Zhiwaling Ascent
Thimphu, Bhutan
Motithang
Vibe
Timber pavilions rise above the pine canopy in Upper Motithang, delivering attentive service and sweeping views across the valley.
“Solar timber sanctuary”
A collaboration between Austrian architects and Bhutanese planners featuring passive solar design and clean timber interiors.
A panoramic rooftop sauna, dedicated indoor yoga studio, and open-air meditation sessions overlooking the pine valley.
Handcrafted Bhutanese textiles, locally made wooden furnishings, and staff trained at the adjacent national hospitality institute.
In Upper Motithang pine forest overlooking the valley, a ten-minute drive uphill from central Thimphu.
“The rooms are simple, spacious, and light-filled, with first-rate comforts and plenty of Bhutanese flavor thanks to the locally made furnishings and textiles.”
Rooms
Floor-to-ceiling windows look out onto pine woods, while radiant underfloor heating warms timber floors dressed in local handwoven textiles.
Wellness
A panoramic rooftop sauna overlooks the valley floor, alongside an indoor studio and open-air deck for yoga and meditation.
Backstory
Operated as a training ground with the adjacent Royal Institute for Tourism and Hospitality, the property champions home-grown Bhutanese hospitality.
Eat & drink
The restaurant pairs organic local produce with Bhutanese dishes, while the open rooftop bar pours cocktails against 360-degree hill views.
The neighborhood
Quiet forest trails and the local Takin Preserve sit just outside, ten minutes uphill from the bustle of central Thimphu.
The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate, in your pocket, for the whole trip.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
They did this well. You’ll notice.
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Architecture and interiors lead. There’s a creative vision at work.
The guest is conspicuously well cared for. Requests met before they’re made.
Rooted in place. Local character runs through the whole stay.
Energy and scene. Where the city goes out, whether or not it’s sleeping here.
A building with history. The story of the place is part of the stay.
Built around feeling better. Rest, sweat, soak, spa.
A hotel the city grew up with. Same rituals, same regulars.
A world of its own. No reason to leave the property.
Scene — what’s outside the door
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
A place apart: the property is the destination.