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Nestled in the serene landscapes of Dhulikhel, Duist Thani Himalayan Resort is the first international chain resort in the region. Conveniently located near the renowned Namobuddha pilgrimage site, this resort has luxury and hospitality by blending Thai culture with the warm, welcoming spirit of Nepal.

At the heart of the resort’s offerings is Dusit’s signature Devarana Wellness program. This comprehensive approach to well-being emphasizes mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Guests can indulge in tailored wellness experiences designed to rejuvenate and restore balance, making the resort a sanctuary for those seeking a holistic retreat.

The resort’s culinary landscape is another highlight, with Thaan, the multi-cuisine restaurant, offering a diverse menu that caters to various palates. From authentic Thai dishes to traditional Nepali flavors, Indian delicacies, and Continental favorites, Thaan ensures a memorable dining experience that reflects the rich culinary traditions of the region.

Under the leadership of Hotel Manager Anirudh Chaudhary, Dusit Thani Himalayan Resort embraces the four core pillars of graciousness that define the Dusit brand. “Our resort is dedicated to providing an exceptional guest experience by upholding the highest standards of graciousness, which are integral to the Dusit ethos,” Chaudhary says. “The resort is also a proud participant in Dusit’s Tree of Life sustainability program, which underscores its commitment to environmental stewardship and community well-being.” 

Dusit’s strategy for sustainable business is aligned with the four pillars: Service, by providing personalized and gracious service to ensure every guest feels valued and cared for; Well-being, by delivering wellness experiences that go beyond the spa to encompass all aspects of a guest’s stay; Locality, by uniquely linking guests with the local community to offer authentic and enriching experiences; and Sustainability, by focusing on social, economic, and environmental sustainability to promote responsible tourism and business practices.

Key initiatives implemented at the property include the elimination of single-use plastics, with efforts to reduce plastic waste evident throughout guest-centric areas and back-of-house operations; waste segregation, with effective waste management practices ensuring proper disposal and recycling; energy management, employing innovative strategies to minimize energy consumption and promote sustainability; guest and staff well-being, with programs and facilities aimed at enhancing the well-being of both guests and staff members; local sourcing, prioritizing local products and suppliers to support the community and reduce the carbon footprint; and food-to-compost, transforming food waste into compost to enrich the soil and support local agriculture.

The resort offers a variety of luxurious accommodations to suit different preferences: eight Deluxe Valley View King, four Deluxe Valley View Twin, eight Deluxe Himalayan View King, four Deluxe Himalayan View Twin, four Junior Suite Himalayan View, five One Bedroom Villa, twelve Two Bedroom Villa, and one Three Bedroom Villa. An additional 26 rooms are set to open by the first quarter of 2025.

The package rates for local residents and expats starts from Rs 18,999 for two on bed and breakfast.

The season of the proverbial ‘khaam’ (envelope) is back. The arrival of the wedding season means many of us will be dishing out a few of those. Granted, a few banknotes shoved in an envelope is practical. It’s also time-efficient and hassle free. But it can also come across as tactless and mundane, especially if someone close to you is getting hitched. We’ve rounded up some ideas that are a lot more thoughtful than cold, hard cash to help you deal with the awkwardness of giving money.

Consider a voucher instead of cash

Depending on your budget, you can buy a couple round trip tickets to Pokhara or Chitwan. Alternatively, a voucher for a spa day can also be a good idea, as are gift cards for maybe their favorite bookstore or clothing line. Tickets and vouchers are essentially cash but it will show the receiver that you put some thought and effort into it. Many stores these days offer gift cards for fixed amounts. All you have to do is buy one of these.

Make them something

If you are good at painting, knitting, or any other craft, consider making something for the newly-wed couple. If you are good at macrame, an evil-eye wall hanging could be a nice idea. You can also commission an artist to make a painting of the couple during their wedding day and gift it to them if you aren’t good with a paintbrush. Personalized gifts will bring a smile to their face long after their special day is over.

A digital magazine subscription

With more and more online portals going behind paywalls, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to access good content online. A newspaper or magazine subscription for a year or two could make an ideal gift for those who value information and knowledge. The New York Times subscription costs $10 and is value for money as you will have full access to many good articles and podcasts. A Netflix or Spotify account will be appreciated by those who love movies and music.

Ask them what they want

In the US and many other places, couples about to get married make an online wedding registry of the things they want. Guests can then pick from the list and give them something they would need in the course of their life together. We don’t have that system in Nepal but you could simply ask the couple what they would like. Depending on your relationship with them, they might just tell you, making the process of gifting easier and personal.

Donate in their name

The trend of making donations to charities or supporting orphanages in the name of the couple getting married is becoming increasingly popular. Sponsoring a dog at an animal shelter (to help them pay for their meals and upkeep) is a good idea. Most of the places will give you a certificate in the name you make the donation in and you can simply pass this on. This is one gift that keeps giving. The receiver can choose to continue with the donation later on. You will have got the ball rolling.

Every June, Pride Month ignites a global celebration of LGBTQIA+ communities. It's a time to honor their fight for equality and showcase their strength despite facing marginalization. While Western societies have seen growing acceptance, South Asia often presents a different story. In Nepal, the LGBTQIA+ community grapples with discrimination and exclusion, hindering their full participation in society.

Nepali society often views homosexuality negatively. Casual slurs using "gay" as an insult expose a deep well of ignorance. When someone comes out as LGBTQIA+, societal and familial rejection can be devastating, leading to depression and isolation. This lack of acceptance stems from a lack of education. Many, especially in rural areas, simply don't understand LGBTQIA+ identities.

Just recently, a young woman posted a supportive message for the LGBTQIA+ community on Facebook. Heartbreakingly, the comments mocked her for her stance. This incident highlights the gap between Nepal and Western nations where legal protections and inclusivity are being built. Decriminalization of homosexuality and same-sex marriage, like those seen in some parts of the world, are crucial steps towards a more just and equitable society.

Despite these challenges, Nepal is making progress. The recent legalization of same-sex marriage in 2024 shows a growing commitment to equality. However, this progress needs to be bolstered by stricter laws that punish discrimination based on sexual orientation.

To truly create an inclusive society, education is paramount. Integrating LGBTQIA+ topics into school curriculums can foster understanding and acceptance. When everyone is aware of diverse sexual orientations, the LGBTQIA+ community can finally feel safe and at ease. Nepal's journey towards a more inclusive society has just begun. By prioritizing education and implementing stricter laws, the country can bridge the gap between prejudice and acceptance, allowing the LGBTQIA+ community to thrive.

Not everyone can live the way a minimalist does—with essentials that are sleek and uncluttered. In contrast to minimalists, some people like their décor to be layered with colors and patterns, and filled with things they love and have collected over the years. If you’re a fan of maximalism, you’re in luck as the style has become trendy once again in recent times.

However, though it has its perks such as lending vibrancy and warmth to a space, over-the-top décor could end up looking unmanaged and thus chaotic. But it can be curated chaos if you display your favorite art, furniture, and treasures in a coordinated fashion rather than just having it all out there. Here are some expert-backed solutions for maximalist décor.

Showcase your passion

The first and foremost rule of designing a maximalist space is to have it showcase your personality. Don’t fill it with meaningless things. Have heirlooms, your favorite pieces, and things that make you happy on display. Nothing could be more boring and sterile than having store-bought items that have no stories to them around the house. Choose and collect pieces with care. Going through your grandparent’s storage space can arm you with some invaluable items.  

Keep comfort in mind  

Your furniture should be comfortable and inviting. Don’t opt for heavy pieces that take up space and look bulky. Choose sleeker designs with soft, smooth fabrics that feel good. You shouldn’t be bumping into ottomans and side tables while moving around the house so make sure you leave enough room to move about and don’t cram it too much. Comfort should be the key while designing your space.

 Layer colors and patterns

Choose colors and patterns you like and go crazy with them. This is one of the easiest ways to achieve the maximalist look without putting in too much effort. There is no rule here. Whatever you love and want to look at is what you should go for. This can and will clash but that’s where the beauty lies. Pair florals with polka dot prints or stripes for an eye-catching effect.

Give love to the small corners

Oftentimes we forget nooks and crannies while decorating. This is okay for minimalist décor. It opens up the space and gives it an airy look. But for over-the-top décor it’s a strict no. Pay attention to the little spaces and think of how you can use them fully. An alcove near the stairs could be turned into a bar area or you can hang open bookshelves in corners to display photos and other knick-knacks.

Fill up the tabletops

Don’t keep surfaces bare. Your coffee table or the dining table are great places to display your favorite books and curios. Arrange them in trays, in groups of threes, if possible, to give it a cohesive look and then go crazy with it. From flower vases and coasters to books and mementos, everything can and should be on display.

Don’t forget the ceiling

Don’t forget to look to the ceiling or what is commonly known as the ‘fifth wall’ when it comes to adding some oomph to a space if you are going the maximalist way. Paper it to coordinate with the other four walls in a room if you wish. Or paint it a bold color like red or neon pink. You can also wallpaper it in a nice pattern if your walls are painted. While you are at it, add a chandelier too, the fancier the better.