COMO Uma Punakha

Less than two hours from the capital of Thimphu, COMO Uma Punakha occupies an undeniably beautiful location on the Mo Chhu River, and us just a short distance from the 17th-century administrative centre of Punakha Dzong, one of the kingdom’s most celebrated architectural delights.

The hotel’s 10 guestrooms and suites are simply elegant, with sleek décor, crisp Italian linen and plenty of natural light from sweeping floor-to-ceiling windows. The vibrant paintings of local artists adorn the walls, and serene views of the Punakha Valley make for the quintessential Bhutanese experience. For sheer luxury, opt for the one and two-bed villas where private terraces offer astounding views amid colourful flower gardens, and come with private butler service and plenty of additional Bhutanese features, such as Indian hand-stitched cotton bedcovers, and hand-knotted rugs from Nepal.

COMO Uma Punakha prides itself on serving up delicious, fresh produce wherever possible. The nutrient-rich soils of the surrounding valley lend themselves to a wealth of seasonal ingredients, and exquisitely prepared specialities are served up in the Bukhari restaurant, blending local flavours with finesse for a gastronomical treat. For special occasions, dine under the stars on your own private terrace.

The COMO Shambhala Retreat offers a variety of facials and massage treatments, incorporating traditional Bhutanese techniques for ultimate relaxation. In a beautiful natural environment, the spa evokes a sense of calm with the sounds and scents of the forest nearby, and river rocks release minerals into the spa's hot water.