Kathmandu is on the rise again now that the Maoists are retreating and whether hitting this cultural capital (Kathmandu is a World Heritage site) to hike, shop, or visit ancient temples, we suggest sleeping at Dwarika’s, a unique hotel with a lot of character.
Hidden behind high walls away from the chaos of Kathmandu and within easy reach of the heart of the city, the hotel was founded by the late Dwarika Das Shrestha who, wanting to preserve Nepali culture for future generations, single-handedly collected ancient wood carvings and terracotta from old buildings that were demolished during Kathmandu’s years of rapid development. Through his efforts, the splendor of Newari art and architecture is now incorporated within Dwarika’s leafy courtyards - even the swimming pool, with its cascading waterfalls, takes you back to the 15th century.
Rooms are furnished with handmade Nepali furniture and traditional hand-printed fabrics. And a stay at Dwarika's wouldn't be complete without a feast in Krishnarpan restaurant, where an extravagant 22-course meal only runs you $37.
Nepal has eight World Heritage sites and has won two Heritage Awards; one for the must-see medieval city of Bhaktapur and the other for Dwarika's Hotel.
