Bhutan’s Department of Tourism has launched a new travel experience, the “Druk Neykor” programme, covering 108 heritage sites and monuments that showcase the nation’s history, culture, and spirituality. The programme was introduced to welcome and inform travellers of all ages who wish to learn more about Bhutan’s unique culture and traditions. The Druk Neykor programme begins with tours to 16 sites within Thimphu, including Wangditse Lhakhang, Cheri Ney, and Talakha Drukgyel Goenpa. These sites can be accessed by road or on foot via hiking trails. Accommodation—such as hotels, guesthouses, and campsites—is available close to these sacred places, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Druk Neykor is a pilgrimage travel programme, and the sites were selected based on criteria such as sanctity, historical significance, ease of access, and popularity. Visitors can join Druk Neykor through Bhutanese tour operators, and they may also visit the sites without participating in the Druk Neykor programme. However, what makes for a truly immersive experience is Druk Neykor’s unique passport system, where travellers collect stamps at each spiritual site they visit. From the iconic cliffside Tiger’s Nest Monastery to the serene Druk Wangyel Chorten offering panoramic Himalayan views, each stamp tells a story of spiritual awakening and cultural immersion. In addition, the stamp book includes QR codes that can be scanned to access detailed information about each site.
Visitors can journey through Bhutan’s stunning landscapes and nature on a path of spiritual discovery. The programme also offers an exciting opportunity to walk ancient pilgrimage routes, meet local communities, and take part in age-old rituals and traditions that have shaped Bhutan’s spiritual landscape for centuries.
“Bhutan’s spiritual heritage is deeply intertwined with its natural beauty, and Druk Neykor offers a unique opportunity to explore both in harmony. We invite travellers from around the world who seek a truly spiritual and immersive travel experience to join the Druk Neykor programme and contribute to promoting pilgrimage sites and Bhutan’s unique culture,” said Dorji Dhradhul, Director General of Bhutan’s Department of Tourism.
