Ashish Kumar is the general manager of Hyatt Regency Kathmandu. His career with Hyatt began in 2009 at Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa as Front Office Manager. He subsequently held key leadership roles, including room director positions at Hyatt Regency Pune and Hyatt Regency Chandigarh. In 2016, he advanced to his first general manager role at Hyatt Place Hampi, followed by a tenure at Hyatt Regency Lucknow before his current position in Kathmandu. It has been three years since he took the helm at Hyatt Regency Kathmandu. In an email interview with The Post, Kumar shares insights into Nepal’s hospitality landscape, the hotel’s strategies for growth, and his vision for the future.

Given the recent surge in tourist arrivals, how is your hotel adapting to the evolving preferences of Nepal's international and domestic travellers?

At Hyatt Regency Kathmandu, we continuously adapt to the changing preferences of our guests by offering a blend of luxury, cultural experiences, and modern conveniences. With an increasing number of international travellers seeking immersive experiences, we have enhanced our offerings by curating unique cultural encounters, such as guided heritage walks around Boudhanath Stupa and authentic Nepali dining experiences. We provide staycation packages, wellness retreats, and personalised services catering to domestic travellers' evolving needs. To further elevate guest experiences, we have introduced a local breakfast experience, allowing guests to savour traditional Nepali morning delicacies. We also train our associates to provide exceptional service that aligns with global hospitality trends while staying rooted in Nepalis' warmth and traditions. Additionally, we make every occasion special by celebrating birthdays and anniversaries, ensuring guests feel valued and at home during their stay. Our focus remains on providing a seamless and memorable experience that reflects the charm of Nepal while embracing global hospitality trends.

How is your hotel promoting eco-tourism and minimising environmental impact?

Sustainability is at the core of Hyatt Regency Kathmandu's philosophy. Our hotel is designed to harmonise with its natural surroundings, featuring expansive green spaces and a dedicated herb garden. One of our key initiatives is Moware Lab, a sustainable project within the hotel that transforms waste materials into beautiful, functional products. Guests can visit the lab to witness the process firsthand and gain insight into our commitment to sustainability. Additionally, we actively engage in waste management, water conservation, and energy-efficient practices to minimise our environmental footprint while enhancing the eco-tourism experience for our guests. We are also taking decisive steps towards reducing plastic use across our operations. We are launching our water bottling plant to support further sustainability efforts, which will significantly cut down single-use plastic waste.

Nepal has seen significant growth in the hotel industry, including new luxury properties. How does your hotel stay competitive while maintaining its unique identity and service quality?

At Hyatt Regency Kathmandu, we have always believed in being better than yesterday, whether elevating guest experiences or enhancing our facilities. Our competitive edge lies in our ability to blend traditional Nepali hospitality with world-class luxury seamlessly. The timeless architecture inspired by Nepal’s heritage, our commitment to personalised service, and our dedication to continuous improvement ensures that we remain a preferred choice. Our profound commitment to emotional intelligence in hospitality sets us apart, allowing us to anticipate and fulfil guest needs with warmth and authenticity. We practise irrational hospitality, going above and beyond to create moments that delight and surprise our guests. Additionally, our association with World of Hyatt enables us to offer exclusive benefits and personalised experiences to our loyal guests, further enhancing their stay.

What are the biggest challenges the hospitality sector in Nepal faces today and how is your hotel working to overcome them?

The hospitality sector in Nepal faces challenges such as infrastructure development, seasonal tourism fluctuations, and talent scarcity. While Nepal’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural wealth attract visitors year-round, accessibility to specific destinations remains challenging. At Hyatt Regency Kathmandu, we promote Kathmandu as a year-round destination by offering diverse experiences, from monsoon wellness retreats to winter holiday packages. Recognising the scarcity of skilled manpower, we invest in attracting, developing, and retaining top talent through continuous learning and growth opportunities. Our commitment to nurturing talent ensures that our team is equipped to deliver world-class hospitality, regardless of seasonal variations.

Nepal’s rich cultural heritage is a key attraction for tourists. How does your hotel incorporate local traditions, cuisine, and art into the guest experience?

Our hotel is deeply connected to Nepal’s cultural heritage. We celebrate local traditions through various experiences such as a live Nepali food counter at breakfast offering guests an authentic taste of traditional delicacies. A signature Nepali Thali at Sesame restaurant showcasing the country’s diverse flavours. An evening Aarati ceremony at 6pm in the hotel lobby, allowing guests to witness Nepal’s spiritual essence. Daily live performances featuring traditional Nepali music in the lobby create an immersive cultural atmosphere. Architectural elements inspired by Nepal’s heritage, such as the Chaitya Court, reflect the design of the nine living chaityas around Kathmandu. Through these initiatives, we ensure that guests experience luxury and a deeper appreciation of Nepal’s traditions and artistry.

Where do you see Nepal’s hospitality industry heading in the next five years? What innovations or strategies will your hotel adopt?

Nepal’s hospitality industry is gearing up for growth, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, wellness, and personalised experiences. As travellers become more conscious of their environmental impact, hotels must integrate eco-friendly practices. At Hyatt Regency Kathmandu, we are focused on expanding our sustainability initiatives, enhancing wellness offerings such as holistic spa treatments and mindful retreats, and leveraging technology to provide seamless and customised guest experiences. In line with evolving guest expectations, we also prepare for product upgrades, ensuring our facilities and services remain at the forefront of luxury hospitality. Additionally, we are set to launch exciting food and beverage offerings and dining experiences, introducing innovative culinary concepts that will delight both local and international guests. To cater to wellness-focused travellers, we plan wellness facility upgrades, ensuring that our guests can access world-class relaxation and rejuvenation experiences.

How do you view your three years in Kathmandu as the general manager of Hyatt Regency Kathmandu?

My time in Kathmandu has been an enriching journey. Nepal is a land where tradition and warmth are deeply ingrained in the people, and this innate hospitality makes the industry thrive. The dedication and passion of our team have been instrumental in shaping enriching and memorable guest experiences. Over the years, I have gained a profound appreciation for Nepal’s cultural richness, resilient tourism sector, and collaborative spirit, which drive the hospitality industry forward. As we look to the future, I remain committed to fostering excellence, innovation, and sustainability at Hyatt Regency Kathmandu while embracing the beauty and traditions of this remarkable country.