A luxury travel experience in Nepal will excite, delight, intrigue and educate even the most experienced traveller. Fascinating cultures, dramatic landscapes and enticing experiences are embraced within its borders. Located in South Asia between China and India, it’s no surprise an exotic harmony of sights, sounds and sensations awaits. Nepal’s diversity is staggering. The formidable Mount Everest may be reason enough to visit for some, but there is so much more to this beautiful country. Explore the rich jungles of Chitwan, take in the bustling life of Kathmandu and visit ancient temples peppered across the vibrant countryside.
Whether you want to hike in the Himalayas, explore the lakes and countryside, discover ancient traditions or experience its wonderful wildlife, Nepal has something for everyone. It is a small country compared to its colossal neighbour, and while there is plenty to discover within its borders.
1)The Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu
Dwarika’s is, quite simply, one of the most beautiful hotels in Nepal. It’s not in a fancy location, just on a busy road a short walk from the Pashupatinath Temple, but behind its walls lie an oasis of architectural charm and traditional luxury.Now, the brick and carved timber hotel is practically a museum, done in the style of traditional Newari palaces (such as those you’ll find in the Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur Durbar Squares). The 83 spacious rooms and suites are absolutely chock-full of antiques, paintings, locally made bed linens and other fixtures. Each room is different and totally luxurious. There’s also a lovely pool in the centre of the courtyard, a number of restaurants serving some of the finest cuisines in Kathmandu, amazing breakfast buffets and daily yoga classes with a teacher who is famous for his eccentricity.
Hotel Website : The Dwarika’s Hotel
- The Dwarika’s Resort, Dhulikhel
Dwarika’s Resort Dhulikhel is relaxation in a mountain setting. Located in Dhulikhel, about 30 kilometres (one and a half to two hours) from Kathmandu, there are gorgeous views of the snowy Himalaya on clear days from the resort. There are plenty of outdoor lounging areas from which to enjoy the views, an excellent spa that offers a wide range of treatments and even an outdoor meditation maze.
Hotel Website : The Dwarika’s Hotel
- Tiger Mountain Lodge, Pokhara
Travelers seeking a less strenuous but equally authentic insight into Nepalese culture can attend the lodge’s meditation and yoga sessions that run daily or indulge in Ayurvedic and Shiatsu therapy. The clusters of bungalows resemble the local Nepali villages and the lodges are built from hand-cut stone, nestled within private gardens flourishing with indigenous shrubs, bamboo and fruit trees. Perched 1,000 feet above the Pokhara Valley with a spectacular Himalayan backdrop, Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge provides a perfect haven, the essence of tranquility. Ideal for guests pre- and post-trek, or for those wishing to take day walks exploring local communities, bird-watching, gentle exercise, or just to relax in a typical Nepalese rural setting.Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge is a member of Secret Retreats, a select group of some of the world’s most special experiences.
Hotel Website : Tiger Mountain Lodge
4)Meghauli Serai, A Taj Safari – Chitwan National Park
Nestled in the iconic Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Meghauli Serai Lodge sits on the edge of the Rapti River. Chitwan translates directly as “heart of the jungle” and travellers have the opportunity to explore the area via jungle safaris and canoeing opportunities for the chance to spot sloth bears, Gharial crocodiles, tigers, leopards and more than 540 species of birds. The main lounge with an imposing chandelier made with 10,000 Nepalese hand painted beads. The lodge embraces local decor and aesthetics with an abundant use of local art and artefacts. The large Newari door leading to the lobby has been procured from a local Tharu village. A large infinity pool with a viewing deck and a ‘machan’ over the river for private dining and wildlife viewing add to the charm of this jungle lodge at Chitwan.
Hotel Website : Meghauli Serai, A Taj Safari
5)Hyatt Regency, Kathmandu
Hyatt Regency Kathmandu set on 37 acres of landscaped grounds and created in the traditional Newari style of Nepalese architecture. This beautiful hotel and resort is located on the road to the Boudhanath Stupa: the most holy of all Tibetan Buddhist shrines outside of Tibet and a UNESCO World Heritage Site located within a five-minute walk from the hotel. The Hyatt Regency is a favourite among expats in Kathmandu for its gorgeous swimming pool and epic weekend breakfast buffets, but it’s a delight for visitors passing through the Nepali capital as well.
Hotel Website : Hyatt Regency