A new luxury tented resort in Bhutan is positioning itself as a premier culinary destination, challenging the notion that the country’s food scene lacks diversity and refinement.
Pemako Punakha, a newly developed retreat along the Mo Chhu River, aims to redefine Bhutanese hospitality by integrating high-end dining experiences with the country’s traditional flavors and ingredients.
Pemako is part of Bhutan’s only locally owned luxury hotel group, founded by Dasho Wangchuk Dorji, chairman of the Tashi Group.
The property is designed to offer an elevated experience that combines cultural authenticity with world-class service, according to a report by Travel and Leisure Asia.
The resort’s culinary approach showcases both local and international influences, utilizing freshly sourced Bhutanese ingredients and incorporating techniques that cater to an upscale clientele.
The hospitality industry in Bhutan is seeing a shift toward premium offerings that enhance the country’s appeal to high-spending travelers.
Pemako’s focus on gastronomy is part of this trend, with its all-day dining venue, Soma, presenting a variety of Bhutanese dishes prepared with a contemporary touch.
Guests can sample traditional ema datshi, Bhutan’s signature chili and cheese dish, alongside fresh-picked ferns, river weeds, and locally sourced meats.
Meanwhile, Sura, the resort’s private dining space, applies fine-dining techniques to regional ingredients, creating dishes that could compete on an international stage.
“We want to showcase the best of Bhutan, not just in terms of its landscapes and heritage but also through its cuisine,” said a representative from Pemako.
“The goal is to challenge preconceived notions and prove that Bhutanese dining can be as refined and memorable as any world-class culinary destination.”
For outdoor hospitality professionals, Pemako’s model provides insights into how luxury accommodations can integrate cultural authenticity with high-end amenities to attract discerning guests.
The resort’s attention to service is particularly notable, with staff members going beyond standard hospitality expectations.
One example includes a curated hiking experience to Bhutan’s famous Tiger’s Nest monastery, where Pemako team members prepared an exclusive, scenic meal setup along the trail.
The intersection of luxury and experiential travel is becoming increasingly important in the hospitality industry, and Pemako’s approach demonstrates how properties in remote locations can differentiate themselves.
By combining local traditions with sophisticated service, Bhutan’s evolving hospitality sector is proving that it can compete on a global level while maintaining its cultural identity.
