Top 5 Star Hotels & Resorts in Bhutan

And it is no surprise that Bhutan boasts of a mix of local and international chain of high-end luxury hotels and boutique lodges across the country.

The consistent edge that high-end hotels in Bhutan enjoy is the scenic locations with breathtaking views of the surrounding nature, traditional Bhutanese architecture complemented by the warm Bhutanese hospitality. While there are only about 10 or less 5-star hotels in Bhutan but these provide the ultimate services and facilities to cater to every senses of the luxury traveler. The well-preserved traditional ostentatious architectural designs have inspired a combination of the traditional with contemporary design and the results are beautiful luxurious boutique hotels and a local chain of highly acclaimed international hotels and resorts.

The Bhutanese people’s smiling happy faces and genuine hospitality paired with luxury services amid the peaceful natural landscape make Bhutan the ultimate luxury holiday destination for the ardent and high net-worth travelers

1.  The Aman Resorts

The 5 Aman Lodges spread across the five major valleys exudes simplicity and luxury in its design replicating the huge massive 15th Century Dzongs or fortresses and providing unparalleled services of a 7 star standards or more. All their Suite Rooms offer tranquil views of the valley or the snow capped Himalayas, of fruit orchards or paddy fields depending on their location and, their wellness activities and spa treatments with local herbs are personalized for complete indulgence and luxury.

2.  The Six Senses

Collectively referred to as the Six Senses and scattered throughout Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthang valleys, Six Senses is the latest addition to the luxury hotels in Bhutan. The Six Sense Thimphu is coined “palace in the sky” and enjoys an almost panoramic 280 degree views of the capital city Thimphu, while the Six Sense Paro overlooks the stunning paddy fields and quaint old Paro town.  The lodges in Bumthang, Gangtey and Punakha equally enjoys spectacular locations and at all the lodges their focus embraces their common guiding principles that include wellness, healthy eating, comfort in sleep, and self-discovery through Bhutanese spirituality, culture and nature.

3.  Como Hotels and Resorts

Following their international standards of top notch service in scenic locations with elegant structures combining local artisanship and Como’s contemporary style, both the Como properties in Paro and Punakha offer un-paralleled luxury travel experiences. The opulent Bukhari Restaurant in Paro overlooking the beautiful valley has been voted one of the best fine dining experiences for serving local and international cuisine with a fusion of western contemporary and Bhutanese all organic homegrown ingredients.

All the different category rooms in both the locations combine the colorful facade of traditional Bhutanese architecture and craftsmanship with Como’s signature clean-lined contemporary design offering luxury in local curated to perfection settings.

4.  Zhiwaling Heritage, Paro

Zhiwaling in Paro valley is the first 5-star hotel wholly owned by a Bhutanese, all staffed by Bhutanese and is much sought after for its architectural grandeur in the little details and warm Bhutanese hospitality. One unique feature of Zhiwaling is their altar room / Buddhist temple where ceremonies and rituals are conducted during auspicious days and on special occasions like a guest’s birthday, marriage ceremonies, anniversaries, etc.  The hotel also offers wellness activities, spa, yoga, traditional hot-stone baths, archery and if you are just looking to unwind after a long day of sightseeing relax at the Mad Monk Bar with a choice of international drinks as well as local home-brewed wine or choice of local beer and whisky.

The newly established Zhiwaling Ascent in the Thimphu valley has already acquired its spot next to the Zhiwaling Paro for its exceptional service, location and probably the first Rooftop Bar & Lounge in Bhutan.

5.  Le Méridien, Thimphu and Paro

The Le Méridien in Thimphu and Paro are brands of the Marriott International and both the properties display a combination of contemporary sophisticated chic design with traditional architecture. The Le Méridien in Thimphu is located in the heart of the capital city and all rooms enjoy spectacular views of the mountains and the city, well equipped fitness and wellness centers and easy access to the main attractions in and around the city. The Le Méridien Paro Riverfront as the name suggests is located on the edge of the Paro River and being away from the city center offers a peaceful and serene experience. With their theme ‘to provide a home away from home for its customers, a Le Méridien fan (of any nationality) will instantly feel at home as soon as they enter the premises of both the hotels.

6. Gangtey Lodge

The multi-award winning Gangtey Lodge nestled in the remote Gangtey valley lives up to its reputation for outstanding service and creating luxury experiences complemented by the perfect location. Gangtey and Phobjika are one of the most beautiful glacial valleys of Bhutan and winter home to the endangered and sacred Black Necked Cranes. The Lodge’s Farmhouse Suites offer sweeping views of the valley in the lap of luxurious services and a guest also has a wide choice of outdoor activities to choose from. Taking advantage of the surreal location Gangtey Lodge proffers luxury services with a focus on awakening and connecting the physical, emotional and spiritual self with the surrounding nature.

7. Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary

The newly opened Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary at Paro valley is not just a luxury hotel but a destination in itself. Already named by Vanity Fair (2019) as the most charming 5-star luxury property in Bhutan, the Sanctuary is the only property in Bhutan with a well-being inclusive concept. Wellness is focused on traditional medicine practices, and includes: ku nye massage, hot oil compression, moxibustion, hot stone and herbal bath, and traditional medicine doctor consultation. Special activities are done in-house and include: pottery and cooking classes, hiking, archery, khuru (darts), and cultural visits.

8. dusitD2 Yarkay Bhutan

Inspired by the unique and rich cultural traditions of Bhutan, the overall theme of dusitD2 Yarkay centers around the folktale of The Four Harmonious Friends that blends in well with the surrounding nature and the best of Thailand and Bhutan in their services and designs. The dusitD2 Yarkay is also another latest addition to the ever-growing international chain of luxury hotels and offers a tourist more options for luxury in the capital city. Facilities at dusitD2 Yarkay include a Thai spa, fully equipped fitness center and the first authentic Thai restaurant in Bhutan.

9.  Taj Tashi

The majestic fortress like Taj Tashi is one of the biggest structures in town offering the wearied traveler a luxurious escapade in the heart of the capital city. The 66 spacious rooms and suites overlooking the city and facing the mountains, the 2 multi-cuisine restaurants, a cozy bar and lounge, fully equipped wellness and fitness center and impeccable service all adds up for a seamless and enjoyable stay in the capital city of Bhutan.