Staying In Bhutan’s 5-Star Hotel That Costs $3500 a night
Credits: Conde Nast Traveler
The one thing that I would highlight to indulge in during your trip to Bhutan is to stay in at least one 5-star accommodation. Be it a night or your entire trip, you will never experience comfort & luxury the same way again. Bhutan’s 5-star hotels are unrivalled when it comes to its privacy, unmatched views & luxurious rooms. The service and hospitality is impeccable and in my rich history of travels around the world, I still often find myself reminiscing about my stay in Bhutan.
As it was my first visit to Bhutan, I picked a much more tradition 5-star hotel as I wanted to indulge in the country’s finest architecture. I have always been drawn to antique furnishings and intricate wood carvings so Zhiwa Ling Heritage struck out to me the most. Zhiwa Ling Heritage is a dramatic 10-acre property with its own archery range as well. It feels like an ancient kingdom facing the rocky cliffs surrounding Tiger’s Nest.
The hotel was absolutely stunning and the entire ornate structure was handmade by local artisans. Upon check-in, you will be greeted with the grandest lobby with high ceilings and large hard carved & painted wooden beams. The structure is truly magnificent and one can only gasp in awe. I also had a lovely chat with the director of Zhiwa Ling Heritage and it was such a humbling experience to learn about all that went through towards building this amazing structure and running it as well.
What struck me most were the ornate furnishings around the hotel. From paintings to antique textiles as well as antique furnishings, each piece has its own story that dates centuries through Bhutan’s history.
Junior Suite - $1100/night
Zhiwa Ling Heritage Junior Suite - Bedroom
Zhiwa Ling Heritage Junior Suite - Living Room
Workspace featuring an antique tapestry
Zhiwa Ling Heritage Junior Suite - Balcony
I spent my first night in a Junior Suite on a separate wing from the main building as the hotel was fully packed with tourists. However, I enjoyed the peace and serenity that came with my room and I had a beautiful balcony overlooking the hills.
The suite was very spacious with Swedish heated flooring that made it so comfortable to relax in especially in Bhutan’s chilly environment. There was a little living area and a workspace at the corner of the room. The suite also encompasses a balcony seating area to enjoy the scenery whilst you listen to the calming flow of the river. I must say, it was one of my best sleeps throughout the whole tour. I wished I had spent more time in the room but I ended up getting a hot stone bath from the hotel as I wanted to experience the traditional Bhutanese way of life.
My dinner was lovely as I requested for an Indian cuisine prepared by the head chef with compliments from Mr Hyde, the director of Zhiwa Ling. I did not capture most of my meals because it was too delicious.
The Royal Raven Suite - $3500 / Night
Zhiwa Ling - Royal Raven Suite Entryway
Zhiwa Ling - Royal Raven Suite Dining Area
The following night as I came back from my hike to Tiger’s Nest, I was moved to The Royal Raven Suite which was the largest and most luxurious suite in the property. My baggages were neatly packed and moved to the room which was located right at the main building.
I am so grateful to Mr Hyde for arranging it and it made my stay so much more memorable. The Royal Raven Suite is the ultimate Bhutanese experience and it even houses a blessed temple that is constructed with 450-year old wood repurposed from a old monastery.
Zhiwa Ling Heritage The Royal Raven Suite - Resting Area
The space is big enough to fit a family of four and has ample living area to chill and relax for the evening. If you are travelling in a group, I will recommend upgrading to The Royal Raven Suite to enjoy the best amenities. I love the ornate furnishings and stunning tapestries that were hung around the rooms. The room was also equipped with the Swedish underfloor heating system which gives off ample warmth despite the cold weather. I love the beauty of Zhiwa Ling Heritage, melding both culture and modern technologies together for the ultimate experience.
Blessed Temple in The Royal Raven Suite
Have you ever experienced a hotel room that has its own in-house temple? I was blown away by this magnificent structure and this was one of the key highlights of The Royal Raven Suite. The temple was built using 450 year old wood that was originally from Gangtey Monastery. This capture is also a little snippet of what you will experience when you visit Bhutan’s temples as no photography is allowed in those sacred places. If you look closely at the walls, you can notice the fine hand painted strokes of the intricate illustrations. Just by being in the presence of this blessed temple, you can feel the spiritual connection and positive aura surrounding the area.
Zhiwa Ling - Royal Raven Suite Living Room
The living room was extremely spacious as well, similar to a normal living room size in an average apartment in Singapore. The plush leather sofas were so comfortable to lounge in as you wind down for the evening to watch some TV with your family.
Zhiwa Ling - Royal Raven Suite Bedroom
Zhiwa Ling - Royal Raven Suite Workstation
Zhiwa Ling - Royal Raven Suite Day Time (Credits to Zhiwa Ling Heritage)
In the adjacent room is the huge bedroom that consist of a Californian king size bed that is so plush and comfortable. The space is huge and you have a quaint work station just at the corner of the room. As I came back late in the night, the curtains were drawn for privacy sake. In the morning, you will be greeted by lush greenery and serene landscapes.
The toilets were amazing as well with a huge bath tub and shower room. I spent most of my evening soaking in the tub to ease my tired legs from the morning hike.
Leaving the hotel to catch my morning flight
It was such a pleasant stay and I am definitely looking forward to be back to experience the hotel without the rush of completing different sightseeing spots. If you are ever visiting Bhutan, you need to book this for a night to immerse yourself fully in the traditional Bhutanese culture. It was such a great way to end the whole 11D 10N stay on a luxurious high note. I am truly grateful for the amazing hospitality I had received during my stay. You can liaise with your tour operator to book a 5-star accommodation as prices varies according to different seasons.
I hope you enjoyed my journey in Bhutan and may you find your way when you visit this beautiful land of the thunder dragon.
