RARE India has added Zhiwaling Heritage to its curated portfolio of experiential hospitality properties, further strengthening Bhutan’s position in the luxury tourism sector.
Located in the scenic Paro Valley with views of the iconic Paro Rinpung Dzong, Zhiwaling is recognised as Bhutan’s first luxury hotel built and owned by Bhutanese entrepreneurs.
The property is also the only hotel in Bhutan certified as a Unique Lodge by National Geographic.
“Zhiwaling was built on the belief that luxury hospitality could emerge from authentic Bhutanese values rather than imported aesthetics,” said Ugyen Rinzin.
“We don’t see hospitality as separate from culture; they are inseparable. That philosophy guides everything we do,” he added.
Shoba Rudra said Zhiwaling represents the kind of culturally rooted property the platform seeks to promote.
“Zhiwaling is exactly the kind of property the platform was built for, one that is rooted in its place and run by people who are deeply committed to their communities and cultures,” she said.
The inclusion of Zhiwaling in the RARE India portfolio comes as Bhutan continues to gain recognition as a high-value tourism destination.
According to Tashel Melong 2025, the annual tourism snapshot released by Bhutan’s Department of Tourism, the country recorded 209,376 visitors in 2025, marking a 44.33 percent increase from the previous year.
Earlier this year, RARE India, in collaboration with Wildlife Luxuries Pvt. Ltd., also launched Tipai Wildlife Luxuries near Tipeshwar National Park in Maharashtra.
