Homestays in Bhutan: The Real Bhutan Experience

If you are looking for an authentic cultural immersion in Bhutan, consider a homestay experience.   

Most homestays are located in traditional village settings and offers guests an opportunity to see how villagers go about their daily lives. It is also the best place to explore the flavors of the Bhutanese cuisine. The traditional hot stone bath will help you unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.  

We have put together a list of top homestays in Bhutan based on our guest reviews. In addition to providing an authentic experience for their guests, these owners have invested in infrastructure upgrade to include modern facilities to ensure their guests have a comformtable stay.

Aum Om’s Homestay (Paro)

Located at Satsam Chorten in the beautiful Paro valley, Aum Om’s homestay is one of the most sought in Paro. The homestay is known for its warm hospitality and their finger-licking homecooked meals. 

Their cozy rooms and affordable price makes it one of the most loved homestays in the valley. The property has free Wi-Fi and also offers traditional hot stone bath

Traditional hot stone bath is considered a natural healing procedure for a number of ailments like joint pains and stomach troubles. Smooth white colored stones from the river banks are baked in the fire and dipped into a wooden tub of cold water. The water is then infused with medicinal herbs. 

Address: Satsam, Paro
Phone: +975 17119199

Ugyen’s Homestay (Haa)

 

Ugyen’s homestay is a 200-year old farmhouse located in Dumchoe village in Haa Valley. It is the proper heritage house. 

The family members welcome their guests as per the local tradition to enhance guest experience followed by welcome drink and snack. A typical Bhutanese welcome drink includes butter and salted tea with puffed rice. 

They may also include a special snack native to Haa valley known as "hoentey" usually only made to celebrate new year. Hoenteys are buckwheat dumplings filled with spinach, local cheese and herbs. 

Ugyen and family are keen on curating unique experiences for their guests and help them explore their local area. Haa does not receive many tourists making it a perfect destination if you're looking for an off the beaten track expereince.

Address: Dumchoe, Haa
Phone: +975 77770011
Email Id: haavalleyhomestay@gmail.com

Damchoe’s Homestay (Thimphu)

Located only 10 minutes drive away from the main town in Thimphu, Aum Damchoe’s homestay is perfect if you're traveling with your family. The house is a two storied bungalow with a flower garden. The homestay is secluded in the woods away from the busy town. 

The place is also known for their delicious local cuisine prepared with organic vegetables from her kitchen garden. With prior arrangement, she offers cooking lessons for her guests. 

Address: Kawangjangsa, Thimphu
Phone: +975 77114441

The Chimi Lhakhang Homestay (Punakha)

 

Located close to the fertility temple, the Chimi Lhakhang homestay surrounded by beautiful village scenery. The homestay offers authentic village life experience to their guests. They are known for the best breakfast meals. The view from their terrace is simply mesmerizing.

Address: Near Chimi Lhakhang, Punakha
Phone: +975 17851311

Bangpa Heritage Farmstay (Bumthang)

Aum Bangpa heritage farmstay is located in the picturesque Ura village, Bumthang. Aum Tashi Bangpa heritage farmstay is situated just below Ura Lhakhang. The heritage house has beautiful architectural works making it one of the most beautiful farmhouses in the village. 

The owner Aum Tashi, is friendly and always busy taking care of her guests. Aum Tashi is a great cook, happy to teach her guests how to cook her delicious local recipes. She also has a stone oven for outdoor baking session and if you're lucky, you may get to taste her delicious slice of bread.

Address: Ura village, Bumthang
Phone: +975 77639828
Email Id: tashiwangmo1971@gmail.com

Why choose a homestay over a hotel

Homestays are cheaper compared to hotel. You also support rural communities by staying at a homestay. Most importantly, it is the best way to discover Bhutan.

How to book your homestay in Bhutan

You can book your accommodation at the homestay of your choice by contacting the owner. However, if you're looking for hassle-free booking experience, consider one of our thoughtfully curated Bhutan tour packages. If a homestay experience is what you are looking for as part of your trip to Bhutan, you can count on us to arrange that for you.

 

1 comment
  • Lesli (4 years ago)
    Homestays are always my first preference. Because you can mix with their own culture and taste their traditional food also. I really want to go Bhutan and experience the beauty of ancient Bhutan.
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