The esteemed Zhiwaling Heritage is a distinguished lodging establishment that has been recognized by the National Geographic Society as one of the most exceptional lodges in the world. It is a magnificent feat of architecture that seamlessly blends the rich cultural and traditional elements of Bhutan with the modern-day conveniences of the 21st century. Boasting 45 luxurious suites that offer a breathtaking view of the verdant foothills of the Himalayas, this resort is the first of its kind – a five-star resort that is wholly owned by Bhutanese. Its recognition as a unique lodge is a testament to its excellence.
The Zhiwa Ling Ascent, located just outside the bustling capital city, is an exquisitely designed lodge that sits amidst the serene and pristine forests of Thimphu. The design for this enchanting establishment was conceived by the brilliant Austrian architect Irene Ott-Reinish, who drew inspiration from the traditional farmhouses of Bhutan.
Nestled within the hotel’s design are elements of Bhutanese dzongs, or temples, which imbue the space with a refined and traditional aesthetic. Boasting a mere 20 rooms, each offering unparalleled vistas of Bhutan’s untouched forests and wildlife, A Glimpse of Bhutan presents a rare opportunity to bear witness to the majesty and folklore of the Himalayan Kingdom, where the intersection of culture and nature is exquisitely harmonized.
The journey is a chance to encounter the people, traverse the unspoiled forests teeming with rare glimpses of wildlife, and gain insight into the ancient arts and crafts practices that endure throughout the less-trodden regions of Bhutan.
We will welcome you at the airport for the 10-minute transfer to the property. We invite you for a short guided walk in the afternoon in and around Zhiwaling Hotel for orientation and acclimatization purposes.
Places and attractions:
- Rinpung Dzong
- Drukgyel Dzong
- Taktshang
- Kyichu Lhakhang
- Kila Gompa
- Dungtse Lhakhang
- Tachog Lhakhang
- Dzongdrakha
Day walk to Zurig Dzong, Rinpung Dzong, Ta Dzong, Paro town, Kyichu Lhakhang and Drukgyel Dzong. Wind through pine forests high above Uma Paro to the pretty grounds of the fortress-like monastery of Zurig Dzong. Traverse across to Ta Dzong, housing Bhutan’s National Museum with magnificent views over Paro, and on down to Rinpung Dzong (Fortress on a Heap of Jewels). The trail then leads across Paro Chhu (river) via a traditional covered bridge (Nyamai Zam) and then past the main archery ground, Ugyen Pelri Palace, and into Paro town.
Drive a few kilometers north of Paro, and we pay our respects at Kyichu Lhakhang; this is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan with its magic orange tree that bears fruit all year round. Time permitting; we drive further up the valley to Drukgyel Dzong, built in 1648 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to control the northern route to Tibet (from here, it is only a two-day hike to the border with Tibet, dominated by Mt Jomolhari).
Places and attractions:
- Rinpung Dzong
- Drukgyel Dzong
- Taktshang
- Kyichu Lhakhang
- Kila Gompa
- Dungtse Lhakhang
- Tachog Lhakhang
- Dzongdrakha
One of the most amazing and important pieces of architecture in Bhutan, Taktsang Goemba defies logic, gravity, and reason. Legend has it that this Cliffside was where Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) landed on the back of a flying tigress, bringing Buddhism to Bhutan from Tibet. To avoid the hot sun an early start is advisable for the two-hour climb to the Tiger’s Nest viewpoint. Descend steeply, and then climb up to the monastery, passing a waterfall and entering through the main gates, which are filled with murals.
Retrace our steps or alternatively (if time and energy levels allow) head further up to several remote temples and monasteries. Return to Uma Paro in the afternoon for some time to rest and relax and enjoy the facilities such as the steam rooms, swimming pool, or a Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath followed by a soothing massage. In the evening you are invited for a fire-lit farewell dinner either in the courtyard at Uma Paro or at our Bukhari restaurant.
Places and attractions:
- Rinpung Dzong
- Drukgyel Dzong
- Taktshang
- Kyichu Lhakhang
- Kila Gompa
- Dungtse Lhakhang
- Tachog Lhakhang
- Dzongdrakha
Today we will bid a fond farewell to this beautiful Himalayan country and take an early flight back to your destination. We hope by now you would have made some friends and also kept many photos and beautiful memories of Bhutan! And we look forward to seeing you again in this beautiful land of endless Enchantments!
Tashi Delek!
The National Geographic Society has selected the Zhiwa Ling hotel in Paro as one of the unique lodges in the world.
Zhiwaling is an architectural masterpiece that unites Bhutanese culture and tradition with 21st-century amenities.
This is the first five-star Bhutanese-owned resort, and its 45 beautifully appointed suites face out over the emerald foothills of the Himalayas.
It also has its wing on the outskirt of Bhutan’s capital City.
Apart from meeting a lot of friendly and smiley and happy Bhutanese, you will get to visit many sacred and blessed spiritual sites which surely would throw you in a blissful trance.
You will also get to see a lot of beautiful places accentuated by nature’s work of wonder like snaking rivers, sleeping high mountain peaks, soulful endangered birds and animals, and ever colorful flowers and trees.
Most important, you will go back knowing what peace and happiness mean in true essence.
On this trip, you will have two hiking trips. The hike to Tiger’s Nest will take at least half a day and it is to visit an 8th-century monastery built by one of the most important Buddhist masters called Guru Padmasambhava.
The other one is the Chelela hike which will take a whole day. It will begin with a descent from a high pass standing at 3,750 meters above sea level and will gradually come down the beautiful trail with a respite at some temples on the way.
From putting up in Zhiwaling Lodges which is one of the leading five-star chain hotels, to providing the best SUV and highest standard of services, you will get all the luxury elements.
Apart from meeting a lot of friendly and smiley and happy Bhutanese, you will get to visit many sacred and blessed spiritual sites which surely would throw you in a blissful trance.
You will also get to see lot of beautiful places accentuated by nature’s work of wonder like snaking rivers, sleeping high mountain peaks, soulful endangered birds and animals, and ever colourful flowers and trees. Most important, you will go back knowing what peace and happiness mean in true essence.
- Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle.
- 3-star accommodation (4 & 5 stars may require an additional premium update).
- Bhutan visa fee – including all necessary processing
- Route Permit
- Three meals per day during your stay in Bhutan
- A licensed Bhutanese tour guide
- All land transportation by private vehicle
- Camping equipment and haulage for trekking tours
- Sightseeing as per itinerary
- Monuments entrance fees where applicable
- Drinking water
- All internal taxes and charges
- A sustainable development fee of $200. (This sustainable development fee goes towards free education, free healthcare, and poverty alleviation, along with the building of infrastructure.)
- Airfare & Travel Insurance
- Expenses of personal nature, Tips to guides and drivers
- Expenses occurred due to unavoidable events i.e. road wrecks, flight delays etc.
Bhutan Travel Info
Travel Essentials
- Travel/Medical Insurance: Ensure a worry-free journey with Bhutan's dedicated travel and medical insurance plans offered by the Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan. Visit RICB for more information.
- Banking: Modern banking facilities are available in urban areas of Bhutan, with banks like Bank of Bhutan Limited, Druk PNB, and Bhutan National Bank. ATMs are common in Thimphu and Phuentsholing, but scarce in rural areas. Complete your banking in major cities.
- Money Matters: Bhutan's currency is the Ngultrum (Nu), which is equivalent in value to the Indian Rupee. Foreign travelers should bring traveler’s cheques or cash, especially USD. Credit cards like Visa and American Express are accepted in most areas.
- Communication: Bhutan's telecommunications are well-developed with internet cafes, mobile phone coverage, and international roaming available in most towns.
- Electricity: Bhutan operates on 230 volts and 50 Hertz. Ensure your devices are compatible with the three types of plugs commonly used.
- Time Zone: Bhutan's time is six hours ahead of GMT.
Health, Safety, and Customs
- Health and Inoculations: Recommended vaccinations include tetanus, typhoid, and hepatitis A. Avoid untreated water and ice cubes; instead, opt for bottled water, which is readily available.
- Safety Precautions: Bhutan is generally safe, but avoid walking alone or staying out late, especially after 9 PM. Secure your belongings, particularly in the capital, Thimphu.
- Customs Regulations: Personal belongings, 1 liter of alcohol, 200 cigarettes, and professional equipment are exempt from customs duty. Importing restricted items, such as wildlife products, antiques, and drugs, is prohibited.
Accommodation, Food, and Shopping
- Accommodation: Bhutan offers a range of accommodations, from quality 3-star to luxury 5-star hotels in places like Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha. Travelers can also opt for camping when venturing beyond urban areas.
- Food: Bhutanese cuisine is rich and spicy, featuring dishes like ema datshi. International cuisine such as Indian, Continental, and Chinese is available in most restaurants, with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
- Shopping: Bhutan offers unique handicrafts, including hand-woven textiles, wooden bowls (Dapas), silver statues, Thangkas, and local postage stamps. Note that the buying and selling of antiques is strictly prohibited.
Travel Kits and Clothing
- Clothing and Essentials: Bhutan's climate is diverse, so dress in layers and pack accordingly. Respectful clothing is required when visiting monasteries and religious sites, and hats should be removed in sacred areas.
- Travel Kits: Pack items like sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, antihistamine cream, anti-diarrhea pills, a flashlight, warm clothes, and a hat. The diverse climate means temperatures range from 20-25°C in summer to below 15°C in winter.
Experiences and Activities
- Photography: Capture Bhutan's stunning landscapes, rural life, and architecture. Indoor photography in sacred sites requires special permission.
- Guides and Interpreters: Bhutan offers certified guides fluent in various languages, ensuring you get the best experience when visiting sacred sites and cultural landmarks.
- Festivals and Holidays: Each district in Bhutan celebrates its unique annual tshechu. Check local schedules to plan your visit around these vibrant festivals.
- Weights and Measures: Bhutan uses metric measurements for weight, with advanced electronic scales commonly found in major cities.
- Best Price Guaranteed
- Book Now, Pay Later
- Local Expertise
- Hand-Picked Hotels
- Value for money
- Quality Service
- Responsible Tourism
- Tailor-Made Holidays
- No Booking Fee
- 100% Visa Approval
- 24/7 Customer Service
- No Hidden Costs
