Himalayan Kingdoms: Nepal & Bhutan

Hyatt Regency Kathmandu , Kathmandu / Days 2-4, 14 (day room) / Deluxe

Featuring traditional Nepalese architectural design, the Hyatt Regency Kathmandu stands amidst 37 acres of gardens in the shadow of the Himalayas.  The 280-room hotel offers three restaurants, bar, and lounge; gift shop; fitness center; complimentary Wi-Fi internet access; jogging track; tennis courts; spa with sauna, steam bath, whirlpool, and massage treatments; outdoor pool; beauty salon; and laundry and dry cleaning services.  Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, in-room safe, mini-bar, tea- and coffee-making facilities, ironing facilities, TV, and phone.

Club Himalaya Nagarkot , Nagarkot / Days 5-6 / Superior First Class

Club Himalaya Nagarkot sits at 7,200 feet and commands spectacular panoramic views of the valley and of the snowcapped Himalayans, particularly at sunrise or sunset. The hotel offers several restaurants and bar, rooftop observatory, indoor swimming pool, fitness center, spa with sauna and massage treatments, and library. Each of the 52 air-conditioned guest rooms features private bath with hair dryer, private balcony, TV, and phone.

Namgay Heritage Hotel , Thimphu / Days 7-8 / First Class

Just a five-minute walk from Thimphu’s main street, the Namgay Heritage Hotel combines the culture and traditions of Bhutan (including a traditional altar) with more up-to-date amenities and service. Hotel facilities include two restaurants and a bar; a spa with sauna, steam room, and massage and body treatments; and gym. Guest rooms have private bath, Wi-Fi Internet access, tea- and coffee-making facilities, TV, and phone.

Damchen Resort , Punakha / Days 9-10 / Not rated

Nestled in the scenic Punakha Valley, this traditional Bhutanese-style hotel overlooks the river and is close to town. The 35-room hotel has a lovely garden, restaurant, bar, and laundry service; guest rooms have private bath, TV, and phone.

Gangtey Palace , Paro / Days 11-13 / First Class

A grand Bhutanese residence overlooking the town of Paro, 100-year-old Gangtey Palace belonged to the country’s royal family until 1930, when it was given to an aristocratic family. In 1995, the grandson of that family converted the home into a hotel. Retaining the intimacy of a private residence, Gangtey Palace sits on 20 acres of gardens and apple orchards, with stunning views of the Himalayas in the distance. Hotel facilities include a bar/lounge and dining room; international phone and Internet access are available at reception. Also gracing Gangtey Palace is a stunning traditional altar that has been shown in museums and galleries across Europe; and a private collection of rare religious clay statues. Individually decorated guest rooms have private bath (and purposefully no TV or phone to enhance the quiet nature of the hotel and the destination).