ABSTRACT
Situated on the plateau between the Kathmandu district of Swayambhu, which is frequented by pilgrims, and the district of Thamel, which is full of the husde and bustle of tourists, is the Vajra Hotel. The panorama that may be admired from the roof terrace extends far across the valley to the east, and ends to the west with a spectacular view of the stupa of Swayambhunath. The hotel not only runs a library with works on the Himalayan region, but has also an auditorium for music and plays. For years it has been the favourite haunt of anthropologists, film makers, writers and architects, because as well as being quiet, it is close to the city. It was here that in 1980 Robert Powell had his first exhibition in Asia. He showed his recent views of houses and façades from Bhaktapur (Nepal).
