Bhutan Luxury Trip: Aman, Six Senses & Como – Premium Routes with Wellness
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Bhutan unites spiritual depth with extraordinary luxury. With Amankora, Six Senses and Como Uma, three of the world's most renowned hotel brands have established lodge networks in the Kingdom. This page shows you how to combine cultural authenticity with first-class comfort, wellness and exclusive experiences.
Bhutan Luxury Trip at a Glance
The Three Major Luxury Brands
Bhutan is one of the few travel destinations worldwide where three international luxury hotel brands operate their own lodge networks. The special feature: each brand offers multiple lodges at different locations, so guests can experience an entire trip within one brand universe.
Amankora (Aman Resorts)
Amankora embodies discrete exclusivity. With five lodges in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthang, Aman enables a seamless journey through Bhutan's most fascinating regions. The philosophy: minimalist luxury that doesn't overwhelm the senses, but refines them. Amankora is the first choice for travelers seeking the highest service quality without obtrusiveness.
| Lodge | Region | Special Feature | Suites |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amankora Paro | Paro Valley | Starting point, near Tiger's Nest | 24 suites |
| Amankora Thimphu | Capital | Urban lodge with forest setting | 16 suites |
| Amankora Punakha | Punakha Valley | Rice fields, warmest climate | 8 suites |
| Amankora Gangtey | Phobjikha Valley | Black-necked cranes, seclusion | 8 suites |
| Amankora Bumthang | Central Bhutan | Spiritual center, oldest monasteries | 16 suites |
Detailed information about Amankora
Six Senses Bhutan
Six Senses has elevated wellness to its core philosophy. With five lodges – also in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthang – the brand offers the most comprehensive spa and wellness range in Bhutan. The lodge in Thimphu houses the country's largest spa. Six Senses is ideal for travelers who want to combine physical and mental regeneration with cultural experiences.
| Lodge | Region | Wellness Highlight | Suites |
|---|---|---|---|
| Six Senses Paro | Paro Valley | Stone Bath Pavilion | 20 suites |
| Six Senses Thimphu | Capital | Bhutan's largest spa, heated pool | 20 suites |
| Six Senses Punakha | Punakha Valley | Riverside, outdoor treatments | 20 suites |
| Six Senses Gangtey | Phobjikha Valley | Meditation, nature connection | 8 suites |
| Six Senses Bumthang | Central Bhutan | Forest bathing, spiritual retreats | 8 suites |
Detailed information about Six Senses
Como Uma
Como Uma offers with two resorts – Uma Paro and Uma Punakha – a more intimate alternative. The Shambhala philosophy combines wellness with conscious nutrition: the award-winning Shambhala Cuisine is healthy, nourishing and outstandingly delicious. Como appeals to travelers who value boutique charm and personal atmosphere over maximum size.
| Resort | Region | Special Feature | Rooms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uma Paro | Paro Valley | Forest setting, yoga pavilion, Shambhala Spa | 29 rooms & villas |
| Uma Punakha | Punakha Valley | Riverside, infinity pool, rice field views | 11 rooms & villas |
Detailed information about Como Uma
Aman vs. Six Senses vs. Como
All three brands offer first-class quality. The decision depends on your personal priorities – whether discretion, wellness or culinary experience is most important.
| Criterion | Amankora | Six Senses | Como Uma |
|---|---|---|---|
| Locations | 5 lodges | 5 lodges | 2 resorts |
| Focus | Exclusivity, culture | Wellness, spa | Balance, nutrition |
| Atmosphere | Quiet, minimalist | Modern, active | Warm, intimate |
| Spa Offering | Very good | Most comprehensive range | Excellent, Shambhala-focused |
| Gastronomy | Excellent, locally inspired | Health-focused | Shambhala Cuisine, award-winning |
| Price Level | Highest (from 1,000 USD/night) | High (from 800 USD/night) | Mid-high (from 600 USD/night) |
| Ideal For | Luxury connoisseurs, discretion | Wellness enthusiasts | Boutique lovers |
Wellness Experiences in Bhutan
Wellness in Bhutan is not an imported idea. Century-old traditions like the hot stone bath (Dotsho) are part of local life. Luxury hotels combine this traditional knowledge with international spa standards.
Traditional Hot Stone Bath (Dotsho)
The Dotsho is a wooden tub where river water is heated by stones heated in fire. Artemisia and local medicinal herbs are added. The heat relieves muscle tension, eases joint discomfort and warms the body from within. A traditional hot stone bath lasts 20-40 minutes.
Experience at Luxury Hotel
- Elegantly staged private pavilions
- Combined with massage and other treatments
- Cost: Part of spa credits or 150-250 USD
Authentic at Farmhouse
- Original atmosphere
- Often combined with local dinner
- Cost: 20-50 USD outside luxury hotels
Spa Treatments at Luxury Hotels
The spas at luxury hotels offer international treatments at the highest level, enriched with Bhutanese elements. Ayurveda, Thai massage and local healing practices are combined. Multi-day personalized wellness programs are available on request.
| Treatment | Description | Duration | Provider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hingsangsa Zoni Ritual | Himalayan salt scrub + hot stone bath | 90 minutes | Six Senses |
| Singing Bowl Meditation | Singing bowl meditation with therapist | 45 minutes | Six Senses, Aman |
| Shambhala Massage | Holistic body work | 60-90 minutes | Como Uma |
| Ayurveda Consultation | Individual dosha analysis + treatment plan | 120 minutes | All three |
More about yoga and meditation in Bhutan
Luxury Route: 8-10 Days
This sample route shows an ideal 8-10 day luxury trip through Bhutan. The pattern is applicable to all three brands – the locations of Aman, Six Senses and Como cover the same regions.
| Day | Location | Experience | Wellness |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Paro | Arrival, acclimatization, first exploration | Spa welcome ritual, hot stone bath |
| 2 | Paro | Tiger's Nest hike (VIP tour with early start) | Regeneration massage after hike |
| 3 | Thimphu | Transfer, Buddha Dordenma, Tashichho Dzong | Arrival treatment |
| 4 | Thimphu | Crafts, markets, meeting local artists | All-day spa program possible |
| 5 | Punakha | Dochula Pass, Punakha Dzong, private picnic | Outdoor treatment by the river |
| 6 | Punakha | Chimi Lhakhang, rafting or hiking | Traditional hot stone bath |
| 7 | Gangtey | Phobjikha Valley, cranes (seasonal), Gangtey Goenpa | Meditation at sunrise |
| 8 | Gangtey | Valley hike, farm visit | Rest day, spa of your choice |
| 9 | Paro | Return trip, free afternoon for shopping | Closing treatment |
| 10 | Departure | Transfer to airport | - |
Exclusive Experiences
The luxury brands open doors that are closed to other travelers. Private arrangements, exclusive access and the expertise of local networks enable extraordinary encounters.
Cultural Exclusive Experiences
- Private temple ceremonies: Blessings by monks, arranged just for you
- Astrologer consultation: Bhutanese astrology with interpretation
- Private cooking class: Learn Bhutanese cuisine with the hotel chef
- Textile arts: Weaving and dyeing with traditional craftspeople
Adventure & Nature
- Yoga at Tiger's Nest: Private session at sunrise before the hike
- Helicopter panorama flight: Himalayan roundtrip with view of Jomolhari
- Archery with master: Introduction to Bhutan's national sport by professional
- Picnic at secret locations: Exclusively arranged locations
Wellness Special Programs
| Program | Duration | Focus | Provider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Detox Retreat | 5-7 days | Detoxification, clean eating, treatments | Six Senses, Como |
| Silent Retreat | 3-5 days | Meditation, digital detox, silence | Amankora |
| Yoga Intensive | 7 days | Daily yoga, personalized practice | Como Uma |
| Ayurveda Cure | 7-14 days | Dosha balancing, Panchakarma elements | Six Senses |
Costs of a Luxury Trip
A luxury trip to Bhutan is an investment. The good news: The prices of the top brands are largely all-inclusive. Accommodation, meals, activities, private guides and often spa credits are included.
Price Range per Night (2026, High Season)
| Brand | Entry Level | Deluxe Suite | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amankora | From 1,000 USD/night | 1,500-2,500 USD/night | Journey packages often cheaper than individual booking |
| Six Senses | From 800 USD/night | 1,200-2,000 USD/night | Wellness inclusions often included |
| Como Uma | From 600 USD/night | 900-1,500 USD/night | Smaller resorts, more intimate atmosphere |
Total Cost Example: 8 Days Amankora Journey
| Item | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| SDF (7 nights x 100 USD) | 700 USD | Mandatory fee, not included in package |
| Visa | 40 USD | One-time, to be paid online |
| Amankora Journey (7 nights) | 12,000-18,000 USD | Depending on season and suite category |
| Additional private experiences | 1,000-3,000 USD | Optional: helicopter flight, extra treatments |
| Total on-site | 13,740-21,740 USD | Not including flights to Bhutan |
Complete cost overview for Bhutan trips
Best Time to Travel for Luxury Trips
The best time to travel corresponds generally to the overall recommendations for Bhutan. However, luxury travelers should watch out for low-season offers from hotels.
High Season (Highest Prices)
- March-May: Spring, rhododendron bloom, Paro Tshechu
- September-November: Autumn, best visibility, many festivals
Book early (3-6 months), popular lodges sell out quickly
Low Season (Potential Offers)
- December-February: Cool, but quiet, often "Journey Specials"
- June-August: Monsoon, green landscape, fewer guests
Ask hotels directly about special rates
Detailed information on the best time to travel
Booking and Practical Tips
Luxury trips to Bhutan can be booked directly with the hotels or through specialized tour operators. Both methods have advantages.
Booking Options
Direct with Hotel
- Direct contact for special requests
- Journey packages on hotel website
- Sometimes exclusive direct booker benefits
Through Tour Operator
- Expertise in combining different brands
- Help with visa and logistics
- Often access to special allocations
Tipping Recommendations in Luxury Segment
| Recipient | Recommendation | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Private Guide | 15-20 USD/day | At end of trip as total amount |
| Driver | 10-15 USD/day | Separate from guide |
| Spa Therapists | 15-20% of treatment | For excellent service |
| Hotel Staff | At discretion | Housekeeping: 3-5 USD/day |
Booking Checklist
- 3-6 months before: Decide on lodges and travel dates, book
- Communicate special requests: Diet, allergies, mobility restrictions
- Clarify SDF: Is the SDF included in package price or separate?
- Book spa treatments in advance: Reserve popular treatments in time
- Apply for visa: 2-3 weeks before departure
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the price premium for luxury hotels worth it compared to standard accommodations?
The price premium is justified by all-inclusive comfort, private guides, exclusive experiences and extraordinary service quality. Those accustomed to the highest standards will notice the difference immediately. For travelers for whom comfort is less important than authentic encounters, good 3-4-star hotels can also be an excellent choice.
Aman or Six Senses – which brand is better?
Both are first-class – the choice depends on your priorities. Amankora stands for discrete exclusivity and minimalist luxury. Six Senses offers more comprehensive wellness and a more modern atmosphere. If spa and active wellness are foremost: Six Senses. If maximum discretion and tranquility are more important: Aman.
Can I combine different luxury brands on one trip?
Yes, this is possible and preferred by some travelers. You could start with Como Uma in Paro, move to Six Senses in Thimphu and finish with Amankora in Gangtey. Specialized tour operators can organize such combinations – coordination is more involved than a continuous journey with one brand.
Are children welcome in the luxury hotels?
Yes, all three brands welcome families. Amankora and Six Senses offer family suites and child-friendly activities. However, note that the atmosphere in the lodges is quiet and relaxed – for families with very young children, this can be challenging. Best to discuss in advance with the hotel.
How far in advance should I book a luxury trip?
For high season (March-May, September-November) we recommend 4-6 months advance notice. For festival dates, even more. In low season, something is often available short-notice – then it's worth asking about special offers. The most popular lodges (especially Punakha and Gangtey) sell out faster than the urban ones.
Do I have to pay the SDF despite staying at a luxury hotel?
Yes, the Sustainable Development Fee is a state levy that applies to all international tourists – regardless of accommodation category. Sometimes the SDF is already included in the package price of luxury hotels. Ask explicitly when booking whether the SDF is included or charged separately.
Are there vegetarian/vegan options in the luxury hotels?
All three brands offer excellent vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Especially Como Uma with Shambhala Cuisine is specialized in healthy, plant-based options. Share your dietary preferences when booking – the kitchens will adjust individually.
Related Topics
Deepen your planning with these further resources:
Luxury Hotels Overview
All premium accommodations in Bhutan with detailed descriptions and booking tips.
Yoga & Meditation
Spiritual experiences and retreats in the land of Gross National Happiness.
Costs & Budget
Complete cost breakdown for Bhutan trips of all categories.
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