Hilton Hotels, renowned worldwide for its luxurious accommodations and exceptional hospitality, has made a significant stride into Nepal’s burgeoning tourism landscape with the grand opening of Hilton Kathmandu. This five-star venture, a collaboration between the Shankar Group and Jagadamba Hospitality Group Pvt., marks a milestone in Nepal’s hospitality sector.
Originally slated for a ‘soft launch’ in December 2023, Hilton Kathmandu has now opened its doors to guests as of May 2024, following the completion of its final stages of decoration and construction in Naxal, Kathmandu. The hotel, boasting 174 rooms including 39 additional rooms from its initial plan, showcases opulent interiors and state-of-the-art facilities designed to cater to the discerning needs of modern travelers.
The project, with an estimated cost of Rs 6.854 billion, faced challenges and delays attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic, pushing construction costs to Rs 38 million per room from the initial Rs 28 million. Despite these hurdles, Hilton Kathmandu stands as a testament to perseverance and commitment to quality in Nepal’s hospitality industry.
Shahil Agarwal, Chairman of the hotel and leader of the Shankar Group, brings over two decades of professional experience in diversifying investments across various sectors including cement, industries, banking, insurance, hydropower, business, and real estate. The collaboration between Jagadamba and Hilton Worldwide Management Limited of Britain ensures Hilton Kathmandu operates under the global Hilton ‘Kathmandu City Centre’ brand, aligning with Hilton’s standards of excellence and guest satisfaction.
Hilton Kathmandu’s strategic location offers guests unparalleled access to Kathmandu’s cultural and historical sites, making it an ideal base for exploring Nepal’s rich tapestry of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and vibrant markets. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement further supports Nepal’s eco-tourism initiatives and contributes to the socio-economic development of the region.
As Hilton Kathmandu joins the ranks of Hilton’s 6,215 hotels across 118 countries, its presence not only elevates Nepal’s appeal as a luxury travel destination but also reinforces the country’s position on the global tourism map. With its promise of world-class service and a legacy of hospitality dating back to Conrad Hilton’s vision in 1919, Hilton Kathmandu invites travelers to experience the beauty and culture of Nepal with unparalleled comfort and sophistication.