Zhiwa Ling Hotel, Paro, Bhutan
Category: 5 Star
This is an exquisitely beautiful hotel... the best in aesthetics out of all the hotels I looked at in Paro, Thimphu, Phuntsheoling etc. If you are looking for luxury living in traditional Bhutanese environment in a sprawling property then this is the best you can get. The combination of Bhutanese woodwork and Grey stonework dominates the entire hotel and gives it a different look.
The hotel is nearly 7 km away from the main town so don’t expect bustling markets around, the surroundings are beautiful but quiet. However, nobody really comes to Bhutan seeking glitz and glamour so solitary beauty is what you should be looking at.
There are 45 rooms out of which 40 are cottages and 5 are in the main building. 19 king sized bedrooms with double beds and 24 twin bedded rooms and 2 master suites.
The rates vary between US $ 315 to US $ 430 depending upon which kind of room you are opting for. However the master suite (Raven Suite) is priced between US$ 680 to US$ 925 depending upon number of persons occupying it (it can accommodate max 5 people).
These are season rates (March, April, may, Sept, Oct, Nov) and in off season you can get up to 30% discount. However there will be 10% BST (BHUTAN SALES TAX) and 10% service tax over these rates.
Zhiwa ling against the scenic background of mountains
The rooms have traditional Bhutanese décor with under-floor heating, displays of embroidered Kira’s (Bhutanese garment) and huge LCD screen along with mini bar, coffee maker and other amenities including free wi-fi. The beds in the Twin suites are upholstered with traditional weaves of Bhutan.
Twin Suite... notice the indigenous floor mats
The lovely seating area in the attached balcony of the suite is perfect for a hot cup of tea and long conversations in the morning or late afternoon.
Attached Balcony
The washroom looked lovely though a little small (for a 5 star hotel) and had a bathtub along with assorted toiletries hamper.
There are twin restaurants Lingka and Gawa Restaurants. Gawa is meant basically for private dinners for 15 people or less. The restaurants specialise in continental food along with a good selection of Bhutanese, Chinese and Indian food. Incidentally, the chef is Indian.
There is a Spa 'Mentha' offering hot stone baths, therapeutic massages and 4 hand massages. There is also a Yoga retreat and meditation house that’s free for in house guests. Other facilities include a nice collection of books on Bhutanese history and royalty along with an in-house temple.
The Bar is interestingly named as 'Mad Monk' and it has a fine collection of liquor & wine. Bottles are usually stored inside at day time (this was off season) and brought out at the request of guests.
Check out the collection of artifacts in the hotel’s lounge
The small lake in the hotel premises and the numerous walkways dotted with beautiful shrubbery adds to Zhiwa-Lings attractions. Archery and Khuru (darts) demonstrations are provided on the main lawn during season.
Incidentally this is one of the few luxury hotels to be owned 100% by a Bhutanese Ugyen Rinzin.
Rates provided by booking.com
Location and Contact Info
Address: Near Satsam Chorten, Paro, Kingdom of Bhutan
Phone: 975-8-271277
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