[2025 Thimphu Hotels] Travel Guide for Amankora (Updated Jul)

In 2026, Aman will continue its close partnership with long-term collaborator Remote Lands to launch a new season of Private Jet Expedition itineraries. These journeys will take guests across the globe to explore world-class destinations while staying at multiple Aman retreats, blending cultural immersion, adventure, and inner restoration. From Kyoto’s serene ancient temples to Marrakech’s vibrant souks, the new expeditions promise rare and extraordinary experiences. Each itinerary is limited to just 16–18 guests, ensuring privacy and comfort while offering exclusive access to profound cultural encounters. Southeast Asia Discovery February 22–March 7, 2026 (13 nights) / November 1–14, 2026 (13 nights) Following the overwhelming response from 2024 to 2025, the Southeast Asia Discovery journey returns twice in 2026. The expedition begins along Vietnam’s stunning coastline, traversing Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand before concluding in Bangkok. Guests will stay at five to six Aman retreats, experiencing the secluded beauty of Vinh Hy Bay, the spiritual allure of Luang Prabang, the sacred ruins of Angkor Wat, the coastal serenity of Phuket, and the newly opened Aman Nai Lert Bangkok, where urban and natural harmony converge. The journey can also extend to Amankora in Paro, Bhutan, easily accessible via a direct flight from Bangkok to this remote Himalayan sanctuary. • Amanoi, Vinh Hy Bay, Vietnam – 2 nights • Amantaka, Luang Prabang, Laos – 3 nights • Amansara, Siem Reap, Cambodia – 3 nights • Amanpuri, Phuket, Thailand – 3 nights • Aman Nai Lert Bangkok, Thailand – 2 nights • Optional extension to Amankora, Paro, Bhutan – 3 nights Grand Tour April 12–May 2, 2026 (20 nights) After selling out completely in 2025, the Grand Tour returns in 2026. This journey will take up to 16 guests across seven countries over 20 nights, delving into the cultural essence of Asia and Europe. Starting in Tokyo, the route travels through Vietnam, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and India, reaching the heart of the ancient Silk Road in Samarkand before concluding with three nights of coastal seclusion on Greece’s Peloponnese Peninsula. This is an extraordinary voyage blending architectural marvels, natural wonders, and civilizational heritage. • Aman Tokyo, Japan – 3 nights • Amanoi, Vinh Hy Bay, Vietnam – 3 nights • Amanpuri, Phuket, Thailand – 3 nights • Amangalla, Galle, Sri Lanka – 3 nights • Amanbagh, Alwar, India – 3 nights • Visit to the Taj Mahal, India • Samarkand Regency, Uzbekistan – 2 nights • Amanzoe, Peloponnese, Greece – 3 nights China World Heritage Expedition May 31–June 12, 2026 (12 nights) After years of anticipation, the celebrated "China World Heritage Expedition" returns in 2026. This journey focuses on UNESCO-listed treasures across China, offering unique insights into the depth of Chinese civilization. Beginning at the Great Wall in Beijing, guests will visit Xi’an, Hangzhou, Chengdu, Lijiang, Zhangjiajie, and Shanghai, staying at multiple Aman retreats while traversing history and modernity—experiencing ancient capitals, tea culture, Tibetan spirituality, and the beauty of Jiangnan gardens. • Aman Summer Palace, Beijing – 3 nights • Stopover in Xi’an • Amanfayun, Hangzhou – 3 nights • Stopover in Chengdu • Amandayan, Lijiang – 3 nights • Stopover in Zhangjiajie • Amanyangyun, Shanghai – 3 nights Three Continents Expedition October 11–November 1, 2026 (21 nights) The Three Continents Expedition returns in 2026 with an enhanced itinerary, including three nights in Dubai to explore the modern marvels and ancient traditions of the UAE. Spanning 21 nights across Asia, Europe, and North Africa, this journey moves from Zen-like forests in East Asia to Mediterranean romance and Morocco’s exotic vibrancy—a true global odyssey. Guests will stroll through Kyoto’s autumn foliage, unwind on the Maldives’ white sands, lose themselves in Venice’s palazzos, and immerse in Marrakech’s thousand-year-old souks. • Aman Kyoto, Japan – 3 nights • Amanpulo, Palawan, Philippines – 3 nights • Amanjiwo, Borobudur, Indonesia – 3 nights • JOALI, Maldives – 3 nights • Burj Al Arab, Dubai, UAE – 3 nights • Aman Venice, Italy – 3 nights • Amanjena, Marrakech, Morocco – 3 nights

Starting from the renowned Amankora hotel, famous for creating hidden utopian retreats, Jin Jiaji also explored several local characteristic homestays, deeply experiencing the customs and culture of the Himalayas. Amankora perfectly blends ancient Zen philosophy with contemporary comforts. Its architectural style draws profound inspiration from Bhutanese traditional design, using rustic wood, stone, and soft color palettes to create a serene and dignified atmosphere. Jin Jiaji captured these sacred moments with his Leica camera, sharing the natural beauty and spiritual essence of the region with the world. This Himalayan pearl showcases different seasonal charms throughout the year. In spring, nature awakens with blooming flowers, offering visitors a refreshing natural experience; summer's pleasant climate makes it ideal for outdoor activities; autumn's golden foliage and harvest scenes provide rich material for photography and cultural exploration; while winter's snow-covered valleys and tranquil festival celebrations create the perfect haven for those seeking inner peace.

| Explore the mystical kingdom of Bhutan while staying in one hotel brand. 🏨Hotel Name: Amankora 🔖English Name: Amankora 📍Location: Bhutan - The Kingdom of Bhutan is a hiker's paradise and an environmentalist's dream. It's one of the least developed countries in the world, yet it's known as the "happiest place on earth." The colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, the pure and magnificent natural scenery, are all reasons to visit. Even Tony Leung and Carina Lau chose this place for their wedding. - The name Amankora comes from the Sanskrit word "Aman," meaning peace, and the Bhutanese word "kora," meaning circular pilgrimage. Aman pioneered the concept of scattering the same hotel brand across five corners of Bhutan, each with its own unique style. - Amankora is located in Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Gangtey, and Bumthang. The villas, scattered in the main valleys of central and western Bhutan, form a unique travel circuit within a tranquil kingdom. You can explore Bhutan's pristine Himalayan scenery and experience its ancient culture, society, and spiritual traditions that have spanned centuries. - ✅Amankora Paro Lodge offers a signature spa featuring traditional Bhutanese herbal therapies. ✅Amankora Thimphu Lodge, located in Bhutan's capital, Thimphu, sits in a blue pine forest in the Motithang district. It has 16 suites built in the traditional dzong fortress style. ✅Amankora Punakha Lodge is nestled among rice paddies, accessible by a suspension bridge draped with prayer flags over the Mo Chhu River. Its centerpiece is a traditional farmhouse once built by a Bhutanese monk. ✅Amankora Gangtey Lodge is located in the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, home to the black-necked crane, not far from the quaint village of Gangtey. ✅Amankora Bumthang Lodge is located in Bumthang, an ancient town in central Bhutan, known as "Little Switzerland of Bhutan." It is adjacent to Wangdichholing Palace, the palace of the first and second kings of Bhutan.

🏔️ Bhutan is one of the least developed countries in the world, but it is known as the "happiest country on earth". You can see colorful flags fluttering in the wind everywhere, and the pure natural magnificent scenery~ Amankora in Bhutan is also known as the most mysterious Aman Hotel and the ceiling of hidden hotels in the world. There are 5 Aman hotels hidden in 3 valleys. You must stay there in your lifetime! ❗【👇Click below to find Bhutan’s happy GDP at Aman】❗ 🙏 【How to play in Bhutan】 - Tiger's Nest Temple Pilgrimage: Known as one of the world's top ten super temples, Guru Padmasambhava flew over on a tiger. Worship the sacred place and feel the spiritual purification. - Qichu Temple: The thousand-year-old temple lights 108 butter lamps to pray for blessings, experience the local traditional ceremony, and pray for peace and success - Blue cherry blossoms: April to May is the season when blue cherry blossoms bloom in Bhutan. It is really special, with romance and surprises unique to the country of happiness. - Praying with prayer flags: It is said that the Buddhas in heaven protect all those who hang prayer flags. Wherever there are prayer flags, there is kindness. 🏨【Double Aman Luxury Residence in Bhutan】 Amankora Thimphu & Amankora Paro From Thimphu to Paro, experience two of the most popular of the five Aman resorts in Bhutan in one trip! - Aman Paro faces the snow-capped mountains - Aman Thimphu Tibetan Luxury - Daily Bhutanese state banquet cuisine - Aman’s exclusive hot stone bath treatment ❗【👇Click below to find Bhutan’s happy GDP at Aman】❗

Thimphu, Bhutan, is a city full of mystery and unique cultural charm. Prior Preparations - Visa: Bhutan tourist visas must be applied for through a local Bhutanese travel agency. You'll need to provide a scanned copy of your passport's photo page, a photo, and other required materials. The visa fee is approximately USD 20. - Clothing: Thimphu has a subtropical highland climate with significant temperature differences between day and night. Pack warm clothing such as down jackets and sweaters. Light jackets and T-shirts are suitable for daytime wear. - Other items: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and other sun protection items, as well as any regular medications you may need. Transportation Guide - External transportation: Bhutan's only international airport is Paro International Airport. You can connect to Paro from Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, and other cities. From the airport to Thimphu, you can take a taxi or arrange for a transfer through a travel agency. The journey takes about 1 hour. - Internal transportation: Taxis and public buses are available within Thimphu. Taxi fares are negotiable, while bus fares are inexpensive but less frequent. Recommended Attractions - Tashichho Dzong: One of Bhutan's most famous Buddhist monasteries and a landmark building in Thimphu. The monastery houses many precious Buddhist relics and works of art. - National Memorial Chorten: Built in memory of the third king of Bhutan, it is a sacred place for the Bhutanese people. The chorten has a unique design and is surrounded by prayer wheels.  - Thimphu Takin Preserve: The world's only Takin preserve, home to Bhutan's national animal. The preserve offers a beautiful environment where visitors can observe the Takin's habitat up close.  Food Recommendations - Traditional Bhutanese cuisine: Bhutanese cuisine is characterized by its spicy flavors, featuring dishes like Ema Datshi (chili and cheese stew), and hot stone stew. Another specialty is a type of flatbread also called "Ema Datshi," made with chilies and cheese.  - Tibetan cuisine: Thimphu has many Tibetan restaurants offering Tibetan hot pot, butter tea, barley wine, and other delicacies. - Western cuisine: If you're looking for a change of pace, Thimphu also has Western restaurants serving pasta, pizza, steak, and other dishes. Accommodation Options - Luxury hotels: Thimphu has several internationally renowned luxury hotels, such as Aman and Six Senses. These hotels offer comprehensive facilities and top-notch service, but come at a higher price point. - Mid-range hotels: Thimphu also offers mid-range hotels and resorts. These hotels provide reasonable prices with good facilities and service. - Budget hotels: Thimphu has budget-friendly options like guesthouses and inns, suitable for travelers on a tighter budget. Shopping Recommendations - Handicrafts: Bhutanese handicrafts are renowned, including Thangka paintings, wood carvings, stone carvings, and jewelry. These handicrafts are handmade by local artisans and possess high artistic and collectible value.  - Traditional clothing: Bhutan's traditional clothing is unique, with distinct styles for men and women. You can purchase traditional clothing at local markets or shops to experience Bhutanese culture.  - Specialty foods: Bhutan also offers specialty foods like honey, tea, and spices. You can purchase these items to savor the flavors of Bhutan.

We arrived at the airport early in the morning and the Aman staff were already waiting for us at the check-in counter. We didn't have to worry about anything, as they took care of our luggage and boarding passes. When we arrived in Bhutan, our guide and driver picked us up and took us straight to the Thimphu Lodge. In the car, we found our 7-day itinerary, blankets, snacks, and Wi-Fi. The bonfire performance in the evening was very local and quite nice. The waiter covered us with a blanket and tucked us in. It felt so nice to be taken care of. The day we went to see the Tiger's Nest was really exhausting, even though we rode horses for part of the way. In the end, the guide helped me up the mountain. The staff were all very enthusiastic and they had a cute little fat dog named Lucy.

To welcome the Year of the Snake, Amankora has carefully prepared a unique celebration event, aiming to immerse guests from afar in the profound cultural heritage and natural beauty of the Himalayas. Scheduled to be held on January 29, this special dinner themed on the traditions of the Himalayas is not only a warm celebration of the New Year, but also a dual journey of the soul and taste buds, allowing every participant to deeply appreciate this. The unique charm of the mysterious mountain country. Amankora, located in the picturesque valley of the Himalayas, cleverly blends modern luxury with traditional architectural styles, providing guests with an escape from the hustle and bustle and close to nature. 🍃The hotel is surrounded by lush forests, gurgling streams and majestic snow-capped mountains. Every scene is like a carefully arranged picture, which makes people feel relaxed and happy. Five carefully designed houses are scattered in this quiet land. Each one has its unique geographical location and architectural style, demonstrating the concept of respect for the natural environment and harmonious coexistence. 🏠These houses are built with local stone and wood, and the roofs are covered with traditional thatch, which is both warm and environmentally friendly. The interior decoration combines modern comfort with traditional elements of the Himalayas. Every piece of art and handicraft tells the story of the Himalayas. The story allows guests to feel the strong local culture while enjoying luxurious accommodation. The dinner venue was chosen in one of the most representative houses. The place is spacious and bright, and the large floor-to-ceiling windows bring the magnificent mountain scenery indoors, creating a dining experience that is integrated with nature. 💗For this dinner, Amankora has specially invited a team of well-known local chefs. They will use the most authentic ingredients to carefully prepare a series of traditional delicacies of the Himalayas, allowing guests to explore the food culture of the Himalayas during the tasting. On the menu, you may want to look forward to items such as "Ema Datshi", a traditional stew of chili peppers, cheese and vegetables, which is an indispensable delicacy on the local table. 💗There is also "Tshompa", a dessert made of rice, cheese and spices. Its unique taste is sure to make people remember it endlessly. In addition, guests can enjoy freshly caught fish from nearby rivers, as well as a variety of salads and snacks prepared with local organic vegetables, each dish is a tribute to the natural gifts of the Himalayas. The dinner is not only a feast for the taste, but also a cultural experience. During the event, guests will have the opportunity to participate in the classic Himalayan darts and archery games. These two activities have a long history in the Himalayas and are one of the important ways for locals to relax and entertain. 🏹️Under the guidance of professional coaches, guests can try throwing darts and experience the combination of precision and power; or they can fully draw their bows and arrows, aim at the bullseye, and feel the tension and excitement derived from the ancient hunting era. These activities not only allow guests to enhance friendship in a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere, but also allow them to have a more intuitive understanding of the daily life and entertainment styles of the people in the Himalayas. The highlight of the dinner was the blessing and water-sprinkling ceremony. In Himalayan culture, New Year celebrations are often accompanied by various blessing rituals, which imply wishes for health, happiness and all the best in the new year. ❤️At Amankora, guests will have the opportunity to participate in this traditional custom by throwing grains or colorful confetti into the air to symbolically drive away bad luck and welcome the arrival of good luck. The water splashing ceremony is a more direct and joyful way of expression. Guests hold containers filled with water and splash each other, which means to wash away the troubles of the past year and welcome the new year with a new look. During this interaction, laughter and cheers erupted one after another, and the entire dinner scene was filled with festive joy and harmony. 🌲In addition, Amankora’s guest rooms also added a bit of warmth and comfort to this celebration. The design of the guest rooms focuses on the combination of privacy and natural light. Each room is equipped with spacious and bright floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing guests to enjoy the outdoor scenery even in the room. 📖The decoration in the room is simple yet luxurious, using natural materials such as bamboo and stone, paired with warm colors and soft fabrics to create a warm feeling of home. Some rooms also have private terraces or balconies, where guests can sip tea, read, or quietly admire the magnificent views of the snow-capped mountains in the distance and enjoy some quiet personal time. 💆It is particularly worth mentioning that Amankora also provides a series of SPA services, allowing guests to completely relax physically and mentally after enjoying dinner and cultural activities. The professional SPA team uses unique local herbs and essential oils, combined with ancient massage techniques, to tailor personalized care plans for guests to help them relieve travel fatigue and rejuvenate. 🐍In short, this theme dinner organized by Amankora to welcome the Year of the Snake is not only a feast of food and culture, but also a baptism of the soul. Here, guests can not only taste authentic Himalayan cuisine, experience traditional games and rituals, but also find inner peace and joy in the comfortable and pleasant rooms and spa services. In its unique way, Amankora allows every guest to embark on a new journey with full blessings and hope in the new year.