Amankora is a journey of five lodges across the western and central valleys of Bhutan, at Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthang, designed to be travelled in sequence. The Thimphu lodge stands in a quiet pine forest above the capital, close to the great seated Buddha Dordenma, with mountains on every side. It has 16 suites of 52 square metres, built in the spare Aman reading of the dzong, with rammed-earth walls, wood-burning stoves, king-size beds, window seats for reading and terrazzo bathtubs. The dining room opens onto a terrace over the forest, and there is a library, a gallery and a boutique, along with a spa of three treatment rooms and a steam room. The city centre is within easy reach, for its museums, textile workshops and the bustle of Bhutan's only real town, and the lodge makes a calm counterweight to busy days. Bhutan's living Buddhist culture runs through every stage of the circuit, with dzongs, monasteries and temples near each lodge and visits arranged by Aman. Spring and autumn bring the great festivals and the clearest walking weather.
- Nearest airport
- Paro International Airport (PBH)
- Rooms
- 16 suites
Insider tip Spend at least two nights in each valley; the drives over the high passes between lodges are part of the journey, not just transfers.
Why I choose it A forest retreat above Bhutan's capital that lets you see Thimphu by day and come back to silence, one stage of a five-valley circuit with a consistent hand throughout.
