Kathmandu, Nov. 24, 2025 - The Hotel Association Nepal (HAN) convened its Strategic Workshop - 1 at Hotel Barahi Kathmandu on Monday, bringing together committee leaders and hospitality experts to chart the way forward for Nepal’s evolving tourism and hospitality landscape.
Senior Vice President Prabin B. Panday opened the session by welcoming committee members and urging them to accelerate industry-focused advocacy. Highlighting the need for a “smart, efficient and globally competitive hospitality ecosystem,” Panday emphasized closer collaboration between committees to address emerging sectoral challenges.
HAN President Binayak Shah, who chaired the workshop, stressed that the hospitality industry is undergoing significant change-both globally and within Nepal. He called for collective, intensified efforts to ensure that the sector adapts to new realities shaped by technology, shifting traveler expectations, and post-pandemic recovery patterns.
“As HAN marks 60 years of service to the nation and international guests, it is the responsibility of the new generation of hoteliers to carry forward this legacy with renewed vision,” Shah said, urging members to lead transformative initiatives with unity and ambition.
Committees Present Key Sectoral Challenges
During the workshop, multiple HAN committees presented insights on pressing issues related to law, policy gaps, operational hurdles, and standardization needs across the hospitality value chain. These presentations were the result of table discussions and consultations across member institutions.
Key presenters included:
Mr. Prabin B. Panday – Star Category Hotels Committee
Mr. Youbaraj Shrestha – Treasurer & Coordinator, Finance and Standardization Committee
Mr. C. P. Shrestha – Coordinator, Province Committee
Mr. Laxman Aryal – Coordinator, Tourist Standard Committee
Ms. Ashlesha Karki – Youth Hotelier Committee
Ms. Amritanjali Sakya – R&D/IT Committee
Mrs. Ava Shah & Ms. Samjhana Basnyat – Education/HR/Membership Committee
Their reports highlighted diverse challenges such as regulatory inconsistencies, workforce development needs, digital transformation gaps, the need for clearer tourism standards, and the urgency of integrating provincial-level coordination for more balanced sectoral growth.
Way Forward for the Industry
Secretary General Sajan Shakya concluded the program by synthesizing the committee findings and outlining strategic next steps. He stressed the importance of evidence-based policy engagement, stronger institutional collaboration, and a unified approach to enhancing Nepal's hospitality standards.
The workshop marks a renewed commitment by HAN to strengthen internal coordination, modernize the sector, and ensure Nepal remains a competitive and welcoming destination for global travelers.
