Soednam Zingkha Heritage Lodge – Haa Valley
Situated on two acres of land, at the village of Hatey in fabulous Haa valley, Soednam Zingkha Heritage Lodge offers an authentic Bhutanese experience amidst modern comfort. The establishment is an immaculately restored traditional farmhouse with earthen walls adorned by hand-painted murals and customary paintings, combining heritage with contemporary comfort. Converted from the traditional old house without changes in the original superstructure, the heritage lodge is set against a backdrop of evergreen pine trees, below the shadows of snow-capped mountains. It is a typical three-storied Bhutanese house surrounded by Hatey village of 60 households with a population of about 200 people. The lodge’s name suggests the surface of the pond (zingkha) on which the jewel of luck (Soednam) rests. Historically too, the house was known as ‘Zingkha,’ considered a rich household and the lady of the house was known as ‘ZingkhaMii-aum,’ the mother of the community. Inside, the lodge is fitted with the latest amenities for the comfort of the discerning travellers, while the décor is exquisitely Bhutanese with traditional wall paintings. The fifteen-room lodge features deluxe suites of international tourist standard. There are also separate rooms that serve as reception / lounge area and a dining room that can accommodate more than 25 people. Few bedrooms have attached bathrooms while others are located in the hallway but on the same floor. According to local tradition, toilets constitute a source from where ailments emanate and that is why traditionally bathrooms were located outside house. Though the rooms have internet connection but the TV is deliberately not installed in room to ensure complete detachment from modern day worries however lounge area has a TV in case guests wish to be updated. Also here documentaries can be viewed on Bhutan and about Haa valley. The lodge serves set menus, including local Bhutanese dishes tuned to taste of international clientele while Haap specialties such as Hoentey, Khuli and Akho, can be served on request. There is also choice of international, regional and national beverages, including the ‘Ara’ distilled from fermented wheat, maize or millet, and ‘Bangchang’, fermented wheat or corn juice. There is an exquisite Choedsham (alter room) available for guests who wish to meditate or make offerings. The lodge also has provision for small conferences, brainstorming sessions and annual retreats. Facilities for traditional hot stone bath, Archery & Khuru (traditional dart game), mountain biking also available at the lodge.