Bhutan in Style
This 8-night itinerary lets you take in one of the world’s most inspiring countries in comfort and style combining the must-see highlights with some of the country’s finest hotels and lodges.
This 8-night itinerary lets you take in one of the world’s most inspiring countries in comfort and style combining the must-see highlights with some of the country’s finest hotels and lodges.
This itinerary takes you through some of the most beautiful and interesting destinations in the world and includes all the key highlights of Nepal and Bhutan, making it a true gem of an itinerary!
Bhutan’s festival calendar is brimming with countless vibrant festivals. Integral to Bhutanese culture, festivals provide an opportunity for locals and visitors alike to come together, dance, socialise and receive blessings. Up and down the country, annual tshechus are held in the courtyards of monasteries, temples and dzongs, a colourful celebration of community spirit, played out to the tune of traditional dance and theatrical performance.
If you are a trekking and mountain lover, it's highly likely that small, mysterious and untouched Bhutan has been on your radar for some time. Asia Specialist Holly is a beach and jungle fan, so this Himalayan beauty had so far escaped her gaze, but the quest for unique travel opportunities and trying something completely different led her here… Read on as she tells us how it turned into one of the best travel decisions she has ever made!
Backed by the mighty Himalayas and the hiking heavyweights of Nepal and India, it is no surprise that Bhutan is fast establishing itself as a world class trekking destination. It is home to one of the world’s most challenging walks but its beautiful scenery appeals to the less intrepid hiker too, with many a route passing through rolling meadows, bamboo forests and rhododendron clad hillsides. The highlight of a trip to Bhutan is often the walk up to the famed Tiger’s Nest Monastery, yet simply taking a wander on the path less travelled will be rewarded with spectacular panoramas, stretching for miles around.
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Offering 16 wood-panelled luxury suites, Amankora Bumthang can be found overlooking a lovely courtyard amid the apple and pear orchards of the nearby Wangdichholing Palace. The palace is still home to a small community of monks, who can often be seen walking through the pretty gardens. Part of the exclusive Aman luxury hotel chain, the hotel radiates the tranquil serenity Aman properties are famous for and Amankora Bumthang occupies a prime location in Jakar, placing it at the centre of the Choekhor Valley, an area rich in temples, monasteries and Bhutanese culture.
Each of the 16 suites is stylishly furnished with king-sized bed, window seat for admiring the stunning views, traditional bukhari wood-burning stove, free-standing terrazzo-clad bathtub and twin vanities. The overall style is contemporary, minimal and calming. Room rates include meals, house drinks and laundry. Meals are served in a dining room set with small tables to create a warm and intimate vibe and the kitchen serves a Western a la carte menu, although guests can request a Bhutanese set menu. Pre-dinner drinks can be taken in the lounge, or outside in the courtyard around an informal firepit.
There is an onsite library with wireless internet access, steam room and spa, which uses traditional herb and plant-based remedies to soothe you to a state of zen and total relaxation. The property is located close to some of Bhutan’s most sacred monasteries and temples, which can be visited on foot, where the history of the stunning 7th century wall paintings and altars can be explored. The area is also full of local cottage industries and organic farms, producing among other things, Bumthang butter, Gouda and Emmental cheese, owing to a local herd of Swiss cows. Bumthang is also the site of Bhutan’s only brewery, brewing Red Panda beer and visits can be arranged.
For those wishing to explore some of Bhutan’s most beautiful monasteries and temples, we think Amankora Bumthang is a stylish sanctuary of its own, full of tranquil calm and exquisite service.
In the western, central and eastern Bhutan (Bumthang) you will mostly experience cold European-like weather. Winter lasts here from November to March. The Monsoon occurs between June and August when the temperature is normally between 8° and 21°C. October and November are arguably the best months, when the monsoon has passed and the skies are clear. The spring months of March, April and May are best for the flora, but it can be stormy as the monsoon builds up for July-September.
Bumthang, Bhutan
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read moreWandering around the Kurjey Lhakhang offers a chance to witness the rituals and ceremonies of one of the largest and most active temples in Bhutan.
This remote and rural valley is actually home to the 16th century Tang Ugyencholling Palace, a fascinating museum and place of religious study, offering a chance to explore the rural landscapes of Bhutan and the history and culture of the region.
Riding through crystalline rivers, charming villages and wild meadows, you’ll explore a landscape of spectacular scenic beauty deep in the Bumthang valley.
Eat like a royal as you join a local family in their home to taste some of the dishes they have prepared for the Bhutanese royal family over many generations.
Walk through the Bumthang valley, amidst pine forests and meadows, past nunneries and pristine lakes and enjoy a traditional Bumthap lunch.
Notable as the seat of the first king of Bhutan, the Jakar Dzong, or ‘Castle of the White Bird’ is both architecturally intriguing and historically significant, and exploring the Dzong is a fascinating step back in history.
Dating back to the 7th century, the Jambay Lhakhang is one of 108 temples built by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo to subdue a demoness. Exploring this site is a vivid insight into the religious beliefs of Bhutanese Buddhists.
Emmenthal cheese and craft beer may not be the first things that spring to mind when you think of Bhutan, but a tour of the Red Panda Brewery and Swiss Cheese Shop provides an interesting diversion from temples and thangkas.
Bumthang, Bhutan
Best for: Off the beaten track,Spectacular scenery,Walking & Trekking,Culture & history
Bumthang, Bhutan
Best for: Highlights
Bumthang, Bhutan
Best for: Culture & history,Hideaway,Highlights,Luxury,Off the beaten track,Spa,Spectacular scenery,Walking & Trekking,Family,Food & Drink,Honeymoon,Imagine Favourites,Beach,Wildlife,Beach,Beach