The Hotel Association Nepal (HAN) marked a significant milestone in the tourism sector with the celebration of Nepal Hospitality Day on January 15, 2025, at The Soaltee Hotel, Kathmandu. The prestigious second edition of this event was inaugurated by Honorable Minister Mr Badri Prasad Pandey, Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation. This landmark event served as a platform to celebrate the best of Nepalese hospitality, underscoring Nepal’s commitment to advancing its hospitality industry and offering service under the banner of 'Home of Hospitality'.
A key highlight of the ceremony was the release of the Nepal Yearbook 2025, a comprehensive publication documenting significant trends and developments in the sector. The book reflects the industry's dedication to maintaining detailed records and fostering continuous growth in Nepal's hospitality landscape.
Mr Binayak Shah, president of Hotel Association Nepal delivering his welcome remarks presented the details of hospitality sector with special focus on the emerging hotels and underutilization of its capacity. Mr Shah also urged the government to bolster confidence of hoteliers with more conducive fiscal and legal provisions. Mr Shah took reference of the latest provision of ordinance with granted the status of National Priority Industry to all star hotels and eco-resorts, owing special thanks to the government for this address.
The event was further enriched by the presence of chief guest honorable Minister of Tourism, Mr Badri Prasad Pandey who spoke on the importance of Nepal Hospitality Day, deeply rooted with our own tradition of treating every guests as god, eg. 'Atithi Devo Bhawa'.
On the occasion, Hotel Association Nepal presented the 'Award of Honor' to Mr Karna Sakya, national coordinator of Visit Nepal Year 1998, Mr Yogendra Sakya, national coordinator of Nepal Tourism Year 2011 and Mr Suraj Vaidya, nation coordinator of Visit Nepal 2020 for their stewardship of tourism industry. Tourism stalwart Mr Karna Sakya shared his rich experiences and tourism vision at the program followed by Mr Suraj Vaidya's address filled with contemporary issues on tourism sector.
Adding to the vibrancy of the day was the Nepalese Heritage Food Fest and Expo 2025, an immersive experience showcasing Nepal’s rich culinary traditions. This unique integration of cultural gastronomy and the hospitality sector underscored the deep connection between Nepal’s food heritage and its tourism potential. Meanwhile, Hotel Association Nepal also gave away the Award of Recognition to the legendary chefs of Nepal including Mr. Govinda Narsingh KC, Mr. Kamal Shumsher Rana, Mr. Kedar Silwal, Mr. Krishna Kaji Basnet, Mr. Shyam Wang Lama, Mr. Ram Krishna Panta, Mr. Ratna Bahadur Thapa, Mr. Hari Prashad Kafle, Mr. Dilip Kumar Maharjan and Mr. Pushpa Thapa Magar in recognition of their active contribution in promoting culinary tourism of Nepal.
The speakers making speeches on the theme of hospitality and tourism included 1st Vice President Mr Prabin B Pandey, NTB CEO Mr Deepak Raj Joshi, Mr CP Shrestha, President of HAN Lumbini Province and finally a note of gratitude by Mr Sajan Shakya, Secretary General of Hotel Association Nepal.
On the occasion, Hotel Association Nepal expressing special gratitude to all the sponsors honored them with the Award of Appreciation for their support in making the event successful. The celebration set the stage for annual observances of Nepal Hospitality Day, fostering stronger collaboration among stakeholders and further promoting Nepal’s rich cultural heritage and tourism potential.