Chill out in a hot stone bath

The tradition of a hot stone bath dates back centuries and is derived from ancient Tibetan medicine and Indian Ayurvedic practices. A traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath uses river rocks that have been heated until red hot and then placed in the bath water. The rocks then crack and steam, releasing key minerals into the water that relieve aches and pains and are said to have broader medicinal properties. Bhutanese of all ages use this traditional bath to relieve joint pain and increase circulation.

The hot stone bath is a ritual in itself and traditionally these baths were taken close to rivers from where the best stones could be sourced. These days the practice is offered countrywide and you can opt for a luxurious version, like the one at the Gangtey Lodge, or go for a more earthy version in a local farmhouse where the bath is laid on by your hosts. Either way it makes for a very relaxing and restorative experience, especially if you have been doing some trekking. This is unquestionably one of the most interesting things to know before traveling to Bhutan.