Located in the vibrant heart of Kathmandu, the Maya Manor Boutique Hotel embodies Nepal’s rich heritage and architectural elegance. This charming hotel, which seamlessly combines history and hospitality, has a fascinating origin that dates back to 1935 at the height of the Rana Regime. After the abolition of the Rana regime and the installation of a multiparty democracy, the mansion was sold to a goldsmith, Siddhi Bahadur Sakya, and his family in 1968. It became his family house until 2015 when his youngest son, Karna Sakya, who is known as the Father of Tourism in Nepal, renovated the mansion and made it into a charming boutique hotel.
Today, Maya Manor stands tall, seeing many versions of Nepali history and staying resilient amongst devastating changes.
Here’s an exploration of the remarkable journey of Maya Manor and its transformation over nearly a century.
Maya Manor Boutique Hotel’s story begins during the Rana Regime (1846–1951), a time marked by political intrigue and opulence. The Ranas, an aristocratic family, took control in 1846, sidelining the monarchy and establishing a hereditary prime ministership. Their 105-year rule is notorious for its extravagance and for erecting grand residences inspired by European neoclassical architecture.
These luxurious homes were built during frequent trips to Europe and were endearingly called “White Elephants” because they were humungous white mansions that stood tall in the middle of acres and acres of estate. These “White Elephants” symbolized the Ranas’ desire to emulate British lifestyles while maintaining Nepal’s sovereignty through close ties with the British East India Company. Among these architectural wonders was the Toran Mahal, commissioned in 1935 by Toran Shumsher Rana, Nepal’s first Chief of Police.
The Ranas enjoyed their lavish lifestyle until 1951, when their regime was overthrown with Indian support, leading to Nepal’s transition to democracy.
Following the Rana Regime’s collapse, many grand mansions were sold at modest prices. Toran Mahal was acquired by the Sakya family, renowned goldsmiths and jewelers from Kathmandu. Embracing Nepal’s burgeoning tourism industry, the youngest of the Sakyas, Karna Sakya, transitioned from their traditional craft as Nepal opened its borders to international travelers.
In 1968, Karna Sakya founded the Kathmandu Guest House, one of Nepal’s first accommodations for international visitors. During the hippie movement, which attracted adventurous travelers to Nepal, Karna Sakya significantly influenced the country’s tourism landscape and earned the title “Father of Tourism in Nepal.”
The Sakya family resided in Maya Manor until 2015, preserving its heritage while hosting notable guests like former U.S. President Jimmy Carter during his visit to observe Nepal’s historic elections.
In 2015, a devastating earthquake struck Nepal, damaging many historic buildings, including Maya Manor. Rather than simply repairing the damage, Karna Sakya seized this opportunity to repurpose the mansion.
The family retrofitted the structure to meet modern seismic standards and added 40 new rooms, transforming it into Maya Manor Boutique Hotel. The name “Maya,” meaning love and compassion, honors Sakya’s late mother, Buddha Maya Sakya, a beloved matriarch known for her kindness.
Today, Maya Manor Boutique Hotel is more than just a luxurious accommodation; it is a living testament to Nepalese history. The original neoclassical mansion remains at the heart of the hotel, exuding elegance from the Rana era, while modern additions provide comfort for today’s travelers.
Guests can experience a blend of historical charm and contemporary luxury enriched by the Sakya family’s contributions to Nepal’s tourism industry. Maya Manor stands as a proud reminder of Nepal’s resilience in preserving its heritage while embracing change.
The allure of 100-year-old Rana antiques from Calcutta, Venice, and Britain, along with the crown jewel of the mansion, are preserved and displayed in the hotel’s museum room.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a traveler seeking a unique experience, Maya Manor Boutique Hotel offers an unforgettable journey through Nepal’s past and present. It symbolizes love, legacy, and luxury—a place where history is celebrated and hospitality is redefined.
Book your stay at Maya Manor Boutique Hotel today and immerse yourself in Nepal’s timeless elegance and rich history! Experience luxury like never before, and your unforgettable adventure awaits!
Maya Manor Boutique Hotel is located in Hattisar Road, Kathmandu, Nepal, offering easy access to the city’s vibrant culture, history, and attractions.
Yes, the hotel features a museum room displaying antiques from Calcutta, Venice, and Britain, which reflect the grandeur of Nepal’s Rana era.
The hotel is named “Maya,” which means love and compassion, in honor of Buddha Maya Sakya, the late mother of Karna Sakya. It symbolizes the family’s respect for heritage and tradition.
The Sakya family owns the Maya Manor Boutique Hotel. The youngest son, Karna Sakya, known as the “Father of Tourism in Nepal,” repurposed the historic mansion into a boutique hotel after the 2015 earthquake.
Maya Manor stands out for its rich heritage, historical significance, and luxurious offerings. It houses a museum room with 100-year-old Rana antiques and provides guests with an immersive experience of Nepal’s past and present.