AndBeyond River Lodge, Punakha: A luxe riverside retreat in Bhutan's old capital

The andBeyond Punakha River Lodge blends luxury, natural beauty, and cultural immersion. Nestled along the banks of the Mo Chu river in the lush Punakha Valley, this intimate lodge features six spacious tented suites and two family villas, each thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and a connection to the surrounding environment.

The suites and villas come with balconies offering panoramic views, indoor and outdoor showers, and centrally-placed bathtubs. The rooms are well-appointed with modern amenities, including Wi-Fi and laptop chargers, as well as a complimentary mini-bar stocked with generous-sized bottles of spirits, Bhutanese beer, and soft drinks.

The food at the lodge is a mixture of local and global cuisineswith the dining experience elevated by creative locations, such as riverside picnics and mountaintop breakfasts. An interactive kitchen with a Bhutanese-style wood stove opens in the evenings, where the chef prepares live appetizers as guests enjoy their pre-dinner drinks.

The lodge offers a wide range of activities to immerse guests in the local culture and natural surroundings. These include guided walks, river rafting, bicycling, archery, and visits to local monasteries and fortresses. The property’s location also allows for easy access to various excursion sites, including Gangtey, Gasa, and Laya. Each guest is assigned a dedicated butler, and thoughtful touches abound, such as handwritten notes with your laundry and surprise experiences like traditional hot baths with local herbs.

With its stunning location, exceptional service, diverse activities, and attention to detail, it offers a memorable stay for those seeking to explore Bhutan’s ancient capital and beyond.