Taktsangri-La

Had booked a different hotel in Thimpu but so glad a friend found out about Taktsangri-la and we changed the bookings last moment. This is nice, expansive and premium property however, the USP of the property are the people who own and run this. We traveled with a young kid and a senior citizen and were apprehensive about our stay in a hitherto unexplored country for us as a family. The warm welcome and the incredible hospitality made us feel completely at home. The food was delicious {Zhimbay – my daughter’s second most used Dzongkha (Bhutan’s language) word during the stay}. The Breakfast there doesn’t have a time restriction which is nothing less than a boon for any leisure trip esp. for people who relish their morning sleep most. Dinners are always custom made to everyone’s taste and served hot in a cozy dining area (we never opted for the in-room service!). The resort’s open air hot stone bath in a tub under the starlit sky is a must do once esp. on days’ one returns from hikes (like Tiger’s Nest). We were guided well about places to visit, things to take care of and most helpful was their availability to talk in local language if we called from anywhere while visiting other places. A huge shout out and heartfelt thanks to Kinzang and Karma who not only took care of our food, coffee etc. but also got very close to my daughter, Chencho (initially just another driver the resort provided for pick up & drop at extra charges) who along with her husband became our local guide and even invited us to a local archery and dance event, Dechen – the resort manager extraordinaire who can have myriad conversations and Sonam who with his wonderful ideas keeps this place interesting and special. In an expensive country for any traveler (considering Bhutan’s policy of High Value, Low Volume with focus on environment and sustainability), this resort is a super-premium experience at a very reasonable price. Also, it is probably the closest resort to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery!! Kadrin Chey La (my daughter’s most used word) everyone at Taktsangri-la!!

I stayed at Taktshangrila for 3 nights and had a mixed experience Pros - beautifully decorated property. It has been recently renovated so most of the fixtures are new. The hotel also has a very warm manager (Ms Dechen) who ensured that her guests are well taken care of, she and her team serves very yummy food. The property is very close to Tiger’s Nest Cons - rooms need to be better equipped. The rooms were huge but only one heater was given per room making them rather cold in december winter, no bathrobs or slippers were provided. The hotel lacks a proper reception so you have to communicate with the manager via WhatsApp. The hotel is far from city (atleast 20-25 min) .

With the tourist accommodation the hotel also offer a best service to the local guest Best hotel to spend your winter vacation if you are thinking to hike Taktsang. Warm room and Warm Dinning Hall. It’s truly one of the best choices for local guest.

The design and architecture are wonderful and service staffs are superb. Location is very near to tiger nest which is great if you plan to do the hike, they can prepare some snacks for your break during the hike! Amenities are sufficient in the resort, will come back again.