Amit Khanna
Sameer Staff answered 5 months ago
For first-time visitors to Bhutan, accommodation options vary from basic to luxurious, each providing a unique experience in this serene Himalayan kingdom. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the types of accommodation available:
1. Luxury Hotels
Features: High-end amenities, exquisite service, and often stunning views of the Himalayas. They typically offer spacious rooms, fine dining, spas, and other luxury services.
Examples:
Aman Bhutan: Located in Thimphu and Paro, offering a luxurious experience with traditional Bhutanese architecture and modern amenities.
Taj Tashi: A five-star hotel in Thimphu blending Bhutanese heritage with luxury.
Uma by COMO: Located in Paro and Punakha, known for its high-end service and tranquil settings.
2. Boutique Hotels
Features: Smaller, more intimate settings with unique, personalized decor and a focus on local culture. They often provide a more authentic experience than larger hotels.
Examples:
Druk Hotel: Situated in Thimphu, offering a comfortable stay with traditional Bhutanese decor.
The Bhutan Suites: Located in Thimphu, combining modern comforts with Bhutanese style.
3. Standard Hotels
Features: Mid-range accommodation with comfortable amenities, often including a restaurant, Wi-Fi, and basic services.
Examples:
Hotel Lobesa: In Punakha, offering a good balance of comfort and affordability.
Hotel Kisa: Located in Thimphu, providing clean and comfortable rooms.
4. Guesthouses and Homestays
Features: More modest and affordable, these options offer a closer look at local life and culture. They often provide a more personal touch and home-cooked meals.
Examples:
Chorten Lam Guesthouse: In Thimphu, offering a homely environment and basic amenities.
Tenzinling Resort: In Paro, combining traditional Bhutanese architecture with a cozy stay.
5. Eco-Lodges and Resorts
Features: Focused on sustainability and environmental preservation, these lodges often blend with nature and offer eco-friendly practices.
Examples:
Amankora Lodges: Located in various parts of Bhutan, providing luxury eco-lodging with minimal impact on the environment.
6. Traditional Bhutanese Lodges
Features: Designed to reflect traditional Bhutanese architecture and culture, often located in rural areas or near trekking routes.
Examples:
Merak and Sakten Lodges: In the remote Merak and Sakten valleys, offering a traditional experience in less-visited areas.
Tips for Booking Accommodation in Bhutan
Book in Advance: Bhutan’s accommodation can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn), so it’s best to book early.
Check for Inclusives: Many accommodations in Bhutan include meals and local tours as part of their packages.
Travel with a Licensed Tour Operator: Most visitors to Bhutan need to travel with a licensed tour operator, which can help in booking accommodations as part of the package.
Understand the Daily Tariff: Bhutan has a minimum daily tariff for tourists which includes accommodation, meals, and a guide. This rate is set by the government and can vary based on the type of accommodation and services included.
This variety of accommodation options ensures that visitors to Bhutan can find a suitable place to stay that fits their preferences and budget while experiencing the unique charm of this beautiful country.