NIC Asia Bank has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Annapurna Group of Hotels, paving the way for the bank’s customers to enjoy exclusive discounts and privileges at two of Nepal’s most popular tourist destinations. The agreement covers Fishtail Lodge, located at the scenic Lakeside area of Pokhara, and Jagatpur Lodge in Chitwan, both operated under the Annapurna Group of Hotels banner. The MoU marks a meaningful step toward combining quality hospitality with accessible banking benefits for the bank’s growing customer base.
What Customers Stand to Gain
Under the terms of the agreement, NIC Asia Bank customers will be entitled to a range of special benefits whenever they avail services at the two partner lodges. On food and beverages, customers will receive a flat 10 percent discount, a tangible saving for those dining at either property. For accommodation, customers will be eligible for corporate rates, offering competitively priced lodging at establishments that are well regarded for their comfort, setting, and hospitality standards.
These benefits apply across both properties, meaning customers travelling to Pokhara for leisure or business can enjoy the privileges at Fishtail Lodge, while those visiting Chitwan’s renowned national park region can access the same benefits at Jagatpur Lodge.
How to Avail the Benefits
Accessing the discounts is straightforward. Customers are required to make their payments using NIC Asia Bank’s debit card, credit card, or the bank’s mobile banking application, MoBank. The payment method requirement is a deliberate design choice, ensuring that the partnership serves a dual purpose: rewarding loyal customers while simultaneously encouraging the adoption and regular use of digital payment channels.
Promoting a Cashless Economy
NIC Asia Bank has expressed its belief that the collaboration with the Annapurna Group of Hotels will yield benefits that extend beyond individual customer savings. By channelling transactions through digital payment instruments, whether card or mobile banking — the partnership actively contributes to Nepal’s broader push toward a cashless economy. The bank sees such tie-ups with the hospitality sector as an effective and practical means of normalising digital transactions among everyday consumers, particularly in the context of tourism spending where cash payments have traditionally dominated.
Strengthening the Tourism-Banking Nexus
The MoU between NIC Asia Bank and the Annapurna Group of Hotels reflects a growing recognition among Nepal’s financial institutions that partnerships with the tourism and hospitality sector create mutual value. Hotels gain access to a larger, bank-verified customer base with an incentive to choose their properties, while the bank strengthens customer loyalty by offering lifestyle benefits that go beyond conventional banking services. For customers, the arrangement translates directly into savings at properties they may already be visiting or planning to visit, making the decision to travel to Pokhara or Chitwan just a little more rewarding.
