The Best Hotels to Stay in Bhutan Curated by Secret Retreats

Bhutan, ‘The Last Shangri-La', was largely isolated from the rest of the planet up until around the middle of the 20th century, and for those looking for the best hotels to stay in Bhutan, it means its rich traditions and culture have remained largely intact and untouched by outside influences. Although high costs and perceived inaccessibility have previously caused the Kingdom to lose out to its more accessible and ‘on the beaten path’ neighbours, reforms and changes in the system mean a trip to Bhutan is more achievable than ever with travelers from around the globe drawn to this jewel in the Himalayas looking for something unique to put on their Asian itinerary. And a trip to Bhutan is an unbeatable Asia travel experience.

Since 2022 and the reopening of Bhutan’s borders, visitors have been given unprecedented freedom to explore the nation, not only as part of an organized tour group but as independent adventurers. This means the freedom to book Bhutan hotels and resorts, obtain the services of a guide (a prerequisite for visiting Paro and Thimphu), and even hire and drive a private vehicle for the first time ever. Engaging the services of a tour operator may still be necessary, or indeed preferable, for booking specialized activities including trekking, festivals, and in some cases securing the best deals on the best places to stay in Bhutan.

The Kingdom of Bhutan is sandwiched between China to the north and India to the south. Its topography ranges from mountain peaks in the north and subtropical lowlands further south. But what really hits you when stepping out into the last Buddhist kingdom on earth is the architecture which is heavily influenced by Tibetan tradition, with traditional homes looking like large and colourful Alpine chalets, with construction largely utilizing locally sourced natural materials. Dzong architecture dates back centuries and still influences the designs of many of the best hotels to stay in Bhutan. The Dzong hit its heyday in the 17th century where they acted as fortresses and religious centers with courtyards and stone-built curtain walls. These were transformed into imposing secular residences of the ruling class in the more peaceful 19th century. Dzong design traditionally did not rely on plans, did not allow the use of iron nails, bolts, bars, or screws in the construction of the wooden frames and whitewashed earthen walls, featured sloping roofs and small arched windows, and were commonly brightly painted with phallic symbols and Buddhist symbols.