Dwarika's
Kathmandu, Nepal
At a Glance
Amazing heritage hotel located in Kathmandu
Built by using antique local woodcarvings making the hotel feel like you are living in a museum
Superb restaurants, offering tasting menus and international favourites
Delightful inner courtyard offering an inviting swimming pool
Wide range of rooms and suites, all of which are spacious and unique
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Best time to Visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Nepal has a Monsoonal climate with four main seasons. Autumn and spring are the two most favourable seasons for visiting Nepal. Autumn (September to early December) brings in clear weather with sunny days and warm nights. Spring (March to May) with occasional rain falls. From June to September, is the monsoon season. Uncomfortable time to visit as the climate of Nepal at this time of year brings about hot weather and rain falls almost every day.
Insider's View
Try their Nepalese tasting menu - 22 courses in all!
We suggest opting for a Heritage Junior Suite which offer a great deal of space and lovely views over the courtyard
head to the Krishnarpan, the hotels signature Nepalese restaurant. They can offer you 6 to 22 (yes, 22!) course's and it's delicious.
Spend and afternoon relaxing in the hotel, take in the interesting heritage artifacts, relax by pool, enjoy the cosy bar or try out the himalayan spa. Even if you are on a short visit make sure to enjoy the unique atmosphere here.
At the end of a long day sightseeing, exploring and shopping return to the haven of peace and tranquility and sit in the garden courtyard with a refreshing glass of iced Nepalese tea in warm months or a mug of hot tea, lemon and fresh ginger in colder months - the perfect drink to ward off the cold!
To start planning your holiday to Dwarika's
Description
Dwarika's Hotel in Kathmandu is a stunning example of meticulous preservation of local architecture and is a fantastic opportunity to stay in a luxurious heritage property in the heart of Kathmandu, and is simply a Scott Dunn's favourite.
Dwarika's stunning architecture and design is inspired by the architectural traditions of the Newari Kings. The doors and window frames are some of the features that follow these astounding forms. Dwarika's was inspired by one man, Dwarika Das Shrestha, who saw some ancient carvings being burnt as firewood as modernisation started to occur in Nepal- it became his passion to collect and preserve as much as he could over the years to save them from going up in smoke. In 1988 he brought his collection together and opened the hotel, merging together several old traditional Newari houses around a central courtyard and incorporating everything he had collected. Today the central courtyard of the hotel is a haven from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu. Dwarika's houses an extensive collection of artefacts from the 14th century onwards and has won awards for the preservation of Nepalese heritage in the Kathmandu Valley. Put simply, you will walk in and simply say wow.
Dwarika's contains 83 sumptuous rooms and suites, each with its own individuality and character. They are delightfully furnished, with luxury red and black fabrics giving it a dash of old and a flash of new. They all come with modern amenities, yet contain antique period furniture, handmade fabrics and boast meticulous attention to detail. Bathrooms are spacious and have sunken bathtubs and hand-made, natural cosmetics . There are four room categories ranging from the smaller Heritage Rooms, to the Junior Suites, Executive Suites and really rather impressive Royal Suite (just think what antiques and carvings adorn this suite!).
Famed for its food, Dwarika's uses local cooking techniques to produce cuisine of highly original quality and taste. Do absolutely try Krishnarpan, with its superb Nepali tasting menus. There is also a superb Japanese restaurant, Makos and an all day dining restaurant, Toran, which opens out into the central courtyard. For those who want to be rewarded after a trek in the mountains, then head to the Fusion Bar which overlooks the swimming pool and can offer a range of drinks. Much of the food served in the restaurants comes the owners organic farm.
The hotel has a glorious swimming pool designed to reflect the grandeur of the 12th century Malla Dynasty baths, and is located in the central courtyard. Dwarika's also has a small but superb spa - perfect to iron out those trekking aches and pains!
Accommodation
Dwarikas has a choice of wonderful rooms and suites for you to stay in. Heritage Deluxe Rooms, Heritage Executive Suite, Heritage Junior Suite and the Royal Suite. The rooms and suites have beautiful custom-made furniture and organically produced linen. The Royal Suite has formal and informal meeting spaces, a private lounge, a gorgeous bedroom and a luxurious bathroom.
Facilities
Facilities at the Dwarikas includes an outdoor swimming pool, three restaurants and massages at the Pancha Kosha Spa whose influences come from ancient Himalayan traditions. There is also a shop selling books, jewellery, Thangka paintings, handicrafts and Nepali Pashmina shawls. There is a small library and WiFi is available throughout the hotel.
| Fusion Bar | The Fusion Bar is located just off the courtyard and is open during the day and well into the night, The bar seems to blend old and new rather well. They have a range of drinks on offer some cold, refreshing beers, a good wine list and a range of cocktails. Friday is the most 'happening' night when you can expect a live band and a Nepali barbecue. |
| Krishnarpan | Krishnarpan is simply the best Nepali restaurant in Kathmandu and takes you on a culinary journey through the cuisines of Nepal. It offers a slow dining experience, taking influences from the grand banquets held by the Newari Kings of old. You can opt from 6 to 22 courses (yes this isn't a typo) and are prepared using the freshest vegetables from the Dwarika's vegetable gardens. You are served on traditional brass and earthenware condiments and we feel it provides the perfect post-trek experience. |
| Mako's | Mako is a superb Japanese fine dining experience in a minimalist and Zen-like restaurant that blends the ancient feel of Nepal with the traditions of Japan. |
| Toran | Toran is an all-day dining restaurant and offers a range of international dishes if you need a break from trying Nepali dishes. You can sit outside in the courtyard, or head into the restaurant when it might get a little chillier. |
| Kaiser Cafe (off site) | Kaiser Cafe is run by Dwarikas and is located close to Thamel in what is called the Garden of Dreams and is open 9am to 10pm. We absolutely love heading the Kaiser Cafe for a light lunch and just walking around the gardens. They offer a continental menu, and it is perfectly located to tie in some of the cultural sights such as Kathmandu Durbar Square. Do note that the Nepalese Goverment charge 200 rupees (£1.50) to enter the gardens, but it is well worth it! |
| Pancha Kosha Himalayan Spa | The Dwarika's Spa draws on ancient Himalayan treatments and takes its name from the Vedas that claims that our Atman or self is made up of five layers of being – the physical, the intellectual, emotional and the essence of the absolute - which together ensure an authentic and balanced experience of life. There are a wide range of massages and treatments on offer. |
Activities
In the hotel you can enjoy the library with extensive literature about Nepalese culture, the beautifully designed pool and a range of massages at the Pancha Kosha Spa. Activities in the surrounding area include white water rafting, trekking, mountain flights and visits to historical sites.
Reviews
Julie Geyton (Staff)
Dwarikas Kathmandu is a beautiful heritage property which is filled with artefacts and antiques from as far back as 13th century. The work of one man who was determined not to lose the beauty of Nepalese workmanship and antiques and built this hotel around his collection.
Emma Mark (Staff)
Jack Mace (Staff)
I arrived into Dwarika's after long days travelling and I thought it was just the most perfect spot. Located just 10 minutes from the airport, it makes a great first or last base for any trip to Nepal. Arriving into Kathmandu will be quite a culture shock to even the most seasoned traveller - it's busy, dusty and full of life. Although Dwarika's is just off one of the main streets, as soon as you set foot in this incredible building you feel a real sense of calm. The bustling streets and road noise quickly become a distant memory as you are transported into a Nepalese oasis inside. I've been to many city hotels in my time and this must be one of the best - it's interesting, luxurious and has bags of character. Also, the service you receive from start to finish is flawless. I was in a junior suite which was huge, I'd highly recommend this if you are looking for some extra space, there's even a day bed in the room! If not, a Heritage Deluxe is a great option and certainly not small. Overall, it's a hotel that's hard to fault!
Daniel Smith (Staff)
Dwarikas is a very unique hotel, and quite simply the best hotel in Nepal and possibly the subcontinent. Created using local wooden carvings and fittings, the hotel is something of a museum. The rooms are large and airy, and the main public areas are a haven away from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu. It is not right in the centre of Kathmandu, but is ideally located between Kathmandu Durbar Square and Thamel on one side and Pashupatinath, Bodnath, the airport and Bhaktapur on the other side.
Experiences
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1-hour Scenic Flight over Everest
Gain an unforgettable view over Mount Everest with an one-hour scenic flight.
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3-hour Private Everest Helicopter Charter with Landing
Enjoy an unforgettable experience as you fly over Everest by helicopter, gaining a unique perspective of the world's highest mountain.
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Back in time: The Medieval City of Bhaktapur
As you walk into Bhaktapur, you cannot but be overcome by a feeling of inner harmony. Such is the art and architecture and the special layout here.
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Bhaktapur Walking Tour
Visit Bhaktapur, one of the ancient cities in Kathmandu Valley and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Blessing ceremony at Shyalpa Tenzin Monastery
The interactive and personalised ceremony will be narrated in English or other European language throughout and will be held at Shyalpa Tenzin Monastery by His Eminence Shyalpa Tenzing Rinpoche. Ideal for a wedding blessing, anniversary or even a birthday
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Dinner with an Everest Summiteer
Having dinner with someone who has climbed Everest brings your experience in Nepal to life.
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Everest Mountain Flight
Early this morning take a flight around Everest in a light aircraft.
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Full-moon butter lamp ceremony at Bodnath Stupa
Mark ‘Purnima’ or full moon in the traditional Buddhist way, by joining a monk from Shyalpa Tenzin Monastery to light a butter lamp (candle) and participate in evening prayers.
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Kathmandu City Tour
Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambunath, offering excellent view of the city.
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Kathmandu Durbar Square & Swayambhu Stupa
Head into central Kathmandu for a walking tour around Kathmandu Durbar Sq with your private guide before heading to Swayambhu Stupa overlooking the valley. Finish at Kaiser Cafe for lunch.
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Night Photography Tour of Kathmandu
Enjoy a unique photography class like no other, in the famous Durbar Square. As night falls, the lights of the temple and candles make for impressive shots.
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Pashupatinath & Bodnath
Boudhanath Stupa & Pashupatinath, both close to each other to the east of Kathmandu. Boudhanath is the largest Buddhist Stupa in Kathmandu whilst Pashupatinath is one of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the world.
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Pashupatinath and Boudhanath
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Pashupatinath and Bodhanath.
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Patan
Patan is one of the major cities of Nepal located in the south-central part of Kathmandu Valley. It is best known for its' rich cultural heritage, particularly its tradition of arts and crafts.
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Patan Durbar Square
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Patan Durbar Square, just a 30 minute drive away from Kathmandu.
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Rafting on Trishuli River
Raft down the Trishuli river, the most popular white-water rafting destination in Nepal and a thrilling experience.
Holiday Ideas
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Classic Nepal and Bhutan
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Ultimate Nepal and India
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Ultimate Nepal and India
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from £4700 pp inc flights & transfers for 14 nights
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Walk Nepal
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Wild Nepal
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Location & directions
Kathmandu, Nepal
The Dwarikas Hotel is located at Battisputali Road, just about 2 km from Tribhuvan International Airport and within a walking distance from the most sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath. Transportation to and from the hotel is very convenient as it is quite close to the Ring Road, linked with all major roads of the city. The hotel is about 15-minutes from Kathmandu Durbat Square and 20-minutes from the markets and restaurants of Thamel.
How to get there
10-hour flight (with one change) to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport. Transfer to the hotel takes about 5-6 minutes.
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