Traditional Hot Stone Baths in Bhutan
Snowcat
“Wellness” has become a bit of a trend nowadays and here in the magical Kingdom of Bhutan the Bhutanese have their very own traditional version, namely a Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath.
Healing, relaxation and culture all combined in a bath!
The Bhutanese have being taking a hot stone bath for centuries, particularly during the chill of winter time and after a hard days farming and families would often relax together in a hot stone bath once or twice a week. They might even consult their astrologer for advice as to when a particular day may be considered as auspicious and get more beneficial effects frothier hot stone bath.
The basics of a hot stone bath in Bhutan is to firstly gather large stones from the local river. These stones are then essentially roasted over a very hot fire until they are burning hot. The stones are then added (carefully with large metal tongs) into a chamber with holes that allows the stones to heat the water in the main bath that’s usually made from wood.
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The stones release key minerals into the water, sometimes even cannabis. Medicinal herbs such as artemisia absenthium (wormwood) are also added to make “Menchu”, medicinal water.
In fact an ancient name for Bhutan is “Menjung” and this basically translates as “Land of the Medicinal Herbs”, so as the history of medicine in Bhutan dates back to 7th Century Tibet with influences also from Ayurvedic practices the Bhutanese know a thing or two about natural health benefits.
The combination of medicinal herbs, the heat of the water and the minerals released by the stones is claimed to work wonders by the locals.
The Bhutanese use hot stone baths to treat ailments such as arthritis, hypertension, joint pain, stomach disorders, other deep-set aches, and over 50 skin ailments. Above all, soaking in the bath is a great way to release stress.
There are many places in Bhutan where you can enjoy the experience of a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath.
There are hot stone baths on the outskirts of Paro at Bjagoe Menchu. It's located close to a local spring. You’ll experience a traditional wood tub, much like those from ancient bathing events. One tub is large enough for a couple.
It's fair to say though that the public hot stone baths are a bit rustic and not as inviting as the more luxurious ones that many of our selected Bhutan Hotels with spa's provide. But, that's traditional for you.
But you'll find hot stone baths in a variety of accommodations ranging from the designer boutique luxury of the Amankora at Gangtey to the real deal such as at an authentic Bhutan family farmhouse home stay experience provided by hostess Aum Kaum at her appropriately named Happiness Field.
So, whether you're enjoying the wonderful country of Bhutan as part of a cultural tour or a Himalayan trek and want to experience a Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath we can ensure that you can as part of your custom Bhutan vacation.
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