Wellness in the Clouds: My Stay at Dwarika’s Sanctuary, Nepal

Lord Ganesha—remover of obstacles, guardian of wisdom, and a gentle presence that embodies all one hopes to carry home from a restorative stay at the Sanctuary.

Dwarika’s Sanctuary is not just a place to stay—it’s a retreat that feels inseparable from its Himalayan setting. Built like a hillside village, it uses stone, wood, and handwoven textiles to create spaces that feel both rustic and refined. Suites are designed to bring the outdoors in, with terraces that open to sweeping mountain views and interiors that flow naturally into the surrounding landscape. Small touches—like locally crafted furnishings and homemade bath products—make each suite feel like a private sanctuary. My shower here was so extraordinary that I’m now remodeling my own bathroom at home to capture some of that magic.

Stone, wood, textiles, terrace, and mountain views—perfection.

The wellness programming is unlike anything else in the region—and maybe the world. Guests can join yoga, meditation, sound baths, pottery, and painting sessions daily at no extra cost, and a consultation with an Ayurvedic doctor is included. I carried insights from my consultation home and have since integrated them into my daily practices.

Brush in hand, forest views outside—a moment of pure presence.

Singing bowls set the stage for daily sound baths—one of the most restorative moments of my stay at Dwarika’s Sanctuary.

The Pancha Kosha Himalayan Spa is also exceptional—my Ayurvedic massage here was truly otherworldly. Beyond treatments, I kept returning to the Himalayan Crystal House and the Himalayan Salt House, both unique to this property and unlike anything I’ve experienced at other wellness retreats.

Surrounded by crystals, every breath feels restorative—the energy here permeates every cell.

Food is another highlight. Much of what’s served comes directly from the Sanctuary’s organic farm, and the flavors are fresh, simple, and deeply satisfying. Guests can even visit the farm to see where many of the ingredients are grown. One of the most popular experiences here is the cooking class, where you prepare traditional Nepali dishes alongside a chef—an experience not to be missed if you enjoy hands-on travel.

Sunrise is essential here—coffee above the clouds, with the Himalayas waking up around you.

Finally, the Ananta Infinity Pool is a must. Floating in its warm waters while gazing at the Himalayas feels like swimming right into the mountains. It’s one of those unforgettable travel moments that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Each step through the Shiva Lingam Meditation Maze is a meditation in itself—guided by 84 sacred stones that invite grounding, reflection, and renewal.

Dwarika’s Sanctuary is perfect for wellness travelers, honeymooners, couples, and anyone needing to recharge after a trek or cultural journey in Nepal. It also works beautifully as a standalone retreat for travelers who want to experience Nepal at a gentler pace. This is not the place for nightlife or a buzzing social scene—it’s designed for stillness, reflection, and quiet inspiration.

Stupas and prayer flags—reminders that every step here is grounded in tradition and spirit

Things to do at Dwarika’s Sanctuary

• Himalayan Salt House: Step into a room walled with 20 tons of Himalayan rock salt. Said to purify the air and boost the immune system, it’s also one of the most tranquil spaces on property. I spent 15 minutes here at a time practicing breathing and meditation, and always left feeling lighter and clearer.

• Himalayan Crystal House: A meditative space unlike anywhere else I’ve been. Surrounded by crystals, it’s designed for quiet reflection and deep energy work. The energy in this space was palpable—I could feel it permeating every cell. I found myself coming back again and again—it was grounding in a way I hadn’t experienced at any other wellness retreat.

• Shiva Lingam meditation maze: Surrounded by eighty-four sacred Shiva Lingam stones, this meditation maze symbolizes strength and the infinite nature of Lord Shiva. Walking its winding path feels like a spiritual pilgrimage, guiding you toward reflection and inner clarity. I loved beginning my mornings here—it set such a calm, intentional tone for the day.

• Ananta infinity pool: Floating here feels like swimming straight into the Himalayas. The warm water, crisp air, and mountain backdrop combine into one of those unforgettable travel moments you replay long after you’ve gone home.

• Farm visit: Explore the Sanctuary’s organic farm, where much of the produce served on property is grown. Seeing the gardens before enjoying the harvest on your plate makes the meals even more meaningful.

• Cooking class: Join one of the Sanctuary’s hands-on cooking classes to learn how to prepare traditional Nepali dishes alongside a chef. It’s interactive, immersive, and a delicious way to experience Nepali culture. Many guests highlight it as a standout memory of their stay.

Available wellness activities

• Yoga, meditation, sound baths, pottery, and painting are all part of the daily rhythm—included at no extra charge.

• A consultation with the Sanctuary’s Ayurvedic doctor is also included, and it’s one of the most valuable experiences offered.

• Pancha Kosha Himalayan Spa: Beyond the included activities, the spa treatments are extraordinary. My Ayurvedic massage here was truly otherworldly—one of the best I’ve ever had.

Need to know

• Best time to visit: October–April for clear skies and mountain views. Monsoon months (June–August) are lush but cloudier.

• Sunrise is essential: On clear mornings, you’ll see sweeping Himalayan panoramas glowing in shades of gold and pink.

• Wellness scheduling: Spa treatments and additional consultations should be reserved in advance during the dry season as they fill quickly.

• Stay length: Plan for at least three nights to take advantage of the included wellness activities, explore the workshops, and still have time to rest.

• Location: Around a 1.5–2 hour drive from Kathmandu (depending on traffic). I recommend taking advantage of the hotel’s transfer options—the road can be tricky, and it’s not one I’d want to navigate myself. Pairing a stay here with Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu works especially well.

• Who it’s best for: Wellness seekers, couples, honeymooners, and travelers who want to blend culture, nature, and rest.

• Practical tip: Wi-Fi worked well during my stay, but I still recommend embracing a digital detox—it’s part of the experience.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Nepal page.