A new chapter in tourism development began in Gaidakot Municipality–1, Maulakali, as Ila Hotel and Resort, established with the investment of the IME Group, officially commenced operations on Monday.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Beduram Bhusal, who emphasized the significance of public-private partnerships in tourism infrastructure. He stated that the Maulakali Cable Car, near the resort, stands as a successful model of cultural preservation and development through collaborative investment.
Ila Hotel and Resort
During the event, Minister Bhusal highlighted that no country can achieve holistic development without the active participation of the private sector. “The government alone cannot build the necessary infrastructure for tourism,” he noted, urging all stakeholders to embrace the constitutionally endorsed three-pillar economic policy, which includes public, private, and cooperative sector collaboration. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating an investment-friendly environment by facilitating the private sector through appropriate laws and policies.
Minister Bhusal further stressed the need to modernize Nepal’s cultural, tourism, and aviation policies to reflect contemporary needs. He added that the development of aviation services would not have been possible without private sector involvement, underlining the importance of encouraging such investment.
Chandra Prasad Dhakal, Chairman of the IME Group, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), and Chairperson of Maulakali Cable Car Ltd., shared that the IME Group has been actively developing tourism infrastructure in all seven provinces. Nepal holds immense tourism potential. If we can harness it, tourism will significantly boost employment and economic growth,” he said.
The newly launched Ila Hotel and Resort boasts 65 well-furnished rooms, including suites and deluxe accommodations. It features a 1,000-person capacity banquet and conference hall, along with facilities such as a restaurant, swimming pool, spa, and gym. The hotel is strategically located near the upper station of the Maulakali Cable Car, offering scenic views and a cultural ambiance.
Expressing his optimism, Dhakal stated, “With a suitable environment, the private sector can make large-scale investments that support development, job creation, and economic growth. Local governments should compete to attract such investments.”
Gaindakot Mayor Madan Bhakta Adhikari expressed his happiness over the establishment of large-scale tourism infrastructure in the municipality, promising continuous support to encourage private sector investments. Former Mayor Chhatra Raj Poudel also acknowledged the positive economic activities driven by tourism infrastructure in the area. As the tourism sector in Nepal prepares for further growth, projects like Ila Hotel and Resort signal a promising future for regional tourism and economic revitalization.
