Culture and Discovery

For those who see health and happiness as a journey of discovery, not a destination, Six Senses Bhutan is a unique adventure with uplifting experiences at every turn. The circuit immerses guests into Bhutan’s spirituality, culture and hospitality as they travel between five individual lodges. From the Palace in the Sky at Thimphu to serenity at Punakha, black necked cranes at Gangtey, forest bathing at Bumthang and gathering to dine and celebrate life in the stone ruins of Paro, the aim is to leave feeling enlightened and reconnected (while not really wishing to leave at all).

While it is gaining in popularity in terms of ecotourism, Bhutan remains one of Asia’s most unspoiled and majestic locations. At an altitude of 7,710 feet (2,350 meters), the capital Thimphu lies in a steep valley surrounded by rich forested mountains dotted with ancient monasteries and lhakhangs (temples), and is to this day the only capital city in the world without traffic lights. What it lacks in modern street furniture, it makes up for in culture, from the giant Buddha Dordenma to the Folk Heritage Museum complete with recreated traditional households, which offers a fascinating insight into Bhutanese life. Not to be missed is a visit to the Tashi Chho Dzong, Thimphu’s impressive Buddhist monastery and fortress, which presently houses the throne room and offices of His Majesty, the King of Bhutan, as well as the head of the country’s religious order.

The concept of happiness being more important than a materialistic approach to life is woven into the fabric of Buddhism. However, it was the 4th King of Bhutan who led the way on how this could apply to the governance of a country when he coined the phrase and concept of Gross National Happiness. During their time in Bhutan, Six Senses invites each guest to find their own unique path to happiness while offering curated experiences and practices to stimulate the curiosity and sharpen the awareness.

From one happy nation to another, no one lays on a better celebration than Fiji. Fijians love to gather together to share good times. Guests at Six Senses Fiji can join together on the beach to enjoy a customary feast with fresh fish cooked in a Fijian lovo with a bowl or two of kava, a local crop that has been used in traditional Pacific Island medicine and ceremonies for hundreds of years. Expect to be royally entertained by warriors and performers who put on traditional dances and tell stories about life in Fiji while passing round the yaqona.