Solar timber sanctuary
Timber pavilions rise above the pine canopy in Upper Motithang, delivering attentive service and sweeping views across the valley.
Where it shines
Notable
A collaboration between Austrian architects and Bhutanese planners featuring passive solar design and clean timber interiors.
Notable
A panoramic rooftop sauna, dedicated indoor yoga studio, and open-air meditation sessions overlooking the pine valley.
Notable
Handcrafted Bhutanese textiles, locally made wooden furnishings, and staff trained at the adjacent national hospitality institute.
What they say
One Michelin Key
Michelin
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.
Somewhere quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Quiet forest trails and the local Takin Preserve sit just outside, ten minutes uphill from the bustle of central Thimphu.
The rooms
Floor-to-ceiling windows look out onto pine woods, while radiant underfloor heating warms timber floors dressed in local handwoven textiles.
The spa
Treatment rooms host hot stone and deep-tissue massage, and open-air soaking tubs look across the valley.
Main Restaurant
The dining room opens onto sunny lawns, serving organic farm-to-table menus and traditional Bhutanese dishes.
At the table
The rooftop terrace and indoor lounge pour cocktails and local spirits against panoramic views of the hills.
How it began
Operated as a training ground with the adjacent Royal Institute for Tourism and Hospitality, the property champions home-grown Bhutanese hospitality.
Good to know
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Zhiwaling Ascent
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.