Dwarika's was built on an act of rescue. In 1952, its founder watched carpenters burning an ancient Newari pillar for firewood and decided then and there to save whatever he could from the old buildings of Kathmandu.
What followed was a lifetime's work of preservation that eventually became a PATA Heritage Award-winning hotel; 83 rooms and suites arranged around peaceful courtyards, every corridor and archway adorned with woodcarvings that date back to the 13th century, and for many visitors, the finest place to stay in the city. The signature Krishnarpan restaurant offers a slow-dining Nepalese gastronomic experience that draws on the traditions of the valley.
What we love
- The story behind this hotel is unlike almost any other; every carving and timber you see was saved from demolition, and that gives the place a soul that no amount of money can manufacture
- The courtyards offer real respite from Kathmandu. Step inside and the city outside feels a world away
- The swimming pool takes its inspiration from traditional Nepali royal baths and is surrounded by intricate stone carvings; it's a beautiful spot at any time of day
- Staying here is to stay somewhere that genuinely matters to Nepal, not just to its guests
This is one of the priciest hotels in Kathmandu. The experience justifies it for most guests, but it is worth going in with that expectation setService is generally very good but can feel stretched when the hotel is at full capacity. A few guests have noted that busy periods affect response times in the restaurants and at reception
What our travellers say
Stuart (March 2025) United Kingdom
Read the whole review here Tripadvisor
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