The Punakha Valley, renowned for its rice and chilli farms, is not just home to the historic Punakha Dzong but also serves as the winter residence for Bhutan's royal family.
Nestled within lush paddy fields, Punakha River Lodge is wrapped by the Jigme Dorji National Park, bordered by the Mochu (Mother River) on one side and the Rongchu (mountain stream) on the other. This unique lodge offers breathtaking vistas of the Gasa mountains and is the sole villa in the valley, featuring scenic river and mountain views from its bedrooms. A vast 50-acre property, it provides various curated dining experiences, such as riverside dining, paddy field meals, orchard settings, and the main dining area and fire pit.
The property also boasts direct hiking access to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten via a suspension bridge, a mere 15 minutes from the iconic Punakha Dzong.
For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the lodge offers a range of soothing treatments and wellness therapies set against the serene backdrop of an orange orchard near a tranquil perennial stream. Whether balancing your chakras through gentle yoga sessions or indulging in the bliss of a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath, the lodge promises a luxurious and unforgettable experience.
andBeyond Punakha River Lodge Information
Location & Getting There
Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines offer direct flights connecting Bhutan to Delhi, Singapore, Bangkok, Kolkata, and Kathmandu, all landing at Paro Airport. Upon arrival at Paro, a guide will greet you and facilitate your transfer to the Punakha Lodge, which takes approximately four hours by car.
Accommodation
The 6 Tented Suites (89 sqm) boast a spacious veranda and a bed offering direct views of the Gasa mountains. They feature generous bathrooms with a skylight above the bathtub, alongside both indoor and outdoor showers.
The 1-bedroom River House (150 sqm) is a duplex villa inspired by local farmhouses. It includes a private heated plunge pool and a kitchenette, allowing our chefs to provide exclusive dining experiences in the River House. The upstairs bedroom offers captivating views of the river below and the snow-capped peaks of the Gasa Mountains, making it an ideal choice for honeymooners, anniversary celebrations, or special occasions requiring privacy.
The 2-bedroom Family Villa (310 sqm), convertible into a King or Twin configuration, is perfect for families, couples travelling together, or groups of four friends. These villas feature a spacious swimming pool and a large shared deck area that extends from the living room, providing mountain vistas. Each room also boasts a private deck for added seclusion and an outdoor shower. The bathrooms include shutters that can be opened to reveal mountain views from the bathtub or closed for privacy as desired.
Other Activities
Explore other activities that the lodge has to offer:
Children
All children are welcome, with no age restrictions.
A one-of-a-kind product and the latest addition in Bhutan – the andBeyond Punakha River Lodge offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. It is located right on the valley floor, with two rivers forming its boundaries.
AUTHENTICITYWe won't take you to the usual tourist traps, instead we'll introduce you to people that show you the true side of a country. With our contacts in each destination, we can arrange for you to meet locals away from the crowds and ensure an authentic experience.
EXPERTISEYou can rely on our extensive first-hand knowledge and years of experience in the country you’re visiting. We use only the best expert guides, and provide insider tips on the local customs, and everything from vibrant festivals to hidden Himalayan monasteries
PERSONAL SERVICEYour vacation will be as unique as you are. By getting to know you and what makes you tick, we fuse our wealth of expertise and a deep understanding of our destinations to create unique day by day itineraries that are built around you.
