Banyan Tree Ringha

"Seen from the rocky road, Banyan Tree Ringha appears indistinguishable from the surrounding villages of packed earth and timber structures in this mountainous Tibetan region of China at an air gasping 10,000 feet above sea level. With its landscaped grounds and paved paths however, this small hillside hamlet of 32 rooms is not like its neighbors. Even standard rooms are duplexes but while Tibetans keep yaks and pigs down below, here expect deep barrel bathtubs, rain showers and signature Banyan Tree amenities plus a local moisturizer made from snake essence. Spa Suites add a downstairs room for private pampering. Authenticity reigns in the colorfully carpeted bedrooms where old wood houses from surrounding villages have been given new life as intricately carved interior décor. Powerful heaters placed strategically throughout and electric blankets keep guests toasty when temperatures drop to minus 16 degrees F. The warmest charm comes from a stone stove filled with artful gas flames that dance under mammoth copper cover. At the restaurant, the Tibetan chef impresses with fusion dishes like the salad of grilled local greens but it’s the surprisingly tasty yak burger (like a well cooked steak) most likely to be talked about back home. The predominantly Tibetan staff exudes genuine kindness that would make the Dalai Lama proud while the six trekking guides bring their experience leading expeditions around Tibet’s holy Mount Kailash and along the perilous ridges of Everest to the greener pastures of Ringha Valley. Their knowledge of Tibetan culture and protectiveness towards guests unused to the high altitude here endears."