Nestled in the enchanting landscapes of Bhutan, Zhiwa Ling Heritage Hotel stands as an epitome of luxury and cultural immersion. Voted by Condé Nast as one of the top 12 hotels in Asia, the hotel is just a brief 10-minute drive from Paro International Airport; this world-class 5-star hotel boasts intricate Bhutanese architecture and warm, soft interiors, creating a harmonious blend of heritage, tradition and elegance.
Set on four lush hectares of countryside with views of the surrounding mountains, this tranquil hotel in multiple stone buildings with ornate woodwork is 4 km from the Paro Taktsang Tiger’s Nest sacred cliffside temple complex and 15 km from Paro Airport.
Casual suites have sitting areas, balconies, mountain views, cable TV, and Wi-Fi access. Upgraded 1- and 2-bedroom suites add living rooms; one (the beautiful Raven Suite) has a private shrine and butler service. In-room dining is available.
Set on its grounds, the Zhiwa Ling Heritage Hotel, Paro, is situated just 4km from Bhutan’s iconic Tiger’s Nest monastery.
Amenities include breakfast, two restaurants, a bar and a spa, a teahouse and a Buddhist altar.
Meditation classes are provided with prior notice.
The hotel’s pièce de résistance is its awe-inspiring in-house shrine on the second floor, a gem among Bhutanese spiritual spaces.
A mere 10-minute drive away, the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery beckons, making Zhiwa Ling an ideal launch pad for exploration.
Relax at the hot stone spa, where ancient healing offers tranquillity. Unwind with rejuvenating baths, soothing massages, first-rate yoga classes and meditation. For aspiring Robin Hoods, try archery, Bhutan’s national sport, organised with flair by the hotel.
With its quaint charm, Paro is a delightful town with remarkable monasteries, temples, and eclectic boutique shops and eateries. Your Café and Sonam Trophel Restaurants stand out as culinary highlights, inviting you to savour Bhutanese and international flavours.
In Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, the Zhiwa Ling Ascent Hotel, located just outside the city centre, welcomes you to relax in a park-like setting with panoramic views.
First-class hospitality by an attentive team of professionals and trainees from the Royal Institute of Hospitality. Wi-Fi Internet, radiant heating, in-room safe, cable TV and complimentary (on arrival) minibar.
Relax in one of 20 spacious rooms designed in the most energy-efficient way to capture all-day sunlight and take in superb views of the surrounding scenery. Zhiwa Ling Ascent by Austrian architect Irene Ott-Reinisch is a comfortable home-away-from-home experience with peace and quiet.
Zhiwa Ling Heritage Hotel in Paro and sister hotel Zhiwa Ling Ascent in Thimphu emerge as the perfect bases for a Bhutanese adventure, offering luxurious accommodation and a gateway to cultural richness and natural splendour. Now, it is even more accessible with the reduced Sustainable Development Tax. Bhutan has slashed its Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) tourist tax by 50% for the next four years. As of 1 September last year, visitors will be required to pay just US$100 per person per night for the length of their trip (down from US$200 per person per night). The new rates will remain in effect until 31 August 2027.
Discover the heart of Bhutan from these havens that seamlessly weave tradition into a tapestry of modern comfort.
Written by: Andrew Wood
BIO:
Andrew J Wood, a travel aficionado, brings Bhutan’s hidden gems to life in today’s article. His travel reports make every adventure a celebration of culture and joy.
A travel junkie, Bangkok-based, English-born Andrew J Wood, is a freelance travel writer and a regular contributor to numerous travel and tourism publications and, for most of his career, a professional hotelier. Andrew has over 45 years of hospitality and travel experience.
A former director of Skål International, hotel GM, a Napier University, Edinburgh graduate. Andrew is a regular guest lecturer at various universities in Asia.
