Nepal sees surge in hotel and tourism investment; 18 percent rise in star hotels in one year

Nepal sees surge in hotel and tourism investment; 18 percent rise in star hotels in one year

According to the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, the number of deluxe and star-rated hotels reached 214 by mid-March 2025 (Falgun 2081), marking an 18 percent increase from the previous year’s 182. This surge has been accompanied by the steady opening of tourist-standard hotels, lodges, and boutique resorts throughout the country.

KATHMANDU, June 4: Nepal’s hotel and tourism sector has witnessed significant growth over the past year, with both domestic and foreign investments, particularly from Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs), driving rapid expansion across the country.

According to the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, the number of deluxe and star-rated hotels reached 214 by mid-March 2025 (Falgun 2081), marking an 18 percent increase from the previous year’s 182. This surge has been accompanied by the steady opening of tourist-standard hotels, lodges, and boutique resorts throughout the country.

The ministry reports that the total number of tourist-class hotels and lodges, excluding star-rated ones, rose from 1,234 to 1,364 during the same period. Bed capacity in star-rated hotels increased by 3,270, reaching a total of 20,343. Similarly, non-star tourist accommodations added 5,002 beds, bringing the total to 42,299.

In addition, three new casinos were added in the past year, bringing the total number of operational casinos to 29, including those using only modern gaming machines. The previous count stood at 26.

The ministry also recorded 4,963 registered travel agencies, 3,252 trekking agencies, and 97 rafting companies as of mid-March. Furthermore, 155 tourist transport services, 5,269 tour guides, 27,128 trekking guides, and 425 river guides are now officially registered.

The Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management (NATHM) has produced a total of 28,233 trained tourism professionals to date.

These developments indicate a strong upward trend in Nepal’s tourism infrastructure, reinforcing its potential as an emerging hub for regional and international travelers.