DENSE CLUSTERS OF FORESTED HILLS
Deep in the lush green Punakha Valley, &Beyond Punakha Lodge is luxury with a light footprint.
Enveloped by verdant paddy fields and dense clusters of forested hills, &Beyond chose the most enchanting setting for its first lodge in Bhutan.
Overlooking the gently flowing Mo Chu River, guests are treated to sweeping views of the Himalayas and an array of experiences that include rafting, kayaking, fishing and trekking in the pristine natural surroundings.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, take yourself into the paddy fields for a delectable, intimate lunch, or check out the spectacular rim-flow pool. Those looking to be pampered can indulge in a hot stone bath or traditional Bhutanese massage in the spa, beautifully positioned in an orange orchard.
The lodge’s design draws heavily from traditional Bhutanese architecture as well as the natural surroundings, with the country’s national flower – the blue poppy – a recurring motif. There’s a pavilion for gentle yoga sessions, and a suspension bridge draped in rows of prayer flags where you can enjoy your evening sundowners.
&BEYOND PUNAKHA LODGE
At a glance
- Luxury lodge with a serene setting in the Punakha Valley on the banks of the Mo Chu River
- Choice of six intimate safari-style tented suites suspended from a timber structure
- One-bedroom River Suite set along a quiet stream – ideal for honeymooners
- Two-bedroom Family Suite with a private pool
- Traditional Bhutanese design with a unique twist, from brass-cladded bathtubs to decorative, gilded details
- Dine on traditional cuisine – a delicious fusion of Indian, Tibetan and Chinese influences
- Interactive kitchen and unique dining locations
For leisure and pleasure
- Easy access to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten (a 45-minute hike from the lodge along the river)
- Other nearby attractions include the famed Punakha Dzong and Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery
- Biking, rafting, kayaking and archery
- Local village walks, hikes and treks
- Traditional Bhutanese spa offering hot stone baths and a range of other restful wellness therapies
- Gentle yoga and meditation sessions
- Traditional Bhutanese cooking lessons
- Sparkling rim-flow pool and pavilion overlooking the mountains
From the first conversation to the final day of our trip, Catherine and the team were helpful, efficient and easy to reach. Their recommendations not only improved our original plans but also made the whole holiday more cost-effective. Even when we needed assistance while away, their response was immediate. We wouldn’t hesitate to travel with them again.
