Amankora

Aman properties are nothing if not exclusive; relatively modest in size, if not in the scope of their comforts, they’re priced well out of the reach of the undiscerning traveler, and situated in locations that are highly desirable, yet less than obvious.

Aman's expansion into the rarefied air of this tiny mountain kingdom fits the pattern to a tee — Bhutan strictly limits the number of visitors admitted, and has taken great pains to avoid the everyman-backpacker fate that has befallen nearby Nepal, and to protect at all costs the pristine natural environment and ancient Bhutanese culture.

Instead of a single hotel complex, Amankora is a slight departure. It’s a series of lodges, five at last count, spread across the valleys of central and western Bhutan — with locations near the towns of Paro and in the capital Thimphu, and the even more remote locales of Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthang.

A tour of all five lodges can be arranged, but no single one stands out; each offers seclusion, spectacular views and a tranquil atmosphere, with interiors in the spare Eastern-contemporary Aman style and the same traditional Bhutanese rammed-earth architecture. The style is intentionally somewhat minimalist but the suites contain such lavish comforts as wood-burning stoves, palatial beds and luxurious terrazzo baths. Spa treatments are available at all the lodges, and all five are ideal home bases for a guided mountain trek or a jeep excursion.

How to get there: Amankora is a 20-minute drive from Paro airport. Aman recommends traveling via Bangkok, where their staff can sort out the visa details, eliminating any inconvenient surprises on the ground at Paro.

Important Information about traveling to Bhutan: The Kingdom of Bhutan requires every foreign national (except Indian nationals) to pay a Daily Government Royalty of $65 USD per person, per day and an FIT (“Free Independent Traveler”) surcharge of $40 per day for single travelers and $30 USD per person, per day otherwise. Additionally, foreign nationals (except Indian nationals) are required to pay a non-refundable visa fee of $40 USD per application (one name per application), and a $10 USD Tourism Development Fund fee. It takes 2–3 weeks to complete the visa formalities.

Booking Details: Amankora requires additional information from guests to ensure the best stay possible. As such, reservations can only be confirmed through our customer service team. Contact us for assistance. Rates begin at 1700 USD per night.