Five best hill station resorts near Kathmandu valley

With the getaway culture picking pace in Kathmandu, the hotel and resort business is booming and how! There is a resort, two or more on every hilltop around the valley, the search engines are filled with recommendations, and you are spoiled for choice. It isn’t easy to make a pick when the list of options is endless, is it? The next time you are looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the valley, consider this list of five resorts that are surrounded by the woods and offer a front-row seat for a mountain viewing.

1. Haatiban Himalayan Height Resort

Located on the outskirts of the valley, near Pharping, Haatiban Himalayan Height Resort has for years been a sought-after destination for an easy weekend getaway, and for good reasons. Nestled in the pine forest of its namesake hill, the resort is a quaint hideaway blending urban comfort with nature. With cozy rooms featuring mountain views, a sprawling garden to laze around in, and an open-air dining affording a stunning view of the Himalayan range and the gorgeous valley, it is the peaceful forest escape you need. Guests can explore popular hiking trails, enjoy spa treatments, dine on global and local flavors and participate in activities like yoga, ATV and mountain biking.

How to get there: From Kathmandu, head towards Dakshinkali. Take the off-road on your right in Bhanjyang. The resort is easily accessible on 4X4 vehicles and motorbikes.

2. Chandragiri Hills Resort

Perched atop Chandragiri Hills, the Chandragiri Hills Resort is a place of luxury, retreat and adventure, all boxed into one. At 2,551 meters, this luxurious resort is accessible via an easy and scenic 10-minute cable car ride. Its vantage point allows absolutely breathtaking views of the Himalayas from the east to the west, and the emerald pines all around. A set of rooms face the mountains and the others face the pine forests. The infinity pool is a highlight in itself and adds to the laid-back vibe that a resort should have. Guests can enjoy hiking nature trails, participate in adventure activities such as wall-climbing and zip-lining, fine dine under the stars and more. The amenities, location, and the overall setting of the resort also makes it an excellent option for a destination wedding in Kathmandu.

How to get there: From Kathmandu, get to the Bottom Station of Chandragiri Hills at Matatirtha via private or public transportation. A 10-minute cable car ride later you will reach the Top Station. The resort is a short 5-minute drive or a 15-minute stroll from here. Pick-up and drop-off shuttle service is available upon request.

3. Prakriti Resort & Organic Farm

Away from the cacophony of Kathmandu lies Prakriti Resort & Organic Farm—a place of solitude and nature. Tucked away in the hills of Shivapuri, the resort delivers the essence of what its name represents in everything it does. From the comfortable wooden cottages, the flower garden, their organic farm to the dining hall and bar, everything seamlessly blends with and complements the lush surroundings. It is quiet enough for you to hear the waterfall on the neighboring hill. The mountain range is visible from the garden on a clear day. There are plenty of opportunities for short and longer hikes, such as the walk to Dhap Pokhari. Encounters with deers are to be expected and plenty of colorful birds will keep birdwatchers enthralled. Wi-Fi access is limited, so make payment cash. 

How to get there: The easiest way is via Sundarijal Bus Park. You can either hike for three to four hours or ride it out on a two-wheeler for 60 minutes. A 4X4 is highly recommended if you are planning to drive. There is a park entrance fee, so carry cash.

4. Tayo Eco Resort

Tayo Eco Resort is a luxury eco retreat located in one of the most popular hill stations of Nepal—Nagarkot. Set on a side of the Shanti Danda, the resort’s strategic setup offers guests an exceptional view of the Himalayan range, the endless terraced farmland, and a shimmering slice of the Kathmandu valley. Besides the view, the heavy influence of Newari art and culture on the resort’s architecture makes this place unique. From the plush, well-appointed rooms with picture windows, incredible restaurant and bar, to the infinity pool and spa facilities, everything at Tayo has been designed to offer its guests a luxurious stay. Pair it up with the view and multiple leisurely hikes, and you have a one-of-a-kind stay at a hill station.

How to get there: On the way to Nagarkot, take a sharp right-turn at the Telkot Deurali Junction and look out for Shanti Danda. Tayo Eco Resort is on the left. 

5. Namo Buddha Resort

Set in a destination known for pilgrimage, Namo Buddha Resort gives a reason to make it a trip for leisure. The organic farm is just outside Kathmandu, perched on a hilltop not far away from its namesake heritage. This tranquil retreat offers breathtaking Himalayan views and a taste of rural Nepali life. The cottages are built in traditional Newari style amidst farmlands and forests, and feature comfortable amenities while encouraging sustainable cultivation. Guests can hike to nearby villages, towns, and Buddhist sites and monasteries. Away from the city's bustle but still easily accessible, Namo Buddha Resort provides a peaceful nature getaway with a sense of adventure.

How to get there: Easily accessible via private vehicles, the resort is eight kilometers away from Dhulikhel on the Sindhuli Highway. Take the Namo Buddha road after Kavre Bhanjyang. Try public transportation if you are feeling adventurous.