Deep in the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, in the remote Punakha Valley, the 21 tented villas of Pemako Punakha blend seamlessly into 60-acres of Himalayan wilderness. Conceptually designed by American landscape architect and interior designer Bill Bensley, whose whimsical designs create an alternate universe for guests, this elusive luxury retreat evokes a sense of mystery upon arrival. Hidden on the banks of the Mo Chhu River and engulfed by greenery, guests cross a prayer-flag-lined bridge before being greeted by a traditional prayer ritual for well-being. Pemako Punakha — which opened in September 2023 — is a sanctuary where visitors are encouraged to slow down and be immersed in nature and Bhutanese heritage.
Each of the tented villas, including a two-bedroom family villa and an expansive presidential suite, are an opulent hideaway with a private temperature-controlled pool (a first for accommodation across Bhutan) and an expansive outdoor deck with panoramic views over the Mo Chhu river. The interiors draw from the local culture, and feature the yellow, white, and orange of the national flag; black-hued tones reminiscent of highland tents; and furnishings that pay homage to ancient Dzong architecture – a distinctive type of fortress-monastery found primarily in Bhutan. Every corner of Pemako Punakha displays thoughtful craftsmanship and touches ingrained in tradition, such as Bhutanese motifs and prayer art.
The Punakha outpost of Pemako — the first Bhutanese-owned luxury hotel group — follows the success of Pemako Thimphu, in the country’s vibrant capital city. The name "Pemako" means “hidden lotus-shaped land”, drawing from Himalayan folklore and the concept of beyul — mystical hidden lands said to offer spiritual refuge.
