Nestled amidst the pristine landscapes of the Himalayan kingdom, Bhutan, where culture and nature entwine seamlessly, a trio of exceptional 5-star hotels is set to redefine luxury travel in this enchanting realm. For the discerning traveler, Bhutan is more than just a destination; it’s an immersive experience of rich cultural heritage and unspoiled natural beauty. Let’s explore these new havens of elegance and modern comfort, offering a fresh perspective on Bhutan’s flourishing luxury travel scene.
Zhiwa Ling Heritage Hotel: A Tranquil Retreat in Paro Valley
Located in the picturesque valley of Paro, a mere 15-minute drive from Bhutan’s only international airport, the Zhiwa Ling Heritage Hotel is a testament to traditional Bhutanese architectural style. Its complex boasts elegant tapering stone walls and ornately hand-carved and painted wood. Surrounded by a spacious garden adorned with trees and flowers, the hotel offers 45 well-appointed suite rooms, an indoor swimming pool, a spa, and panoramic views of the rocky cliffs leading to the iconic Tigers’ Nest Temple.
Guests can further indulge in an outdoor hot stone bath and find serenity in the meditation house overlooking Tiger’s Nest. The hotel effortlessly combines traditional design with modern comforts. You can spend your days relaxing in the outdoor spaces, cozying up by the fireplace in the bar, or relishing a fine meal in one of its elegant restaurants. Adding a touch of spirituality, the hotel features a Buddhist shrine built from restored timber of a 450-year-old monastery.
Pemako Punakha: A Contemporary Oasis Along Mo Chhu River
Nestled along the tranquil Mo Chhu River in Punakha and under the watchful gaze of the revered Punakha Dzong, the “Palace of Happiness,” lies the sublime realm of Pemako Punakha. Set across 30 pristine acres, it houses 21 artfully curated tented pool villas, offering a harmonious blend of Bhutan’s deep-rooted traditions and modern elegance.
Pemako beckons guests on a journey that’s both tactile and transcendental. The resort invites you to experience the warm hospitality that defines Bhutan, with every guest paired with a dedicated guide/butler to reveal the nuanced intricacies of Bhutanese courtesy. Here, you’ll embark on a transformative journey where revered Buddhist monks and resident scholars inspire introspection and balance. Pemako’s culinary journey is a revelation, showcasing four premier dining outlets and intimate picnic venues. The Chef’s Table, in particular, weaves seasonal Himalayan flavors with the finest selections from local farmers, creating a dining experience to remember.
&Beyond Punakha River Lodge: A Fusion of Bhutanese Grace and Modern Comfort
&Beyond Punakha River Lodge marks the luxury travel group’s first foray beyond Africa and South America. Nestled on the shores of the Mo Chhu River, the lodge’s architecture harmoniously blends traditional Bhutanese influences with the renowned hospitality of the &Beyond brand.
The property introduces six intimate luxury tents, a one-bedroom suite, and a two-bedroom family suite, surrounded by lush paddy fields and forested hills. The lodge’s spa, located in an orange orchard, provides an ideal setting for yoga, massage, and a relaxing dip in its Bhutanese hot stone bath. When it comes to dining, the cuisine is inspired by local flavors, presenting a farm-to-fork concept that combines Bhutanese, Indian, and European influences. And for a delightful evening, enjoy drinks on a suspension bridge adorned with colorful prayer flags as the sun sets.
