Zhiwa Ling Ascent

This avant-garde property near Thimphu is a fascinating juxtaposition of modern, Scandinavian minimalism, and traditional Bhutanese farmhouse artistry designed by local and Austrian architects.

Beneath a soaring roof that seems to float above the rest of the building, blocky sections of wooden farmhouse protrude from a flawless glass and stacked stone facade, contrasting the timeless craftsmanship of Bhutanese homes with its sleek, edgy modernity.

Zhiwa Ling Ascent’s 20 rooms lean into the Scandinavian minimalist look with tan wood, stylish but functional furnishings, and picture large windows looking out onto the landscape. Students from the Royal Institute of Tourism and Hospitality come here to train under the tutelage of expert staff, ensuring energetic, first-rate service from check-in to check-out. In the spirit of the hotel’s cross-cultural creation, both local and Western dishes make appearances on the restaurant’s menu.

Another quality that makes Zhiwa Ling Ascent so distinctive is the enveloping setting. While it looks like it’d be right at home in a trendy European neighborhood, the hotel has instead been dropped into a verdant high mountain meadow overlooking Bhutan’s capital city. Catch glimpses of pitched roofs and colorful temples through pine trees as you practice yoga or kick back with a cocktail on the open-air, top-floor terrace with panoramic views of the valley.