Opened on September 27, 1977 in Kathmandu, the Yak & Yeti made history as Nepal's first five-star hotel. Located in the Durbar Marg neighbourhood, near the royal palace, the property combines a contemporary wing with remnants of the Lal Durbar, a 19th-century Rana palace.

Why choose the Yak & Yeti

The property appeals to travellers seeking a comfortable base in central Kathmandu before or after a trek, cultural tour, or extended stay in Nepal. Three elements distinguish the hotel from other capital accommodations:

• Genuine historical anchoring: the main wing draws on the architecture of the former Lal Durbar palace, with certain reception rooms preserved and repurposed.
• Expanded capacity developed over the years, with approximately 270 rooms distributed between the historic building and the rear wing constructed in harmony with it.
• Structured high-end service, including an executive Club Shangri-La level with 24-hour butler service, private meeting rooms and a dedicated breakfast and evening cocktail lounge.

Atmosphere and architecture

The Yak & Yeti draws its identity from the dialogue between two eras. The older section, inherited from the Lal Durbar palace, retains original ornate ceilings, chandeliers and woodwork. The new wing, added to bring total capacity to approximately 270 rooms, echoes the proportions and decorative codes of the historic building without pastiche. Dark wood furniture, Nepali textiles and craft objects punctuate the common areas.

The whole property is organised around an interior garden that shields the hotel from the noise of Durbar Marg. This configuration explains why the address is frequently chosen by guests who value tranquility despite its central location.

Restaurants and facilities

Two restaurants provide on-site dining:

• Sunrise: international menu and buffets, dining room overlooking the garden, relaxed atmosphere. Suited for breakfast and lunch service.
• The Chimney: the hotel's historic fine-dining restaurant, arranged around a central fireplace. Continental cuisine, dinner only.

In terms of amenities, the hotel offers a shopping arcade, outdoor swimming pool, two tennis courts, a fitness centre and spa. A business centre serves guests on professional travels. Club Shangri-La guests additionally enjoy access to a private lounge and 24-hour butler service.

Location

The hotel sits on Durbar Marg, the avenue connecting the administrative centre to Narayanhiti palace. It is one of Kathmandu's most practical thoroughfares: embassies, airlines, trekking agencies and restaurants are concentrated here. Allow around thirty minutes by car from Tribhuvan International Airport, longer during peak hours.

Nearby attractions

• Kathmandu Durbar Square: UNESCO-listed palatial complex, accessible on foot in about twenty minutes or by quick taxi ride.
• Thamel: historic tourist neighbourhood with trekking shops and nightlife, a short taxi ride away.
• Bodnath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple: two major valley sites, each reachable as a half-day trip.
• Garden of Dreams: restored neoclassical garden, accessible on foot from the hotel.

To compare with other capital properties, see our guides to Hyatt Regency, Hotel Heritage or Kathmandu Guest House, each offering very different experiences.

Planning your Nepal stay

The Yak & Yeti fits into a journey combining urban culture and Himalayan nature. To craft a complete itinerary including Kathmandu, Pokhara and nearby mountain ranges, explore our full range of Nepal trips.