Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts has opened its first resort hotel in Nepal, Le Méridien Kathmandu, Gokarna Forest Golf Resort & Spa. Located deep inside the temperate Gokarna Forest, traditionally the private hunting ground of the kings of Nepal, this unique resort is within the city limits of the country’s capital, Kathmandu. The hotel is also just 10 kilometers from Tribhuvan International Airport.
Le Méridien Kathmandu consists of 38 deluxe rooms, one suite inspired by historic Malla & Rana period architecture and 16 cottages set amongst century old trees, with views across the second fairway of the golf course in the valley below.

The hotel’s reception, bars and restaurants are located in the main building with its architecture restored to maintain an authentic traditional ambiance.

The Harmony Spa offers a variety of rejuvenating treatments including Ayurvedic treatments, massage and beauty treatments. There is an indoor temperature controlled pool complex, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi. The large, well-equipped gym overlooks the forest through large picture windows.

Sami Zoghbi, regional managing director for the Middle East & West Asia said, “The 18 hole golf course at Le Méridien Kathmandu is a golfer’s dream. Set against the backdrop of the snow-capped Himalayas, this is one of the most spectacular golf resort courses in the world. Designed by David Kidd of Gleneagles Golf Developments, Scotland, the par 72 course boasts the only Bent Grass greens in South & South East Asia, making it one of the highlights of the professional tour circuit in the region.”

Other leisure activities include forest walks, secluded picnics and bird watching. For the culturally minded, there are numerous heritage and cultural tours including seven UNESCO world heritage sites within the Kathmandu valley. The more adventurous can take an awe-inspiring Everest mountain flight and view the world’s tallest mountain.

Opening rates start from US$45 per room per night including airport transfers and breakfast. There are also special opening three-night golf packages starting from US$225 per person and five-night spa package from US$375 per person available until September 30, 2005.
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