Kathmandu's burgeoning middle class is becoming more health conscious. This is reflected in the growing numbers of people joining gyms and health clubs, which in turn are steadily improving their facilities to attract new customers. Demand is also rising for places where people can just relax after a busy day at work with some pampering in saunas and jacuzzis, massage and beauty treatments. Membership is not exactly cheap, but there are some gyms catering to the less well-off and younger people.
Jasmine Club, United World Trade Center, Tripureswor
 PICS: MIN RATNA BAJRACHARYA |
Annual membership: Rs 40,000.
Hotel Shaligram, Jawalakhel
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Bamboo Grove at Hotel Shaligram offers a children's pool and a larger pool for adults surrounded by shrubbery. The club's exercise equipment is housed in a homely environment.
Annual membership: Rs 27,000.
Flex, Nakhu 
Spacious and well-equipped with elliptic crosstrainers, chest press exercise machines and large treadmills, Flex specialises in serious exercise regimen. There is a swimming pool, an indoor badminton court and sauna.
Annual membership: Rs 22,000.
Clark Hatch, Radisson Hotel, Lazimpat 
The Radisson's Clark Hatch gym is the only international fitness chain in Nepal. You can exercise your reciprocal rights and use other Clark Hatch gyms in Asia when you're on the go. Its facilities include a gym with top-quality Life Fitness equipment, a spa and roof-top swimming pool.
Annual membership: Rs 49,267.
 KIRAN PANDAY |
Trainers at the Rage Fitness make that extra effort to motivate their clients, by making home calls if they don't show up and handing out certificates to those who've achieved their goals. The club may be small but the friendly atmosphere and affordability make it all the more accessible.
Annual membership: Rs 10,800.
Club Oasis, Hyatt Regency, Boudhanath 
Club Oasis offers the most luxurious facilities and top-class service for which members are more than willing to pay the price. "People come here for our presentation and ambience," says manager Naresh Maharjan. There are Astroturf tennis courts, a well-equipped gym, and a 1km jogging track around the hotel. The spa has an outdoor whirlpool and offers singing bowl therapy and Shirodhara massage.
Annual membership: Rs 50,000.
Hotel Shahanshah, Dhapasi 
Membership at the Shahanshah's health club includes indoor and outdoor swimming pool and multi-gyms (with a separate one for women), along with spa essentials. Besides the health club, there is an indoor tennis court. The swimming pools are small but the most popular pick, especially for school children.
Annual membership: Rs 32,000.
