Rupali Dean
17-Jun-2025
As I embarked on my journey through the mystical land of Bhutan, I quickly discovered that the essence of wellness here transcends mere relaxation.
By Rupali Dean, awarded the ‘Best food writer in the country’ by the Indian culinary forum, WACS and the ministry of Tourism
On the winding paths of the Himalayas, Bhutan unfolds like a painter’s canvas, with vibrant greens, majestic peaks, and fluttering prayer flags swaying gently in the breeze. Amankora, a sanctuary nestled within this ethereal landscape, invites introspection amidst its cedar-scented lodges. Each lodge harks a pilgrimage, distinctly unique yet unified by a common philosophy: peace. This ethos resonates deeply as I step into my first lodge in Paro, where tranquillity greets me with open arms and the promise of self-discovery. Here, mountain vistas cradle my heart, and Bhutanese hospitality envelops my spirit with warmth.
HARMONY MEETS HIMALAYAN BLISS
At the heart of the Amankora wellness trail lies an elegant fusion of traditional Bhutanese healing practices and modern luxury. My venture begins with a custom-made itinerary featuring herbal therapies, forest walks, and mindfulness meditation. Each lodge offers its own kaleidoscope of experiences—like a well-composed symphony, each note enhances the melody of rejuvenation. The meticulous attention to detail captivates me: spicy herbal teas to cleanse the palate, spa treatments inspired by centuries-old rituals, and the resplendent backdrop of nature that serves as both stage and audience to my personal odyssey. Among the distinct highlights, forest therapy proves invaluable, allowing me to attune my senses to the natural world. Guided by the whispers of the trees, I find myself immersed in a symphonic embrace of rustling leaves and dharma chants drifting on the wind. As I navigate wildflower-strewn paths, the vibrant prayer flags serve not just as decoration, but as beacons of hope and blessings—a tapestry of faith that stitches together the landscape around me.
HOT STONES, COOL MIND
And then there are the hot-stone baths, a sumptuous testimony to Bhutanese wellness. They are not just indulgent soaks; they channel the earth’s healing energies. Floating herbs release fragrances that awaken my senses, while the lovingly heated stones cradle me in warmth. With a cup of steaming apple cider and the enchanting glow of candles, I surrender into bliss, my worries dissolving into the stillness of time. Yet, the depth of this experience reaches its pinnacle during meditation led by local monks. Under the watchful gaze of snow-capped mountains, I learn the art of mindfulness, elevating my awareness of both the inner and outer worlds. The chants of wisdom shared by these venerable monks instil a profound sense of peace and understanding, illuminating the path towards soulful happiness.
LET WELLNESS FIND YOU
Bhutan isn’t merely visited; it is an experience that lingers long after the journey ends. The Amankora wellness trail encapsulates this essence—the perfect blend of luxurious pampering, natural beauty, and spiritual growth. Here, amid the majesty of the Himalayas and the heartfelt smiles of the Bhutanese people, I’ve discovered that true wellness is more than a fleeting moment of bliss; it’s an awakening to the unconditional embrace of life itself. I leave Bhutan not just as a traveller, but as a renewed soul, imprinted with the vibrant colours of this enchanted land. Explore the trails of Amankora, and you, too, may find the key to your inner serenity.