Overview
Experience the essence of Bhutan
Discover balance, culture and history, and benefit from being ensconced in pristine nature at Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary in the Neyphu Valley in Paro, Bhutan.
The historical town of Paro lies on a riverbank, at the centre of a valley rich in sacred sites and ancient buildings. Home to the only international airport in the country, this stunning destination is covered with terraced paddy fields and quaint farmhouses, throughout the lower areas. In the upper reaches, coniferous forest-clad mountains look down onto the beautiful Paro Chhu River. Picturesque Paro is a town of intriguing streets lined with traditional-style wooden building and is home to one of Bhutan’s most famous landmarks, Tiger’s Nest (Paro Taktsang) monastery.
Stay in one of The Sanctuary’s elegantly decorated rooms offering breath-taking views into the Neyphu valley from a private balcony or terrace. Experience a free consultation with a Bhutanese medicine doctor, who will then create a personal wellbeing program focused on balancing the mind, body and spirit. Relax withtraditional massages, herbal treatments, yoga, meditation, hot stone baths and forest bathing. Rejuvenate with a warming cup of one of the 20 herbal teas served at The Tea Bar or with a dip in the heated-indoor pool. Indulge in nutritious 4-course lunches and 6-course dinners at The Sanctuary’s restaurant with their farm-to-table concept.
Facts
At a glance
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24 rooms
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Restaurant and tea bar
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Spa
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Heated indoor infinity pool
Experiences
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Classes
The Sanctuary offers a variety of classes, including cooking classes with one of the Bhutanese Chefs in the restaurants’ kitchen or on the open terrace. In the art studio you can enjoy a pottery class and take home hand-made ceramics.
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Hiking
Home to Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary, embark on a short or long hike, even venturing beyond the Neyphu valley. You can also visit the Eutok Goenpa Monastery, right across the Sanctuary. All treks are accompanied by professional and licenced guides, and if you desire, a delicious picnic.
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Tiger's Nest visit
The Sanctuary can organize a trek to the world-famous Tiger’s Nest, a Buddhist monastery high up in the mountains, and only a 45-minute car ride from the Sanctuary. During the whole trek you will be accompanied by licenced and English-speaking guides. After an intense hike, soak in a herbal hot stone bath in the Sanctuary to allow your muscles to recover.
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Day trips
Venture on your choice of day trips to a wide variety of places and cities in Bhutan, such as Paro and Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan and only a one-hour car ride from the Sanctuary. Going beyond the traditional tourist locations, visit places special to local noteworthy people, such as Bhutanese writers, artists and monks.
Community & Culture
As much as possible, Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary aims to purchase local produce for their culinary offerings. The Sanctuary has a boutique store that sells locally made goods such as jewelry, clothing, bags, and small gifts.Together with the Loden Foundation, Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary has set up a Social Impact Program, where you will have the opportunity to support local entrepreneurs. The focus of all projects is to create economic independence either by providing free loans, skills training, and mentoring.
Additionally, The Sanctuary supports the Pelmey nunnery, situated just 15 minutes from the Sanctuary, as they do not receive financial support from the government and are often in a very economically challenging situation. During your stay, you will be able to visit the Pelmey nunnery and engage with the nuns. You can choose how you contribute your support, through either a direct donation or participation in the support projects of The Sanctuary.
Footprint
Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary reduces, reuses, and recycles waste and operates under a no-plastic policy for the guests' rooms. The culinary team has specialized in portion size management, reducing food waste to a minimum. As much as possible, The Sanctuary either grows their own organic food or purchases local goods. The produce grown in the property’s gardens and greenhouse are treated and grown organically, and there is even on-site composting facilities.
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.