Hotel Shanker-Palatial Heritage Kathmandu

Hotel Shanker occupies a former Rana palace in Lazimpat, a quieter embassy district a short ride north of Thamel and Durbar Marg. The building dates from 1894, when it was built for a Rana general, and it was turned into a hotel in 1964. Its neo-classical white facade, high ceilings, chandeliers and period furniture make it one of the more distinctive places to stay in central Kathmandu without paying top-end prices.

The hotel has 94 rooms, including 12 suites, with air conditioning, a TV, a safe and tea and coffee facilities. Behind the main building there is a garden with an outdoor pool, and guests can use the Tranquility Spa, the Kailash multicuisine restaurant, the Kunti Bar and a poolside bar. Meeting and banquet rooms make it a common venue for events. Thamel's shops and restaurants are within walking distance or a few minutes by taxi.