Amankora
Two Michelin Keys
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Hotel Details
Location
Paro
Bhutan, Asia
Brand
Aman
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Expert Review: Amankora
Amankora, Paro, a distinguished Michelin Two-Keys property, consistently garners exceptional reviews for its profound integration of luxury with Bhutanese culture and serene natural beauty. Guests frequently describe their stay as a perfect, unforgettable journey.
1. Overall Rating & Sentiment
The general consensus for Amankora, Paro, is overwhelmingly positive, often described as "absolutely splendid" and "well worth the price tag." Guests express deep satisfaction, noting that "everything was perfect" from start to finish. It's widely recommended for those seeking a comprehensive, luxurious journey and cultural immersion in Bhutan.
2. Key Highlights
Amankora, Paro, is celebrated for several outstanding features. The impeccable and deeply personal service stands out, with staff going above and beyond to ensure guest comfort. The design of the lodge beautifully blends timeless Bhutanese architecture with understated sophistication, featuring rammed-earth walls, timber interiors, and warm fireplaces. Its serene location, nestled in a pine forest at approximately 2,520 meters above sea level, offers breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari and the 17th-century Drukyel Dzong. Amenities include a comprehensive spa, a library, and a variety of immersive activities.
3. Room Quality
The 24 suites at Amankora, Paro, are described as pristine and spacious, combining bedroom and lounge areas with a king-size bed, a reading chair, and a window banquette offering views of the blue pine forest. A highlight in each suite is the traditional bukhari (wood-burning stove), which provides warmth and rustic charm. The expansive bathrooms feature large terrazzo-clad bathtubs, twin vanities, and separate shower and toilet enclosures, all equipped with Aman branded amenities. Notably, rooms are designed without televisions or coffee machines to encourage guests to immerse themselves in the Bhutanese way of life.
4. Dining Experience
The dining experience at Amankora, Paro, is consistently praised as incredible. The communal dining room, with its long wooden tables, roaring fires, and views overlooking a stream or gardens, fosters a warm and organic atmosphere. The menu skilfully orchestrates Indian, Western, and authentic Bhutanese dishes, often prepared with fresh, local ingredients, some even from a kitchen garden on the property. Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included in the rate, along with select wines and spirits. Guests particularly enjoy the special rotating set menus and picnic lunches for excursions.
5. Service & Staff
The service and staff at Amankora, Paro, receive universal acclaim for their "genuine warmth and meticulous attention to detail." Guests highlight the impeccable and outstanding hospitality, noting that staff members, including dedicated guides, go "above and beyond" to ensure a delightful experience. Examples include assistance with traditional Bhutanese attire, thoughtful nightly gifts, and managers actively socializing with guests. The presence of the same guides across multiple Amankora lodges in Bhutan is also appreciated for creating a seamless and personalized journey.
6. Location & Accessibility
Amankora, Paro, is strategically located in Balakha Village, approximately 10 to 30 minutes from Paro International Airport, making it a convenient start or end point for a Bhutanese journey. The lodge is nestled within a pine forest, offering stunning views of Mount Jomolhari and the Drukgyel Dzong ruins. The location provides easy access to key attractions, with activities such as hikes through rice paddies to the Tiger's Nest Monastery, walks to Choedin Lhakhang ruins, and spiritual encounters like lighting butter lamps at Kyichu Lhakhang.
7. Value & Pricing
Amankora, Paro, is a luxury property with a premium price tag, typically around USD 1600-2050 per room per night. However, guests consistently affirm it is "well worth the price" due to its all-inclusive nature, covering daily à la carte breakfast, lunch, and dinner (including picnics), select wines and spirits, laundry service, and return airport transfers. The high tourism tax (currently $100 per person per day) is also part of the overall cost of visiting Bhutan, which guests consider a "once-in-a-lifetime destination."
8. Common Complaints
While guest experiences are overwhelmingly positive, some minor points have been noted. A recurring observation, though often understood as part of the Aman philosophy, is the intentional absence of televisions and coffee machines in rooms, which some guests might initially miss. One review mentioned initial difficulty in locating rooms due to the similar appearance of the lodge's blocks. Additionally, a critique concerning spa facilities at one of the Amankora lodges (potentially not Paro) suggested a need for softer lighting and a dedicated relaxation room. Overall, however, any minor "hiccups" are generally seen as not detracting from the "premium price" and exceptional experience.
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About Two Michelin Keys
Two Michelin Keys recognize hotels that provide an excellent stay experience. These properties stand out for their remarkable quality, distinctive character, and superior service that goes above and beyond expectations.
