Raniban Retreat

Situated at an altitude of 1492 m above sea level, along the ridge from the World Peace Pagoda, this secluded hilltop resort is set in a stone-fronted slate-roofed bamboo cottage with inspiring views over the lake and mountains.

Rooms are very inviting and all sorts of outdoors activities can be arranged by the friendly staff. If you want peace and quiet, there's no point taking half measures - this gorgeous lodge is hidden in the forest, high above Pokhara.

Surrounded by mountain-biking and hiking trails, the Raniban Retreat is probably the best choice in the valley for privacy and seclusion.

Guests stay in a sensitively-designed bamboo cottage on a high bluff with heart-stopping views over Fewa Lake and the Annapurna Range. Rooms are warm and cosy and the mountain views are some of the best in Pokhara.

Staff can arrange a huge range of activities, from fishing to hilltop treks and mountain biking on forest trails. There's also an excellent restaurant.