Tourism Info Nepal

Teeka Resort: A Journey of Resilience and Excellence in Pokhara

Teeka Resort: A Journey of Resilience and Excellence in Pokhara

Teeka Resort, named after its owner Mr. Teeka Poudel, is a remarkable success story in the hospitality industry of Pokhara. Mr. Poudel began his journey as a waiter in a local restaurant before establishing his hotel. Today, he is recognized as a leading hotelier in the region. To delve deeper into this inspiring journey, we conducted an interview with Mrs. Sangeeta Poudel, the Executive Director of Teeka Resort and Mr. Teeka Poudel’s wife.

Can you share the story of how the hotel started? What challenges did you face in the early years?

Mrs. Poudel shared, “My husband began his career in the tourism sector over 35 years ago. Before our marriage, he worked in various capacities in the hospitality industry. After we got married, he had a dream of starting his own hotel. Initially, we faced numerous challenges, such as acquiring the necessary funding and dealing with external perceptions of women in leadership roles. However, our dedication and passion for hospitality drove us forward. We persevered, establishing Teeka Resort with the goal of providing exceptional service that embodies the warmth of Nepali hospitality.”

What inspired you to enter the hotel industry, and why did you choose Lakeside, Pokhara, as the location?

“We recognized the potential of Lakeside as a tourism hotspot,” Mrs. Poudel explained. “The picturesque surroundings and the influx of tourists made it an ideal location for a hotel. Our vision was to create a space where guests could enjoy the serene beauty of Pokhara while receiving exceptional service. Today, Teeka Resort stands as a unique property with international standards, offering 65 luxurious rooms and 3 event halls, all designed to enhance the guest experience.”

When you first opened, what was the vision for the hotel? Did you ever imagine it would achieve 20+ years of excellence?

“Our initial vision was to provide a unique experience for travelers, blending local culture with modern amenities,” she said. “While we hoped for success, the journey has exceeded our expectations. Reaching this milestone has been a testament to our hard work and the support of our dedicated team. We aimed to cater to both business and leisure travelers, providing a vibrant hospitality experience in Pokhara.”

What were the key milestones that helped the hotel evolve from a modest start to its current success?

“Acquiring our property and expanding our services were significant milestones,” Mrs. Poudel noted. “As we established our brand, we focused on building strong relationships with our guests, which helped us grow through word-of-mouth and repeat business. The hotel’s prime location near Phewa Lake has also been instrumental, as it allows guests to access various activities, restaurants, and shopping experiences with ease.”

How did you attract your first customers, and how has your guest demographic changed over the years?

“Our first customers were primarily local tourists. We offered competitive rates and personalized service, which encouraged guests to return. Over time, our guest demographic expanded to include international travelers, families, and business professionals,” she explained. “However, we’ve recently noticed a decline in the number of tourists visiting Pokhara. Mrs. Sangeeta Poudel pointed out that, historically, tourists would stay for a week or more, but now many are reluctant to extend their stay beyond two days, often missing out on the myriad attractions that Pokhara has to offer.”

What strategies or decisions proved to be game-changers in the journey from a small hotel to one that is well-respected in Pokhara?

“Investing in staff training and focusing on customer satisfaction were crucial strategies,” Mrs. Poudel emphasized. “We implemented regular training programs to enhance service quality, which significantly contributed to our reputation. Our team, comprised of over 60 employees, many of whom are women, is committed to providing a welcoming atmosphere that aligns with our vision.

Can you describe some of the toughest challenges you’ve faced over the last 20 years? How did you overcome them?

“Each crisis, from the economic downturns to the COVID-19 pandemic, tested our resilience,” Mrs. Poudel reflected. “During the pandemic, we adapted by enhancing our hygiene protocols and shifting our focus to local tourism. We also implemented flexible booking policies to regain customer trust, ensuring that our guests felt secure during their stay.”

How has the hotel industry in Pokhara changed since you first started, and how have you adapted to stay relevant?

“The tourism landscape has evolved significantly,” she explained. “We embraced technology, using online platforms for bookings and marketing, which helped us reach a broader audience. Additionally, we tailored our services to meet changing guest expectations, ensuring we remain competitive in a dynamic market.”

Were there moments when you doubted the success of the hotel? If so, how did you navigate through them?

“There were indeed moments of doubt, especially during economic hardships,” Mrs. Poudel admitted. “However, the support from our team and our commitment to our vision kept us focused on overcoming obstacles. We recognized the importance of continuously improving our services and adapting to new challenges.”

How have you maintained a high level of customer satisfaction over two decades?

“Our focus on personalized service and continuous feedback from our guests have been key,” she said. “We value every review, using it as a tool to improve our services. Our guests often commend the spacious, luxurious rooms and the overall ambiance of the resort, which enhances their experience.”

What innovations or improvements have you introduced in the hotel to meet the changing expectations of guests?

“We have implemented eco-friendly practices, such as solar energy, and have upgraded our facilities to include modern amenities that appeal to our guests,” Mrs. Poudel stated. “Our commitment to sustainability and local cuisine offerings, sourced from nearby farms, also set us apart from other establishments in the area.”

Can you share some of the unique features or services that set your hotel apart from others in Lakeside, Pokhara?

“Our commitment to sustainability and our local cuisine offerings are what set us apart,” she explained. “We source ingredients from local farms, ensuring that our guests enjoy authentic Nepali flavors. Additionally, our prime location allows guests to easily visit nearby attractions like Barahi Temple, Devi’s Fall, and the World Peace Stupa, enhancing their overall experience in Pokhara.”

What role do you believe your hotel has played in promoting tourism in Pokhara over the years?

“We have been advocates for local tourism, supporting local artisans and promoting cultural experiences,” Mrs. Poudel noted. “Our guests often engage in local activities, contributing to the community’s economy. However, it is crucial for the government to recognize and address the decline in tourist numbers, as many attractions in Pokhara are being overlooked.”

How do you collaborate with local businesses and communities to enhance the overall tourist experience?

“We partner with local tour operators and craftspeople to offer our guests unique experiences, such as guided treks and cultural workshops,” she said. “This collaboration not only enriches our guests’ experience but also supports the local economy, creating a win-win situation for everyone involved.”

With sustainability becoming more important in the hotel industry, what steps have you taken to make your hotel eco-friendly?

“We have implemented waste reduction programs and use eco-friendly products throughout the hotel,” Mrs. Poudel explained. “Sustainability is at the core of our operations, ensuring that we contribute positively to the environment. We believe that by prioritizing sustainability, we can attract environmentally conscious travelers who value responsible tourism.”

Where do you see the hotel in the next 10 years? What future plans or expansions are you considering?

“In the next decade, we aim to expand our facilities and enhance our service offerings,” she mentioned. “We are also exploring the possibility of eco-friendly accommodation options to attract environmentally conscious travelers. Our goal is to remain a leader in the hospitality sector while continuing to promote sustainable practices.”

How do you stay updated on the latest trends in the hotel industry, and what future innovations can your guests look forward to?

“We attend industry conferences and engage with hospitality networks to stay informed,” Mrs. Poudel said. “Guests can look forward to more personalized experiences and technology-driven services in the future, as we strive to meet their evolving needs.”

Looking back at the 20+ years of your hotel’s success, what are you most proud of?

“I am proud of the strong community we have built among our staff and guests,” she stated. “Our team is like family, and our guests often return, creating lasting connections. We have fostered an environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated.”

What advice would you give to aspiring hoteliers who are just starting in the hospitality industry?

“Stay true to your vision, be adaptable, and always prioritize customer satisfaction,” Mrs. Poudel advised. “Success in this industry comes from a genuine passion for service, and those who remain committed to their values will thrive.”

If you could go back and change one decision or aspect of the hotel’s journey, what would it be, and why?

“While every decision has taught us valuable lessons, I wish we had embraced technology earlier,” she reflected. “It would have allowed us to grow even faster in our initial years, especially in reaching a wider audience.”

Interview with Mr. Santosh Adhikari, Hotel Manager

To further understand the operational aspect of Teeka Resort, we also spoke with Mr. Santosh Adhikari, the Hotel Manager.

What does a typical day look like for you as the hotel manager?

“My day starts with reviewing our guest feedback and addressing any immediate concerns,” Mr. Adhikari explained. “I oversee daily operations, ensuring that every department functions smoothly. Collaborating with the team to provide exceptional service is my top priority.”

What are the most important skills you believe a hotel manager should possess?

“Excellent communication skills, adaptability, and a strong customer service orientation are crucial,” he emphasized. “A hotel manager must be able to lead a diverse team and create a positive atmosphere for both staff and guests.”

How has your role evolved over the years in response to changes in the hospitality industry?

“I’ve had to adapt to technological advancements, implementing new systems for bookings and guest services,” Mr. Adhikari noted. “Understanding market trends and guest preferences has also become vital to maintaining our competitive edge.”

Teeka Resort stands as a symbol of resilience and dedication in the hospitality industry of Pokhara. With a focus on exceptional service, sustainability, and community engagement, Mr. and Mrs. Poudel continue to inspire future generations of hoteliers. As they look forward to the next decade, Teeka Resort remains committed to promoting the beauty and culture of Pokhara, ensuring that every guest leaves with unforgettable memories.

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