Hotel Shanker Location: Central Kathmandu Rating: 3-star The Shanker Hotel is a heritage hotel with a history. A 100 year old palace, situated in the heart of Kathmandu, it faces the north side of the Royal Palace. Located only 5 minutes from Durbar, it is easily accessible to the major business institutions, diplomatic enclaves and tourist hubs. [CLICK photo for more information]

Dhood Gu Hotel Location: Lhasa Rating: 3-star This comfortable three-star property is an excellent choice. The buzzing crowds in the alley below are rivalled only by those of the Potala seen from the rooftop patio. The comfortable rooms come with traditional Tibetan furniture, modern bathrooms and kettles.