Lalitpur’s picturesque Godawari area is set to welcome a luxurious addition to its hospitality scene with the completion of the Godawari Forest Resort, a state-of-the-art five-star facility built at a staggering investment of Rs. 1.95 billion. This high-end resort, which has taken nearly six years to complete, is now ready for operation and is scheduled to open to the public before the upcoming Dashain festival, according to managing director Yubaraj Shrestha.
Managed by International Brand Best Western Plus
Adding to its prestige, the Godawari Forest Resort will be operated under the management of Best Western Plus, an American chain hotel brand known for its global standards and professional service. With the involvement of a recognized international operator, the resort is expected to elevate the standard of hospitality in the region, appealing to both domestic and international guests.
“This project was envisioned nearly six years ago, and today we are proud to announce that it is finally complete,” said Shrestha. “We’ve completed all necessary preparations to launch operations ahead of Dashain. The resort has been developed to five-star standards, and we are confident it will serve as a major attraction.”
World-Class Amenities and Design
Spread over 58,000 square meters, the Godawari Forest Resort blends luxury with nature, reflecting the local culture and environment. The resort features 83 premium rooms, each equipped with modern amenities to offer a blend of comfort and elegance. Additionally, it boasts three fully-equipped meeting halls, an infinity swimming pool, two high-end restaurants, and a boardroom for executive meetings.
One of the major attractions is the resort’s banquet hall, which can accommodate over 300 guests, making it ideal for corporate events, weddings, and large gatherings. The resort has been designed to cater to family and leisure travelers, offering a peaceful retreat close to the bustling capital.
Targeting Domestic and Regional Tourists
According to Shrestha, the resort is aimed at attracting domestic travelers, as well as tourists from neighboring countries such as India and China. Godawari is already renowned as an eco-tourism and religious tourism hub, drawing visitors for its tranquil environment, religious sites, and natural beauty.
In recent years, there has been a rise in hiking and trekking activities in and around Godawari, and the resort seeks to cater to these tourists as well. “We have designed the resort keeping in mind the needs of not just vacationers, but also nature lovers and spiritual seekers,” said Shrestha. “Its proximity to Kathmandu makes it a perfect getaway destination.” Located just 9 kilometers from Satdobato, the resort is easily accessible and provides a convenient escape for Kathmandu residents seeking relaxation amid nature.
Emphasizing Local Culture and Godawari’s Natural Beauty
The design and ambiance of the resort are inspired by the authentic essence of Godawari, a place deeply associated with botanical richness and local traditions. Godawari is particularly famous for its flowers, which bloom in abundance and attract thousands of tourists every year.
“The identity of Godawari lies in its natural flora and peaceful environment,” added Shrestha. “We’ve tried to reflect this in our resort’s architecture and landscaping, so that guests can enjoy the best of both comfort and culture.” In addition to floral attractions, the region is also a gateway for various trekking trails, making it a preferred stop for hikers exploring the nearby forests, hills, and religious sites.
Backed by Strong Local Investment
The Godawari Forest Resort is the result of a joint investment from several notable entrepreneurs, including Kushendra Mahat, Kalyan Joshi, Rajendra Bhandari, Yubaraj Shrestha, and Madanlal Joshi. The collaboration between these investors has made it possible to bring this long-anticipated project to life, with a shared vision of promoting high-quality tourism infrastructure near the capital.
The team behind the resort believes it will not only boost tourism in the Godawari area but also contribute to the local economy by creating jobs and encouraging regional development. “This is a home-grown project backed by Nepali investors, and we are proud of the standard we have achieved,” said Shrestha.
Complementing Godawari’s Development
Further adding to Godawari’s growing significance, the Nepal Government has already constructed a conference hall with a capacity of 3,000 people in the area. The resort is expected to complement this facility by providing nearby accommodation for attendees of conferences, seminars, and large events.
Shrestha expressed confidence that the resort will provide much-needed lodging options for those attending events in the government-constructed hall, enhancing Godawari’s potential as a destination for business tourism as well.
A Promising Future for Tourism in Godawari
With the addition of the Godawari Forest Resort, the Godawari area is poised to become a significant player in Nepal’s tourism sector. Its combination of natural beauty, modern luxury, and cultural depth makes it a unique destination for all kinds of travelers.
The project stands as a testament to what local entrepreneurship and global collaboration can achieve. As Nepal continues to develop its tourism infrastructure, the opening of this resort marks a promising step forward in creating sustainable and high-standard destinations that can compete on a global stage.
