Druk Neykor – A New Programme Introduced by Bhutan for Spiritual Travelers

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The New Druk Neykor Programme introduced by The Department of Tourism in Bhutan is an enriching tourism experience that comprises 108 sacred sites and monuments across the country. The programme is designed for spiritual travelers and offers an exploration of Bhutan’s rich culture, history, and spirituality. The new program welcomes travelers of all ages, especially those who wish to gain a deep understanding and feel of the state’s rich heritage. 

The Druk Neykor program includes tours of 16 significant sites within Thimpu, which comprises Tshelung Ney, Wangditse Lhakhang, and Talangkha Drugye Goenpa. All these sites are easily accessible by road or scenic hikes. All these sites also have many nearby accommodation options, such as guesthouses, hotels, and campsites, and all ensure a comfortable stay for visitors.

This newly launched program is a first-of-its-kind pilgrimage travel program in which sites are selected based on historical significance, sacredness, easy accessibility, and popularity compared to others. The best way to partake in the Druk Neykor program is through a Bhutanese Tour Operator.  However, visitors can  visit these  sites without participation as well.

The newest and best experience in the Druk Neykor Programme is its unique passport system, which allows travelers to collect exclusive stamps at every spiritual site they visit. These sites consist of Iconic Tiger’s Nest monastery that is on the cliffside to serene Druk Wangyal Chorten, and Dochula which offers outstanding views of the Himalayas. The stamp the traveler will collect tells its own story of spiritual awakening along with an in-depth understanding of culture. The stamp book also includes QR codes that ensure access to detailed information regarding every site by scanning. 

The spiritual program helps travelers start their journey of discovering Bhutan’s mesmerizing landscape and nature. It also provide a golden opportunity to visit these  ancient pilgrimage places , meet locals, and can enjoy these old rituals and traditions, gaining new and unforgettable experiences.

The Director General of the Department of Tourism Bhutan, Dorji Dhradhul, concluded “”The spiritual heritage of Bhutan is deeply intertwined with its natural beauty, and Druk Neykor provides a unique opportunity to explore both in harmony. We invite travellers from all across the world seeking a truly spiritual and immersive travel experience to participate in the Druk Neykor programme and contribute in promoting the pilgrimage sites and the unique culture of Bhutan,”. 

The Durk Neykor programme is designed to promote the pilgrim sites, to promote culture con cervation and to encourage balanced regional tourism for sustainable tourism. Also, other aspect of the Druk Neykor programme is the usage of the Druk Neykor Stamp Book. The stamp book comprises images of all sites under the program. When a traveler visits a site, they will receive a stamp of the respective site, which is a proof and reward of their visits.