A short car ride from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport brought me to the stunning new addition to the city’s skyline: Hilton Kathmandu. Upon arrival, we were welcomed with beaded bracelets symbolising the five elements and traditional Nepali scarves.
After soaking in the panoramic views of the Langtang Valley from my room, I joined the festivities and enjoyed an exclusive property tour. As the tallest hotel in Kathmandu and the Hilton group’s first foray into the Indian subcontinent, the property demonstrates the company’s hyper-local approach by curating a property that proudly showcases Nepal’s vibrant culture. From the building’s structure, adorned with vertical dichroic glass fins, reminiscent of Nepalese prayer flags, to the use of locally produced coffee, Hilton Kathmandu is ideal for both tourists and locals seeking a luxurious getaway. The day began with breakfast with a view at the all-day dining restaurant, Asa, which translates to ‘Hope’ in Nepali. The building’s orientation delivers unparalleled views of the Langtang mountain range, and the floor-to-ceiling glass windows seamlessly blend Kathmandu’s cityscape with the surrounding natural landscape. The hotel’s ethos, rooted in the idea of personalisation, and human-centred innovation, offers the guests a unique opportunity to tailor their stay. I took full advantage of this, curating my own excursions into the city. Major attractions like Durbar Marg, Thamel, and Pashupatinath Temple are just minutes away, which makes exploring the city’s rich cultural offerings, easy.
Starting with the serene Boudhanath Stupa, a peaceful haven that hosts an incredible community around it, I made it to Patan Durbar Square, the former royal palace that transported me to a bygone era, rich with history. The square is home to ancient temples, bronze statues, and shrines adorned with exquisite carvings. A traditional Newari thali and mesmerising cultural performances back at the hotel. Served with rice, the thali highlighted native ingredients with a distinct pahadi flavour, enhanced by the rich aroma of whole spices. While the mutton curry, indigenous potatoes and black lentils were lip-smackingly good, it was the tomato chutney, bursting with vibrant flavours, that truly stole the show.
My evening ended with a beautifully curated meal and a walk-through of the meticulous efforts of the team in crafting a personalised Nepali experience for every guest. A special mention goes to executive chef Bishnu Magar, who not only prepared the most delectable crème brûlée I’ve ever tasted, but also ensured that every meal we had was exceptional. From blending in the designs of the carpets and cutlery to reflecting local culture in every detail, the dedication to authenticity was evident in every aspect.
Hilton Kathmandu offers an array of activities to keep guests entertained—from sunrise yoga at the rooftop, a beautiful infinity pool, to a mixology class with unmatched views. The hotel’s rooftop bar, Orion, named after the constellation and featuring a skylight that allows guests to spot Orion itself, is set to become one of the most sought-after rooftop destinations in Nepal.
My stay at Hilton Kathmandu was more than just a luxurious retreat. It was a thoughtfully curated experience celebrating Nepali culture’s essence. The hotel’s meticulous attention to detail, from its architectural homage to local traditions to its personalised guest experiences, ensures that every visitor leaves with lasting memories. Regardless of the kind of traveller you are, Hilton Kathmandu promises an enriching and unforgettable experience.
Read the full story in ELLE India’s new issue, or download your digital copy via Magzter.
