Six Senses Paro

About the size of Switzerland, the landlocked Kingdom of Bhutan at the foot of the Himalayas was founded by a Buddhist master in the 17th century. Referred to by its own people as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, it is a country of staggering beauty, replete with rice paddies, rushing streams, forest trails and fields of wildflowers. As a Buddhist Kingdom that has followed its own way of life for centuries, Bhutan attracts many who come seeking enlightenment and healing and to learn meditation. Spirituality, wellness and serenity are also center stage at the Six Senses, a circuit of lodges across the country—from the capital of Thimphu to the remote Bumthang Valley. Each has its own unique style and sense of place, but all share a commitment to their local communities and to creating immersive cultural experiences for their guests. Indagare can help assess the combination that would work for you. Set among monumental scenery and rooted in deep spirituality, Six Senses Paro acts as the perfect final stop in a journey through Bhutan. Here are a few highlights:

• Private dinner by candlelight in the neighboring 15th-century fortress ruins
• Trekking to Tiger’s Nest, then returning to the spa for a deep-tissue massage
• A private meditation session in the old temple, just steps from the lodge

Located in the hills about 40 minutes outside Paro town, the Six Senses Paro is often travelers’ last stop in Bhutan because of its comfortable amenities and serene atmosphere. But even after multiple days embedded in these landscapes, the sweeping valley views from 8,780 feet still take your breath away.

Six Senses Paro is short walk from the ruins of a 12th-century fortress, a monastery and a peaceful temple. Simultaneously high-design and comfortably utilitarian, the Six Senses Paro offers plenty of cozy common space, including living and dining areas, a cocktail lounge, a small but inspired boutique and an expansive outdoor terrace with sweeping views over the valley.

With wellness central to its mission, the Six Senses brand curates holistic itineraries across its five lodges in Bhutan, allowing interested guests to follow a personalized spa and wellness program. The Paro lodge completes this wellness circuit, equipped with a spa, gym and airy rooms with views for treatments, yoga and meditation. With endless hiking opportunities (including the trek to Tiger’s Nest, the iconic monastery that clings to the cliffside), the tranquil spa is the perfect compliment to the physical activities undertaken while in Bhutan. Swim in the heated pool, have a restorative massage and admire the stone ruins from the sauna and cold plunge.

The lodge’s 16 spacious and well-appointed Suites are minimalist yet warm, featuring rustic stone walls–a nod to the nearby ruins–wood-paneling and a wood-burning stove for cooler nights. Two walls of windows let the mountains in and a window-side sofa makes for an idyllic place to cozy up with a book. The one- to three-bedroom villas done in the same style offer even more space and include private spas.

The lodge also features multiple dining venues. A table for two in the authentic farmhouse nearby makes for a cozy and romantic evening, while a celebratory dinner at the fortress ruins next door, complete with bonfires and traditional Bhutanese entertainment, is a memorable commemoration to any trip. On your final evening, sit for a meditation with the in-house master in the local temple. It’s a deeply moving way to reflect on your journey through Bhutan.

Note: Guests should be aware that the latter half of the drive up to the lodge is arduous and on an unpaved, pothole-filled road. The road is slated to be paved, but until it is, this may be a deterrent for those prone to car sickness or wanting to regularly come and go with ease.

Flights leave from Paro in the morning, so this makes the lodge work well logistically as a last stop. Hiking Tiger’s Nest is an essential activity, but serious hikers might stay longer to explore the surrounding trails. This makes Paro is a great choice for families and spa and wellness enthusiasts alike.