Paro
Sheltered within a blue-pine forest of glistening conifers, 24-suite Amankora Paro lies beneath the ruins of the 17th-century Drukyel Dzong (fortress-monastery) overlooking snow-capped Jhomolhari, each suite features its own bukhari, a wood-burning stove.
Adding to its already extensive experience guide, in the year ahead Paro lodge will offer an insight into one the world’s rarest teas. Originating from the Camelia Sinensis trees planted by the former King of Bhutan, Thunder Dragon Tea is gifted to the villagers of Samcholing where the tea trees are grown by the community and gently nurtured by mists from the verdant gorge, Himalayan spring water and the valley’s organic, fertile soil.
Guests of both Paro and Thimphu lodge can discover the nuances of this unique green brew with Thunder Dragon High Tea, where its delicately aromatic flavour is paired with sweet and savoury treats created by the culinary team. With every sip, guests are transported to the Kingdom’s mountains, springs and skies.
Punakha
Amankora Punakha lies east of the dramatic Dochu La Pass and just north of the resplendent Punakha Dzong that dominates the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Po Chhu rivers. Surrounded by rice paddies and fruit plantations, the lodge occupies a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse with twelve guest suites set in an orange orchard near the 30-metre infinity swimming pool.
Perhaps one of the best ways to experience culture is through cuisine. In the year ahead Punakha lodge will offer torma making classes, providing an insight into one of the most sacred Buddhist celebration cakes. Made with butter and barley flour, torma cakes are used to adorn altars during traditional Buddhist ceremonies and are created primarily by monks.
Dyed with colourful pigments, shaped by hand, blessed and finally offered in accordance with its specific creation – whether to represent a deity, a ritual in a feast, as a healing, medicinal symbol or even as a vessel to obstruct spirits – guests are invited to partake in this unique heritage practiced all over the Buddhist realms of the Himalayas. Classes are to be held during auspicious dates hosted by a monk, with private classes available on request.
Gangtey
Offering eight suites, Amankora Gangtey rests in the seldom-visited valley of Phobjikha near the quaint village of Gangtey. From its forested knoll, the lodge boasts panoramic views across the gorge to the regal Gangtey Goemba, a 16th-century monastery, and easy access to the winter habitat of the rare, black-necked crane.
A new way to explore Gangtey’ s pristine corners, guests are now invited relive the early days of Bhutan’s wild frontiers on Yuta horseback. A distinct Himalayan breed known for their mild temperament and impeccable sense of balance, the expedition starts from the lodge grounds, passing through scenic traditional farming villages, wooden bridges and charming farmhouses before completing the hour-long loop passing through fields littered with prayer poles gently flowing with the breeze.
