Accordion

Imagine the 1960s and 70s in Nepal—a time when hashish and marijuana grew freely, sold openly in government-licensed shops. Hippies from around the world flocked to Batase Danda, the Windy Hills of Nagarkot, to pitch their tents, revel in the intoxicants, and dance under the stars. They awaited the magical sunrise that cast a golden persimmon hue over the white, snowy peaks of the Annapurna in the Northwest to Everest in the East. High-end tourists, staying in luxurious hotels like the Royal Hotel, Soaltee, or Annapurna, would embark on a rugged journey at 3:00 AM, navigating barely existent roads to experience this same breathtaking sunrise. But back then, Nagarkot was primitive, with no running water, electricity, or decent roads. The area was known only for an army training camp and a few scattered locals who relied on firewood and kerosene stoves for cooking.

Mr. Sakya, a visionary entrepreneur and an aspiring hospitality expert, saw the untapped potential of Nagarkot. Teaming up with Shree Kumar Khadga Bikram Shah, the then President of the Nepal Mountaineering Association, and Stanley KC Wong, an investor from Hong Kong, they launched the Nepal-Hong Kong Joint Venture Project. This collaboration led to the creation of Club Himalaya. With immense support from the then Tourism Minister and famed geographer Dr. Harka Gurung, Mr. Sakya and Mr. Shah persuaded King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah and the Nepal Army to halt the planned expansion of the army training camp, paving the way for Nagarkot's transformation into a tourist haven. This crucial decision set Nagarkot apart from other beautiful locations like Kakani, which lacked tourism investment due to a police training camp.

In 1988, Mr. Sakya acquired the barren hill, investing in land and the construction of the Tea House in 1990. He embarked on a massive afforestation project, including the serene raniban (Queen’s Forest) which surrounds our tranquil Chaitya in the courtyard. Water was sourced from 5 kilometers away, costing more than the land itself. By 1993, the Tea House was operational, attracting the first wave of guests and inspiring further development.

Club Himalaya opened its doors in May 1996, coinciding with Buddha Jayanti, with 44 luxurious rooms. This marked the arrival of electricity and communication in Nagarkot. The first VHF telephone in the area was installed below the Tea House. Wastewater treatment and innovative irrigation turned the non-nutritious red mud of Nagarkot into fertile ground, nurturing a lush canopy that now conceals the hotel. Guests at Club Himalaya can now enjoy the majestic beauty of the Himalayas while experiencing top-notch amenities and hospitality. The property's thoughtful design ensures a harmonious blend with the natural environment, making it a tranquil retreat for visitors from around the world.

Mr. Sakya’s commitment to legacy saw his son, Mr. Rahul Sakya, expanding the property with the addition of the Raniban Wing, offering 27 more rooms. This expansion was driven by a desire to offer more guests the chance to experience the unique charm of Nagarkot. Today, Nagarkot boasts numerous hotels, guesthouses, and homestays, welcoming countless visitors daily, following in the entrepreneurial footsteps of Mr. Yogendra Sakya. It stands as one of the premier destinations near Kathmandu, where the magic of the Himalayas meets world-class hospitality.

Join us at Club Himalaya and witness the extraordinary journey of Nagarkot—a tale of vision, dedication, and transformation. Embrace the magic of the Himalayas, the warmth of our hospitality, and the legacy of a dream come true. Let the serene landscapes, the golden sunrises, dreamy sunsets and the rich history captivate your senses and leave you with memories that last a lifetime.