Amankora lies adjacent to the Wangdichholing Palace in Bumthang. It a 16-suites resort surrounded by an apple orchard. The hallway, in Buddhist architecture and colours is grand. At the end of the hall is a library with comfy chairs and an internet. It’s like entering a beautiful Dzong but I am both, confused and amazed. I am travelling not in distance but in time.
Amankora Gangtey in central Bhutan lies in an awe-inspiring wide open glacial valley; the dark green floor stretches into wilderness, the end of which is covered with low mountain hugging clouds. The air is crisp and light, we are at 2,900m, but it is as fresh and sweet as drinking spring water. Once beyond the reach of roads and electricity, there is still peace here. The locals call it the Phobjikha Valley. For me it is the end of the world.
The Amankora Paro is one of five Aman properties in Bhutan that are built around the basic principles of a beautiful natural location, small number of rooms and exclusive service. The 20-room Paro lodge is located in the woods with majestic views of the 17th century Drugyel Dzong ruin and the Greater Himalaya that include 7,300m Chomolhari, Bhutan’s highest mountain.
The Amankora Resort in Punakha was built by a former Chief Abbot of Bhutan as a residence to oversee the surrounding rice paddies and fruit orchards. The quaint, three-storey structure is now the combined common guest area. The Dining Room is situated on the ground floor, and the upper floors offer relaxation areas. The Courtyard of the farmhouse is suitable for outdoor dining and beyond is the two-storey Spa which provides yoga/meditation room.
Uma by COMO, Paro is tucked away into the side of a hill, with about nine or ten blocks of stone, designed in Bhutanese architecture, nicely camouflaged behind a pine forest. But the beautiful vegetable dyes, of dark blue, red and orange can be seen from miles away. It is too good to be hidden. The main building, formerly a Bhutanese nobleman's home, forms the hotel's heart, whilst the rooms and suites are located in glades planted with azaleas.
The Amankora lodge is located in the hills outside Thimphu, overlooking a stream and close to nature. It is like taking your luxuries in a rucksack into the wilderness. There is a feel of openness and an earthy touch with the wind and rain. Even when you are asleep, the only thing that stands between you and nature are the large glass window panes.
COMO Uma Punakha is a beautiful resort, perched on a hillside overlooking the Mo Chu River. The hotel overlooks the Punakha Valley with lush-green paddy fields and rolling forested mountains. This low-lying valley serves as an interesting destination for both summer and winter touring. In this beautiful and interesting destination, Uma Punakha offers just 11 rooms, all spread out along a ridge, taking in the valleys fresh air and offering jaw-dropping views.
Six Senses Bumthang, nestled in the serene Bumthang Valley of Bhutan, offers a unique blend of contemporary luxury and traditional Bhutanese design. The architecture of the hotel harmonizes with the natural surroundings, featuring clean lines, wooden structures, and expansive glass windows that provide breathtaking views of the lush pine forests and rolling hills. The use of sustainable materials and local craftsmanship reflects a deep respect for the environment and Bhutanese cultural heritage.
Six Senses Gangtey, located in the pristine Phobjikha Valley of Bhutan, is a luxurious retreat that harmoniously blends contemporary design with traditional Bhutanese architecture. The resort’s architecture features clean lines and expansive windows, offering unobstructed views of the stunning valley and surrounding mountains. The use of natural materials like wood and stone enhances the connection to the landscape, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere that reflects the tranquillity of the Gangtey region.
Taj Tashi hotel is one of the largest buildings in Thimphu, designed in the traditional Bhutanese style. Inside, a large bell hangs in the lobby with a magnificent blend of Dzong architecture and modern design. A page boy runs to help with our luggage, the receptionist produces a friendly smile and the Manager appears as if from behind the clouds. A sudden realisation that you are indeed in Bhutan – a kingdom above the clouds, deep in the Himalayas.
