional Bhutanese Dotsho hot stone bath. In this ritual, fire-heated river stones are placed into herbal-infused water in a private bathhouse, releasing minerals believed to support relaxation and physical restoration.

Exploring Bhutan also forms an essential part of the wellness journey. Punakha, once the ancient capital of Bhutan, remains one of the country’s most sacred regions, home to historic monasteries, quiet villages, and the iconic Punakha Dzong. Between wellness sessions, travelers can explore Bhutan’s cultural landmarks, hike through lush forests, or simply absorb the serenity of the Himalayan landscape.

For travelers planning a wellness-focused journey to Bhutan, the residency periods in May and December offer a rare opportunity to combine exploration with guided healing practices. With its serene valley setting, personalized wellness experiences, and deep connection to Bhutan’s spiritual landscape, andBeyond Punakha River Lodge offers a travel experience where wellness unfolds naturally alongside discovery.

Reservations can be made through andBeyond or via travel specialists, with spaces limited during the residency periods.

[PHOTO: Courtesy of andBeyond]

---