Amankora

Overview

Amankora is a unique group of five lodges set throughout the Kingdom of Bhutan’s central and western valleys. Historically isolated and inaccessible, each valley’s scenic beauty and topography provides visitors with an opportunity for unique cultural and scenic journeys. Each journey begins and ends at Paro which is the only international airport in Bhutan.

Locations

Amankora lodges can be reached by car and are located in small villages or Buddhist temples and old monasteries (dzongs) at various altitudes ranging from 1,300m at Punakha to 2,580m at Bumthang. Paro and Thimphu are located at 2,250m and 2,350m respectively. Itineraries To fully appreciate Bhutan with its beautiful valleys and Buddhist Kingdom Heritage, a fast paced visit to all 5 Aman lodges-is recommended. It takes a minimum of 10 days to travel to all the lodges; roads are basic and journeys can take as long as 5 hours. For those who have only 3-5 days, stays at the Paro and Thimphu lodges are recommended, as they are the closest to Paro airport

Lodges

The 16-suite Amankora Thimphu is close to the capital’s sights and shopping, yet still manages to retain its charm as a quiet retreat on the slopes of a mountain overlooking the capital. Situated in Balakha Village, Amankora Paro contrasts rustic elements with contemporary design. Amankora Punakha lodge is accessed by crossing a suspension bridge over the Mo Chhu River and has the most dramatic and picturesque location of all the Amankora lodges. It is situated a short drive north of the impressive 17th-century Punakha Dzong and Puntsho Pelri Palaces.

Accommodation

Each Amanokora lodge suite is simple and traditional in design with wooden interiors, a terrazzo-clad bath, and a traditional bukhari (wood burning stove). The suites have an almost identical layout across the five lodges.

Dining

All meals are served in the lodges’ dining-rooms where guests can enjoy western cuisine as well as dishes from India and Bhutan. In the Thimphu lodge, Western and Thai cuisine is served in the dining room or on the outdoor dining deck which has spectacular views of the nearby stream and surrounding blue pine forest.

Spa

All Amankora lodges have spa facilities providing treatments inspired by Bhutan’s traditional plants and herbs.

Getting There

Amankora Paro is located 30 minutes by car from Bhutan’s only international airport in Paro (PAH). Thimphu is approximately 2hrs by car from Paro. Bhutan is connected by scheduled flights with several major Asian hubs including Bangkok (BKK) (3hrs 25 minutes) and Delhi (DEL) (2hrs 45 minutes).

Weather / When To Go

Bhutan is an all-season destination. The dry autumn and winter months (from September to mid-March) offer warm days with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C. Blue skies can be enjoyed throughout the winter and November is when the most spectacular festivals occur in Bhutan. The spring season (mid-March to June) is warmer with temperatures of 16° to 30°C. During the summer (June to September), days are clear with occasional mid-day showers and temperatures of 22° to 26°C.

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