Six Senses Thimphu
Thimphu

Strategically perched on the hillside at 2,650 metres, Six Senses offers commanding views over Thimphu’s sprawling valley and the renowned Buddha Dordenma to a spectacular mountain vista on the horizon.

The grand design of this lodge includes a number of inventive features that highlight the captivating surroundings to their full effect. Our favourites are the mirror-still ponds around the spacious lobby that reflect the snow-capped alpine peaks; the vast outdoor terraces with their panoramic viewpoints; and the floor-to-ceiling windows that blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors in every single room.

In line with Six Senses’ ethos of responsible luxury, the 20 suites and 5 villas are decorated in a well-appointed yet discreet manner. The interior design is unmistakably modern with clean-cut lines and a muted colour scheme, which blend well with the wooden furnishings and indulgent en-suite bathrooms.

Thanks to the wonderful staff at Six Senses Thimphu, you can expect to gain real insights into the capital’s cultural sites, enjoy invigorating hikes and take part in special excursions during your stay. Pick between visiting Buddha Dordenma, hiking to Talakha Monastery, or even sitting down at Pangri Zampa Lhakhang temple for a private astrology reading and fortune telling session with a Buddhist monk. Another highlight of a stay here is bound to be afternoon tea, for it is beautifully set out in a secluded apple orchard and followed by an archery match.

After a day exploring the remote Himalayan kingdom, you are sure to want a little relaxation time; we highly recommend doing so by soaking in a traditional Bhutanese hot-stone bath in the serene spa and wellness centre. You can also find a contemporary gym, an indoor swimming pool, and a special ‘prayer pavilion’ on site if these tempt you more. Or simply retreat to your comfortable suite or villa to rest in private before dinner.

Despite Thimphu being the capital of Bhutan, it is an exceptionally serene spot that is well-worth a visit. Lying just an hour away from Paro by road, it fits neatly within the Six Senses circuit of Bhutan and can easily be followed by a stay in the Punakha lodge.

I can't think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything.
Bill Bryson