Zhiwa Ling

This undeniably beautiful hotel is a tribute to the ornate traditional architecture of Bhutan and took five years to build.

Zhiwa Ling is set on ten acres of landscaped grounds a short drive from Paro and is the only Bhutanese-owned and managed hotel to be awarded a five-star rating.

Every part of this serene property is hand-made, from the huge hand-carved wooden beams to the ornate wooden sculptures and elaborate colourful painted ceilings. Accommodation is in 45 spacious suites in either the main building or one of the surrounding cottages.

Each room offers fine views from its balcony and is equipped with under-floor heating, Wi-Fi, an in-room safe, cable television and a tea/coffee maker. At 49 sqm, the Junior suites are the largest standard rooms in Bhutan. Conversely, it must be noted that the extensive use of wooden flooring at Zhiwa Ling can create a problem with squeaking floorboards, and internet access can also be slow.

The making of the hotel is its staff, who are exceptionally attentive and make the property a truly pleasant base from which to explore the Paro Valley. Guest facilities at Zhiwa Ling include a bar, two restaurants specialising in international and Bhutanese cuisine, a Tea House, Meditation House, and a Spa.

There is also a Buddhist temple built from 450-year-old timbers, which were originally part of Gangtey Monastery.