Heart of the Dakini

A Transformative Bhutan Pilgrimage

October 14 – 26, 2025

Journey to the Last Vajrayana Kingdom

with Tulku Pema Khandro Ph.D.

Participant Reflections from the last Bhutan Pilgrimage.

Step beyond the veil of ordinary travel and enter the sacred realm of the Dakinis—the fierce feminine wisdom beings who guard Tibet and Bhutan’s most profound spiritual treasures. This extraordinary 13-day pilgrimage through Bhutan’s mystical Paro Valley and Mountains offers an unparalleled opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) and connect with the living essence of Vajrayana Buddhism.

Living Vajrayana Culture

Encounter the living heart of Vajrayana through Bhutan’s monastic communities—where daily ritual, debate, and devotion continue in an unbroken rhythm of practice preserved for centuries.

Sacred Architecture & Symbolic Art

Enter intricately painted temples and cliffside sanctuaries adorned with murals and tantric iconography—sacred environments designed to transmit blessing through sight, space, and symbol.

Led by Lineage Holder & Scholar

Journey under the guidance of Tulku Pema Khandro, Ph.D.—an authorized lama and scholar who bridges traditional transmission and contemporary insight with depth, clarity, and authenticity.

Extraordinary Timing

Experience Bhutan during harvest season, when golden fields surround ancient monasteries and the crisp mountain air heightens clarity, reflection, and the contemplative power of pilgrimage.

Experience Living Vajrayana

For Vajrayana practitioners, Bhutan represents the last remaining Buddhist kingdom on earth where Tantric Buddhism remains the living state religion, serving as a sanctuary for authentic lineage holders who have preserved the unbroken transmission of esoteric teachings for over twelve centuries.  

This sacred land holds the profound blessing of Longchenpa who lived, practiced and taught there and of Padmasambhava, who in the 8th century personally consecrated countless meditation caves, temples, and hidden valleys throughout Bhutan. This history makes it a uniquely powerful place where the veils between dimensions are naturally thin and spiritual accomplishments can be achieved in a single lifetime. 

Unlike other Buddhist destinations, Bhutan’s sacred geography—from Taktsang’s cliff-side caves where Guru Rinpoche and Yeshe Tsogyal meditated to Bumthang’s valleys blessed by great masters—offers practitioners direct access to places where the most secret Dzogchen and Highest Tantra practices were first revealed, allowing modern yogis to tap into the same transformative energies and receive the profound transmissions that have been accumulating in these holy sites for over a millennium.

Here, surrounded by living monasteries, active lineage holders, and a culture where every mountain, river, and valley is revered as sacred, practitioners can experience Vajrayana Buddhism not as historical study but as vibrant, immediate reality—making pilgrimage to Bhutan an irreplaceable opportunity for spiritual transformation that simply cannot be replicated anywhere else on earth.

Pilgrimage Highlights

Five Dakini Sisters Circuit (Day 3)

Complete the powerful Tshering Chenga pilgrimage, visiting five temples dedicated to Milarepa’s dakini consorts. Receive the rare Kurukulla empowerment from the nuns who guard these sacred spaces. Kurukulla is the form of Vajrayogini that that is magnetizing dakini of the Lotus family, she embodies the wisdom aspect of enlightenment and skillfully attracts all positive conditions—wisdom, health, prosperity, and spiritual accomplishment—that practitioners need for both worldly success and liberation. Her empowerment is particularly transformative because she transforms desire itself into wisdom, using the power of attraction and enchantment not for mundane purposes, but to draw practitioners deeper into the Dharma and accelerate their spiritual development. 

Temple of Self-Spoken Taras (Day 4)

Visit one of Buddhism’s most sacred sites—a temple housing 21 Tara statues believed to have manifested spontaneously, still radiating the blessings of the Great Mother of Compassion.

Singye Drak – The Lion’s Face (Day 7)

Hike through pristine forests to the cliff-top temple where Guru Rinpoche practiced the meditation of Seng Dongma, the fierce Lion-Faced Dakini. Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Paro Valley in its autumn glory. 

This is a powerful place with scenes over the other side of the Paro valley, with full blown view of Paro town, Paro dzong, the Museum, pristine rivers and the bucolic farms over the paro valley. During this time, it will be a marvelous time being a harvest season with breathtaking views. There is a separate sacred temple built attached to the cliff dedicated to the Lion Faced Dakini.

Senge Dongma (Lion-Faced Dakini) is a fierce wisdom dakini whose lion’s roar disperses all discursive thoughts and obstacles, and she is considered a secret manifestation of Guru Rinpoche specifically manifested to remove spiritual obstacles, black magic, and negative forces. Her practice is particularly crucial in our current age of environmental destruction and cultural degradation, as she specializes in pacifying the destructive influence of the Mamos—the wrathful feminine elemental forces that retaliate with disease, natural disasters, and major calamities when the earth is harmed. At Singye Drak, where Guru Rinpoche himself practiced her sadhana in the 8th century, practitioners can connect directly with her transformative power to clear away inner negativities and gain spiritual mastery over both samsara and nirvana—making this cliff-top temple one of the most potent places on earth for overcoming life’s most persistent obstacles. 

Bumdrak Sacred Retreat (Days 8-10)

The pilgrimage’s crown jewel: three nights at the legendary “100,000 Dakini Temple,” accessible only by foot and forbidden to casual visitors. Practice Chöd (the cutting through practice) in the sky burial site and receive Heart Essence of the Dakini (mkha’ ‘gro snying thig)  teachings while staying in comfortable glamping accommodations above the clouds.

Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Day 11)

Descend from Bumdrak to Bhutan’s most iconic monastery, visiting the cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated for three years, three months, three weeks, and three days—but approached from the sacred high route known only to serious practitioners.

Practice in the cave where Yeshe Tsogyal attained enlightenment and overcame hardships to realize the nature of mind.

Lineage Holder and Teacher

Pema Khandro is an internationally renowned teacher and scholar of Buddhist philosophy. She is the founder of Ngakpa International and its three projects, The Buddhist Studies Institute, Dakini Mountain and the Yogic Medicine Institute. In her work as a Buddhist teacher she is an authorized Lama and lineage holder of the Nyingma and Kagyu traditions and was enthroned to carry on the lineage of her predecessor, the first Pema Khandro, an early twentieth century yogini from Eastern Tibet. She has led a vibrant world-wide community since 1999. Through the Buddhist Studies Institute, she also offers a complete curriculum of training in Tibetan meditation and Buddhist Philosophy. She has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology, a Master’s degree specializing in Tibetan studies, and a Ph.D. in Buddhist Studies from the University of Virginia. Her scholarly research focuses on the history of Dzogchen and on Women in Tibetan Buddhism.

Retreat Schedule

*Schedule is estimated and subject to slightly change

Day 1 – October 14

Arrival in Paro
Welcome to Bhutan. Arrive in Paro, settle in, enjoy a welcome dinner, and join us for an evening orientation with Tulku Pema Khandro and the pilgrimage community.

Day 2 – October 15

Kyichu Lhakhang
Begin the journey with a visit and meditation practice at Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered temples, dating back to the time of Padmasambhava.

Day 3 – October 16

Pilgrimage to the Five Dakini Temples
Embark on the sacred Tshering Chenga pilgrimage—visiting the five temples of the Long Life Dakinis, consorts of Milarepa. These five Dakini sites around Paro are known for their blessings of vitality and feminine wisdom.
Receive the Kurukulle empowerment and connect with the resident nuns in a special session at one of the Dakini temples.

Day 4 – October 17

21 Tara Temple
Visit one of the most sacred and powerful 21 Tara temples, home to self-spoken statues of the 21 Taras—an awe-inspiring and heart-opening experience.

Day 5 – October 18

Vajrayogini Temple & Hidden Land Hike
Hike to a renowned Vajrayogini temple, set within one of Bhutan’s most hidden and mystical valleys. This pilgrimage into the “hidden land” is a deeply sacred and visually stunning highlight of our journey.

Day 6 – October 19

Teachings at Longchenpa Ling
Receive teachings with Khenpo Karma Lekshey and Pema Khandro at Paro Samten Ling, the 8th sacred pilgrimage site of Longchenpa. A rare opportunity to sit in a place infused with the wisdom of the Great Perfection.

Day 7 – October 20

Lion-Faced Dakini Temple
Take a short, enchanting hike through pristine forest to Singye Drak, the sacred site where Guru Rinpoche practiced the fierce Lion-Faced Dakini (Singhamukha) in the 8th century.
Experience breathtaking views of Paro Valley during the magical harvest season, and visit the hidden cliffside shrine dedicated to Sengdongma.

Day 8 – October 21

Hike to Bumdrak – Realm of 100,000 Dakinis
Journey to Bumdrak, the “Place of 100,000 Dakinis,” perched above Tiger’s Nest. Enjoy a luxurious glamping experience amidst the vast expanse of sky and spirit.
This is a powerful retreat site long used for Dakini practice.

Day 9 – October 22

Bumdrak Retreat & Chöd Practice
Continue our retreat at Bumdrak, with Dakini practice and Chöd teachings offered by Khandro-la, surrounded by windhorse prayer flags and infinite sky.

Day 10 – October 23

Bumdrak Integration Day
A final day to rest, reflect, and deepen your connection with this profound retreat space before descending. Optional individual practice or group sharing.

Day 11 – October 24

Tiger’s Nest Descent & Machig Temple
Descend from Bumdrak to visit the Machig Labdrön Temple, then complete the iconic pilgrimage to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest)—Bhutan’s most legendary sacred site.

Day 12 – October 25

Integration, Wellness & Closing Ceremony
A spacious day for integration, rest, bodywork, or spontaneous pilgrimage. We will gather in the evening for a closing ceremony and shared reflections.

Day 13 – October 26

Departure from Paro
With full hearts and awakened spirits, we depart from Paro—carrying the blessings of Bhutan and the Dakinis into our lives.

Investment in Your Spiritual Journey

This transformative pilgrimage includes:

  • All accommodations from traditional hotels to luxury glamping
  • Expert local guides and cultural liaisons
  • All meals featuring organic Bhutanese cuisine
  • Sacred site entry and permits
  • Traditional empowerments and teaching sessions
  • Airport transfers and ground transportation
  • Professional trek support and safety equipment

Important Details and Helpful Tips

Upon completing payment to reserve your space, you must also fill out your Registration Form in full, please do so as soon as possible. We cannot confirm your participation without it.

You will need:

  • Photo/signature page of your valid passport (must be valid for at least 6 months after departure)

  • A white-background headshot (passport-style photo or selfie)

  • Emergency contact information

  • Travel insurance provider details (if purchased)

  • Dietary needs or restrictions

  • Health/fitness conditions

  • International flight information (if booked)

Refund Policy:

  • 50% refundable until August 31, 2025

  • No refunds after August 31, 2025 (per agreement with Bhutanese partner agency)

Your pilgrimage fee includes your Bhutan Tourist Visa and the mandatory $100/day Sustainable Development Fee (SDF).

To process your visa, we require:

  • Clear image of your passport photo/signature page

  • Passport-style headshot (white background)

  • Please upload to the Registration Form

Visas will be entered into your passport upon arrival in Bhutan, and the group visa confirmation will be issued about 2–3 weeks before our trip.

Note on connecting countries:

  • From Bangkok: No visa required for Thailand for U.S. travelers; stamped on arrival.

  • From Delhi: Requires an Indian e-visa (apply online before travel).

  • From Kathmandu: No advance visa required for Nepal for U.S. travelers; stamped on arrival.

Plan to arrive in Bangkok, Delhi, or Kathmandu no later than October 13, 2025, for your morning flight to Paro, Bhutan, on October 14.

Flights into Paro are available only from these three cities via Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines. We strongly advise booking these flights early, as they are limited.

Our Bhutanese partner agency can assist with booking Paro flights at no extra fee.

Approximate round-trip Paro airfare:

  • Bangkok–Paro: ~$936

  • Delhi–Paro: ~$690

  • Kathmandu–Paro: ~$450

Tip: Allow one night’s layover in your gateway city on your return, in case of flight delays out of Paro.

If you are overnighting in Bangkok:

  • Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel — walking distance from the terminal.

If you are overnighting in Delhi:

  • Pride Plaza Hotel, Aerocity — near Indira Gandhi International Airport.

Basic medical insurance is included while in Bhutan, but we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation, delay, medical evacuation, and lost baggage.

For comparisons, visit: Forbes Best Travel Insurance.

Weather

In October, expect daytime highs around 72°F (22°C) and nighttime lows around 39°F (4°C) in the mountains. Weather is generally sunny, with crisp mornings and evenings.

Clothing

  • Comfortable travel wear

  • Loose-fitting clothing for meditation & practice (yoga pants, tunics, shawl — Ngakpa shawls available for purchase in Bhutan)

  • Hiking shoes or sturdy walking shoes

  • Hiking socks & pants

  • Lightweight rain jacket & compact umbrella

  • Fleece or down vest & lightweight fleece jacket

  • One or two dressier outfits for ceremonies

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Lightweight gloves, scarf, and beanie (mountain nights can be chilly)

  • Laundry service is available throughout most of the trip — no need to overpack.

Gear & Accessories

  • Small daypack for daily outings

  • Headlamp or small flashlight

  • 1–2 refillable water bottles

  • Sunglasses with UVA/UVB protection

  • Sunscreen & lip balm with SPF

  • Lightweight travel towel

  • Trekking poles (optional, collapsible)

  • Personal first-aid kit (see Health section below)

  • Portable power bank

  • International adapter (Types G, D, or F) or multi-plug travel adapter

Luggage

  • Checked bag: limit 66 lbs (30 kg) for internal Bhutan flights

  • 1 carry-on

  • Use suitcase or duffel bag for easy handling

Our pilgrimage includes some hiking at elevations up to 11,000 ft (3,350 m). Moderate fitness and the ability to walk on uneven terrain are required.

Before the trip:

  • Practice aerobic exercise and lower-body strengthening

  • Walk on hilly or uneven ground

  • Include light hiking in your routine

Recommended personal health items:

  • Probiotics or grapefruit seed extract (for digestive support)

  • Electrolyte packets (e.g., Emergen-C)

  • Your preferred vitamins/supplements

  • Small supply of trail snacks (nuts, dried fruit, protein bars)

  • Herbal supplements for altitude changes

Most costs are included in your pilgrimage fee. You will need additional cash for:

  • Tips for guides, cooks, and drivers — approximately $150 total USD (we will pool tips and offer at the closing ceremony)

  • Personal purchases — Bhutan is known for handicrafts and textiles; ATMs are unreliable, so bring USD (or Euros) to exchange into Ngultrum.

Bhutan invites a deep, contemplative presence. Please come ready to immerse yourself fully, with flexibility for itinerary changes and openness to spontaneous opportunities that arise.

We will hold an optional Zoom orientation before departure (recording available for those who cannot attend live).

Ready to Answer the Call?

The dakinis are calling—will you answer? This rare opportunity to journey into Bhutan’s most sacred spaces with authentic masters happens only once. Join fellow practitioners on this life-changing pilgrimage where ancient wisdom meets modern comfort, and where the boundaries between pilgrimage and transformation dissolve entirely.

Limited to 15-20 practitioners for an intimate, authentic experience.

“Some journeys take you places. This journey takes you home to who you really are.”

Tuition – Bhutan Dakini Pilgrimage

50% refund available until August 31st, 2025. No refunds after this date.

*Tuition does not include international flights.

  • $6890
  • DOUBLE OCCUPANCY – SHARED ROOM

  • All accommodations from traditional hotels to luxury glamping
    Expert local guides and cultural liaisons
    All meals featuring organic Bhutanese cuisine
    Sacred site entry and permits
    Traditional empowerments and teaching sessions
    Airport transfers and ground transportation
    Professional trek support and safety equipment
  • *Dana and Tips are Separate
  • Register Now - Shared Room

  • $7550
  • SINGLE OCCUPANCY – PRIVATE ROOM
  • All accommodations from traditional hotels to luxury glamping
    Expert local guides and cultural liaisons
    All meals featuring organic Bhutanese cuisine
    Sacred site entry and permits
    Traditional empowerments and teaching sessions
    Airport transfers and ground transportation
    Professional trek support and safety equipment
  • *Dana and Tips are Separate
  • Register Now - Private Room