Annapurna Conservation Area, Gandaki hotel rooms at the Independent

"Quiet retreat just steps from all the action around Lakeside"

"An unforgettable post-trek retreat—beautiful design, serene atmosphere, and exceptional service My husband and I stayed at Dorje’s for three nights after completing the Annapurna Circuit, and it was the best decision we made on our trip. From the moment we arrived, we felt deeply cared for—greeted at the Pokhara airport, welcomed with a refreshing drink, and allowed to check in early, which we really appreciated after days on the trail. The property is stunning, with thoughtful architecture and interior design throughout. Nearly every spot on the grounds offers a beautiful lake view, and the rooms are filled with intentional, high-quality touches. Everything felt fresh, clean, and well-maintained. We indulged in spa treatments that included access to the steam room and sauna before our massages—an incredibly relaxing experience. Since we were there at the end of May (the beginning of monsoon season), the property was especially peaceful, and we often had the pool entirely to ourselves. The staff mentioned that it gets much livelier around September and October. We also had the pleasure of meeting Dorje himself and hearing his inspiring story of building the resort after years in the restaurant business. His hospitality ethos is clear in every detail—from the delicious, fresh food at the on-site restaurant (we happily ate most meals there) to the genuinely kind, attentive staff who go above and beyond to make your stay exceptional."

"Incredible and fantastic resort. The best I’ve stayed at so far. And I’ve stayed at Marriott, Aloft and other 5 star hotels in Nepal, this is the best experience by far. The details they put into this hotel is really top notch. The place is beautifully maintained daily, the grass are always free of leafs and branches, the gardening job is done perfectly, and they do this everyday. The housekeeping team is like magic, the second you left for lunch and come back, boom the room is made and it’s perfectly clean. The service are the most incredible, I was sick for days and they gave me thermometer, electrolytes, ginger lemon honey tea, make outside of the menu soup for me and get it delivered to my room, they called the doctor for consultation, and even gave me a free ride to the hospital. And then everyone is asking “how are you, are you feeling better”. It’s really incredible, made me feel like home and truly cared for above and beyond. Even the driver they have is amazing the car is clean, snd the way he drive is extra gentle and careful make you feel safe. You know they put in all that extra effort to add to the experience."

"Wonderful location, fantastic service, brilliant spa and yoga. Traditional and modern design of the rooms. The restaurant is ok. Breakfast includes very good choices to order such as fresh juice, omelettes and dumplings. The view is fantastic. Hope to be back! "

"We stayed for 4 nights and were upgraded to a 4th floor pool view with balcony as apparently we had paid too much through Hotels.com for the garden hut. The room was clean and spacious with a great view of the lake. The staff were all very friendly and special shout out to Samah who was particularly efficient. The evening cover band and dance show was entertaining. Good location too. Only negative was that breakfast plates weren’t cleared away very quickly which encouraged flies and a couple of birds. But overall would definitely recommend."

"The Bar Peepal Resort exceeded our expectations. The staff was excellent from the moment we arrived until we left. They were friendly, always eager to help, always smiling, and went the extra mile. They immediately told us about activities we might enjoy and booked a Hot Air Balloon excursion, a highlight, and a massage at their lovely spa. The food at the restaurant was amazing - with views of the lake and the lakeside town. We highly recommend this truly wonderful hotel!"

"Comfortable rooms, clean. Good dining options including breakfast buffet. Airport shuttle is a plus. "

"Great location."