Zhiwaling Heritage Hotel

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Stunning Hotel With Noticeable Service Gaps I recently stayed at this beautiful 5-star hotel in Bhutan, and the setting truly is extraordinary. The architecture and design are breathtaking—thoughtful, serene and seamlessly integrated into the natural surroundings. The property itself feels luxurious in every way, visually, it’s an absolute masterpiece. However, several service issues left me disappointed. I booked a 60-minute facial at the spa expecting a relaxing, high-quality treatment but most of the session was spent simply wiping my face with water. It didn’t feel like a proper facial and certainly didn’t match the standard the hotel portrays or the money I paid. We also requested a packed breakfast for our hike to the amazing Tiger’s Nest. Unfortunately, the meal was far below expectations: stale bread sandwiches, rock-hard pastries and very poor-quality fruit . It was surprising and disheartening, especially given the reputation of the hotel. When I raised these concerns with the front desk manager, the response was quite dismissive and not proactive at all. Instead of feeling heard or supported, I felt brushed off—which only added to the disappointment. While the property itself is stunning, the service gaps were significant enough that I would not choose to stay here again. With more attentive management and higher service standards, this hotel could easily deliver a flawless experience—but it’s not there yet.

My wife and I have been very fortunate to have travelled to many countries and have stayed in amazing accommodations previously, but this heritage hotel is by far the most amazing place we will probably ever stay at. It’s simply an experience. From the incredible food, to its amazing location surrounded by the Paro hills, its view of Tigers Nest, it’s decadent and comfortable rooms, it’s wonderful staff, an inbuilt 400 year old temple, its array of well being facilities. Above all, it is a very environmentally sustainable set up. Would recommend to anyone who is looking for a tranquil sanctuary to embody the happiness that Bhutan has to offer

I stayed at this hotel as part of an 11 day multilocation group tour. The hotel was fabulous and I highly recommend it. The staff were helpful and sincerely gracious. The rooms and dining space was lovely and the main building upper floors were like a museum with many historical pictures and items.

Finish your stay in Bhutan at this richly furnished hotel. If you are lucky enough to book a room on the second floor facing the forest and outbuildings you will be in heaven. Bring your swim trunks too. Best pool in Bhutan.

A paradise, beautiful setting and worthy of its awards and accolades. However the food was a great disappointment, considering its heritage tag. We ordered the local fare at dinner, and found it bland and totally unrepresentative of the local cuisine. For breakfast I ordered the masala omelette- there was no masala at all, just a few slices of onion. Tasteless. We had stayed in various hotels and eaten at local restaurants for 10 days by the time we arrived in Zhiwangli. So in comparison, the food was surprisingly a big disappointment.

Highly decorated lobby, and temple upstairs. We'll worth spending some time looking around the interior and exterior of the buildings. Large grounds with winding paths to each block of rooms.

My girlfriend and I spent a few nights at Zhiwaling and had an incredible time, it was truly an outstanding experience. The staff were extremely kind and attentive. The food (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) was absolutely delicious and beautifully presented, featuring fresh vegetables, seasonal fruits, and homemade bread. Rooms were well furnished, spacious, and offered a beautiful view of the mountains. The architecture and design of the Hotel reflects traditional Bhutanese style, creating a warm and authentic atmosphere. I highly recommend spending some time at Zhiwaling; it was definitely worth it!

Stayed here as part of a group tour. Meticulously constructed in classical Bhutanese style almost two decades ago, this is the only 5 star hotel in Bhutan that is owned and operated by Bhutanese. It is spread over several acres with mountain views. It is comprised of a main building with 4 levels, including a beautiful meditation space and some guest rooms, though most guest rooms are located in separate three story buildings. There is a tea house, a spa, a workout/gym building and an indoor heated swimming pool. As we visited in the spring, there were many beautiful blooming plants around the grounds. ||My room and bath were lovely and spacious, and the Zhiwaling is to be commended for their environmental commitment. Purified water is provided in glass bottles and toiletries are offered in refillable containers. ||Staff were friendly and polite. Turn-down service is provided.||I had prearranged a one hour massage with additional 1/2 hour foot massage, but got little attention to my feet, which was very disappointing; the cost was rather high and charged in US dollars.