Think of Nepal and images of Buddhist stupas, fluttering Tibetan flags and fabulous Hindu temples spring to mind – not to mention the majestic mountains and the adventure they invite as well as all the cheap shopping that can be done in Kathmnandu. But few think of the rich traditions of the Newa people – the descendents of the citizend of Medieval Nepal that reigned over Kathmandu Valley. The Valley flourished under them with the highest and most refined forms of art, literature, religion, philosophy being created by these intelligent people. There is a wide acceptance of the fact that Newar architects may have been responsible for developing Asia's hallmark multi-tiered pagoda architecture.

Check out these beautiful hotels that will give you an insight into Newari lives as they were lived centuries ago:

Kantipur Temple House - An awe inspiring work of architecture showcasing Kathmandu’s golden period during the Malla Dynasty.

The hotel is as beautiful and inspiring as Nepal’s oldest Newari palaces – there are intricate statues of Nepali gods and goddesses carved into the wooden beams supporting the roof, the typical Newari red brick is used everywhere and the hotel is in fact, a very real temple. Most of all I will always remember the ubiquitous symbol of Nepal – the Buddha Eyes that looked down on me from the wall above my bed. It never let me forget the fact that I was staying in Nepal, surely one of the best tests for a hotel room.

Our Tip: If it’s a sunny day and you just want to relax, head up to their hotel terrace for some good old sunbathing. Its all kitted out with sun beds, a fun library, a Buddha painted on the walls, a beautiful pagoda and beautiful views of Kathmandu city and the majestic mountains surrounding it. There’s even a telephone handy if you want to order that beer! Prices start from USD 60 per room for one person including airport transfers.

Hotel Vajra – 3 acres of greenery, a mix of Biospheric and Newari architecture and some unforgettable art.

The gushing water from the fountains, the chirping of the birds and the smell of incense from the home grown open air temple are enough to soothe the most frayed nerves. The entire hotel is built according to Biospheric Architecture – a concept that rests on the fact that you are creating a semi-biosphere or ecosystem of your own where water, animals and humans live a self sustaining life with each other. Apparently the Newa people thought like this centuries ago as well! The hotel is built according to ancient Newari architecture and there is traditional Nepali art hanging on every inch of wall through out the humongous hotel. Come ehre for a serious education on Nepal’s art and crafts.

Our Tip: Try to come to Hotel Vajra just in time for the annual drama performances of Studio 7's Avant-Garde productions directed by Sabine Lehmann, the owner of this hotel. Studio 7 has performed plays ranging from Brecht's "Three Penny Opera" to the Life Story and 100,000 Poems of "Milarepa" and episodes from "The Mahabharat". Studio 7's plays choose to reflect the historical as well as the current events of the country, in a style which can be called "Magic Realism". Unforgettable. Prices start from USD 14 per room for one person including airport transfers.

Newa Chen – A stay at this 250 year old UNESCO sponsored traditional Newari home is a never before experience.

The house with its ancient doors, low ceilings and intricately carved wooden panels will make you feel like you are living in a different time. It is a one of its kind experience in Nepal. The rooms are impeccable, and almost zen like with their unique straw matting and floor beds – very simple but very comfortable. The bathrooms have wooden flooring with bath tubs and beautiful sliding screen doors. They only serve one meal at Newa Chen, but what a meal it is! The traditional breakfasts change everyday and they are all excellent.

Our Tip: Be sure to visit Patan’s Museum during your stay at Newa Chen. Widely accepted as one of the best museums in South Asia, this museum is housed in an ancient palace and is full of information for anyone interested in Nepals Buddhist and HIndy traditions. That it has an excellent café in the middle of its green courtyard is only the cherry on the top! Prices start from USD 20 per room including breakfast and wireless internet.