Patan, one of UNESCO world heritage sites, is a not-to-miss place if you visit Nepal. Even Kathmandu folks go to Patan to experience the rich Newari heritage. Foreign tourists in particular have of late been fascinated by the idea of going and staying in traditional Newari homes in Patan that offer warmth, coziness and rich art. It’s good business too. They are ready to pay as much as $45-$100 a night for the rich, immersive experience of living in old, traditional homes. Rather than air conditioners, televisions and oth­er modern amenities, these places offer a vintage experience. Tourists may come for short stay or longer for work.

 

A Newari house is characterized by the intricate wood carvings and brickwork, use of natural resources, welcoming atmosphere and low ceilings. Small entry doors that require guests to bend while entering signifies respect for the place they dwell.

 

If you are wondering where you can find a place to enjoy some quiet time and to experience living in a traditional Newari home, here are three hotels among around a doz­en in the periphery of the Mangal Bazar area.

 

Swotha

Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood of the medieval city center, Swotha is easy to spot as it is smack-dab in Swotha chowk. Just a two-minute walk from Mangal Bazar, this bed and breakfast place offers incom­parable hospitality. A beautifullyrestored 70-year-old Newari residence, there are altogether nine rooms, each with a private balcony. There is also a Swotha café which offers food and beverages in a soothing ambience. The price range of rooms is $80-$160.

 

The Inn Heritage Hotel

Right beside Swotha, you can enter The Inn Heritage Hotel which is another traditional Newari

boutique hotel. You enter an open private stone-paved courtyard where you can relax while having tea. This brick and timber Newari house, whose original features

have been kept intact, has been restored by conservation architect Rohit Ranjitkar. It offers 10 spacious rooms with modern amenities such as solar hot water, in-house restaurant and free wi-fi. The average room rate is $100.

 

Newa Chén

Just five-minute walk from Mangal Bazar, there is Newa Chén.

Even though the streets outside is full of people, as soon as you enter this beautiful tourist accommodation you will feel like you are

in a quiet home. Built during the Malla rule in Nepal, this traditional home was restored under a

 

UNESCO project. The Newari courtyard outside has books that one can read while sitting in a Newari arrangement. There is even a new gallery which exhibits traditional Nepali art. The prices for the eight bedrooms with personal seating areas and private suite bathrooms start at $45.

 

If you visit these hotels during off-season or through travel agents and websites, you can get cheaper deals. Hoteliers say they are usually fully-booked during the season, between October and March, so it is recommended that you book a room at least three months in advance. Next time you want a typical Newari home experience, you know where to go!

Photos by Pritam Chhetri