The kingdom awakens – a brand new dawn in Bhutan

New Delhi, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) In a changing world, visitors to Bhutan will find that many things remain unchanged. On September 23, 2022, the only remaining Himalayan Buddhist kingdom will reopen its borders to international travel. The same cobalt skies, vibrant smiles and timeless sense of tranquility are found here, where daily life is defined by the search for peace and nature is as revered as happiness.

Bhutan has been retreating for more than two years into the mists of its Himalayan eagle’s nest to ensure the well-being of its people. The Kingdom is now poised to emerge, like a golden peak after the storm clouds have passed, with an ever rarer and grander cultural safari. Allowing Amankora to once again offer unparalleled journeys of discovery through this mystical land in its five lodges.

Amankora’s gateway lodges, each a distinct expression of its surroundings, are warmer than ever. He has been honored to be Bhutan’s first and most trusted international travel partner since the Kingdom opened to the outside world, and has been part of all efforts to uplift and rebuild during this unprecedented time, awaiting the day when each lodge will once again be able to offer travelers a meaningful personal ‘kora’ – a circular journey – through the country’s spectacular central and western valleys.
Amankora, Bhutan

Aman was privileged to mark his entry into the Kingdom with the opening of AmankoraParo in 2004, giving him nearly two decades of unrivaled insight and knowledge of Bhutan. As the Kingdom reopens, there is no one more deeply connected to the Land of the Thunder Dragon to ensure a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage.

Amankora’s lodges in the Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthang valleys will welcome their first guests since March 2020. The Kingdom chose this auspicious day with the same thought as it invested in renewing its sustainability goal . It marks the end of the monsoon season and is a celebration of the rain, considered sanctifying and holy, which has cleansed the earth and mankind. This day will also mark a new dawn for Bhutan’s vision of a brighter future, with symbolism resonating far beyond the borders of this mountainous kingdom.

International visitors to Bhutan will now pay a daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of US$200 to the Kingdom’s fund, which was established in 1991 at a cost of US$65, to help finance the concept of low-volume, high-value tourism. from Bhutan. The new rate, the first increase in 30 years, reflects the Kingdom’s determination to preserve its pristine natural beauty and wildlife, as well as its carbon negative status and rich culture. Bhutan is home to hundreds of ancient sites, centuries-old monasteries, historic fortresses and entire communities untouched by modernity, and the revised SDF will ensure their preservation. The increase will also benefit two pillars of the Kingdom’s illustrious Gross National Happiness Index: free universal healthcare (for citizens and visitors) and accessible, quality education.

The seven- to 13-day Amankora journey, distilled over nearly 20 years, now offers guests the most comprehensive and moving experience in the Kingdom. It lets you visit all five Amankora lodges, revealing not only Bhutan’s most beautiful and iconic sites, but also the spirit of its people and culture. This is a bespoke adventure tailored to personal interests and preferences, leaning heavily on Aman’s intuitive understanding of the land and offering the only way to seamlessly experience three to five different valleys in seven or more nights .
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The seven-day Amankora trip includes transfers, daily excursions with a private car, driver and guide, all monument passes and road permits, and a 60-minute holistic massage per person, in addition to all meals, picnics and site visits. beverages. Those staying 10 nights or more can also enjoy a traditional herb-infused hot stone bath in the comfort of a candlelit potato shed with a spectacular view of the Phobjikha Valley at Amankora Gangtey. Large river stones are heated by the fire and placed in the wooden tub, releasing minerals before guests immerse themselves in the healing water. The Ultimate Amankora Journey packs a lifetime of experiences into 13 days and includes a free night in addition to the domestic flight from Bumthang to Paro.

Even though Bhutan may seem remote, it is possible to visit this Himalayan paradise when time is limited. The three-night Tiger’s Odyssey trip from Amankora is the ideal introduction to Bhutan, providing a comprehensive and satisfying experience of its cultural and natural attractions.

Guests staying at Amankora Paro can cycle through the verdant rice paddies and idyllic farms of the Paro Valley, explore the spectacular ruins of the 17th century Drukyel Dzong and one of the oldest temples in the Kingdom, Kyichu Lhakhang, stroll through the picturesque town of Paro tasting momos (local dumplings) and freshly brewed beer, and marvel at the historical treasures of the National Museum. Days start with outdoor yoga in the cool pine air, followed by picnics and a farm lunch prepared by a former chef to the royal family.

No trip to Bhutan is complete without a visit to the famous Tiger’s Nest, which is the name of this trip. The temple complex, perched on a cliff with breathtaking views, was first built in 1692 around the Taktsang SengeSamdup cave, where a revered guru is said to have meditated in the 8th century. You can follow the hike and personalized tour with a barbecue lunch and a well-deserved spa treatment on the last day. The lodge’s spa has a glass-walled sauna, serene treatment rooms with hot stone baths, and a peaceful yoga and meditation room that overlooks the forest and herb garden.

Source: IANS