Hotel Courtyard

For something more stylish, this well-run hotel is one of the few boutique options in Thamel. Built in a traditional style with oil bricks, Newari-style carved wooden lintels and stone waterspouts, brought up to date with dramatic orange walls and black trim, the rooms are big enough to tango in and there are pleasant seating areas that seem a world away from the Thamel madness. A small massage room, cosy library and bar enhance the lush, romantic mood. The hotel’s sociable owners have made the courtyard a popular hang-out for local volunteers, mountaineers and other interesting folks, especially during the popular barbecue nights; great if you want to plug into the Kathmandu scene but bad if you want to go to bed early. Rates include breakfast and taxes.