Kathmandu Ambassador Garden Home, Traditional Boutique Hotel in Thamel

Kathmandu, the Ambassador Garden Home in Thamel ©Solange Hando

The name says it all: 100 years ago, this was the home of the Ambassador to China, great grandfather of the family who continue the hospitality tradition of their illustrious ancestor in a beautifully converted building.

Awarded a Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor, this cosy boutique hotel is right at the heart of Thamel and with just 18 rooms, an unexpected retreat next door to the big and bustling Kathmandu Guest House.

The Living Room, Ambassador Garden Home ©Solange Hando

Everything here is warm and welcoming, a real home with stylish furniture, traditional Nepali brass and wood carvings, family photographs and artefacts and a shrine to the Ambassador, lovingly tended every day.

There are fresh fruit on the table, colourful sprays of orchids, magazines and free WiFi thoughout.

A Quiet Place to Relax ©Solange Hando

Guest rooms range from Superior to Deluxe, those located at the back quieter than those at the front (closer to Thamel's night life). All are comfortable and equipped with modern amenities, bathrobe, tea and coffee facilities, mineral water, minibar, safe and complimentary daily paper. All rooms have air conditioning and the hotel has its own generator, should the power fail.

The Ambassador Garden Home is not top luxury but for character and atmosphere, as well as location, you simply can't beat it.

There's a small secluded garden at the back, with comfy chairs tucked in the greenery, a restaurant for Nepali and international fare, dozens more around if you feel like a change, and a terrace where breakfast is served al fresco.

Breakfast is cooked to order and brought to your table and if it's a bit chilly in the early morning, the outdoor heaters are turned on. What more could you ask for?