What does a social worker and an economist have in common? Not too much, but that’s where the story of The Pema begins, because it all started with the marriage of two very diverse minds and a love affair to last lifetimes. 

“Both of us found each other at a time when our lives were just beginning and in the process of growing up, we fell in love with our country all over again! We see so much potential in our land, in our people, and we know that what comes naturally to us as a nation, can become something to proudly share on a global stage.” 

The story of The Pema itself dates back to 2015 when founders, Gyaltshen and Pema, out of their deep love for their country and a passion for architecture, food and travel shared a dream.

“We are immensely blessed to be born Bhutanese and to live under the reign of Visionary and Benevolent Monarchs. As proud citizens and subjects, what we ultimately leave behind is how we’ll impact the quality of life around us – we believe that this is our opportunity to contribute in a small way towards nation building.”

The Pema by Realm commenced full operations mid-2019 and what started as a dream of 2 has now become the big, bold dream of 60 passionate individuals – To create and build a Bhutanese homegrown hospitality brand synonymous with excellence and innovation,setting the highest standards in thisindustry that we adore.

“We are not in the business of hotels, we are in the business of growing people, for people are at the heart of change and sustainable growth.”

Gross National Happiness, Bhutan’s guiding development philosophy founded by The Fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme SingyeWangchuck, highlights human welfare at the heart of national progress. One of the core pillars of The Pema philosophy is that of investing in and growing human resource capability, for our people are our greatest asset. With representation from most of Bhutan’s twenty districts, The Pema is comprised of driven, committed and passionate ladies and gentlemen.  

“Together We Grow, Together We Can,” has been The Pema Family motto since 2020 as most of the early years were spent weathering the COVID19 pandemic. Launching a brand during the most challenging period in history, has taught us to focus on the positive, to innovate, and to persevere; above all, that community is vital and we must always support one another.As famous American educator, Booker T. Washington said, in order to lift ourselves up, we must lift others first.

Undoubtedly, these experiences have reinvented and shaped our entire approach to this industry. 

Today, we are an award winning design hotel uniquely focused on curating the most exciting culinary experiences, renowned for bespoke leisure and corporate events, strong community engagement, and connecting travelers and locals creating opportunities for serendipitous and memorable moments. 

When you walk through our doors, be prepared to be treated to the unexpected. From our quirky interiors at M Bistro, to eclectic lobby music playlists, business meetings held in style, and locals bustling in and about the many cozy corners around The Pema where our restaurants are more famous than the hotel itself, we are anything but predictable. Maybe that’s why we are told people gravitate towards the warmth and energy our ladies and gentlemen exude.

Come connect at The Pema.

Contrary to popular opinion, The Pema is not named after its founders!

The Pema or “Lotus” is one of Bhutan’s gorgeous 8 lucky symbols representing strength and resilience.

During your time at The Pema, you’ll get a glimpse into the vastly colorful heritage of Bhutan, a Kingdom also known as “Drukyul” or the “Land of the Thunder Dragon.” And it is a heritage that is dotted with mystical creatures, symbols, and folk tales celebrated through our art, crafts, in our daily speech, the way we eat, drink, dress and carry ourselves. 

Experience The Pema to celebrate Bhutan.