At Nature's door
The Lake City has a lot to offer. Rebecca Shrestha visits Himalayan Front Hotel, Sarangkot to experience its grandeur in nature’s lap
Overlooking the Pokhara valley, Himalayan Front Hotel is a new property under the Kathmandu Guest House (KGH) group of hotels. Within just two months of operation they have managed to expand their customer base from all over the world. This hotel definitely pleases all your senses with its panoramic surroundings, exquisite décor and gastronomic delights.
Getting there
Situated in the hills along the way to Sarangkot, Himalayan Front Hotel has its own charm. Even though it is just six kms away from the hustle and bustle of the lake city, once you get there, the serenity and tranquility will catch your attention. Commuting from the tourist bus stand or the airport to the hotel is quite pleasant as you slowly travel winding uphill roads.
As local transportation is not available up to the hotel you can always hire a taxi, but if you prefer, the hotel is always willing to arrange pick up and drop services upon request.
The Himalayan Front Hotel offers you a total of 44 rooms, twin-bed and deluxe. The open bathroom concept is certainly an eye-catcher. The modern spaces well equipped with wifi, backup power, air conditioning and other amenities required for a comfortable stay are accessible.
For those who want a quiet start to their day, enjoy illy coffee and breakfast from the à la carte menu. Their open kitchen allows you to view the bustle that goes on to prepare a savoury meal. With one splendid dining hall, their menu offers Chinese, Continental, Italian, Nepali as well as Indian cuisine. You may also enjoy tranquil evenings at the hotel by requesting for barbecue and bonfire on the open terrace alongside the Annapurna lounge bar, which is an elegant space that allures guests with its modern décor and interiors.
Every floor has 10 rooms, out of which four rooms have beautiful balconies with a view you cannot afford to miss. Another factor to be admired is the elevator and its thoughful placement; while you go up you can enjoy a view of the picturesque green hills.
Outdoor attractions
Its scenic beauty is what every guest must witness. The sun rise on the majestic mountain range is definitely worth waking up early for. Every room has a view of the Machhapuchhre and Annapurna along with lush green hills.
Sarangkot, only a 45 minute walk from the hotel is a major attraction. Many hiking trails lead towards the Sarangkot view point and zip flying and paragliding sites are aplenty. A visit to the local village, Lama gaon can also be refreshing. Moreover, bird watching has taken up as trend, with over 10 species of eagles in and around the area; the rooftop of the hotel is also a fine place to start a new hobby.
Facilities
Upon pre-information the hotel can provide pick and drop services, there are two shifts designed to cater to guests arriving at different hours and also cabs are available for a reasonable fare. The hotel can cater to your adrenaline buzz as well. Bookings for paragliding, zip flying can be done. They have a conference room that can facilitate up to 120 people as well. The Himalayan Front Hotel presumably has had a good start and according to the Resident Manager, Kiran Khadka they are further planning to expand with a spa, sauna and gym.