As Bhutan continues to rise in popularity among travellers seeking refuge from the demands of modern life — with visitor arrivals up by 41% in 2024 — Pemako Punakha offers a rare chance to truly unplug, unwind, and connect with the country’s sacred natural beauty.
Tucked away in the remote Punakha Valley, this unique retreat is home to just 21 luxurious tented villas, thoughtfully integrated into 60 acres of untouched Himalayan wilderness.
Conceptualised by visionary American landscape architect and interior designer Bill Bensley, Pemako Punakha reflects both the spiritual richness and natural splendour of Bhutan. The whimsical design feels like a dream rooted in nature — an alternate universe of calm and curiosity. Hidden on the banks of the Mo Chhu River and enveloped by lush forest, the retreat is accessible only via a prayer-flag-lined footbridge. On arrival, guests are welcomed with a traditional Bhutanese prayer ritual for well-being.
The villas are nothing short of extraordinary. Categories include a luxury tented pool villa, a two-bedroom family villa, and an expansive presidential suite. Each hideaway features private, temperature-controlled pools — a first in Bhutan — along with panoramic decks overlooking the river. Interiors are a tribute to Bhutanese culture, showcasing the colours of the national flag, dark tones echoing traditional highland tents, and architectural details inspired by ancient Dzongs (fortress-monasteries unique to the region).
At its heart, Pemako Punakha is more than just a luxury retreat — it’s a spiritual sanctuary. Guests are invited to slow down and immerse themselves in Bhutanese heritage, with the name Pemako translating to “hidden lotus-shaped land.” This is drawn from Himalayan folklore and the sacred concept of beyul — mythical hidden lands that offer spiritual refuge to those who seek them.
