Global hospitality giant Marriott International Inc. and CG Hospitality Global, the hospitality arm of the Chaudhary Group, have signed a major agreement to launch two highly anticipated luxury hotel projects in Kathmandu, The Ritz-Carlton Kathmandu and The Westin Kathmandu.
The agreement was formally signed during a special ceremony held in Kathmandu on Sunday, marking one of the most significant international hospitality investments in Nepal’s tourism sector in recent years. According to the companies, both ultra-luxury properties are scheduled to be fully operational by 2031 and are expected to add nearly 300 premium rooms to Marriott International’s growing portfolio in Nepal.
The projects are being developed through a joint partnership involving some of Nepal’s leading business groups, including the Chaudhary Group, IEG Group, IJ Group, and Sharma & Company. Industry stakeholders believe the investment represents a major milestone for Nepal’s hospitality and tourism industry, positioning Kathmandu as an emerging destination for high-end international travelers.
The Ritz-Carlton Kathmandu to Rise in Thamel
Under the agreement, Marriott International’s globally renowned luxury brand The Ritz-Carlton will officially enter Nepal for the first time through The Ritz-Carlton Kathmandu. The hotel will be developed in Thamel, Kathmandu’s prime tourism and entertainment district, located approximately five kilometers from Tribhuvan International Airport.
The property will feature 150 luxury guest rooms, including 30 spacious suites designed to cater to premium international travelers and luxury hospitality seekers. According to project details, the hotel will include five distinct restaurants and bars, an outdoor swimming pool, a modern fitness center, and the globally recognized Ritz-Carlton Spa. The development will also feature a state-of-the-art banquet and event space spanning more than 1,100 square meters, making it suitable for luxury events, conferences, and destination weddings. Guests at the property are expected to enjoy panoramic views of several iconic Kathmandu landmarks, including Narayanhiti Palace, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, and Pashupatinath Temple.
Westin Kathmandu to Focus on Wellness and Modern Hospitality
Alongside The Ritz-Carlton Kathmandu, the companies also announced plans to develop The Westin Kathmandu, a premium wellness-focused hotel designed around comfort, relaxation, and healthy living. The hotel will be located approximately seven kilometers from Tribhuvan International Airport and will feature 150 premium guest rooms and suites.
Officials said the property will incorporate wellness-centered hospitality concepts, with special attention given to reducing travel fatigue and enhancing guest well-being. The hotel will include three dining venues, the signature Westin WORKOUT Fitness Studio, a rooftop swimming pool, and the globally recognized Heavenly Spa by Westin. In addition, the property will offer more than 700 square meters of banquet and meeting facilities equipped with natural lighting and smart technology solutions for business and social events.
Major Boost for Nepal’s Tourism and Economy
Speaking after the signing ceremony, Rajeev Menon, President of Marriott International for Asia Pacific excluding China, described the partnership as an important investment that will support Nepal’s tourism growth and economic development. “This collaboration with the Chaudhary Group will contribute significantly to tourism promotion, job creation, and regional economic development. We are confident that CG’s strong market expertise will help establish these hotels as leading hospitality destinations in the region,” Menon said.
Similarly, Rahul Chaudhary, Managing Director and CEO of CG Hospitality Global, stated that the agreement marks a new chapter in Nepal’s hospitality industry. “We are committed to taking Nepal’s tourism industry to the next level by creating iconic destinations that reflect local culture, generate employment, and deliver exceptional experiences to international travelers,” he said.
Expanding Global Partnership Between Marriott and CG Hospitality
The latest Kathmandu projects further strengthen the growing global partnership between Marriott International and CG Hospitality. Within less than two years, the two companies have already signed agreements for more than 75 hotels under the “Series by Marriott” brand in India, with around 50 of those properties already operational.
Their collaboration also extends to several internationally recognized hospitality developments, including The Farm at San Benito, Autograph Collection in the Philippines, and JW Marriott branded residences in Dubai. Industry experts say the expansion of globally recognized hotel brands into Nepal reflects increasing international confidence in the country’s tourism potential and premium hospitality market.
Nepal’s Luxury Hospitality Sector Enters New Era
Tourism and hospitality analysts believe the introduction of The Ritz-Carlton and The Westin brands will significantly elevate Nepal’s luxury accommodation offerings and attract higher-spending international visitors. The projects are also expected to create substantial employment opportunities, encourage foreign investment, and support the growth of meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibition (MICE) tourism in Kathmandu. With the arrival of two globally recognized Marriott brands, Nepal’s hospitality sector is entering a new phase of international expansion, premium tourism development, and global brand integration.
