COMO Hotels and Resorts introduce Adventure Retreat Series at Uma Paro for travellers visiting Bhutan throughout 2008
Uma Paro in Bhutan has introduced seven adventure retreats built upon tried and tested bespoke itineraries offered since the hotel’s opening in late 2004, which allow guests unparalleled access to this extraordinary Himalayan kingdom’s rural, Buddhist soul. The adventure retreat series, suitable for single travellers, couples and exclusive parties of 3 people or more, allows access to remote reaches of Bhutan “caravan” style with Bhutanese guides in parties of 8-12 people depending on the trip. They also remove the hassle of visas, planning and decision-making, all pre-tour research thoroughly undertaken by COMO’s Activity Director, Philip Bowen.
There are seven different, well-priced adventure packages coinciding with the best weather and/or a special event during 2008, each one a total experience of 10 to 12 nights. Accommodation is provided at Uma Paro, and for some trips in combination with other locally-owned hotels across Bhutan, offering guests access to the far reaches of Bhutan. Spring and summer trekking adventures also incorporate some nights under canvas.
Tours with experienced English-speaking guides feature golden roofed monasteries and fascinating temples including the spectacular ‘Tiger’s Nest’ monastery perched on a mountainside above the clouds. Vistas take in prayer flag-covered hilltops, forgotten valleys and ancient forests, most itineraries including nature walks that celebrate Bhutan’s diverse flora and bird life. More challenging trekking adventures follow remote mountain paths that few foreigners have ever set foot on. Biking trips, well suited to active groups, include off-road trails and exhilarating descents.
Plenty of time is allowed within each adventure package for guests to connect with a more relaxed way of living, to enjoy the peace of Uma Paro, the pool, sophisticated organic cuisine, the COMO Shambhala spa and daily Yoga classes.
Rates for adventure packages range from US$3506 to US$5247 for single occupancy in a Superior Room (forest views) or US$5482 to US$7914 for double occupancy depending on the package selected. All rates include 10 or 12 nights accommodation at a combination of Uma Paro and other tourist standard hotels, or at previously set up camps for trekking adventures. Meals, excluding beverages, are included as well as picnics and mineral water on days out. Government taxes, royalties, visas and entry permits are all arranged by Uma Paro in advance; these costs are factored into the published rates along with all transport within Bhutan. For more detailed itineraries and dates, please see uma.como.bz.
In addition, Uma Paro is offering a number of five-day Yoga and meditation retreats with top international instructors. These are a unique opportunity for students to practice in this all-Buddhist country and experience its profound spirituality. Each is priced separately, and generally includes up to five hours of instruction daily. For prices and dates, please visit uma.como.bz
