I had a booking at Hotel Shambala for September 2025, but due to the recent political crisis in Nepal, including Gen Z protests, corruption issues, and the social media ban, travel to Kathmandu has become unsafe and uncertain. Unfortunately, despite these exceptional circumstances being entirely beyond my control, the hotel was unwilling to show flexibility or negotiate beyond their very strict cancellation policy. I find this approach disappointing, especially during a time when many travelers are affected by unexpected events. While Agoda kindly offered some compensation, the hotel itself was rigid and unsupportive.
Updated reply on 9 October 2025 Thank you for your response. However, I would like to clarify an important point for accuracy — Agoda did not provide full compensation, but only a 20% goodwill refund out of their own courtesy. The remaining amount was retained, as the hotel declined to show flexibility despite the exceptional circumstances. I fully understand that hotels have policies, but during a period of national crisis and travel disruption, some understanding and fairness can go a long way in building goodwill and trust. I hope the hotel will consider being more empathetic and transparent in handling such cases in the future.
Updated review on 10 October 2025 I initially had a disappointing experience with Hotel Shambala regarding a non-refundable booking during Nepal’s political crisis. At that time, the hotel was unwilling to show flexibility, which I felt was unfair under exceptional circumstances. However, after further communication and clarification between the hotel and Agoda, the issue has now been fully resolved, and I have received a 100% refund. I appreciate both Agoda’s assistance and the hotel’s cooperation in reaching this outcome. While the initial handling was difficult, I acknowledge the eventual resolution and hope the hotel continues to support travelers fairly during...
Read moreOne of the worst hotel experiences of my life. Was awoken 2 nights in a row at 3am to the sounds of screaming guests. The first night we let it go... the second night things took a turn for the worst as we heard screams for help and crying from the room next door. We contacted the hotel staff to let them know what was happening... it took them 20 minutes to send anyone up stairs to help. As the screams continued the hotel staff did nothing. A security guard was brought up stairs and when the guests in the room opened the door they said “everything is fine” and the security guard walked away and chalked it up to them just being drunk. This was just the beginning as the staff tried to cover up the incedent the next day and act like nothing happened. After finally getting to the manager 6 hours after requesting him he offered us free dinner and to talk to the guests that were involved in the incedent. But at this point the damage was done as I couldn’t bring myself and my wife to stay in a room where the women next door we screaming for help and being what sounded like being slammed off of the walls. I would not recommend this hotel to anyone not due to the fact that we had horrible guests next door but due to the absolute negligence...
Read moreI had a long-term stay at Hotel Shambala and I was extremely happy with their accommodations, high level of service, and abundance of kindness. My room was comfortable and modern and had more amenities than I expected including a very comfortable bed, a nice television, an area to sit and relax, ample clothes storage, a mini fridge, and a tea kettle. The reception staff were friendly and helpful with routine transactions and special requests alike. The hotel restaurant was great. I ate breakfast there every day and had room service for dinner most nights. The wait staff was exceptional, the chef is amazing, and the food was delicious. My favorites were the momo, chicken chilli, Indian offerings, and anything from the tandoor. The hotel location is ideal with restaurants and grocery stores in easy walking distance. The spa was also very nice. I would also like to note that I stayed here during a difficult time for businesses in Nepal because of COVID-19 lockdowns, but the hotel consistently found ways to provide excellent service in the midst of it all. They treated me like family and I will definitely stay here when I come to Kathmandu...
Read more