Amankora Bumthang
Bumthang

Amankora’s five distinct lodges, based in Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthang, offer a unique and unrivalled circuit through Bhutan’s valleys.

Bumthang Lodge is the undiscovered gem in the Amankora crown. The most recent addition to the Amankora family of five lodges, this stately lodge lies within the eastern town of Jakar in Bhutan’s least visited yet most spiritual region, commonly known as Bumthang Valley. The lodge is set within an apple and pear orchard which skims the grounds of the former royal palace of Bhutan’s first and second kings, Wangdicholing, which is now undergoing delicate conservation work.

The lodge comprises of 16 suites in four separate buildings, two suites on the ground floor and two on the upper floor. The spacious suites, with wood panelled interiors, each contain a daybed and traditional bukhari, king size bed and en-suite bathrooms, and overlook the courtyard and nearby palace and monastery. In the main building, the impressive dzong-inspired main hallway opens up onto the lodge library and the comfortable living room with lounge chairs, daybeds and traditional bukhari. Adjacent is the regally-appointed dining room with its soaring ceiling, and floor to ceiling windows which allow light to flood the space and offer views of the landscaped courtyard and adjoining palace grounds. Shaded by fruit trees, the courtyard is also ideal for alfresco dining.

The four valleys of Bumthang are home to some of the country’s most auspicious and historic monasteries which are fascinating to explore and gain an understanding of the local culture. The region is also well known for its cottage industries which produce Bumthang butter, cheeses, honey and weiss beer. Trekking, archery and fishing activities abound, and guests staying at Amankora will really get a true sense of Bhutan’s great outdoors, indeed the lodge is next to the former royal sports ground of Bhutan’s first two kings, and a traditional and much-used archery area. For those looking to simply relax and take in the beautiful surroundings, the lodge spa provides three treatment rooms and a steam room.

**** SPECIAL OFFER For guests staying seven nights or more, a tailor-made itinerary based on preferred length of stay will include the following on a complimentary basis: long road permits, private transport with driver and guide, plus one 60-minute massage at the Amankora spa per Amankora Journey, all offers are subject to availability****

To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.
Bill Bryson