Accomodation

Types of Accommodation in Bhutan: From Luxury Hotels to Monastery Stays

Bhutan offers a diverse range of accommodations, catering to every type of traveler—from those seeking luxurious resorts to authentic homestays and monastery retreats. Whether you want to indulge in world-class comfort, experience Bhutanese hospitality with a local family, or immerse yourself in Buddhist meditation at a monastery, Bhutan has the perfect stay for your travel preferences.

This comprehensive guide covers the different types of accommodations in Bhutan, highlighting luxury hotels, boutique lodges, standard hotels, homestays, and monastery stays, helping you choose the best place to stay during your Bhutan tour.

1. Luxury 5 Star Hotels & Resorts in Bhutan

For travelers seeking top-notch comfort, stunning views, and premium services, Bhutan has a selection of luxury resorts. These hotels combine traditional Bhutanese aesthetics with modern amenities, offering spa treatments, gourmet dining, private villas, and exclusive cultural experiences.

Best for:

• Honeymooners, high-end travelers, wellness retreats

Tip: Luxury hotels in Bhutan must be booked in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (spring and Autumn).

2. 4-Star & Boutique Hotels in Bhutan

For those who want a comfortable and elegant stay without the high cost of luxury resorts, Bhutan has charming boutique and mid-range hotels. These accommodations offer a balance of comfort, traditional Bhutanese architecture, and modern amenities.

Best for:

• Couples, families, and travelers seeking mid-range comfort

Tip: Many boutique hotels offer local cooking classes, cultural performances, and wellness activities, making your stay more immersive.

3. 3-Star & Standard Hotels in Bhutan

For budget-conscious travelers, Bhutan offers a variety of comfortable standard hotels that provide clean rooms, basic amenities, and great locations. While these hotels may not have the luxury of high-end resorts, they still offer a warm Bhutanese hospitality experience.

Best for:

• Standard travelers who look for balance between comfort and cost. 

Tip: Standard hotels provide comfortable stays with great locations, making them ideal for cultural and sightseeing tours.

4. Homestays in Bhutan: Stay with a Local Family

For travelers looking for an authentic cultural experience, Bhutanese homestays offer a unique opportunity to live with a local family, eat home-cooked meals, and learn about Bhutanese traditions firsthand.

What to Expect in a Bhutanese Homestay?

Traditional Bhutanese houses with wooden architecture
Locally prepared organic meals (Ema Datshi, Red Rice, Buckwheat Pancakes)
Interaction with locals—learn about Bhutanese lifestyle & customs
Optional activities like farm visits, archery, and hot stone baths

Best for:

• Cultural travelers looking for authentic experience

Tip: Bhutan has the best homestays for off-the-beaten-path experiences, especially in Bumthang, Haa Valley, and Phobjikha.

5. Monastery Stays in Bhutan: Learn Meditation with Monks

For those interested in spiritual retreats and meditation, Bhutan offers monastery stays, where visitors can stay overnight at Buddhist monasteries guest houses, meditate with monks, and experience monastic life.

What to Expect in a Monastery Stay?

Basic rooms (single bed & shared bathroom)
Morning & evening prayer sessions with monks
Guided meditation & Buddhist philosophy lessons
Simple vegetarian meals (rice, vegetables, soup, butter tea)

Best for:

• Spiritual seekers, yoga practitioners, meditation enthusiasts

Tip: Monastery stays require prior approval, and visitors must follow monastic rules, including silence during meditation periods.

6. Camping & Eco-Lodges in Bhutan

For nature lovers and trekkers, Bhutan offers camping and eco-lodges in remote, scenic locations.

Tented Camps – Set up at high-altitude trekking points
Eco-Lodges – Sustainable stays with minimal impact on the environment

Best for:

• Adventure travelers, trekking groups, and eco-tourists

Tip: If trekking, pack warm sleeping bags, thermal wear, and altitude sickness medication.

Luxury Tents in Bhutan: Experience Glamping in the Himalayas

For those looking for a unique and luxurious outdoor experience, luxury tents in Bhutan offer the perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and nature. Known as glamping (glamorous camping), these luxury tents combine the beauty of Bhutan’s pristine wilderness with the comfort of high-end accommodation, allowing you to immerse yourself in the spectacular surroundings without compromising on modern amenities.

Why Choose Luxury Tents in Bhutan?

Close to Nature – Luxury tents are often set in remote, scenic locations, giving you a chance to experience the untouched beauty of Bhutan’s natural landscape.
Unique Experience – These accommodations allow you to enjoy well-furnished tents that offer amenities such as comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and heating.
Eco-Friendly – Most luxury tent camps in Bhutan are eco-conscious and focus on sustainability, using solar power and offering local, organic meals.
Adventure & Comfort Combined – Perfect for trekkers or those who want a cultural retreat in nature, without sacrificing comfort.

What to Expect in a Luxury Tent Stay in Bhutan?

1. High-Quality Tents and Interiors

Luxury tents in Bhutan are far from your standard camping experience. Expect spacious, well-furnished tents featuring comfortable beds, wooden floors, elegant furniture, and plush linens. Many camps are equipped with high-end furnishings, including seating areas, writing desks, and warmth-generating devices such as stoves or electric blankets to keep you cozy at high altitudes.

2. Private Bathrooms and Modern Amenities

Unlike traditional camping, luxury tent accommodations come with private bathrooms, most often equipped with solar-powered hot water, flush toilets, and luxury toiletries. Some luxury camps also offer wi-fi, lighting, and reliable cell phone service, though they are generally less disruptive to the surrounding environment.

3. Personalized Services

The dedicated camp staff ensures top-notch service, often offering private chefs, guides, and camp attendants to assist with trekking, meal preparation, and providing any other assistance during your stay. Some luxury camps also offer spiritual activities like meditation and yoga sessions led by local monks or experienced guides.

4. Gourmet Dining in the Wilderness

One of the highlights of luxury camping in Bhutan is the gourmet meals prepared by skilled chefs using locally sourced, organic ingredients. Expect traditional Bhutanese cuisine such as ema datshi (chilies with cheese), red rice, and buckwheat pancakes, as well as international dishes prepared with a Bhutanese twist.

Final Thoughts: Where to Stay in Bhutan?

Bhutan offers a wide variety of accommodations, from ultra-luxury resorts to authentic homestays and monastery stays. Choosing the right type of stay depends on your budget, travel preferences, and the kind of experience you seek.

For luxury & comfort: Stay at high-end resorts with spa and wellness experiences.
For cultural immersion: Choose a local homestay in Haa Valley or Bumthang.
For spiritual retreats: Try a monastery stay in Thimphu or Phobjikha.
For adventure: Camp in the Himalayas or book an eco-lodge in Gangtey.

No matter where you stay, Bhutanese hospitality ensures an unforgettable experience.