An interview with the charming owners of The Nanee, a boutique experiential hotel right in the heart of the medieval town of Bhaktapur, Nepal.
Please tell us a little about the history of Bhaktapur.
Bhaktapur, also known as Bhadgaon, is an ancient city located in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. It has a rich history dating back to the Licchavi period in the 9th century and flourished as an independent kingdom during the Malla dynasty from the 12th to the 15th century.
Bhaktapur was a major center of trade and culture along the trade routes between Tibet and India. The city’s strategic location contributed to its prosperity and the development of its unique architectural and artistic heritage.
During the Malla era, Bhaktapur became renowned for its skilled artisans and craftsmen, who excelled in various artistic forms such as woodcarving, pottery and metalworking. The city was adorned with splendid palaces, temples, and public squares that showcased the exquisite craftsmanship and architectural beauty of the Newari people.
In 1769, Bhaktapur was conquered by King Prithvi Narayan Shah of the Kingdom of Nepal, which marked the end of its independent rule. Despite this, Bhaktapur’s historical and cultural significance remained intact, and the city has preserved its heritage through the centuries.
Today, Bhaktapur is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and continues to be a living museum of medieval art, culture, and architecture. Its narrow alleys, traditional Newari houses, and well-preserved temples attract visitors from around the world, offering a glimpse into Nepal’s rich past and cultural traditions.
What was the inspiration behind your charming hotel in central Bhaktapur.
The inspiration behind our property in central Bhaktapur is multifaceted, encompassing our deep appreciation for the city’s cultural heritage, our commitment to community living, and our desire to give back to our roots.
Bhaktapur holds a special place in our hearts, as it is not only a city of remarkable historical significance but also the ancestral home of our family. We wanted to create a space that not only showcases the beauty and uniqueness of Bhaktapur but also pays homage to our ancestors’ service to the city.
Giving back to our roots is a fundamental part of our purpose. We believe in respecting and honoring the legacy of our ancestors, who served Bhaktapur for centuries as royalty. The creation of our hotel is a testament to their contributions, and it allows us to express our deep gratitude by preserving and promoting the cultural heritage they cherished.
In line with our commitment to community living, we have intentionally designed our hotel to share a public courtyard with the local community. This fosters a sense of inclusivity and offers our guests an opportunity to engage with the vibrant daily life of Bhaktapur. By creating this synergy between our guests and the local community, we aim to contribute to the social and economic well-being of Bhaktapur and support its sustainable development.
Additionally, we actively seek ways to give back to the community through initiatives that benefit the local residents. Whether it’s supporting local artisans, sourcing local products, or engaging in community development projects, we strive to make a positive impact and ensure that the benefits of tourism reach the grassroots level.
Have you always been in hospitality?
We as a family started a four bedroom bed and breakfast, Thagu Chhen, a decade ago with the purpose mentioned above. We realised that there was a need for a full service experiential property so we built The Nanee.
We , as a couple , have different professional background. One of us is an architect and the other is a pharmaceutical manufacturer. This has given us a perspective to create a space in tune with the local architecture yet a comfortable, modern accommodation while keeping the comfort, safety and hygiene paramount.
What would be your suggested itinerary, in order to incorporate Nanee into a visit to Nepal.
During the trip to Nepal, we would recommend having the guests stay with us before departing Nepal. We are only eleven kilometers away from the airport on the highway. The guests can have the taste of Kathmandu when they arrive in Kathmandu and savour the experience of The Nanee, Bhaktapur before flying out. It could be the icing on the cake.
How many nights would you suggest to stay at The Nanee?
We would recommend staying with us for three nights to be immersed with the authentic experiences of Bhaktapur.
What are some of your most interesting excursions from your property?
We have curated “ The Nanee Signature Experiences” for the discerning travellers to experience the hidden gems of Bhaktapur. The Nanee Signature Experiences are very exclusive and need pre booking so, they are sold in packages only.
The Signature Nanee Experiences:
- A) Early Morning Tour
As dawn graces Bhaktapur with its gentle touch, the town springs to life with the resonating sound of temple bells, filling the air with a symphony of devotion. Locals adorned in traditional attire flock to the ancient temples, creating an ethereal ambiance of spiritual awakening. The sacred rituals and offerings become a mesmerizing spectacle, immersing you in a profound spiritual experience that connects you to the town’s timeless traditions.
As the sun rises higher, the marketplace awakens, bustling with energy and vibrant colors. The aroma of freshly brewed tea, the cheerful chatter of local vendors, and the display of intricate crafts entice your senses.
- B) Evening with a Local Artisan
Bhaktapur is known for its rich cultural heritage, exquisite art, and remarkable craftsmanship. We have curated “ Evening with an Artisan” for the discerning travellers to go to the artisans’ House, workshop and their galleries . The
stories of their guild, the personal stories and the stories of their works are shared in the setting of their own residence for an authentic experience, sipping exotic High Himalayan Tea paired with The Nanee-speciality delicacy, in their living room. This program contributes significantly to the artisan’s family as a financial incentive to preserve this age old tradition.
- C) Bhaktapur by Night
As the sun sets on the horizon, Bhaktapur’s narrow alleys and majestic courtyards become adorned with the soft glow of streetlights, creating an enchanting ambiance that harkens back to a bygone era. As you stroll through the quiet streets, the energy of the day settles into a serene calmness.
Locals and visitors alike gather in public courtyards and cozy corners, engaging in leisurely conversations and sharing stories of the day. The historical monuments and temples stand with grace, narrating stories of the past without the need for words.
- D) Culinary Exploration and Family Dinner
It is an irrefutable fact that Nepal has more festivals than there are days in the year. Especially in the Newari community like in Bhaktapur, we find every possible reason to have dining events with our family and friends. Some events we cook and share our delicacies with family friends and the community while other events are done privately within close family and friends.
We offer our guests an experience of being part of a local family by engaging in a culinary journey with them. The family table for the dinner will be set up with an array of pre- prepped local dishes that will be cooked together with our guests and served all this while sharing our culture and stories. As a prelude in the morning , the guests will join the housewife buy from the local market, understanding the local tradition as well as local processing of the ingredients. This gives the guests an immersive experience of a local household’s daily life as well as the culinary stories of Bhaktapur.
- E) Chef’s Table
Live a part of the city’s culture with experience at the rooftop. The rooftop will be even cozier after sunset, with its enhanced lighting, where guests can gather and create unforgettable memories. At the rooftop bar, experience the sunset or depending on time of the year ,watching the moon rise over the Himalayas.
As a hub for social interaction on the rooftop, the Chef’s Table offers high-end dinners for limited guests and cooking classes by our chefs. Guest will enjoy live-cooked items while the chef tells the story behind the dish. The meal will be served with local drinks for experience purposes, together with storytelling.
- F) Immersive Festival Experiences
Experience the vibrant festival scene of Bhaktapur, where ancient traditions come to life amidst colorful celebrations. From the grandeur of Dashain to the lively Bisket Jatra and the eccentricity of Gai Jatra, immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Join the locals in traditional rituals, witness thrilling processions, and explore bustling markets filled with festive delights. Come discover the magic of Bhaktapur’s festivals and create unforgettable memories in the heart of Nepal’s cultural heritage.
The Nanee brings out the immersive festival experiences calendar for the discerning travellers to experience the festivals of Bhaktapur authentically. Please contact The Nanee team for your festival itinerary.
What is the best time of year to visit?
Except the Monsoon Season, July, Bhaktapur is good for all seasons. The best depends on the experiences one wants. April, August, September, October, November are very good for festivities. March, May, June, December, January, February would be very good for observing the life rituals. The regular artisan experience, culinary experience and the heritage/ cultural experience are always the same and enjoyable.
Are there any local festivals to experience?
Bhaktapur literally translates to ‘place of devotees.’ Hardly a month passes by without celebrating one festival or another. With so very many to mention we suggest that you let us know the approximate time of year you would like to travel and we can help ensure that you can incorporate one if not more of the many festivals right from the heart in the heart of this historic town.
Is Bhaktapur famous for any particular arts or crafts?
Yes, Bhaktapur is famous for its rich artistic and craft traditions. The city has a long history of producing exquisite artworks and handicrafts that are highly valued both locally and internationally. Some of the notable arts and crafts of Bhaktapur include:
Pottery: Bhaktapur is famous for its traditional pottery known as “Kujmal Dhuku.” Skilled potters create a wide range of clay vessels, decorative items, and religious artifacts using traditional techniques. The pottery of Bhaktapur is characterized by its intricate designs and vibrant colors.
Woodcarving: The intricate woodcarvings found in Bhaktapur’s temples, palaces, and traditional buildings are renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship. Skilled artisans carve intricate motifs, figures, and decorative elements from wood, showcasing the city’s rich architectural heritage.
Thanka Painting: Bhaktapur is known for its vibrant Thanka paintings, which are religious scroll paintings typically depicting Buddhist deities, mandalas, and spiritual scenes. These intricate paintings are meticulously created using natural pigments and gold leaf, and they require great skill and precision.
Metalwork: Bhaktapur is home to talented metal artisans who create beautiful sculptures, statues, and decorative items using traditional metalworking techniques. Copper, bronze, and brass are commonly used materials for these intricate metal crafts.
Handloom Weaving: Bhaktapur has a long tradition of handloom weaving, producing high-quality textiles such as Dhaka fabric, shawls, and rugs. Skilled weavers use traditional looms and techniques to create intricate patterns and designs, reflecting the city’s rich textile heritage.
Mask Making: Bhaktapur is known for its traditional mask making, particularly the masks used in religious ceremonies and festivals. These intricately crafted masks are made from materials like wood, clay, and paper-mache, and they play a significant role in cultural and religious events.
Lokta Paper Making: Bhaktapur is renowned for its production of Lokta paper, a handmade paper made from the bark of the Lokta plant. Lokta paper is known for its durability and is used to create various artistic and stationery items.
These arts and crafts showcase the city’s cultural heritage and craftsmanship, attracting art lovers, collectors, and tourists who appreciate the beauty and authenticity of these traditional art forms. Bhaktapur’s commitment to preserving and promoting these artistic traditions contributes to its status as a hub of arts and crafts in Nepal.
What is the local cuisine like, what can guests expect?
The local cuisine of Bhaktapur offers a delightful blend of flavors, influenced by Newari culinary traditions and the unique regional ingredients. Guests can expect a rich and diverse culinary experience with a range of dishes that reflect the cultural heritage of the city. Here are some highlights of the local cuisine:
Newari Cuisine: Newari food holds a prominent place in Bhaktapur’s culinary scene. Newars are the indigenous people of the Kathmandu Valley, including Bhaktapur, and their cuisine is known for its bold flavors and distinct dishes. Guests can savor delicacies like “Choila” (marinated grilled meat), “Bara” (a lentil pancake), “Chatamari” (rice flour crepes), “Yomari” (a sweet rice dumpling), and “Kwati” (a mixed bean soup).
Juju Dhau (King of Yogurt): Bhaktapur is famous for its Juju Dhau, a creamy and sweetened yogurt that is often served in distinctive clay pots. Made from buffalo milk, Juju Dhau has a velvety texture and a slightly tangy taste. It is a must-try local specialty that showcases the city’s dairy traditions.
Samay Baji: Samay Baji is a traditional Newari platter consisting of various elements served together. It typically includes beaten rice (chhoila baji), black soybeans (kwati), fried potatoes, boiled eggs, roasted meat (usually buffalo), pickles, and other condiments. Samay Baji offers a medley of flavors and textures, allowing guests to experience a variety of traditional Newari tastes.
Gwaramari: Gwaramari is a popular snack in Bhaktapur and throughout Nepal. These deep-fried, doughnut-shaped breads are made from wheat flour and seasoned with spices like cumin and sesame seeds. Gwaramari is often enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a quick on-the-go snack.
Sweets and Desserts: Bhaktapur is known for its delectable sweets and desserts. Guests can indulge in treats like “Gudpak” (a sweet fudge made from milk and sugar), “Lakhamari” (a sweet pastry), “Sel Roti” (a rice flour-based ring-shaped bread), and various types of “Barfi” (sweet milk-based confections).
Street Food Delights: Bhaktapur’s narrow streets are lined with food stalls offering an array of street food delights. Guests can sample popular street snacks like “Chatamari” (rice flour crepes topped with savory or sweet toppings), “Pani Puri” (crispy hollow puris filled with spicy water and chutney), and “Samosa” (deep-fried pastry filled with spiced potatoes or meat).
These are just a few examples of the local cuisine in Bhaktapur. Guests can expect a vibrant culinary experience with a mix of flavors, spices, and traditional dishes that showcase the city’s rich food culture. Exploring the local markets, eateries, and traditional Newari restaurants is a fantastic way to immerse oneself in the gastronomic delights of Bhaktapur.
