Le M?ridien Kathmandu, Gokarna Forest Golf Resort and Spa opened this week despite slack arrivals in the country. The hotel is part of a chain run by Le M?ridien Hotels and Resorts and is located inside the former royal hunting reserve, Gokarna Forest outside Kathmandu.

The hotel is an financed by an overseas Indian, Prem Sachdev who also developed the world class golf course inside the forest. Le M?ridien Kathmandu consists of 38 deluxe rooms, one suite inspired by Malla and Rana period architecture and 16 cottages set amongst century old trees, with views across the second fairway of the golf course into the valley below. The spa offers a variety of rejuvenating treatments including Ayurvedic, massage and beauty treatments. There is an indoor temperature-controlled pool complex, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi. The large, well-equipped gym overlooks the forest through large picture windows.

Sami Zoghbi, Le M?ridien's regional managing director for the Middle East and West Asia says: "The 18 hole golf course at Le M?ridien Kathmandu is a golfer's dream. It is one of the most spectacular golf resort courses in the world." The par 72 course was designed by David Kidd of Gleneagles Golf Developments, Scotlandand boasts the only Bent Grass greens in South and South East Asia.

Opening rates start from $ 45 per room per night including airport transfers and breakfast. There are also special opening three-night golf packages starting from $ 225 per person and a five-night spa package from $ 375 per person, available until 30 September 2005.