Six Senses Gangtey

Situated in Balakha Village, the Amankora Paro contrasts rustic elements with contemporary design. Its pleasing features include natural rammed-earth walls, gently sloping roofs, wood-panelled interiors and spectacular views of blue pine forests, the 17th-century Drukyel Dzong and Mount Jhomolhari. This impressive lodge features 24 suites, each with a combined lounge and bedroom and traditional wood-burning stove. Centred by a large flagstone courtyard, a lime-washed stone pavilion houses the living and dining room facilities with floor-to-ceiling windows, a library and an outdoor terrace overlooking a small stream. A spa set on two levels features a yoga studio with glass walls and treatment rooms with outdoor baths.

Not only is this mountain resort one of the oldest family-run properties in Bumthang, it is also regarded as one of the best. Simple and charming with warm, personal service, this is a comfortable base from which to explore the region. Renovated, pine-clad rooms look out to views of the Wangdichholing Palace and the Drangme Chhu River, while wood-burning stoves, ultra-comfy beds and home-cooked meals provide a welcome retreat after a day’s exploring.

Wrapped in lush rice fields and fruit orchards by Mo Chhu River, with views to the seventeenth century Punakha Dzong, is a former traditional Bhutanese farmhouse: the Amankora Punakha hotel. Intimate and exclusive, this stand-out property provides just eight classically designed suites. Each boasts heaps of space and comfort, plus a traditional wood burning ‘bukhari’ stove for a peek into local life. Dining, pampering and adventure are all well catered for, from the communal dining room, tea pavilion and alfresco courtyard to the two-story spa and meditation room, to exciting white-water-rafting tours.

Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, famously the only capital city without a single traffic light, is the gateway to the splendid Six Senses Thimphu; a peaceful and calm haven. Situated within beautiful apple orchards and young pine forests, the Six Senses Thimphu is perched on a hillside just south of the town at an elevation of 8,695 feet (2,650 metres). This elevation means the entire property has exceptional views, in particular of the 170 foot (52 metres) high Buddha Dordenma.  With its grand design, floor to ceiling windows and lobby ponds that reflect the changing colours of the clouds the property is affectionately referred to as “The Palace in the Sky.” There are 20 spacious suites at Thimpu with three large villas, perfect for groups or families. The decor and design is in-keeping with local tradition, and in fact the property looks just like a traditional Bhutanese dwelling with its wooden and tiled pagoda style roof, white washed stone walls and wooden beams in gleaming warm tones throughout. Massive picture windows and the choice of simple contemporary design means guests feel completely submerged in the stunning natural surroundings here. The hotel boasts several gorgeous communal areas including a living room, bar and lounge and restaurant. There’s also a private dining room for up to 10 guests should you prefer. The dining room is indoors but there’s also a large outdoor sunken terrace that looks to the prayer pavilion, connected to the main building by a pathway through the ornate pond. The Six Senses Spa features a luxurious indoor heated swimming pool, treatment rooms, gym and manicure and pedicure rooms.