Rob Rinder and Monica Galetti explore the heights of Bhutan at Gangtey Lodge, situated 3,000 meters above sea level in a region that only gained electricity 11 years ago.
The hotel, designed to help guests cope with the altitude, provides oxygen cans and specialised meals. During their stay, Monica tries her hand at Bhutanese archery and traditional dairy techniques, while Rob immerses himself in the local culture by learning a Bhutanese song and visiting the nearby Buddhist monastery.
Gangtey Lodge is the vision of Khin Omar Win and Brett Melzer, who began their journey as balloon tour operators before shifting focus to build this luxury retreat in the foothills of the Himalayas. The hotel not only offers guests a high-end experience but also contributes to the local community by providing skills, training, and employment opportunities. The construction process was a three-year endeavour, marked by challenges in sourcing and transporting materials to the remote site.
The lodge maintains a strong bond with the neighbouring monastery, offering unique experiences such as dining at the monastery and participating in spiritual cleansings. Monica witnesses this relationship firsthand, with the lodge’s dedication to blending luxury with local traditions well to the fore.
Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond The Lobby airs on BBC Two on 17 October from 8:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
