Pemako Thimpu

The Pemako has a true Bhutanese flavour with hand-drawn Bhuddist murals colouring the walls. Decorated in gold-printed motifs, Chig-Ja-Gye serves popular Bhutanese cuisine like ema datshi (chili cheese, but it sounds better in Dzongkha). Visit The Thongsel for more continental options, sip on salted butter tea at Rimps or grab a cocktail at the artsy Ara bar with decor of traditional Himalayan folk instruments. Make the most of the view from the outdoor lounge with a firepit at the centre. The Jiva Spa has a lovely hot stone bath and offers relaxing Indian head massages (amongst other treatments).

Tap into Thimphu's market scene where you'll find finely woven fabrics, elaborate masks and handmade paper. You can even learn about the country's ancient crafting traditions at the Institute for Zorig Chusum or the National Textile Museum, which pays homage to Bhutan's famous weaving techniques. Visit the Deer Park for an extra taste of nature and a meditation session or cross the valley to see one of Bhutan's largest seated Buddhas. Back at the hotel, you can enjoy an authentic local dinner dressed in Bhutanese attire.