A new hotel in Pokhara borrows the charms of Kathmandu valley architecture to stand out in the lake city.
What a view from the Hotel Landmark! Soon as we entered the Lakeside boulevard that runs along the eastern side of Fewa Lake, a jaw-dropping view of the tranquil lake and lofty hills surrounding it unfurled before our eyes.
Location, location, location
200m from Fewa lake, Landmark opened in 2007 with the view to bringing Nepali culture and heritage to the popular lake city. The facade of the hotel building is reminiscent of traditional Newari architecture more prominent in the towns of Kathmandu Valley but unique in the cityscape of Lakeside Pokhara. The interiors of the restaurant and the reception feature exquisite terracotta and wood carvings made by local craftsmen from Kathmandu. The terrace on the other hand offers a view of the lake on the east with the World Peace Stupa atop the hill across the water. On a clear day, even the distinct-shaped peak of the Machhapuchhre (Mt. Fish Tail) can be seen peeking above northern hills.
Accomodations
The hotel has 75 rooms including eight deluxe rooms and two suites - all with private balconies. The deluxe rooms and suites are considerably larger with added amenities like cafe table-chair settings. The suites also have well stocked minibars. I took the standard room with a balcony overlooking the courtyard. Along with basic facilities like an AC and TV, the room had ample drawer and closet space with more than enough hangers for my two-day stay. The wooden furniture in the room went well with the hotel’s heritage look too. The bathroom amenities were pretty decrnt and the puffy bed and comfort lighting gave the room a relaxed feel.
Dining
For dinner, we went to the Hungry Eye that takes the bottom two floors of the hotel and serves a range of Nepali, Indian, Chinese and Continental cuisines. I had the Indian fish curry with some rice and roti. While the soft boneless fish was palatable, the taste of the curry was a keen surprise. Dinner time was supplemented with a cultural show consisting of traditional Nepali songs and dances performed on stage, a daily routine unique to the hotel. Several fine dining venues are present within walking distance from Landmark.
Excursions:
Boating in Fewa Lake - 2 minutes on foot
The closest ATM (Nepal Investment Bank): 4 minutes on foot
The closest convenience Stores: 5 minutes on foot
Sarangkot observation point/ paragliding - 40 minutes drive
World Peace Stupa - 20 minutes on boat + 1 hour hiking
Verdict
Hotel Landmark takes advantage of its location by combining scenic views from its rooms and terrace with great hospitality and service to give its customers a balanced experience of nature, culture and a luxury accommodation. Something to mark your calendar for when you go Pokhara-side.
