Classic Luxury

Dhensa Punakha

Dhensa Punakha is a luxury 24-suite boutique hotel located in the Punakha Valley in Bhutan. The resort enjoys a wonderful location surrounded by thick pine forest overlooking the valley, village houses and paddy fields.

Punakha, Bhutan

Fantastic views over the Punakha Valley set within a pine forest
Understated modern design, but drawing on traditional Bhutanese architectural styles
Only 10-minute walk to the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery where you can catch morning prayers
Opened in 2014, so the staff service levels are not fully developed

Dhensa is located on the hillside overlooking the Punakha Valley about a 15-minute drive from Punakha Dzong. Dhensa means 'Heavenly Abode' in Bhutanese. There are six cottages containing the suites, spread out on different elevations throughout the property linked by granite stairs (so expect a few steps here and there) all offering fabulous views over the valley. The cottages blend Bhutanese architectural traditions with simple modernity, blending understated white-washed walls with classic Bhutanese roofs.

The 45 square metre rooms themselves are light, airy and minimalist with neutral white tones and lead to large bathrooms containing a free-standing bathtub (with views) and separate shower. They all have small private balconies, and there are 15 suites with twin beds, and 9 with king beds. Expect flatscreen TVs and free WiFi.

Dhensa has one restaurant which serves both local and international cuisine, the food is excellent, although somewhat expensive by Bhutan hotel standards. There is a delightful terrace on which to eat out when the weather is milder.

There is a Spa which offers yoga, spa treatments in two double treatment rooms, steam room, sauna and an outdoor Bhutanese hot stone bath.

Accommodation is based on half-board but cash is required for extras, such as drinks, as the hotel does not currently accept card payments.

We love Dhensa's location and the quality of accommodation is excellent, though as Dhensa is a newly opened property, we have found that the staff are still learning and that the quality of service is mixed, but always friendly.

When to visit

Best time to visit

Good time to visit

Average time to visit

Top tip:

Take your breakfast on the patio overlooking the valley. It's a lovely way to start the day.

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Location

Punakha, Bhutan

The resort overlooks the Punakha valley and is surrounded by pine Forrest.

Our Top Tours Featuring This Hotel

Imagine Nepal and Bhutan

This itinerary provides a unique scenic flight over Everest, the beauty of Pokhara's surrounding mountains and the wildlife in Chitwan. Then from here it is on to the incredible and unique country of Bhutan, with incredible scenery and stunning monastries in some of the most impressive landscapes this itinerary will give you a fantastic sense of calm and being at one with nature. In both countries spend your time soaking up the local culture with true once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

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Top Things to Do Nearby

A visit to Chimi Lhakhang

The Chimmi Lhakhang Temple is a temple of fertility dedicated to the Buddhist saint known as the Divine Madman. A short walk through paddy fields takes you to the temple and is popular with Bhutanese families wanting to start a family.

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Afternoon Tour of Thimphu

Enjoy an afternoon of sightseeing around Thimphu. This tour includes a visit to Tamchog Lhakhang, the beautiful National Memorial Chorten, the golden Buddha Dodernma before taking in the views and enjoying the local farmers' market.

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Dressing up in traditional Bhutanese dress

Anyone who works in Bhutan must wear traditional national dress, and you can have the chance to dress up for a few hours to see how it feels. The Bhutanese absolute love visitors doing it!

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Evening Prayers at a Buddhist Monastery

Evening prayers at a Buddhist Monastery is something you should do at least once on a tour of Bhutan. You will witness monks chanting traditional prayers, helping them prepare for meditation.

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Hilltop Nunnery Visit

This evening visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhendrup Lhakhang Nunnery which is home to a higher learning and meditation centre for nuns, as well as being home to some of the most impressive statues in Bhutan.

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Local Archery Experience

Archery is the national sport of Bhutan and can be seen played throughout the Kingdom. Traditional bows are made from bamboo and witnessing an archery competition is an absolute highlight. We can easily arrange for you to have a go should you wish.

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Nalanda Buddhist College and Nobgang Walk

This fantastic experience combines the Sangchen Nunnery, the Nalanda Buddhist College and the Nobgang Village walk which takes you from the high hills above Punakha and winds gently down to the Punakha Dzong - you approach it almost vertically!

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Punakha Weekend Markets

Khuruthang Saturday Vegetable Market is located in the small town next to the Punakha Dzong. On Sundays, you can visit the Wangdue Market, about a 30-minute drive away. Wander around the stalls, selling local fruit and vegetables.

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Tea with a local family

Visiting a local home in Bhutan is an exceptionally interesting experience given the lovely hospitable nature of its people. Try traditional butter tea, or even some locally made rice wine 'Ara'.

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