Winter in the Himalayas is a transformative season when the landscapes change, the skies are clear, and the kingdom celebrates the coming of snowfall in the valleys. It’s also at this time when the entire Himalayan range reveals itself in its most breathtaking form – when the snow-capped peaks of the world’s highest unclimbed mountains can be gazed upon with utmost clarity.
This coming winter season, Amankora announces a voyage of self-discovery with the new Quest for Happiness journey, inviting guests to find their own pathway to contentment, through sustainable and responsible travel that uplifts local Bhutanese communities along the way.
This coming winter season, Amankora announces a voyage of self-discovery with the new Quest for Happiness journey.
Designed around the Kingdom of Bhutan’s emphasis on happiness rather than economic prosperity and inspired by Aman’s emphasis on supporting the communities that surround its sanctuaries, the new journey will include elements of ‘giving back’ – allowing guests to receive blessings and become a blessing to others.
Aman guests will experience the natural beauty of the country, meet its inspiring people and find happiness through their philanthropic endeavors.
Available throughout winter during stays of seven or nine-nights, visitors will receive a complimentary night, gifted by Amankora in exchange for partaking in culturally transformative experiences and activities, that in turn help the local community. On their journey, Aman guests will experience the natural beauty of the country, meet its inspiring people and find happiness through their philanthropic endeavors.
The quest begins in Bhutan’s capital, where the 16-suite Lodge of Amankora Thimphu offers unique opportunities to explore culture and tradition. Designed in the style of a traditional Dzong fortress, it rests within reach of shops and sights while remaining a secluded retreat from which to uncover the wild Himalayan landscape. An insightful discourse into the concept of Gross National Happiness starts the journey, led by an expert in the field and followed by a combination of visits and activities to help uplift the Bhutanese population.
Continuing the Quest to Happiness, at Amankora’s Punakha Lodge Mother Nature’s healing powers are found in abundance at the junction of the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers.
From the Thimphu Lodge, guests can assist at the Gawaling Happy Home, a shelter and orphanage of the organisation RENEW that cares for vulnerable women and children. When possible, those visiting can spend time with individuals helping them to gain trust and confidence and are encouraged to continue their line of communication through correspondence by written letters, email or video calls after returning home.
Also at Thimphu, guests are invited to the Draktsho Vocational Training Centre, a learning institution for underprivileged children where education and vocational courses (such as tailoring, pottery and carpentry) promote financial independence in later life.
