September 2023 – Luxury travel company andBeyond has celebrated the launch of its first lodge in Asia, andBeyond Punakha River Lodge, situated in the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan.
Punakha River Lodge marks the commencement of a brand-new phase in andBeyond’s brand expansion as the first entirely owned and managed property to open on the continent.
Mark Wheeler, andBeyond’s Managing Director for Asia, South America, and Business Development, highlights how the company is leveraging nearly two decades of touring experience in Asia to extend its conservation-led business model across three continents.
Punakha River Lodge symbolizes a significant milestone for the brand, being the first fully andBeyond-owned and managed property in this region.
They are capitalizing on their twenty years of Asian expertise to create a lodge presence that aligns seamlessly with their conservation-centric approach spanning three continents.
andBEYOND Unveils Luxury Retreat Punakha River Lodge in Bhutan
Punakha River Lodge Experience
For travelers seeking an exquisite escape, Punakha River Lodge is a hidden gem nestled in Bhutan’s Punakha Valley, right along the tranquil banks of the Mo Chu River.
This extraordinary lodge offers a selection of accommodations, including six tented suites, a two-bedroom villa with a private pool, and a one-bedroom villa featuring a refreshing plunge pool or a cozy hot tub thoughtfully tailored to the season.
Villa featuring a refreshing plunge pool
Villa Living Room
Villa Master Bedroom Image
True to the andBeyond ethos, the lodge seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings while infusing traditional Bhutanese aesthetics with a distinctive twist.
Safari-style tented suites gracefully hang from traditional Bhutanese timber structures, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Immerse yourself in the intricate details, where decorative painted and gilded accents grace the woodwork, especially in the bathrooms adorned with elegant brass-clad bathtubs.
Throughout the lodge, the national flower of Bhutan, the captivating blue poppy, repeatedly appears, weaving a harmonious theme into the interior design. Handwoven Bhutanese wool products adorn the upholstery, linen accents, and blankets, adding vibrant colors and textures to the elegantly unassuming design.
What truly sets the lodge apart is its warm and soulful ambiance, creating a profound sense of tranquility and well-being while evoking an authentic connection to this remarkable destination.
From this idyllic setting, guests can savor uninterrupted vistas of the majestic Himalayas and enjoy unrivaled access to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, a renowned attraction drawing travelers to Punakha.
A suspension bridge gracefully spans the river, providing a picturesque pathway, while numerous nearby walking trails beckon exploration.
The riverside locale offers the perfect backdrop for al fresco lunches and an array of beach activities, including invigorating yoga sessions, soothing massages, and refreshing swims.
Punakha River Lodge promises an unforgettable journey, where every moment celebrates nature’s beauty and serenity.
The Punakha River Lodge’s location opens up a world of unparalleled activities and experiences, making it the ideal destination for adventurous travelers.
Whether you’re an adventurer or a nature enthusiast, there’s something here for everyone.
Explore the scenic surroundings through cycling, thrilling river rafting, and kayaking, or embark on exceptional nature hikes and bird-watching excursions.
The lodge’s direct access to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten Hike sets the stage for a unique early morning adventure that promises to be unforgettable.
You’ll discover other captivating attractions beyond the lodge’s immediate vicinity, including the renowned Punakha Dzong and the enchanting Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery.
At Punakha River Lodge, andBeyond’s commitment to warm and authentic hospitality shines through in every detail.
Guests can relish exclusive experiences, from delightful paddy field lunches to surprise drink stops and picnic lunches featuring breathtaking river views.
The lodge also boasts an extensive organic vegetable garden, a testament to the company’s dedication to sourcing local, sustainably grown ingredients.
For those interested in community engagement, visiting a nearby community farming project can enhance your connection with the local culture and environment.
Punakha River Lodge promises a place to stay and an immersive and enriching experience infused with the magic of Bhutan’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Wheeler concludes that andBeyond’s investment in staff training and the bespoke experiences they pride ourselves on offering will make the lodge unique.
“We’ve sought inspiration beyond our horizons, integrating the unique nature of the destination into our service ethos. This approach creates a platform for guests to fully immerse themselves in this exceptional location, allowing the destination to shine.” – Mark Wheeler, andBeyond’s Managing Director for Asia, South America, and Business Development.
ABOUT andBeyond
Established in 1991, andBeyond strives to leave the world a better place by delivering extraordinary travel experiences and caring for the land, wildlife, and people—the bespoke tour operators for sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, South America, and Antarctica.
andBeyond also owns and manages 29 extraordinary lodges and camps across three continents. They positively impact 75 communities and directly conserve their one million-acre footprint.
Their 2030 vision is to scale their impact through partnerships to support the conservation of an associated 40 million acres of key biospheres while doubling their 2020 impact investment, all while offering discerning travelers an exclusive and rare experience of the world as it should be.
Press Release.
All Photos: Punakha River Lodge Facebook Page
