Out of the many lodging options in Kathmandu, we have handpicked half a dozen authentic hotels we love. These hotels range from affordable to luxurious, and they all have a unique character.

The Inn Patan

Courtyard at the Patan Inn
Courtyard at the Patan Inn 

The Patan Inn is a boutique heritage hotel transformed from a traditional brick and timber Nepalese home, a 1-minute walk from Patan Durbar Square. If you are looking to make your stay in Kathmandu truly unique, we highly recommend the Inn. The hotel only has 10 rooms and sells out often. 

 Key features:

  • A nice patio with a tranquil vibe. Great to enjoy meals or a coffee 
  • Beautifully appointed rooms, in traditional Newari style, but upgraded to meet today's comfort standards.
  • Located just a 1-minute walk from historic Patan Durbar Square

Shambaling Boutique Hotel

Shambaling red-themed room

Shambaling Boutique Hotel is a quiet hotel with a spiritual vibe. It is operated by a Sherpa family that originates from the Himalayan foothills near Everest. It is located in the Boudha neighborhood of Kathmandu and is a pleasant 7-minute walk along back alleys and local markets from the famous Boudhanath Stupa. 

Key features:

  • Very nicely appointed rooms to show that the owners care about their hotel. Each floor has its own color theme. 
  • Spacious garden and rooftop that is being used for yoga events.
  • A short, pleasant walk from the Boudhanath Stupa, which allows you to experience Buddhist rituals during the early mornings 
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Dwarika's Hotel

Room at Dwarika's
Room at Dwarika's

While beyond most travelers' budget, no list of Kathmandu hotels is complete without Dwarika, Kathmandu's undisputed top luxury hotel. Dwarika features beautiful architecture, friendly, attentive staff, and fine dining. The hotel is still operated by its founders, the Shresta family. 

Key features:

  • Beautiful heritage architecture. Large, well-appointed rooms
  • Three top-of-the-line restaurants
  • A beautiful inner courtyard 

Hotel Manaslu

The lobby at the Manaslu Hotel
The lobby at the Manaslu Hotel

Hotel Manaslu appeals to travelers with a taste for classic heritage design. Founded in 1972, the hotel has an authentic character. The interior is decorated with plenty of carved dark wood, similar to the style you find in temples on Durbar Square. 

Key features:

  • Lobby, covered patio, and garden with a relaxed vibe. The garden features a nicely sized swimming pool.
  • Located in a quiet neighborhood, but only a 20-minute walk or 10-minute cab ride from bustling Thamel
  • Classic heritage design, similar in style to Dwarika

Kathmandu Guest House

Garden at the Kathmandu Guesthouse
Garden at the Kathmandu Guesthouse

Kathmandu Guest House is a classic Kathmandu hotel in the heart of Thamel. Its key feature is its large, relaxing garden, which forms an oasis in Thamel's otherwise bustling tourist neighborhood.

Key features:

  • Large, relaxed garden with lounge chairs
  • Location in the heart of Thamel
  • A great place to meet other travelers

Radisson Hotel Kathmandu

Rooftop pool at the Radisson
The rooms at the Radisson

The Radisson is a bit of an outlier in this list since it isn't a locally owned boutique hotel. We've included it because of its unique rooftop treadmills and pool. Also, it's a good hotel for travelers looking for a comfortable option while getting ready for their trek or climbs.  

Key features:

  • Rooftop outdoor swimming pool with great views of the city and mountains.
  • Rooftop treadmills looking out over the swimming pool and the city
  • Solid rooms and a large lobby