Birthday balloons for little one
Kid's birthday party in a beautiful #Kailash Hall at #Hotel Shanker, various venue options for birthday celebration at any age, with all information to plan and host birthday party or any other events.
Featured in a Thai Newspaper (something uniquely interesting about this photo)
We stayed at Shanker hotel at katmandu. The hotel itself is really large and has a big garden. It was builded when Rana family was a prime minister. Mr Shrestra, the manager had given us a really friendly welcome. Everyday here they have a wedding party of Nepalese hi-society, we were so excited to see the groom sat charmingly on the horse came along with a bunch of people and music. everyone seems very happy celebrating in the dining hall and durbar hall every night.
Hotel Shanker featured in a Thai News Paper!
A guest from krabi - Translation by Ms Candy Kwan:
We stayed at Shanker hotel at katmandu. The hotel itself is really large and has a big garden. It was builded when Rana family was a prime minister. Mr Shrestra, the manager had given us a really friendly welcome. Everyday here they have a wedding party of Nepalese hi-society, we were so excited to see the groom sat charmingly on the horse came along with a bunch of people and music. everyone seems very happy celebrating in the dining hall and durbar hall every night.
Our founder's legacy
In 1964 A.D., Late Mr. Ram Shanker Shrestha bought this Palace and converted into the hotel as we know today. Operations were started with a 23 rooms and gradually expanded to its full capacity.
In 1964 A.D., Late Mr. Ram Shanker Shrestha bought this Palace and converted into the hotel as we know today. Operations were started with a 23 rooms and gradually expanded to its full capacity.
He received (posthumously) the Order of the Gorkha Dakshina Bahu (an order of knighthood of Nepal. It is one of the highest honors given for the distinguished contribution to the country traditionally by the King and now the President.)
Late Mr. Ram Shanker Shrestha
Spot the Everest challenge
Perspective view of the Himalayas and Mount Everest as seen from space, Nepal boasts 8 of the 10 highest mountains in the world.... and so on and so forth.
Can you spot Mt. Everest in this picture? (click the photo to see the answer)
Featured post from Travelosophy
Kathmandu is full of vibrant and colourful hotels for both trekkers and dharma seekers, however the Shanker Hotel is seriously authentic and must not be missed. The outside needs a little paint and the barman doesn’t know how to make a mojito, but it’s not often you can eat, drink, sleep and be treated like royalty at a historic Kathmandu palace. Expedia’s travellers love Nepal, it’s one of the hottest destinations at the moment, and with hotels like the Shanker that ooze old world charm and sophistication – it is no wonder.
Kathmandu is full of vibrant and colourful hotels for both trekkers and dharma seekers, however the Shanker Hotel is seriously authentic and must not be missed. The outside needs a little paint and the barman doesn’t know how to make a mojito, but it’s not often you can eat, drink, sleep and be treated like royalty at a historic Kathmandu palace.
Expedia’s travellers love Nepal, it’s one of the hottest destinations at the moment, and with hotels like the Shanker that ooze old world charm and sophistication – it is no wonder.
Nestled in a quiet oasis, discreetly hidden off the busy and chaotic streets of Kathmandu, Hotel Shanker is a luxury heritage hotel which opened its doors to travellers in 1964. Prior to this it was a Rana Royal Palace, built in 1894.
This is one hotel that knows how to make a lasting first impression. Upon arriving at the hotel I was whisked out of the taxi by two hotel bellmen and escorted up the stairs to the entrance. ‘Namaste’ I was greeted by a sharply tailored doorman who was dressed in red, had white crisp gloves and black polished shoes – which I swear I could see my own reflection in. He pushed open the heavy glass door to make way for me to step inside the dramatic foyer.
Stepping through into the main body of the hotel, you enter a world that disappeared over a century ago. Big crystal chandeliers hang from the ceiling, exposed wooden beams line the roof, carved pillars stand tall from the floor to the ceiling and intricately carved Nepalese windows look out onto four acres of perfectly manicured lawn.
Hushed to a brown leather couch I was served fresh ginger tea as I went through all the formalities of checking in. While nearer by, a row of Nepalese bellboys stood to attention, awaiting instructions.
Besides the grandeur of the foyer the thing that strikes you first is the silence. There’s no noise or crowds, and in Nepal such space is itself a symbol of wealth.
A hotel can break or make a holiday. While I love a luxury hotel, when seeking out a great hotel there are more things to consider than the finest thread sheets and five-star butler service. It is about the little details that give a hotel character and charm. And Hotel Shanker does not disappoint.
Escorted to my room by two bellmen, walking down the exotic hallway I stopped to admire the wooden pillars, carvings, and colourful paintings along the way. Flashes of Indiana Jones came to my mind and I was secretly looking around for any hidden doors that may lead to ancient treasure - it truly is a place that inspires a traveller’s imagination to soar!
The smell of English rose filled my hotel room as soon as I cracked open the window which overlooked the perfectly manicured gardens. A lady wearing a colourful headscarf who was working in the garden below looked up and gave me a friendly wave. The hotel room was simple yet had everything that the traveller needs. It is the attention to the little details that make Hotel Shanker stand out, it is the chocolates and fresh flowers on arrival and the palette of royal colours, fabrics, and furnishings that create a rich and colourful experience. Looking around the room it is evident by the carved windows and gold gilded ceilings that the rugged hands of Nepalese craftsmen and carpenters had worked hard to build an architectural masterpiece that is characterised by exquisite and authentic objects d’art.
After a hot bath it was off to dinner at the hotels in-house restaurant Cozy Kailash. They served up a buffet which was a fusion of Indian, Chinese and Nepalese. I opted for an authentic Nepalese experience and scooped onto my plate the Dahl Baat, a traditional Nepalese dish of lentils and vegetables. Earthy and aromatic with turmeric and laced with chilli slices, garlic and cumin seeds – it was not bad on its own, but scoop it up with a freshly baked roti, top it with yoghurt and spike it with the tart lemon pickle and it was to die for. Throw in on the side a big glass of cold Everest beer and a friendly chat with Nischal my waiter, it was the perfect meal.
After dinner I headed back to my room, walking the creaky wooden hallways of the former Rana palace I was almost expecting an old whiskered Rana prince to come shuffling around the corner. Turning the key in the lock of my door I was bid goodnight in whispers by the evening housekeeping staff.
Breakfast was quite the lavish affair and I have to admit it was my favourite. The buffet is included within the room rate and it caters for all tastes and cravings – from blueberry pancakes, bacon and eggs to creamy bircher muesli. A freshly made omelette, a spicy tomato juice, fresh pressed coffee, friendly service and a newspaper: for me there was no better way to start the day.
After breakfast you can hit the busy streets of Kathmandu, it is about a 10 minute walk to Thamel: the city’s main hub for restaurants and shopping. Or you can retire to the poolside bar where the tables and sun lounges sprawl into the garden, great for unwinding with a good book and a cheeky early morning Gin and Tonic.
However amongst all the mystic and beauty of Hotel Shanker, it is definitely the friendly staff that made the stay worthwhile. They all went out of their way to ensure I was happy and comfortable, and meeting them in the hallway they would always smile and greet me with a soft ’Namaste’. And as far as the really bad mojito – well let’s face it, I got what I deserved –you should never try to be taken to Cuba while sitting at a bar in Nepal. I was quick to learn my lesson and my next round of cheers was with a big mug of Chhaang, otherwise known locally as Nectar of the Gods.
This is not just a unique place to stay; it’s a shrine to the artistic and architectural traditions of Nepal. The hotel creates the perfect balance of luxury, opulence and heritage. I can’t wait to return.
This post originally appeared at Travelosophy
20 Things Every Nepal Traveler Needs to Know
The form of greeting in Nepal is “Namaste” performing by joining both palms together. It literally means “the divine in me salutes the divine in you”.
1 – Do not trek alone. There have been numerous disappearances of solo trekkers in recent years. Always hire a guide or trek with other people. There are online forums where travelers can look for fellow-trekkers. This applies to everyone but especially women that are travelling single – they seem to more vulnerable. Always communicate your travel plans to your next of kin.
2 – Food safety - Avoid water that is not bottled or boiled. Avoid raw vegetables and pre-cut fruit as much as possible.
The form of greeting in Nepal is “Namaste” performing by joining both palms together. It literally means “the divine in me salutes the divine in you”.
1 – Do not trek alone. There have been numerous disappearances of solo trekkers in recent years. Always hire a guide or trek with other people. There are online forums where travelers can look for fellow-trekkers. This applies to everyone but especially women that are travelling single – they seem to more vulnerable. Always communicate your travel plans to your next of kin.
2 – Food safety - Avoid water that is not bottled or boiled. Avoid raw vegetables and pre-cut fruit as much as possible.
3 – Even though Nepal is known for its pristine environment and beauty – not the highways and major city streets. They are crowded with traffic, full of smoke and bumpy and dusty. Hence travelling on a bicycle or a motorbike for the most part is not advisable. There are some off-road mountain bike trails that are ok to do.
4 - Do not give money to beggars that you see on the streets. Even though they look pitiful, your giving away of money encourages them only to beg for more. If you really care support one of many charity organizations working in Nepal .
5 – Be sure to exchange back all the Nepalese currencies before you leave. They are not accepted (or even exchanged for that matter) outside of Nepal . Besides, taking currency out of the country is against the law.
6 – Do not touch someone’s head or sit showing the bottom of your feet towards them. It is considered rude.
7 – Do not fully rely on schedules and times that are committed to you whether in verbal or written while you are in Nepal . They may not commence in time as stated or committed and may end up disrupting all your subsequent schedule. Have time buffer as much as you can between your major plans and activities, especially if you have a hard stop date that you need to fly out by.
8 - Always be alert/aware of “Bandhs” (Strikes – where no transportation is allowed) as they can alter all your travel plans substantially.
9 – Do not assume that “ganja” (marijuana) is legal in Nepal . It is not. Even though it is a common weed on hillsides you can get in trouble for picking it and carrying it for consumption purpose.
10 – Do not assume that when a Nepali says “yes” or shakes the head in affirmation that it is a done deal or they agree with you. Re-confirm using simplest of words but being as direct as possible to make sure.
11 - Stay away from dance bars in KTM and PKR. These are tourist traps where they scam you on buying alcohol and food at much inflated prices. Some of these places have a history of intimidation and violence.
12- If you are planning to apply for the Visa at the airport, make sure to have passport size photo available. Plan B is to have your photo taken at the booth at the airport.
13- There are daily scheduled power outages. Have a flashlight handy all the times.
14 - All nightlife pretty much ends by 10 pm with only a few places around the Thamel area that may stay open a little later.
15 - Bring a universal plug and voltage adapter kit for your Electronics. Nepal uses 220V.
16 - Keep in mind that there may be an entrance fee to some of the common temples and public areas applicable only to foreigners ranging anywhere from 250R's - 700R's.
17 - Always have some tissue paper and hand sanitizer with you at all times – and note that some of the toilets may require squatting.
18 – Insist for a Running Meter in the Taxi. After 10 PM you do pay double of the meter fare however – that’s the commonly accepted norm.
19 - Avoid displaying food around monkeys around temples, as they are used to snatching it.
20 - Support the NON-Plastic Initiative, please limit your use of plastic items, and help make Nepal a better place.
This post originally appeared at Trip Advisor
Area attractions
Thamel has been the centre of the tourist industry in Kathmandu for over four decades starting from the hippie movement when many artists came to Nepal and spent weeks in Thamel. Also situated in Thamel is the Garden of Dreams - a historical neo-classical garden that was built in 1920.
Guests can walk to Thamel from Hotel Shanker. It is less than 1 km away - about 10-12 minutes walking. Alternatively, a taxi ride would take less than 5 minutes.
Travel Desk
At Hotel Shanker, our knowledgeable and friendly Travel Desk team is delighted to assist you in discovering the best of Kathmandu. Whether you need assistance with car hire, airport transfers, or a tour of local attractions, we are here to make your stay memorable.
Our Travel Desk can arrange personalized tours to historic towns, ancient temples, and the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, ensuring a unique and unforgettable experience.
Thamel & Garden of Dreams
Garden of Dreams at Thamel
Thamel has been the centre of the tourist industry in Kathmandu for over four decades starting from the hippie movement when many artists came to Nepal and spent weeks in Thamel. Also situated in Thamel is the Garden of Dreams - a historical neo-classical garden that was built in 1920.
Guests can walk to Thamel from Hotel Shanker. It is less than 1 km away - about 10-12 minutes walking. Alternatively, a taxi ride would take less than 5 minutes.
Durbar Marg
Narayanhiti Royal Palace Museum. Just behind Hotel Shanker..
Durbar Marg, considered the heart of the city, leads to the former Royal Palace of Narayanhiti, now known as the Narayanhiti Palace Museum. Popular among tourists, Durbar Marg is a posh area with casinos, restaurants, pricey boutiques, retail outlets, travel agencies and airline offices.
Guests can walk to Durbar Marg from Hotel Shanker. It is less than 1 km away - about 12-15 minutes walking. Alternatively, a taxi ride would take less than 2 minutes.
Basantapur Durbar Square
Basantapur Durbar Square at night.
Also known as Kathmandu Durbar Square or Hanumandhoka Durbar Square, this spectacular area is the plaza in front of the old royal palace of the Kathmandu Kingdom. It is one of three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Basantapur Durbar Square is surrounded with spectacular architecture and vividly showcases the skills of the Newar artists and craftsmen over several centuries.
We recommend that guests take a taxi to reach Basantapur Durbar Square from Hotel Shanker. A taxi ride would take about 15 minutes.
Swoyambhunath (Monkey Temple)
Swoyambhunath Temple, Kathmandu
Swoyambhunath is an ancient religious complex atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley. It is also known as the Monkey Temple as there are holy monkeys living in the north-west parts of the temple. Much of Swayambhunath's iconography comes from the Vajrayana tradition of Newar Buddhism. However, the complex is also an important site for Buddhists of many schools, and is also revered by Hindus.
A taxi ride to Swoyambhunath from Hotel Shanker would take about 15 mins.
Pashupatinath Temple
The holy Pashupatinath temple in Kathmandu
The Pashupatinath temple serves as the seat of the national deity, Lord Pashupatinath. It is regarded as the most sacred among the temples of Lord Shiva (Pashupati). The sacred Shiva Puranas mention this Shivalinga as the bestower of all wishes.
A taxi ride to the Pashupatinath Temple from Hotel Shanker would take about 20 minutes.
Why Book Directly at the hotel's website?
Two’s company. And three’s well, you know …
A beautiful morning at Hotel Shanker (7 am)
We know that two is company; and three is, uhm..,
Frankly speaking, given a choice, we'd choose talking to you over talking to some booking site. And we're equally confident that you'd make the same choice :)
In order that both of us are better off, why not skip the intermediary? Why travel to Kathmandu via Timbuktu when you can take the direct route?
Nepal's iconic filmstar Rajesh Hamal weds Madhu at Hotel Shanker
From left to right: Rajesh Hamal, PM Sushil Koirala, Madhu Bhattrai at Kailash Hall (Hotel Shanker, Kathmandu)
The wedding reception was held at our Kailash Hall, which was constructed in the early 70's to host the historic Colombo Conference. It is interesting to note that back then there were no conference centers in Kathmandu and Late King Birendra requested Late. Mr. Ram Shanker, the founder of this hotel, to construct this hall to host this event.
Hashtags: #TimelessElegance #VenueNepal #WeddingNepal #EventsNepal #KathmanduHotels #NepalHotels #HotelShanker
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2014 Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence
We are a 2014 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Winner! Thanks to all our guests!
We are a 2014 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Winner! Thanks to all our guests!
Hashtags: #CertificateOfExcellence #TripAdvisorWinner #ThankYouGuests #AwardWinningHotel #GuestExperience #TravelWithExcellence #HotelShanker
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Spring Carnival - Happiness, Color & Joy!
[Video]
Kid's Corner
- Face paintings
-Jumping & Bounchy Castle
- Tampolin
- Big bubbles
- Mascot
- Magic Show
Here's what happened on this beautiful afternoon.
Kid's Corner
- Face paintings
-Jumping & Bounchy Castle
- Tampolin
- Big bubbles
- Mascot
- Magic Show
Kid's Competition - Eating, Drinking & Painting!!!
Kids Fun Game Stalls
Performance & Workshop
- Circus Kathmandu & free workshops to the kids
Bands
- Manda: (a classical fusion band)
- Nattu Shah & the band
Host : Miss. Khushboo Pradhan
Food / Bar Stalls- Spring Special Cocktails & Mock-tails
Vendor stalls
-Herbal cosmetics
-Handicrafts
-Jewellery
-Home-made products
-Recycled Products
-Art Products
Event by: Hotel Shanker
Event Managed by : Periwinkle Service
Social Parnter : Bihani Social Ventures
Prize Partner : Bal-Sansar
Main sponsor: Pashupati Paints
Hashtags: #EventsInNepal #VenueKathmandu #KathmanduFun #KidsAcitivities #NepalHotels #KathmanduHotel #HotelShanker
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This trek is specially designed to reach the Everest Base Camp including Kala Pattar which is the best view point to view the sunrise over the high Himalayas including the Mt. Everest. This trek requires 13 days.
USD 1515 PER PERSON -- TWIN ROOM SHARING BASIS