Taj Tashi (Thimphu, Bhutan)

Set in the heart of the Thimphu Valley, the Taj Tashi, is a gateway to a land steeped in mythology and magic. The mountain kingdom of Bhutan remains one of the old world’s last few strongholds, as yet unspoilt by civilization. In the charmed isolation of the Himalayan heights, Bhutan’s ancient and alluring ways of Mahayana Buddhism continue richly intact to this day, and permeate every aspect of Bhutanese life and art.

In keeping with the enchanting surrounds, the hotel is a blend of Bhutan’s Dzong architecture and modern design. Adorned with classical hand-drawn Buddhist murals, its 66 elegant guestrooms afford guests striking highlights of the region’s art and colour. Besides breathtaking views of the mountains that rise above the Thimphu valley.

Continuing the journey into mystical Bhutan at the Taj Tashi, guests can sample Bhutan’s fiery cuisine, gaze at the mesmerising prayer wheels through its panoramic windows, make short but rewarding forays into the vibrant local markets, pleasantly while their time in one of the hotel’s traditional themed café’s and restaurants, or find yet more ways to relax with a special ‘ Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath ’ at the Jiva Spa.

Taj Tashi’s location in the capital city of Thimpu, makes it the ideal base from which to explore the tiny kingdom’s spectacular monasteries, centuries-old street festivals, scenic mountain passes and pristine wilderness, all within easy reach.

Tamarind Village Hotel - Chiang Mai, Thailand

 
Tamarind Village is a unique and charming boutique property that nestles in the heart of historic Chiang Mai. Surrounded by ancient temples and quaint shopping streets, it takes its name from magnificent 200 years old tamarind tree that shelters the hotel in a shady embrace. Set around a series of garden courtyards, the 42 guest rooms and 3 suites reflect the rich ethnic diversity of northern Thailand by using fabrics and patterns drawn from various tribes of the region. Intimate, serene and relaxing, Tamarind Village is an oasis of calm and tranquility, the perfect base for exploring Chiang Mai and beyond.

Zhiwa Ling Hotel - Para

The 45-room Zhiwa Ling hotel combines the sensibilities of a fine Bhutanese guesthouse with the best of 21st Century technology. Envisioned and created by a local Bhutanese company, the hotel’s elaborate hand-carved wooden cornices and masterful stonework coexist beautifully with cutting-edge telecommunication systems and Swedish under-floor heating.

Recently the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) announced the Tourist Accommodation classifications. Zhiwa Ling Hotel is the first and only wholly Bhutanese owned hotel to receive a 5 star rating. Zhiwa Ling Hotel is the only Bhutanese owned hotel and one of only two in the country to be ISO22000 certified.

 

Set on 10 acres, Zhiwa Ling has many amenities available to guests. The spa offers all the facilities guests could want; a fitness centre, sauna, steam room as well as a traditional Bhutanese outdoor hot-stone bath. There is a business centre, Tea House, two fully equipped conference rooms, a Meditation House and the hotel has it’s own greenhouse. The two restaurants specialise in contemporary international cuisine and classic Bhutanese dishes. Gathering at the Mad Monk Bar for a pre dinner drink or after-hours fun is a highlight for guests.

Honoring the spiritual heritage of this ancient Buddhist kingdom, a temple has been built into the second floor of the hotel, made with 450-year-old timbers from the famous Gangtey Monastery, the crowning glory of this new cultural landmark.

Paro Rinpung Dzong and Festivals

From the airport towards Paro town there is a traditional wooden bridge, some two kilometres away, called Nyamai Zam, leading towards a huge fortress (dzong) built with stones. It is white washed and is known by the name of Rinpung Dzong. The fortress was built in 1646 AD by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Earlier it was known as Rinchen Pung Dzong literally meaning “fortress on a heap of jewels.” It is one of the finest example of Bhutanese architecture and it contains fourteen shrines.

The fortress houses the office of the district administration and the court including the monk body. The courtyard inside the fortress is used for Paro Tsechu, a festival conducted in the first day of spring.  It is one of the most important festivals in Bhutan.

 

A great annual festival or tsechu is held at Rinpung Dzong from the eleventh to the fifteenth day of the second month of the traditional Bhutanese lunar calendar (usually in March or April of the Gregorian calendar). On this occasion, holy images are taken in a procession. This is followed by a series of traditional mask dances conveying religious stories which are performed by monks for several days. Before the break of dawn on the morning of the fifteenth day, a great sacred Tongdrol banner depicting the Eight Manifestations of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava)is displayed for the public in the early morning hours, to keep to the tradition of not allowing sunlight to fall on it.

 
To witness the country's most colorful festival