New Luxury Accommodations In Bhutan

16.02.2024 - 15:24 / forbes.com

Bhutan's allure as a haven for luxury-seeking adventurers continues to grow, particularly in the picturesque region of Punakha. Positioned just three hours away from Bhutan's capital, Thimphu, Punakha attracts travelers due to its quaint charm and burgeoning array of upscale accommodations. Journeying through the scenic Dochula Pass, travelers are awarded with panoramic views of the Himalayas before descending into the valley below. Punakha boasts a temperate climate, making it an enticing year-round destination.

Nestled alongside the serene Mo Chhu River and overlooking the revered Punakha Dzong Pemako Punakha resort spans 30 acres and consists of 21 tented pool villas, blending Bhutanese tradition with contemporary design. Each villa, adorned with traditional Bhutanese décor and Serge Ferrari fabrics, has a private heated pool and a large open-deck with expansive views.

Pemako is known for its Bhutanese hospitality and fresh cuisine where Himalayan flavors are paired with local produce. Rooted in Sowa Rigpa, the ancient art of Bhutanese healing, the Lotus Realm spa has an extensive spa menu with a variety of treatments focusing on balance and harmony.

The luxury travel company &Beyond opened its first lodge in Asia, the all-inclusive Punakha River Lodge. Situated on the banks of the Mo Chu River, the lodge comprises six safari-style tented suites and two villas, each blending traditional Bhutanese aesthetics with contemporary touches. Suspended from traditional timber structures, the tented suites are adorned with intricate Bhutanese woodwork and each has a brass-clad overseize bathtub. The lodge incorporates the Bhutanese national flower, the blue poppy, into its design. With unobstructed views of the Himalayas, the lodge offers easy access to Punakha's iconic attractions, including the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten. Travelers can partake in a plethora of activities, from invigorating nature hikes to river rafting expeditions.

For travelers looking for something a little different, Mendegang Heritage Home is a a unique experience for those who want a glimpse into traditional Bhutanese life. Built in the late 1940s, the property’s design is centered around a three-tiered temple, dedicated to the Buddha Maitriya, Buddha Shakyamuni and the patron saint of Bhutan Guru Rimpoche respectively. In 2022, the house was partially converted into a heritage home for guests. It’s for travelers who want to experience an authentic Bhutanese home and interact with locals. Today the property is cared for by a third generation of sisters, who regard the home as part of their ancestry.

Nestled in the Himalayas, Bhutan is renowned for its pristine landscapes, rich heritage, and warm hospitality. It’s a land of