Traditional Hot Stone Bath Experience

It is an exceptional experience that one would not want to miss. It is the best way to relax your body and mind after a long tiring day. The minerals released from the hot stone and the local herbs are believed to have a healing power to joint pains, hypertension and stomach disorder. In the villages after a hard day’s work families would soak in the hot bath to relax their muscles and regain energy for the next day’s work. 

The wooden tub is built on the river bank, outside of the house for the supply of water and stones. The stones are heated for hours and when it turns red it is put in the wooden tub which is half filled with cold water. This way the water gets heated ready for soaking. Artemisia leaves are added in the water for scent and healing proposes. For safety, a wooden bar is used to separate the hot stones.

Some hotels or resorts provide similar bath with a certain level of authenticity or a more luxurious version. If you want to experience it you will have to make an appointment in advance as the preparation takes at least 3 -4 hours. Men can wear shorts and women can wear bikinis or sports bra with a short. As for the water temperature depending on individual preference cold water can be added to bring down the temperature or hot stone to increase the water temperature. You can treat yourself with a pot of tea or a glass of home brewed ara to complete the whole experience of the traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath.

These hot stone bath can be found in farm houses or home stays for the visitors to enjoy.