Peaceful Himalayan Farmhouse

This traditional Bhutanese farmhouse has pedigree; it was built by a former Je Khenpo (chief abbot of Bhutan), after all. Within its walled courtyard, soothing suites and a relaxed kitchen await; further afield, outdoors adventures beckon. Consider this your laidback launchpad to voyages of discovery involving orange orchards, tiered rice terraces, rugged countryside and ah-maize-ing cuisine.

Our Favourite Rooms

They’re all born equal, stylistically – the main point of difference is whether you opt for a ground- or first-floor perch, and kip in the main house or the new building (home to the two Mo Chhu Suites). Each suite has a snore-prompting Aman bed, a traditional wood-burning stove and a freestanding bath tub.

Packing Tips

Bring boots fit for hiking and warm layers for cool nights.

Also

himalayawander can help with the processing and issuance of the visa and authorisation letter to enter Bhutan; this must be done at least three weeks before departure, and is subject to a one-off payment (US$45 a person).

Worth Getting Out of Bed For

The sacred slopes and summits of Bumthang are the spiritual centre of the country; steeped in folklore, they’re home to some of Bhutan’s oldest palaces and most magnificent monasteries. The country’s traditions are enchanting and fascinating in equal measure, so put butter-lamp lighting, an astrology reading or evening prayers with local monks high on your to-do list (the hotel can arrange them all). Nearby, Burning Lake is one of Bhutan’s most beguiling and sacred sites with a setting straight out of a fairy tale; it’s hidden at the bottom of a deep gorge that’s lined by moss-covered boulders and towering evergreens strung with hundreds of fluttering prayer flags. Kurjey Lhakhang is perhaps one of the best places to discover more about Buddhist faith and traditions: it’s home to intricate paintings, immense statues and temples concealed inside caves. The legend behind it is also one of the region’s most intriguing, involving an 8th-century king, a vengeful deity and one of Buddhism’s most important gurus. Also intriguing – but for entirely different reasons – is Bumthang’s tiny Red Panda Brewery which, amazingly, turns out small batches of Weiss beer and must-try Swiss cheeses, which are sold in the shop next door. The short tours include a bottle of beer to enjoy in their idyllic garden, too. Presiding over Bumthang town, Jakar Dzong dates back to 1549 and is one of the biggest forts in Bhutan. Flanked by coniferous forest and accessible via a winding stone pathway, it’s a standout example of traditional Bhutanese architecture: a maze of walled passageways, precarious towers and tranquil courtyards. Another unmissable visit is within wandering distance of the hotel – Wangdichholing Palace has a stunning carved façade and is one of the most important manors in the history of Bhutan’s monarchy.