In a landmark achievement for Nepal’s hospitality industry, Barahi Kathmandu has proudly announced that it has been awarded the prestigious TOFTigers Certification, making it the first city hotel in Kathmandu to receive this internationally recognized accolade. Even more impressively, the hotel has secured an “Outstanding” rating, the highest distinction under the certification criteria.
A Milestone in Sustainable Hospitality
This prestigious certification reflects Barahi Kathmandu’s unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism practices, eco-friendly operations, and responsible hospitality. The TOFTigers initiative, an internationally acclaimed certification system based in the UK, promotes sustainable tourism in nature-based and urban hospitality settings. Receiving such a rating signifies that Barahi Kathmandu has successfully integrated environmental, social, and ethical practices into its day-to-day operations.
“This is not just an award, it is a milestone that acknowledges our efforts toward green growth and sets a new benchmark for what city hotels in Nepal can aspire to,” said a spokesperson from Barahi Kathmandu. “From reducing waste and conserving energy to supporting local communities and promoting conscious tourism, our entire team has worked diligently to align with TOFTigers’ rigorous sustainability standards.”
What the “Outstanding” Rating Means
TOFTigers’ “Outstanding” rating is awarded only to those establishments that demonstrate exceptional leadership in environmental stewardship, community engagement, and responsible business practices. Barahi Kathmandu underwent a thorough and independent audit, evaluating everything from water and energy efficiency to waste management, carbon footprint, procurement policies, and staff welfare. According to TOFTigers, the “Outstanding” certification is reserved for hotels and resorts that go beyond compliance, those that innovate and advocate for sustainability in the broader tourism ecosystem.
A First for Kathmandu’s Urban Hospitality Sector
While eco-lodges and resorts in remote and natural destinations have traditionally been the recipients of sustainability certifications, Barahi Kathmandu’s recognition marks a turning point for urban hospitality in Nepal. It shows that city hotels, despite the challenges of operating in dense, urban environments, can lead the way in responsible tourism.
This achievement positions Barahi Kathmandu as a pioneer among city-based hotels and provides a powerful example for others in the hospitality industry to follow. It highlights the growing importance of integrating sustainability into urban tourism infrastructure, which plays a critical role in Nepal’s tourism-driven economy.
Gratitude to Team and Guests
Barahi Kathmandu extended heartfelt thanks to its dedicated team and its environmentally conscious guests, who have both played crucial roles in making this achievement possible. “Sustainability is not a solo journey, it’s a collective commitment. We’re grateful to our staff for embracing this culture wholeheartedly, and to our guests for choosing to travel responsibly,” the hotel noted in its official announcement.
A Vision for the Future
Barahi Kathmandu’s success story represents more than an individual triumph, it’s part of a broader shift toward greener, more mindful tourism practices across Nepal. As environmental concerns become more pressing globally, tourism businesses are increasingly expected to operate in ways that preserve natural resources, protect cultural heritage, and benefit local communities.
By achieving this certification, Barahi Kathmandu is setting a new standard for sustainable urban hospitality in Nepal and beyond. The hotel now aims to not only maintain these high standards but to further innovate in areas like green design, local sourcing, renewable energy, and environmental education for staff and guests alike.
About TOFTigers
TOFTigers is an award-winning international initiative dedicated to fostering sustainable tourism in South Asia. Through its PUG (Practices Under Guidelines) Eco Rating system, it supports responsible tourism operators by independently verifying their sustainability practices and promoting them to global travelers, tour operators, and travel media.
Its mission aligns with global efforts to make tourism a tool for conservation, climate action, and inclusive economic development, goals that are increasingly urgent in the face of climate change and environmental degradation.
Setting a Benchmark for Others
As Barahi Kathmandu celebrates this milestone, the message to the broader hospitality sector in Nepal is clear: sustainability is no longer an option, but a responsibility. The hotel’s achievement serves as both inspiration and a challenge to other urban hotels to step up their sustainability efforts and contribute to making Nepal not just a beautiful destination, but a sustainable one. With this recognition, Barahi Kathmandu is not only a pioneer in the capital’s hotel industry but also a proud torchbearer of eco-conscious hospitality in South Asia.
