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Mustang, Nepal – For decades, Nepal has captivated travellers with its majestic Himalayas, living heritage, and spirit of adventure. In the 1970s and 1980s, the country was regarded as one of Asia's most exclusive travel destinations, welcoming royalty, explorers, and global cultural icons. As international tourism evolved, Nepal became increasingly associated with trekking and budget travel. While its reputation as one of the world's premier adventure destinations flourished, its position within the global luxury travel landscape gradually faded.
For years, Sherpa Hospitality Group (SHG) has been working to reaffirm Nepal's place among the world's leading luxury destinations by showcasing experiences rooted in authenticity, culture, wellness, and regenerative hospitality. Since the opening of Shinta Mani Mustang in August 2023, the Group's flagship luxury property in Lower Mustang, that vision has taken centre stage.
Today, that vision has received one of the strongest international recognitions. Shinta Mani Mustang has been named the No. 1 hotel in Robb Report's 50 Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth 2026, placing both the property and Nepal at the pinnacle of global luxury hospitality.
Selected by Robb Report's 24 Travel Masters, the world's leading luxury travel advisors who curate journeys for the most discerning travellers, the annual ranking is regarded as one of the industry's most respected benchmarks of excellence. This year's recognition is especially significant as the 2026 list features many of the world's most celebrated luxury hotels. To be ranked No. 1 among these global icons is not only a milestone for Shinta Mani Mustang, but also a defining moment for Nepal's re-emergence as a world-class luxury destination.
In its citation, Robb Report described the property as:
"Another of maximalist designer Bill Bensley's masterful far-flung palaces of fantasy... breathtaking views in the ultimate retreat for the body, mind and spirit."
"This recognition is about far more than one hotel," said Namgyal Sherpa, CEO of Sherpa Hospitality Group. "For many years, our vision has been to reaffirm Nepal's place among the world's leading luxury destinations—not by changing who we are, but by celebrating what makes Nepal truly exceptional. Our culture, our landscapes, our people, and our heritage are our greatest assets. This recognition from Robb Report demonstrates that Nepal can stand alongside the world's most celebrated luxury destinations while remaining authentic to its identity.”
He added, "Our journey with Robb Report reflects the evolution of both Shinta Mani Mustang and Nepal's luxury tourism story. From being recognised in Best of the Best and The 50 Best Luxury Hotels in the World in 2024, to Best Luxury Adventure Hotel in 2025, and now being named the world's No. 1 luxury hotel in 2026, this recognition belongs to every member of our team, our partners, the communities of Mustang, and every guest who has believed in what we are creating."
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More than an individual accolade, the recognition signals a broader shift in how Nepal is perceived by the global luxury travel industry. As travellers increasingly seek experiences that combine authenticity, sustainability, wellbeing, and meaningful cultural connections, Nepal is uniquely positioned to meet that demand. Through this approach, Sherpa Hospitality Group continues its mission of elevating Nepal's profile as one of the world's most inspiring luxury travel destinations.
Perched high in the trans-Himalayan kingdom of Mustang, Shinta Mani Mustang is a transformative journey into the soul of Nepal. Framed by the snow-capped Nilgiri range and rooted in centuries of Himalayan wisdom, this high-altitude sanctuary invites you to explore a land where nature, culture, and spirit converge.
An all-inclusive experience with a minimum five-night stay, every journey is thoughtfully curated to provide a deeply personal connection to the region. Each guest enjoys a privately guided program led by experienced Bensley Adventure Butlers, whose expert knowledge and warm hospitality bring Mustang's landscapes, traditions, and hidden treasures to life through bespoke experiences.
Designed by the renowned Bill Bensley, Shinta Mani Mustang is a remarkable example of how thoughtful design can create a luxurious experience that is both environmentally sustainable and culturally respectful. Every detail, from the interiors and architecture to the landscape, reflects a profound respect for the natural beauty and rich heritage of Mustang. The result is an extraordinary retreat that offers discerning travellers an immersive experience in one of the world's last great Himalayan frontiers.
Sherpa Hospitality Group connects people to extraordinary places through immersive journeys that blend cultural heritage, sustainability, and authentic connection. Guided by the philosophy of Timeless Connections. Transformative Journeys, the group creates experiences that are deeply rooted in place, elevated by purpose, and enriched by meaningful encounters that leave a lasting impression.
It has been a trailblazer in Nepal’s tourism industry. Today, the portfolio includes luxurious properties such as Shinta Mani Mustang, Mountain Lodges of Nepal in the iconic Annapurna, Everest and Manang regions, Kasara Chitwan in the lush landscapes of Chitwan, and Hokke Lumbini, situated in the birthplace of Buddha.
