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AFG Mindfulness Retreat
Arrival & Orientation
22 May 2026
Your journey begins with arrival at Paro International Airport — Bhutan’s only international gateway, nestled in a narrow valley between towering peaks. From there, transfer to Thimphu, the capital city, for hotel check-in, an afternoon of cultural sightseeing, and a welcome dinner that sets the tone for the days ahead.
09:00: Arrival at Paro International Airport
Meet and greet by the Bhutan Youth Development Fund (YDF) and Druk International Tours upon landing. The approach into Paro is one of the most dramatic in the world — keep your eyes on the window.
📍 Paro International Airport (PBH)
10:00: Transfer to Thimphu
Chartered coach journey from Paro to Thimphu (approximately 1 hour). Welcome introductions and agenda overview during the drive, with views of the Paro Chhu river valley and terraced hillsides along the way.
11:00: Hotel Check-in & Registration
Arrive at Zhiwaling Ascent Hotel in Thimphu — your base for the first three days. Distribution of summit badges, room keys, and information packs.
📍 Zhiwaling Ascent Hotel, Thimphu
12:30: Welcome Lunch
A relaxed lunch at the hotel — your first taste of Bhutanese hospitality and a chance to meet fellow retreat participants.
📍 Zhiwaling Ascent Hotel
14:00: Cultural Sightseeing in Thimphu
An afternoon immersed in Thimphu’s spiritual and cultural landmarks — a gentle introduction to the values and aesthetics that shape Bhutanese life.
Memorial Chorten— A prominent landmark in Thimphu, built in 1974 in memory of the Third King. A place of daily prayer and circumambulation for locals.
Buddha Dordenma— A 51-metre-tall gilded bronze statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, seated above the Kuensel Phodrang nature park with panoramic views of the Thimphu valley.
Changyul Park— A peaceful green space in the city, offering a moment of stillness before the evening ahead.
18:00: Official Welcome Dinner
The summit’s opening dinner at the Babesa Village Heritage Home — a traditional Bhutanese setting that offers warmth, local flavours, and the first real conversations of the retreat. An opportunity to connect with fellow leaders and hosts in an intimate atmosphere.
📍 Babesa Village Heritage Home
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For more information about AFG’s mindfulness retreats, leadership immersion programs, and upcoming retreat schedules, please email us: emilie.zhao@aforgood.org
