Lofty goals for Nepal’s tourism

Aloft Kathmandu, a part of Marriott International, opened just before Covid-19 wrecked the Visit Nepal 2020 campaign. But occupancy is now nearly back to pre-pandemic levels, says its General Manager Vikram Singh.

Nepali Times: When Aloft opened 5 years ago, many were skeptical about the location. How has it been so far?

Vikram Singh: When Aloft Kathmandu first opened, there were doubts about whether a high-end hotel could succeed in Thamel, a neighbourhood traditionally known for budget travellers. Five years later, Aloft has not only proved the skeptics wrong but has become a key part of Thamel’s evolving hospitality scene.

We attract a diverse mix of international tourists, business travellers, and even local guests. Thamel itself has also changed over the years, with more upscale establishments opening, making Aloft a perfect fit for the area’s transformation. 

Being part of the Marriott group has given the hotel a strong brand identity, bringing in loyal guests who appreciate the consistent quality and service that comes with the name. Aloft has also actively engaged with the local community by hosting events, collaborating with businesses, and building a strong presence in Kathmandu’s social and corporate circles.

Aloft Kathmandu has carved out its niche, proving that a well-positioned, well-managed hotel can thrive in even an unexpected location.

Is Nepal’s hospitality industry back to pre-Covid numbers?

It has made a remarkable comeback, but it hasn’t fully reached pre-Covid numbers just yet—though it is getting very close. The country has seen a steady rise in tourist arrivals, with over a million visitors in 2024. Some months have even surpassed the figures from 2019, which is a strong indicator of recovery.

The outlook is positive. Nepal remains a top destination for adventure seekers, cultural enthusiasts, and nature lovers, and with increasing air connectivity and a growing interest in sustainable travel, the industry is expected to continue its upward trend.

The resilience of Nepal’s tourism sector has been impressive, and it won’t be long before the numbers surpass pre-pandemic levels. The country’s unique natural beauty and cultural heritage continue to draw travellers from around the world, keeping Nepal firmly on the global travel map.

Aloft Kathmandu is the venue for Hi AiM this week, an international conference of the hospitality industry itself. What is the significance?

For the second year in a row, Aloft Kathmandu is the venue for the Hi AiM conference. This is a major achievement, not just for Aloft but for Nepal’s hospitality industry as a whole.

Having Hi AiM return to the same venue signals that Aloft Kathmandu has successfully set a high standard for hosting international conferences. It reinforces Nepal’s position as an emerging destination for global hospitality events and strengthens the country’s credibility in the tourism and business sectors.

The conference brings together top industry professionals, including hotel owners, architects, and designers from around the world. This means more international exposure for Nepal, increased tourism revenue, and more opportunities for knowledge-sharing and networking.

This back-to-back selection is a testament to Aloft Kathmandu’s ability to meet the expectations of global professionals, and could pave the way for more high-profile international events in Nepal.

What does obtaining ISO 14001:2015 entail for your hotel? 

It is a major milestone reflecting the hotel’s commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices. It means the hotel follows an internationally recognised environmental management system, minimising the impact on the planet.

We have taken proactive steps to reduce energy consumption, conserve water, and manage waste more efficiently. By optimising resources and preventing pollution, the hotel not only benefits the environment but also improves operational efficiency and reduces costs in the long run.

This certification helps strengthen Aloft’s reputation as an eco-conscious hotel. More travellers are now looking for sustainable options, and having ISO 14001:2015 gives the hotel a competitive edge while building trust with guests and the community. 

How exactly are you integrating green energy and sustainability into daily operations?

Energy efficiency is a top priority, with LED lighting, smart thermostats, and energy-efficient appliances helping to minimise power consumption. We have taken steps to conserve water by using low-flow fixtures and encouraging guests to participate in towel and linen reuse programs.

Aloft has implemented a recycling program, and switched to refillable bathroom amenities to cut down on waste. The hotel also uses locally grown organic produce and eco-friendly products whenever possible.

These efforts align with Marriott International’s broader sustainability vision, which emphasises responsible hospitality, carbon footprint reduction, and community engagement. Aloft Kathmandu also actively engages in educating visitors on conservation efforts and providing eco-conscious options, the hotel ensures that sustainability is not just a policy but a shared responsibility.