NEPAL is a landlocked Himalayan nation between China and India, where towering mountains and a rich cultural heritage converge. It’s home to the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest, at 29000 feet and eight of the world’s 10 tallest mountains.
This captivating country transitioned 16 years ago from one of the world’s most storied monarchies to a democratic republic, but retaining its distinctiveness in several unique ways. One of Nepal’s most captivating cultural traditions is the worship of the living goddess, Kumari, a young girl who is revered as a deity until she reaches puberty.
She has daily audiences in her Kathmandu palace with the public, where tourists can gain a glimpse of her. Other interesting facts about Nepal include being the only country in the world with a 15-minute time offset relative to its neighbouring countries, and also being the only nation with a non-rectangular national flag (depicting mountain peaks).
Swimmng pool at Dwarika’s Hotel
In Kathmandu we are staying at the palatial Dwarika’s Hotel, a heritage property showcasing Nepalese craftsmanship and resembling a museum rather than a luxury hotel with its 13th century artefacts and multiple courtyards.
It dates back to 1952 when the founder, Dwarika Das Shrestha, began rescuing ornate wooden carvings from ancient buildings. He purchased land to store and display these artefacts, eventually creating the eponymous boutique hotel, which opened its doors to guests in 1977.
Krishnarpan Nepali Restaurant at Dwarika’s Hotel
The property, which continues to play host to a line-up of international royalty and celebrities, comprises 80 spacious and authentically designed rooms and suites. Each is a testament to Nepal’s creative history, featuring beamed ceilings, custom-made dark-wood furnishings, shiny terracotta tiled floors and hand-woven upholstery.
This family-run hotel offers three restaurants with most of the food supplied by the Dwarika’s local organic farms. Toran, the all-day dining eatery with an international menu where we enjoy an al-fresco breakfast in the tree-filled courtyard; Mako’s, the spot for Japanese fare; and the highly acclaimed Krishnarpan serving the finest Nepalese cuisine in Kathmandu.
Organic Farm at Dwarika’s Resort
A two-hour drive takes us to the laid-back sister property, Dwarika’s Resort, an all-suite wellness mountain-side retreat offering spectacular views of Kathmandu Valley. Mornings kick off with a mountain-top yoga session under the sunrise, followed by a hearty al fresco breakfast.
Afternoons are spent with the highly qualified Ayurvedic doctor offering advice on how to work towards a more holistic approach to life. We learn how to balance our mind and body and to discover what type of diet suits our specific body types and physiological needs.
Dwarika’s Resort bedroom suite
The charming guru Sivaraman teaches us how breathing therapy can help us in our everyday lives and he guides us on a range of breathing exercises. On our final evening, we head to the Pancha Kosha Himalayan Spa passing trees with affirmation inscriptions, an indication of the spirituality resonating throughout the resort. The indulgent massage with scented lemongrass oil soothes our muscles and calms our souls, just in time for pre-dinner drinks at the highest spot at the resort, Gol Lok Dham Lounge, where we enjoy panoramic views of the sun slowly setting over the Himalayas.
During our time in Nepal we discover a country where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with a tranquil lifestyle. From the bustling colourful streets of Kathmandu to the serene verdant tranquillity of the Himalayan foothills, this country guarantees a unique adventure exploring its natural wonders and its rich cultural tapestry.
by Amanda Bernstein
The Dwarika’s Hotel starting price (on BB basis, high season): $446.29 (for 2 people) dwarikas.com
The Dwarika’s Resort starting price (on BB basis, high season): $620.62 (for 2 people) dwarikas-dhulikhel.com