The secret of Kathmandu

Dwarika's Hotel.
Kathmandu is well served with luxury international hotels but none of them can match the unique character of Dwarika's. The hotel was born from the vision and passion of one man who wanted to preserve Nepal culture for future generations. This wonderful retreat is hidden behind high walls away from the chaos of Kathmandu.


The hotel was founded by the late Dwarika Das Shertha who single handedly, over a number of years, collected ancient carved wooden pieces and terracotta from old buildings that were being demolished in Kathmandu.
Later he realized his dream to incorporate them into buildings of his hotel Dwarika's.

The hotel is a living legacy to his foresight and passion to preserve the cultural and architectural
heritage of his country.


The splendour of Malla art and architecture is now incorporated within its leafy courtyards and even the exquisite swimming pool with its cascading waterfalls is reminiscent of the 12th century dynasty.

Our room facing onto courtyards was furnished with hand made Nepali furniture and hand printed spreads and drapes made from traditional fabrics. The en-suite facilities included a luxurious sunken bathtub overlooking an atrium, just the sort of therapy you need after a hectic day in the Kathmandu valley.

Beside the casual dining in the courtyards a stay at Dwarika's wouldn't be complete without a feast in the world renowned Krishnarpan restaurant.
The menus are generous from a modest 6 course to a formidable 22 course feast allowing you to sample all the flavours of Nepali cuisine as you lounge on low chairs with overstuffed cushions.

Nepal boasts eight world heritage listed sites and has one two heritage awards. One for the must see medieval city of Bhaktapur and the other for Dwarika's hotel.

Nepal: Chitwan elephant safari.

Ram Kali at Tiger Tops in Chitwan National Park.

Single horned Indian Rhino

This was our first sighting from the back of Ram Kali on our early morning safari. The mighty animals faced each other in a 'stand off'' until we began to retreat and leave the Rhino's to their breakfast.

We continued our search for the elusive Tigers and as the morning warmed we moved back into the canopy of the jungle spotting many of the wild animals of Chitwan, shy spotted deer, hog deer and wild boar.

Later we trekked on foot through the jungle following large Tiger tracks but to no avail.

That same afternoon we had a very informative talk on Elephants before accompanying them to the river for a bath where we were allowed to wash them as they wallowed in the cooling waters.

We spent two nights at Tiger Tops but could have made it seven as it was so relaxing. The staff are excellent and very informative about the various programmes in Chitwan.
The lodge accommodates a limited number of guests and the evenings are spent around the hearth in the Golghar interacting with expert naturalists who add to the special wilderness experience.
We travelled to Chitwan by road from Kathmandu which took the whole day as the roads are pretty rough but nonethless scenic. Should we visit again we would elect to fly in to the nearby private airstrip.