Pemako, nestled within the pristine embrace of Bhutan’s natural wonders, is a homegrown luxury hospitality brand with properties in Punakha and Thimphu. The iconic hotels at these supreme locations offer a sensory experience allowing guests to uncover the magic of this extraordinary destination – the land of thunder dragons.
Here are some key highlights from the hotels lending insights into their thoughtful design elements, indulgent dining experiences and immersive activities, ideal for one and all:
Design: Captivating aesthetics blending traditional with contemporary
For the discerning traveller with a keen eye for great design, each corner at Pemako leaves one in awe – bursting with vibrant colours, stunning views, intricate details, and a mystical charm. Both hotels at Punakha and Thimphu are thoughtfully designed to captivate the eye and inspire the soul, offering a haven of aesthetic indulgence.
Pemako Punakha invites one for a spellbinding stay experience with its 21 privately placed, luxury-tented villas. The property spread across 60 acres of lush green valley, is a distinct fusion of Bill Bensely’s mystical design concepts and the artistry of local Bhutanese talents like Asha Kama. The unique entrance experience vows to create a fond memory – a suspension bridge over the Mo Chu River fluttering with prayer flags that lead one to the hotel, a Bodhi tree (sourced from the sacred lands of Sri Lanka) and a resident Lama offering his blessings. As one delves deeper, the corridors transform into vibrant museums adorned with masks, colossal prayer banners, and 5 colours echoing the five elements of earth, water, fire, air and space. From customised décor, ultra-modern fittings, and hand-picked souvenirs, Pemako Punakha seamlessly integrates Bhutanese cultural symbols and traditional aesthetics. A truly unmissable feature is a temperature-controlled private pool overlooking the beautiful Punakha Valley with every tented villa.
The stunning façade of Pemako Thimphu resembles the country’s majestic Dzongs (fortresses), an imperial highlight of the property resonating with the kingdom of Bhutan. With its grandeur, the hotel, strategically located in the centre of the city, unfolds with colossal antique bells gracing the ceiling and scintillating relics placed tastefully. Adorned with classical hand-drawn Buddhist murals, its 66, elegantly designed suites and rooms envelop guests with striking highlights of the region’s art and colour. Its mesmerising location offers panoramic views of the mighty Himalayas and deep insights into the country with the restaurants, well decorated with heritage elements, a quaint outdoor deck and a prayer wheel standing at the heart of the hotel.
Dine: A gastronomic journey unveiling the flavours of Bhutan
Pemako’s intimate private dining setups are designed to captivate hearts and create unforgettable memories! At Pemako Punakha, one can indulge in a blissful riverside picnic set-up – imagine lounging on plush cushions in the company of tranquil waters, peaceful sounds of nature, gourmet delights and refreshing local beverages. A farm-to-table feast at Alchemy house where one can enjoy a multi-course meal prepared with fresh, local ingredients, cooked over an open fire, and learn about traditional Bhutanese cooking methods. A romantic floating breakfast in your private pool or a dinner set up on deck taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. At the chef’s table, one can learn the secrets of Bhutanese cuisine with the chef and enjoy a delicious dinner. The Five Nectars Bar offers a perfect setting to enjoy a range of handcrafted cocktails prepared with Ara as a main ingredient, a locally prepared wine – like Mo Chu Merry, Puna Tsang chu Basil, Pho chu Lemon and beyond.
The distinct spaces across Pemako Thimphu offer an ideal setting for a lovely dining experience. A barbecue at a candlelit courtyard decorated with traditional tapestries accompanied by a selection of marinated meats, fish, and vegetables cooked in the guests’ preference with various sauces and dips. A royal Bhutanese feast served on traditional platters at Chig Ja Gye, featuring an array of curries, dumplings, and local vegetables.
Discovery: An alchemy of nature, culture and wellness immersions
Nested amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes of Bhutan, the two hotels in Punakha and Thimphu are a harmonious blend of beautiful nature, rich cultural experience and rejuvenating wellness immersions.
Surrounded by pristine mountains and lush greenery Pemako Punakha allows one to disconnect from the quotidian life offering transcendent experiences that stimulate the senses, and restore body and soul. The hotel offers a transformative wellness experience that is truly unmissable. With personalised spa therapy, the journey begins with a consultation with an on-site medical doctor – who delves into the guest’s health history, current concerns, and overall holistic wellness goals, forging the foundation of the therapy. It is an essential step catering to the unique needs of the guests and promising a path towards a renewed sense of well-being and deeply connected to your mind, body, and spirit.
A key highlight at Pemako Thimphu is the cultural performances with a folk music group playing traditional instruments like the piwang (lute) and the gyaling (drum), accompanied by local songs and a masked dance ritual that depicts Buddhist stories and deities. An art form dearly special to the country! A deeply symbolic ceremony in which guests can participate is the lighting of the butter lamps. In Bhutanese culture, lighting a lamp signifies the removal of ignorance and the welcoming of wisdom and enlightenment, an enriching experience that one can cherish for a lifetime and an opportunity to connect with the spiritual heart of this beautiful country.
Pemako with its myriad offerings across Punakha and Thimphu is ideal for the thoughtful traveller driven by the desire for novelty and absolute escapism. A luxe sanctuary blending enchanting nature, profound cultural immersions and transformative wellness experiences, an escape for an introspective and transformative stay experience in Bhutan.
Important note: Essential travel requirements and policies for Bhutan, VISA policies, SDF fees and beyond
Bhutan has a unique visa policy designed to preserve its cultural identity and environment. Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Bhutan, however, they are required to obtain a permit to enter the country. The Department of Immigration issues the entry permit after checking the valid documents of the traveller. Visitors from India can apply for a permit but must hold an Indian passport or an Indian voter ID card. For Indian nationals under the age of 18, a passport or a birth certificate can be used to enter and they must be accompanied by a legal guardian. The SDF (Sustainable Development Fees) for Indian nationals (showing a valid Indian passport or Voter ID card) is Nu. 1,200 (or the equivalent amount in Indian rupees) per person, per night. Children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay Nu/INR 600 per night. Children who have not yet turned 6 years old do not have to pay any SDF | For more details: https://bhutan.travel/faqs
Author: Jaun Shahi
Journalist, Sub-Editor, Travellers’ World Jaun is a soft-spoken and gentle soul who thrives as a Journalist with his exceptional observation skills and an eye for intricate details. He is a true multitasker who efficiently handles various tasks and always brings a professional approach to everything he does. His genuine team spirit makes him an integral part of the TW family, as he consistently collaborates and supports his colleagues.
