Dwarika’s

It all started with one man, Dwarika Das Shrestha, who saw two local carpenters burning some intricately carved 16th-century wooden pillars as firewood. Shocked that these amazing pieces were being destroyed, he bought them and so began his collection of local carvings such as amazing wooden windows, door frames and pillars. He then incorporated all of these wonderful historic pieces in the building of Dwarika’s making it almost half museum, half hotel.

Located in Old Baneshwor in eastern Kathmandu, you are close to the airport where you also find the temple of Pashupatinath and the Buddhist Stupa of Boudhanath, and with easy reach by car of either Kathmandu or Patan Durbar Squares. It is very much an oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city and surrounds a dreamy central courtyard featuring al fresco dining and a swimming pool. There are 87 rooms and suites, all exceptionally unique and bursting with individual character, using hand-printed curtains and bedspreads, antiques and local furnishings yet totally up to date in terms of the standards excepted of a luxury hotel. There are three restaurants; a fine dining Nepalese Restaurant called Krishnarpan, Mako’s which is a Japanese restaurant and Toran which offers international cuisine. There is a superb spa and also a great bar.

Dwarikas leads in with the Heritage Deluxe Rooms, offering ample space with many of the rooms overlooking the inner courtyard. The Heritage Junior Suites are larger, complete with a divan (or day bed). The larger Heritage Executive Rooms have a larger open-plan bathroom and even more living space. The Royal Suite has its own private outdoor breakfast terrace, separate living area and bathroom complete with sunken bathtub.

Dwarikas is famous for its culinary offerings, and Krishnarpan is a must. You can choose from six to twenty-six courses (yes this isn’t a typo), served on low tables and taking you through all the various cuisines from around Nepal. Mako’s is a intimate Japanese restaurant featuring minimalist and zen-like decor. Toran is the all-day dining international restaurant that can be enjoyed outside in the courtyard.

Dwarikas feature a central swimming pool, designed to reflect the 12th century Nepalese Malla Dynasty baths. WiFi is available throughout the hotel. The spa is superb offering a range of treatments, ideal to rectify those post-trek aches and pains. There is also a fitness centre and library.