Famous for its Gross National Happiness (GNH) – a philosophy that guides the government of Bhutan – Six Senses, one of the world’s leading operators of luxury hotels, resorts and spas, tomorrow (March 31, 2019) celebrates the opening of its first three lodges in the Himalayan Kingdom: Thimphu, Punakha and Paro. The lodges seamlessly combine the brand’s commitment to wellness, sustainability and out-of-the-ordinary experiences with the country’s rich culture, warm hospitality and omni-present spirituality.
If you’ve ever watched a YouTube video of the extreme aviation flight-path approach Paro Airport, Bhutan, then you’ll understand why we feel a luxury holiday stay in Bhutan might also be considered adventure tourism. However once happily grounded on Paro’s valley floor, feelings of peace, tranquility and happiness are sure to help guide you to your chosen villa.
Comprising five lodges spread over the west and central valleys of Bhutan, Six Senses offers guests a range of uplifting experiences including: sunrise meditations and holistic spa treatments, private astrology readings, butter lamp lighting ceremonies; plus epic hikes through pristine forests – each designed to leave guests enriched and reconnected.
The lodges, which vary in style, showcase the diversity and special character of each valley, and integrate with the surrounding landscape in a pleasing way. Offering sweeping views framed by beautiful large floor-to-ceiling windows, spacious interiors share subtle references with traditional Bhutanese architecture, seen mostly in the simple lines of the natural timbers and the presence of locally-inspired touches: such as bukharis (traditional wood-burning stoves) and vegetable-dyed, antique-washed Himalayan rugs.
‘We are delighted to welcome guests to Six Senses Bhutan. As we open our doors, guests can experience the transformative power of this magical destination through adventure, culture, serenity, cultural and enriching experiences,’ explains General Manager Sally Baughen. ‘Six Senses Bhutan offers endless options for every kind of traveler to explore: from architecture and art, to birdwatching, botany, history, meditation, spirituality, sports, wellness and more.’
Sustainability lives at the foundation of Six Senses Bhutan and is reflected through active management of energy, water, waste, purchasing and chemical usage. The Kingdom of Bhutan keeps 60 percent of its land under forest cover, as mandated by its constitution. The four pillars of Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH) philosophy are: Sustainable Development, Environmental Protection, Cultural Preservation, and Good Governance, all of which are carefully woven into the design, operations and identity of Six Senses Bhutan.
Getting There:
Bhutan is served by Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines. International destinations on scheduled flights are Bangkok, New Delhi, Kolkata, Singapore, Kathmandu, Dhaka, Bagdogra, Guwahati and Gaya. Domestic flights are available between Paro and Bumthang. Helicopter charters are available from Paro airport and private jet assistance is offered by Bhutan Air Services.
Reservations are being accepted now for the lodges in Thimphu, Paro and Punakha with introductory rates available through March 31. Full rates will be applied for stays from April 1 onwards. The lodges in Gangtey and Bumthang are targeted to open in the summer (northern hemisphere) of 2019.
Six Senses Bhutan
For more details, reservations and travel arrangements, visit:
sixsenses.com/resorts/bhutan/destination
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