Journey of the Spirits: Shamanism, Spiritual Healing & Sacred Cultural Odyssey – 10 Days
$1960
per person
Journey of the Spirits: Shamanism, Spiritual Healing & Sacred Cultural Odyssey is a bespoke 10-day spiritual pilgrimage curated by The Regal Retreat for travelers seeking deep personal transformation, holistic wellness, and authentic anthropological immersion. Shamanism in Nepal—known locally as ‘Jhankri’ and root-anchored in primordial ‘Bön’ traditions—is an ancient living wisdom system. Across Nepal’s indigenous communities, including the Tamang, Newar, Gurung, and Magar peoples, shamans serve as revered spiritual intermediaries, diviners, and natural healers who maintain cosmic equilibrium between the human realm, ancestral spirits, and nature deities.
This exclusive itinerary guides guests away from conventional tourist trails into the mystical Himalayan mid-hills and high-altitude sanctuaries of Dolakha and Ramechhap districts. Starting with blessings at Kathmandu Valley’s UNESCO World Heritage epicenters—Swayambhunath and Boudhanath Stupa—the journey winds eastward to the sacred alpine haven of Kuri Village below the dramatic Kalinchowk Bhagawati Temple (3,842m / 12,605 ft). Here, amidst sweeping panoramas of the Rolwaling, Langtang, and Jugal Himalayan ranges, guests participate in authentic evening trance drumming (Dhyāngro), energy cleansing, and spiritual healing rituals led by lineage Jhankri masters.
The pilgrimage advances to the sacred knolls of Thulo Sailung (3,146m / 10,321 ft)—revered by Tamang tradition as ‘The Land of 100 Sacred Hills’ and the sacred seat of guardian deity Sailung Phoi Sibda Karpo. Guests explore ancient Padmasambhava meditation caves, learn indigenous Himalayan botanical pharmacology (Jadi Buti), and engage in soul-stirring cultural exchanges in the traditional settlements of Dhunge Bazar and Doramba. Harmonizing boutique logistical support, private luxury transfers, hand-picked guest houses, and respectful ceremonial access, this journey delivers an unforgettable awakening of mind, body, and spirit.
Key Journey Highlights:
✦ Authentic Shamanic Ceremonies: Participate in private trance rituals, Dhyāngro drumming, sacred smoke purification (Dhoop), and personal energy balancing led by respected Tamang and Bönpo Jhankris.
✦ Kalinchowk Bhagawati Sacred Shrine (3,842m): Experience pre-dawn pilgrimage and panoramic sunrise views over Mount Gauri Shankar, Langtang, and the Everest ranges.
✦ Thulo Sailung ‘100 Sacred Hills’ (3,146m): Explore mystical meditation caves, ancient chortens, and sacred spring energy nodes sacred to Buddhist, Hindu, and Bön traditions.
✦ Himalayan Herbal Pharmacology: Discover ancestral botanical wisdom and medicinal plants utilized for generations in high-altitude Himalayan healing.
✦ Indigenous Cultural Immersion: Experience warm rural hospitality, traditional Damphu folk melodies, and rich cultural heritage in Dhunge Bazar and Doramba.
✦ Bespoke Private Hospitality: Travel in comfort with dedicated private vehicles, licensed spiritual tour leaders, verified mountain lodges, and MAP gourmet meal plans.
0
Reviews
Note
Each tour package showed is for the general information as all the packages are highly customizable according to our valued guests
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN YOUR EXPERIENCE
- • All airport pick-up, arrival greetings, and final departure transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle.
- • All ground transportation, transfers, and sightseeing excursions on private basis throughout the tour (Private Car / HIACE Van / Tourist Coaster / Bus).
- • Authentic shamanic healing ceremonies, trance rituals, sound therapy, and blessing sessions led by recognized local Jhankri / Bönpo gurus.
- • 03 Nights boutique hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on MAP (Modified American Plan - Breakfast & Dinner) basis.
- • 02 Nights standard mountain guest house / lodge accommodation in Kuri Village (Kalinchowk) on MAP basis.
- • 02 Nights standard mountain guest house / lodge accommodation in Sailung (Kholakharka) on MAP basis.
- • 01 Night standard mountain guest house / lodge accommodation in Dhunge Bazar on MAP basis.
- • 01 Night standard mountain guest house / heritage homestay accommodation in Doramba on MAP basis.
- • Wholesome lunches provided en route during transit drives, village explorations, and sightseeing spots.
- • Grand traditional welcome dinner and celebratory royal farewell cultural dinner featuring authentic Nepali gastronomy in Kathmandu.
- • Professional, government-licensed English-speaking spiritual tour leader and cultural guide throughout the journey.
- • All monument entrance permits, temple admission fees, community conservation taxes, and local municipality fees.
- • Comprehensive staff coverage: full salary, food, lodge accommodation, transportation, equipment, and medical/emergency insurance for guide and driver.
- • Complimentary The Regal Retreat trekking duffel bag, sacred protection talisman, and comprehensive first-aid medical kit.
- • All applicable Nepal government taxes, VAT (13%), local government levies, and official company service charges.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
- • International round-trip airfare to and from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu.
- • Nepal tourist entry visa fees (USD $30 for 15 days, USD $50 for 30 days, easily obtainable upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport).
- • Comprehensive travel, medical, and high-altitude emergency evacuation / helicopter rescue insurance (strongly recommended).
- • All kinds of alcoholic beverages, bottled soft drinks, specialty barista coffees, and bar bills.
- • Personal expenses including laundry, telephone / mobile internet SIM cards, hot shower fees in mountain lodges, and battery charging.
- • Tips and gratuities for the spiritual tour guide, local shaman gurus, vehicle driver, and lodge staff.
- • Optional cable car ticket at Kalinchowk (approx. USD $10 - $12 per person for two-way ride).
- • Any additional expenses arising from unforeseen delays, roadblocks, adverse weather conditions, flight rescheduling, or natural occurrences.
Tour Plan
1
Day 01: Welcome to Kathmandu (1,340m / 4,396 ft) – Traditional Khada Welcome, VIP Transfer & Evening Spiritual Aarati
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, you are received with a traditional silk Khada greeting by your dedicated representative from The Regal Retreat. Transfer via private luxury vehicle to your boutique hotel in the capital. After smooth check-in and leisure time to freshen up, convene with your expedition leader for an introductory orientation covering itinerary highlights, sacred etiquette, and the spiritual framework of Nepalese Shamanism. In the late afternoon, proceed to the holy Bagmati River banks at Pashupatinath Temple to attend the evocative evening Maha Aarati ceremony, immersing yourself in divine chants, brass lamps, and spiritual devotion. In the evening, enjoy a regal welcome dinner featuring authentic Nepali culinary specialties. Overnight stay at boutique hotel in Kathmandu (MAP Plan: Dinner included).
2
Day 02: Kathmandu Spiritual Heritage & Shamanic Orientation – Swayambhunath, Boudhanath Stupa & Guru Interaction
Following a delightful morning breakfast, embark on a curated exploration of Kathmandu Valley’s primary sacred centers. Ascend the ancient stone steps of Swayambhunath Stupa (The Monkey Temple), enjoying sweeping valley vistas while observing the harmonious convergence of Vajrayana Buddhism, Hindu tantra, and animist shrine devotions. Next, visit the colossal mandala of Boudhanath Stupa, a major Himalayan pilgrimage site surrounded by serene monastic enclaves. In the afternoon, participate in a private interactive workshop with an esteemed master Jhankri (traditional shaman). Gain deep insight into the multi-layered cosmic realms, sacred ritual instruments (Dhyāngro drum, Ghanti bell, and Phurba dagger), and undergo an initial personal aura cleansing and sound harmonizing session. Overnight stay at hotel in Kathmandu (MAP Plan: Breakfast & Dinner included).
3
Day 03: Scenic Overland Journey from Kathmandu to Charikot & Kuri Village / Kalinchowk (3,450m / 11,318 ft) – 5 to 6 Hours Drive
After an energizing breakfast, board our comfortable private vehicle for a picturesque drive eastward toward Dolakha district along the Araniko and mountain highways. The journey follows the winding valleys of the Sun Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers before ascending through terraced hillsides, pine groves, and blooming rhododendron forests. We pause at the hilltop town of Charikot (1,970m) to savor pristine panoramic views of Mount Gauri Shankar (7,134m) and the Rolwaling Himalayan range. Ascending higher along rustic mountain roads, we arrive at the charming alpine hamlet of Kuri Village (3,450m), nestled directly below the Kalinchowk ridge. Check into your cozy mountain lodge, enjoy warming Himalayan herbal tea, and acclimatize to the crisp alpine air. Overnight stay at mountain guest house in Kuri Bazar (MAP Plan: Breakfast & Dinner included).
4
Day 04: Sunrise Pilgrimage to Kalinchowk Bhagawati (3,842m / 12,605 ft) & Evening Shamanic Healing Ceremonies
Rise early before dawn to ascend by scenic cable car or morning hike to the sacred summit of Kalinchowk Bhagawati Temple (3,842m). As the first rays of morning sunlight illuminate the Himalayas, take in a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic vista spanning Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, Jugal, Gauri Shankar, and the Everest massif. Kalinchowk is an illustrious Shakti Peeth and a primary annual gathering site for hundreds of Jhankris during Janai Purnima. Observe sacred trident offerings, holy water wells, and temple bell devotions. Return to Kuri for breakfast. In the late afternoon and evening, gather in the lodge hall for an intensive, authentic Shamanic healing ceremony led by local Tamang and Chhetri shamans. Witness rhythmic drum trance journeys, herbal incense purifications, ancestral spirit invocations, and individual chakra balancing. Overnight stay at mountain guest house in Kuri Bazar (MAP Plan: Breakfast & Dinner included).
5
Day 05: Scenic Drive & Alpine Ridge Trek from Kuri to Sacred Sailung / Kholakharka (3,146m / 10,321 ft) – 'The 100 Hillocks'
Following breakfast, depart Kuri Village and drive southwest toward the pristine highlands of Sailung across Ramechhap district. Traveling through rural settlements, terraced fields, and peaceful woodlands, we arrive at the trailhead base near Kholakharka. Embark on a gentle scenic hike (approx. 2 hours) ascending through oak and rhododendron forests to reach the sacred Sailung high plateau (3,146m). In the Tamang language, 'Sailung' translates to 'A Hundred Sacred Hills,' named for its unique rolling grassy mounds considered spiritual energy vortices. Check into your traditional mountain lodge. In the late afternoon, take a quiet contemplative walk among the hillocks as the sunset bathes the Himalayan peaks in vibrant shades of gold and amber. Overnight stay at mountain guest house in Sailung / Kholakharka (MAP Plan: Breakfast & Dinner included).
6
Day 06: Full Day Shamanic Immersion at Thulo Sailung: Padmasambhava Caves, Bön Chanting & Herbal Wisdom Sessions
Begin the day with an awe-inspiring sunrise overlooking an uninterrupted 300-kilometer Himalayan panorama—from Dhaulagiri and Annapurna in the west to Kanchenjunga in the east, with Everest and Makalu dominating the horizon. Sailung is venerated as the realm of the guardian deity Sailung Phoi Sibda Karpo. Spend the day in profound spiritual practice alongside local Tamang Bönpo shamans and village elders. Visit sacred natural stone formations, the historic meditation cave of Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), the sacred Cow Shrine, and natural mineral springs. Participate in an insightful botanical workshop learning how indigenous healers identify, harvest, and prepare over 100 rare high-altitude medicinal herbs (Jadi Buti). In the evening, gather around a sacred hearth for night-time shamanic invocations and spiritual discourse. Overnight stay at mountain guest house in Sailung (MAP Plan: Breakfast & Dinner included).
7
Day 07: Scenic Ridge Trek from Sailung to Dhunge Bazar (2,500m / 8,202 ft) & Sacred Cave Energy Meditation
After breakfast, commence a picturesque downhill ridge trek from Sailung toward the charming mountain settlement of Dhunge Bazar (2,500m / 8,202 ft). The scenic trail navigates gentle alpine pastures, ancient prayer flag monuments (Lungsing), and dense pine forests filled with tranquil mountain vistas. En route, we pause at sacred natural meditation caves utilized for centuries by solitary yogis and shamans. Engage in a guided outdoor mindfulness and pranayama breathing session to absorb the pure prana of the Himalayas. Arrive in Dhunge Bazar in the afternoon and settle into your local guest house. Stroll through the village, converse with welcoming locals, and experience rural Nepalese mountain life in its purest form. Overnight stay at normal mountain guest house in Dhunge Bazar (MAP Plan: Breakfast & Dinner included).
8
Day 08: Scenic Trek & Cultural Journey to Historic Doramba Heritage Village (2,050m / 6,725 ft) – Indigenous Folklore Immersion
Following breakfast, resume your scenic trek descending through fertile agricultural valleys and terraced hillsides toward the historic indigenous settlement of Doramba (2,050m / 6,725 ft). Doramba is an authentic cultural mosaic predominantly inhabited by the Tamang and Thami ethnic communities, renowned for their ancient shamanic folklore, distinctive stone architecture, and craftsmanship. Check into a community-managed mountain lodge / heritage homestay. In the afternoon, visit the village Buddhist monastery and traditional homesteads to witness organic farming, handloom weaving, and woodcraft. In the evening, community elders and local shamans host an authentic cultural gathering featuring traditional Damphu drum music, sacred spiritual blessings, and ancestral folk dances around a warm fire. Overnight stay at normal mountain guest house / homestay in Doramba (MAP Plan: Breakfast & Dinner included).
9
Day 09: Return Scenic Drive from Doramba to Kathmandu via Sun Koshi River Valley & Royal Farewell Dinner
Awake to a peaceful morning and savor a hearty farm-fresh breakfast with panoramic views of the Doramba valley. Board our private vehicle for the scenic drive returning to Kathmandu (approx. 4 to 5 hours). The route winds downward toward the Sun Koshi River basin and traverses the scenic BP Highway, passing rural townships, lush subtropical river banks, and terraced rice paddies. Arrive in Kathmandu in the afternoon and check into your boutique hotel. Enjoy free time for relaxation, spa therapies, or souvenir shopping in Thamel. In the evening, join The Regal Retreat team for a celebratory royal farewell cultural dinner at an authentic heritage restaurant, commemorating your transformative 10-day spiritual pilgrimage. Overnight stay at hotel in Kathmandu (MAP Plan: Breakfast & Dinner included).
10
Day 10: Final Departure – Leisure Morning in Kathmandu & Private VIP Transfer to TIA Airport
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel followed by leisure time for packing and final strolls around Kathmandu. At the designated hour (approx. 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight departure), your private vehicle and airport concierge will arrive at your hotel lobby to transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) for your onward journey. Board your flight home carrying blessed protective energies, profound spiritual memories, and the timeless wisdom of the Himalayan spirits. The Regal Retreat wishes you safe travels and looks forward to welcoming you on your next Himalayan retreat! (MAP Plan: Breakfast included).
