andBeyond Punakha River Lodge
andBeyond Opens FIrst Lodge in Asia
andBeyond celebrates the launch of its first lodge in Asia, andBeyond Punakha River Lodge, situated in the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan. Located on the banks of the Mo Chu River in the Punakha Valley, the lodge features six tented suites, as well as a two-bedroom villa with a private pool and a one-bedroom villa, which boasts a plunge pool / hot tub, depending on the season.
Like all andBeyond's properties, the lodge draws inspiration from its natural surroundings and combines traditional Bhutanese style with a unique twist. Boasting uninterrupted views of the Himalayas, the lodge site offers easy and unrivalled access to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, a site that is a major drawcard for visitors to Punakha.
Safari-style tented suites are suspended from a traditional Bhutanese timber structure. Decorative painted and gilded details appear in the woodwork, particularly in the bathrooms, which feature elegant brass-cladded bathtubs. The blue poppy, the national flower of Bhutan, also makes an appearance as a recurring theme woven throughout the interior design. Handwoven Bhutanese wool products are used as upholstery, linen detailing and blankets, bringing a touch of bold and bright colour and texture to the simple and unpretentious design. Warm and soulful, the overall feeling is a tremendous sense of peace and wellbeing, combined with a genuine sense of place.
andBeyond's first property in Bhutan, Punakha River Lodge has been imbued with the same warm and authentic brand of hospitality, with exclusive experiences including paddy field lunches, surprise drinks stops and picnic lunches with unique views of the river. An extensive organic vegetable garden speaks to the company's dedication to sourcing local, sustainably grown ingredients. Guests will also have the opportunity to visit a community farming project nearby.
The site also allows andBeyond to offer a variety of activities and experiences that is unmatched in the area, including cycling, river rafting and kayaking, as well as exceptional nature hikes and birding opportunities. The lodge's direct access to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten Hike has allowed andBeyond to create a unique early morning experience. Other attractions in the area include the famed Punakha Dzong, as well as the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery.