The first view of Zhiwa Ling Hotel in Paro, is a breathtaking three story foyer, with a wooden staircase encircling the area. Light pours in from the top, and the walls are adorned with artefacts and artwork at each level, reflecting Bhutan's spirit and culture. Located on the second floor is a gompa, made with 450-year-old timbers from the famous Gangtey Monastery, the crowning glory of this cultural landmark in Paro.
The Zhiwa Ling Hotel is set on ten acres of lush green land with several buildings laid out sympathetically in landscaped grounds, interspersed with pine trees and streams connected with cantilever bridges. The 45 rooms and suites are spacious with wooden flooring, traditional hand-woven woollen rugs, and large windows providing natural light. The twin rooms are replete with two queen-size beds which are higher than usual, as was the custom for royal beds.
Some suites are in main building but others in traditional style two and three-story blocks in the grounds. There are well lit paths linking these to the main building. My suite had a lounge and bedroom, balconies on the front and back, so lovely views of the mountains surrounding. Bathrooms have black marble and under-floor heating. In the surrounds Paro valley offers many options for trekking and cultural exploration.
Amenities
Bar/PubBusiness CentreConciergeMeeting/Conference FacilitiesRestaurantSafety Deposit BoxesSpa/SaunaWi-Fi AvailableYoga Classes/Instruction On SiteStay Zhiwa Ling Hotel in Paro is a Luxury Resort with 45 suites. Junior suites have a master bedroom and sitting area with a private balcony. One-bedroom suites, located in the second floor of the main building, come with a living room with private balcony and a spacious bedroom. The Royal Raven Suites have two bedrooms, a large dining and sitting room, private porch, and come with its own private shrine room. All have splendid views of the Paro valley and surrounding mountains.
ChildCare Children are welcome to stay at the Zhiwa Ling Hotel, but there are no specific facilities available. Although some of the trekking may only be suitable for older children, there is much to do in the surrounds. The local flora, fauna, handicraft centres and villages form interesting excursions.
Dine The two restaurants at the Zhiwa Ling Hotel specialise in contemporary international cuisine and classic Bhutanese dishes. The “Lingka”, meaning merry making, is the all-day dining facility that offers a multi cuisine menu. The Gawa, or “Happiness” restaurant, overlooking the Paro valley, serves Bhutanese and Western cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere of a traditional Bhutanese setting and surrounding. Located adjacent to reception the Mad Monk Bar is an ideal venue to unwind.
Relax The Menlha Spa at the Zhiwa Ling Hotel has been carefully created to bring peace to one’s body and mind. It has a sauna, steam room as well as a traditional Bhutanese outdoor hot-stone bath. This is mixed with a variety of herbs from local plants and flowers. The hotel’s visiting Yoga teachers provide a special week-long Yoga retreats throughout the year. Zhiwa Ling also has a yoga room and a meditation room and a fitness centre.
Experience Zhiwa Ling Hotel has easy access to the path for the Tigers nest. The Monastery hangs from a sheer rock cliff that plunges 3,000 feet to the valley below. The hike takes 4-hours but the views are incredible and you will enjoy the day. Horses are available. Almost every village has archery competition. Ask the concierge at Zhiwa Ling and they will organise an archery lesson or allow you to participate in the local competition.
Location Zhiwa Ling is located along the Paro Chu Valley close to the famous Taktsang Lhakhang (Tigers Nest Monastery). It takes around 15-minutes to drive to the centre of Paro town and the main Dzong and airport.
Getting There Flights to Bhutan are either from Bangkok or New Delhi. Bangkok is the best place to connect if you are coming from North America, Australia or Asia. Delhi is the best place to connect if you are coming from Europe, Middle East or UK. Flights from Delhi fly via Kathmandu. We will arrange your flight tickets and visa clearance details. All flights arrive at Paro from where it takes about 15-minutes’ drive to Zhiwa Ling.
When to go Winter in Bhutan lasts from November to March. The spring months of March, April and May, are best for treks, flora and the many birds of Bhutan. The Monsoon occurs between June and August. The two-month window between October and November are arguably the best months with clear skies and chilly nights. It is also a good time for trekking into the Himalayas, sitting around a camp fire and seeing the high Himalayas in the morning and evening golden light.
Destination
Western, BhutanFeatured
Discover sides of Asia you never knew existed, revealed by people who know every facet.
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June 01 - 1, June 01, 2025
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June 01 - 1, June 01, 2025
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