What types of hotels are available in Bhutan?

From ultra-luxury (Amankora, Six Senses, Como) to 3-4 star tourist hotels, budget guesthouses, and traditional farmstays. Most tour packages include 3-4 star hotels. Since 2022, you can choose your own accommodation.

Can I choose my own hotel?

Yes! The new SDF system allows you to book accommodation independently. Work with your tour operator to select hotels matching your budget and preferences. Book early during peak seasons.

Are there luxury hotels in Bhutan?

Absolutely. Amankora (5 lodges across Bhutan), Six Senses (Thimphu, Paro, Punakha), Como Uma Paro/Punakha, and Taj Tashi Thimphu offer world-class luxury. Expect $800-2,000+ per night plus SDF.

What amenities are standard in Bhutanese hotels?

Tourist-class hotels include WiFi (often slow), hot water, heating (essential at altitude), restaurant, and laundry service. Hot stone baths are a unique Bhutanese amenity. Some hotels lack elevators.

Should I stay in farmstays?

Highly recommended for authentic experience! Farmstays offer home-cooked meals, family interaction, traditional architecture, and hot stone baths. Best in Phobjikha and Bumthang valleys. Book through your operator.

Is accommodation better in western or eastern Bhutan?

Western Bhutan (Paro, Thimphu, Punakha) has far more hotels including luxury options. Eastern Bhutan has basic guesthouses and homestays - comfortable but simpler. This is part of the eastern adventure.

Hotels in Bhutan: Complete Accommodation Guide - Bhutan Travel Guide

Accommodation in Bhutan is far more than just a place to sleep; it is an integral part of the "High Value, Low Volume" tourism philosophy. Whether you are looking for a traditional farmhouse stay or a high-end mountain retreat, the kingdom offers a diverse range of options. This guide outlines the categories, booking regulations, and top recommendations for your stay in Bhutan.

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Tashichho Dzong, Thimphu

Chimi Lhakhang, Punakha

Yoesel Choling Monastery

Paro Dzong

Trongsa Valley

Punakha Dzong

Lhuentse Valley

Kishuthara Weaving, Lhuentse

Understanding the Booking System

Before booking, it is important to understand how the system works in Bhutan.

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): All tourists (except those from India, Bangladesh, and Maldives) must pay a daily SDF of USD 100 per adult.
3-Star Requirement: International tourists must stay in accommodations that are at least 3-star certified by the Department of Tourism.
Luxury Surcharges: If you choose 4-star or 5-star hotels, you will pay a premium on top of your standard tour package or SDF.

Luxury Lodges & Resorts (5-Star)

Bhutan is home to some of the world's most exclusive mountain retreats. These are often designed as "circuits," allowing you to stay in the same brand's lodges across different valleys (Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Gangtey, and Bumthang).

Aman Kora

Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, Bumthang

The gold standard of luxury in Bhutan, with five distinct lodges across the kingdom.

From $2,000/night

Six Senses Bhutan

Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, Bumthang

Known as the "Six Senses Bhutan Journey," offering incredible views and world-class spas.

From $1,500/night

COMO Uma

Paro & Punakha

Famous for its wellness-centric approach with locations in two valleys.

From $800/night

Le Méridien & Pemako

Thimphu

Excellent choices for those who prefer luxury in urban, central settings.

From $400/night

Boutique & 4-Star Hotels

These provide a blend of modern amenities and Bhutanese architecture, often offering better value for travelers who want comfort without the Aman-level price tag.

Zhiwa Ling Heritage

Paro

A 100% Bhutanese-owned hotel that is a masterpiece of local craftsmanship.

From $250/night

Terma Linca Resort

Thimphu

Located along the Wang Chhu river, offering great views and a quiet atmosphere.

From $200/night

Dhensa Boutique Resort

Punakha

Minimalist design with stunning views over the Punakha Valley.

From $220/night

Standard 3-Star Hotels

These are the most common accommodations. They are clean, comfortable, and always decorated in traditional Bhutanese style.

Namseling Boutique Hotel

Thimphu

Highly rated for its service and cultural ambiance.

From $80/night

Hotel Silverpine

Thimphu

A reliable, well-reviewed boutique option in the capital.

From $70/night

The Willows Hotel

Thimphu

Central and convenient for exploring the capital city.

From $75/night

Homestays & Farmhouses

For those seeking an authentic experience, the Department of Tourism has certified several farmhouses across the country. Expect pitched roofs, wood-burning stoves (bukharis), and home-cooked meals like Ema Datshi. Most farmhouses offer a Hot Stone Bath, where river stones are heated in a fire and dropped into a wooden tub filled with medicinal herbs.

Do

Experience traditional Bhutanese family life firsthand
Enjoy home-cooked meals with local ingredients
Try the traditional Hot Stone Bath ritual
Learn about rural Bhutanese customs and traditions

Don't

Expect hotel-style amenities
Forget to bring warm layers for cold nights
Miss the opportunity to help with farm activities
Leave without trying the local ara (rice wine)

Regional Highlights: Where to Stay

Different regions offer unique accommodation experiences based on their geography and attractions.

Thimphu (The Capital)

Central Bhutan

Best for a mix of luxury and boutique hotels. Stay here to be close to museums, the Memorial Chorten, and the Buddha Dordenma.

All budgets

Paro (The Gateway)

Western Bhutan

Ideally, stay here at the beginning or end of your trip. Many hotels offer views of the rice paddies or distant peaks.

All budgets

Punakha (The Lowlands)

Central Bhutan

Generally warmer. Many resorts are perched on hillsides overlooking the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers.

Mid to Luxury

Phobjikha/Gangtey

Central Bhutan

Famous for Black-Necked Cranes. Accommodations are more rustic to preserve the valley's environment.

Budget to Mid

Essential Amenities to Look For

When browsing hotels, check for these specific Bhutanese features that enhance your experience.

Bukharis: Traditional wood-burning stoves (essential in winter).
Hot Stone Baths: A must-try Bhutanese wellness ritual.
Tea Rooms: Most hotels have a dedicated space for Suja (butter tea).
WiFi: While common in Thimphu/Paro, it can be spotty in remote valleys like Bumthang or Haa.

Booking Tips

Smart planning will help you secure the best accommodations for your Bhutan trip.

Pro Tips

Peak Season (Sept–Nov & March–May): Book at least 4–6 months in advance, as the best boutique and luxury lodges fill up quickly for festival dates.
Visa/SDF Support: Most 4-star and 5-star hotels can assist you with your visa and SDF payment processing if you are traveling independently.
Location vs. View: In Paro, decide if you want to be near the town for walking or further out for a quiet view of the mountains.

Hotels in Bhutan: Complete Accommodation Guide

Photo Gallery

In This Guide

Understanding the Booking System