The striking dzong-like architecture of the five-star Taj Tashi fits effortlessly into the valley, and the elegant interior is full of Bhutanese motifs (note the dungchen trumpets as door handles). The understated rooms are full of dark timber and most have excellent views, particularly the corner suites and the four deluxe rooms with private balconies, where you can relax on a day bed.
The Chig-Ja-Gye restaurant serves superior Bhutanese meals in a lavish dining room full of dark wood and gold trim, and the bar and outdoor terrace are sophisticated places for a quiet drink away from the crowds. There's also a top-end gym, an indoor pool, and one of Thimphu's best spas.