Name: Bhutan, the last jewel of the Himalayas.
Item: Bhutan, the last jewel of the Himalayas.
Author: MauiEcoRetreat

If the captivating mystique of Bhutan beckons to your soul, I extend a heartfelt invitation to join me on an unforgettable journey that promises to weave enchantment into every moment. This year, we have the extraordinary privilege of immersing ourselves in the Sacred Dance Festival of the Black Necked Cranes at Gangtey Monastery, a rare opportunity sure to illuminate our November sojourn. Drawing from my role as an advisor to the Nuns Foundation and dedication to sustainable practices such as bamboo construction, our travels will be imbued with both cultural insight and environmental consciousness. Together, we will traverse the spiritual tapestry of Bhutan, from the iconic Tiger’s Nest to the tranquil dzongs and vibrant local communities, indulging in the gastronomic delights that punctuate our path. More than a mere excursion, this journey is an odyssey into a realm of profound beauty and harmony. If you sense the resonance of this calling, let us embark together into the heart of the Himalayas.

I invite you to join me on an extraordinary expedition to Bhutan, where I will share the depth of my immersive exploration spanning over three years in this captivating kingdom. Guiding intimate groups through Bhutan’s spiritual and natural wonders has been a source of profound fulfillment for me. If you are drawn to the allure of the last great Himalayan jewel, eager to delve into Buddhist teachings and seek the camaraderie of like-minded entrepreneurs, this adventure to Bhutan holds the key to unlocking new dimensions of inspiration in both your life and business endeavors. Prepare for a soul-stirring odyssey that promises to leave an indelible mark on your heart and spirit—an adventure that cannot be missed.

MY PASSION, MY LOVE, MY DESTINY

All of the above ingredients create the base of my magical life. My love is made visible in what I stand for and what I am passionately create. Service to humanity is my destiny guided by the Divine.

I am an author, musician, spiritual, environmental activist, social entrepreneur, teacher, creator of Embodied Spirituality, and founder of the Kahua Hawaiian Institute. I have been a mentor to many students and teachers around the world. I dedicate much of my life to empowering women and organizations supporting ecological awareness and health education. My groundbreaking work in sustainable living is globally acknowledged, and I am honored to share my knowledge with the Bhutanese Government, the Royal Family, and other wonderful Bhutanese friends. When I met Her Majesty Gyalyum Ashi Dorji Wangchuck for the first time, I said: “I am Swiss, I live in Hawaii, and in my heart, I am Bhutanese.” Since then, I have been invited back many times. I enjoyed the coronation of the 5th King, weddings, rituals, sacred dances, and teachings. I feel blessed to have the opportunity to lead groups, individuals, and friends to Bhutan. I introduce them to the projects I am involved with and show them the beauty of the country and its people. I am honored to create a Sacred Journey to the Hidden Treasures of Bhutan for you.

ALL ABOUT FOOD – A CUISINE EXTRAORDINAIRE – FARM TO TABLE – GET READY!

For the adventurous foodie, a visit to a Bhutanese kitchen is not just about tasting food; it’s about experiencing the soul of Bhutan.

Bhutan’s culinary kitchen is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, colors, and traditions that echo the kingdom’s deep connection with nature and spirituality. The Bhutanese kitchen, often the heart of a Bhutanese home, is a place where ancient practices meet the simplicity of Himalayan life, creating a unique and colorful culinary landscape.

The cornerstone of Bhutanese cuisine is its profound reliance on locally sourced, organic ingredients that thrive in the mountainous terrain. Red rice, a nutty-flavored, medium-grain variety that turns a pale pink upon cooking, serves as the base for many meals. It is complemented by an array of dishes that celebrate the bounty of Bhutan’s lush valleys and steep mountainsides.

Chilies hold a place of honor in this culinary tradition, not just as a seasoning but as a main ingredient. The fiery ‘Ema Datshi’ is the national dish, a hearty stew made from chilies and local cheese known as Datshi. This dish encapsulates the essence of Bhutanese cuisine, with its bold flavors and simple ingredients, and it is a must-try for any visitor.

Vegetables and herbs, picked fresh from kitchen gardens or wild-harvested, play a significant role in the Bhutanese diet, reflecting the Buddhist ethos of living in harmony with nature. Dishes like ‘Jasha Maroo’ or ‘Jasha Tshoem’, chicken stews flavored with ginger, garlic, and sometimes the unique Sichuan pepper known as ‘Thingay’, offer a glimpse into the aromatic world of Bhutanese cooking.

Fermentation is another key aspect of the culinary practices here, adding depth and complexity to the flavors. From ‘Suja’, the butter tea that warms in the cold mountain air, to the fermented bamboo shoots used in various dishes, the process of fermentation introduces a tangy zest that is both surprising and delightful.

In a Bhutanese kitchen, the preparation of food is a mindful act, often accompanied by prayers and offered with hospitality that is deeply ingrained in Bhutanese culture. Meals are typically served family-style, encouraging sharing and community, against the backdrop of hand-carved wooden bowls and brightly colored textiles that add to the sensory feast.

The culinary landscape of Bhutan is a reflection of the country’s pristine environment, spiritual heritage, and the warmth of its people. It offers an unforgettable journey through tastes and aromas that are as vibrant and colorful as the country itself.

It doesn’t matter what kind of diet you have, there will alwasy be enough food that will delight you. Just let us know if you have any dietary restrictions and we will make sure we let the chefs in Bhutan know.

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Bhutan, the last jewel of the Himalayas.

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