Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
There are dozens of places to stay in the tourist ghetto of Thamel; here are just a few. Dis-
counts of 30% are commonplace, especially in the low season (May to September). Prices
are quoted in US dollars but you can pay in Nepali rupees. Midrange and top-end places
add 23% government tax.
Tibet Peace Guest House
GUESTHOUSE
Friendly and family-run, this is a quiet and mellow hang-out with a very nice back garden
and a small restaurant. There's a wide range of rooms, some ramshackle and others with
private balconies, so have a dig around before committing.
Hotel Potala
GUESTHOUSE
13, deluxe US$15/20; )
Bang in the beating heart of Thamel, this small backpacker place is a good option, and has
free internet, a nice rooftop area and a convenient restaurant overlooking Thamel's main
drag. Rooms are simple but clean and decent, with sunny corner deluxe rooms the best. It's
down an alleyway near the Maya Cocktail Bar. Rates include taxes. Don't confuse it with
Potala Guest House.
Hotel Ganesh Himal
HOTEL
US$30/35, super deluxe r US$40-45; )
Our pick for comfort on a budget is this well-run and friendly place, located a 10-minute
walk southwest of Thamel - far enough to be out of range of the tiger-balm salesmen but
close enough to restaurants for dinner. The rooms are among the best value in Kathmandu,
with endless hot water, satellite TV and lots of balcony and garden seating, plus a sunny
rooftop. The deluxe rooms are more spacious and a little quieter and the new super-deluxe
rooms have brick floors. The best standard rooms are in the new block. Throw in free in-
ternet access, a good-value garden restaurant and free airport pick-up and this place is hard
to beat, even if the reception gets a bit overwhelmed at times. Here's a tip: bring earplugs,
as the residential neighbourhood can be noisy.
