Akama Hotel Partners with Wyndham for New Ramada Hotel in Kathmandu

Akama Hotel Partners with Wyndham for New Ramada Hotel in Kathmandu

By Author

Published on February 7, 2024

In a fresh development for Nepal's hospitality sector, Akama Hotel, a Nepal-based hotel development and investment company, has entered into a franchise agreement with the global giant Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. This strategic partnership paves the way for the launch of a midscale Ramada by Wyndham branded hotel in the heart of Kathmandu, Nepal, marking a significant step in enhancing the country's accommodation offerings.

Kathmandu, renowned for its historical richness and scenic beauty, stands as Nepal's capital and its most populous urban center. The city, nestled within the breathtaking Kathmandu Valley, sits at an elevation of 4,344 feet and boasts a vibrant cultural tapestry, underscored by its numerous World Heritage Sites.

image

The forthcoming Ramada by Wyndham Kathmandu Dhumbarai, strategically positioned 3km from the revered Pashupatinath Temple and 4.5km from Tribhuvan International Airport, is poised to open its doors in 2024. With 109 rooms, the hotel is designed to cater to a diverse range of guests, offering amenities that include a lobby lounge, an all-day dining restaurant and bar, a health club, spa, swimming pool, meeting room, and a business center.

Binaya Kumar Shrestha, Chairman of Akama Hotel, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "We are pleased to partner with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and introduce the Ramada by Wyndham brand in the city of Kathmandu. We are working closely with team Wyndham to convert the hotel to high international standards and look forward to welcoming guests to our hotel in 2024.”

Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director for Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Eurasia, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of this venture in the company's expansion strategy. "We are happy to announce the signing of Ramada by Wyndham brand in Nepal, our fourth hotel in Nepal. This reaffirms our commitment to continued growth in the mid-market segment & further strengthens our presence in Kathmandu, Nepal."

The inauguration of Ramada by Wyndham Kathmandu Dhumbarai not only signifies an expansion of Nepal's hospitality landscape but also is expected to generate over 100 direct jobs, contributing to the local economy and employment opportunities.

This partnership between Akama Hotel and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts illustrates a shared vision for offering high-quality accommodations and services to both leisure and business travelers in Nepal, further solidifying Kathmandu's position as a prime destination for international and domestic tourists.


Sayaji Kolhapur Marks Earth Day with Citywide Tree Plantation Drive

Sayaji Kolhapur Marks Earth Day with Citywide Tree Plantation Drive

By Hariharan U

Published on April 28, 2026

Sayaji Kolhapur marked Earth Day with a citywide tree plantation drive, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

The initiative brought together the hotel’s leadership team, department heads, and staff members, all of whom actively participated in planting saplings across the city. The drive was designed not only to enhance Kolhapur’s green cover but also to foster a deeper sense of environmental responsibility within the community.

Extending the impact beyond the activity itself, the hotel also distributed plant saplings to its corporate guests. This gesture encouraged guests to adopt eco-conscious practices and contribute to sustainable living in their own spaces.

image

Commenting on the initiative, Mukesh Rakshit said, “At Sayaji Kolhapur, we believe that meaningful change begins with small, consistent actions. This Earth Day initiative reflects our commitment to sustainability and our responsibility towards the community and environment. By involving our team and guests, we hope to inspire a larger movement towards greener, more mindful living.”

The plantation drive aligns with the hotel’s broader vision of integrating sustainability into its operations and guest experiences. Through such initiatives, Sayaji Kolhapur continues to promote environmentally responsible practices while encouraging collective participation.

With this Earth Day effort, the hotel reinforces its commitment to creating a positive environmental impact—one sapling at a time.


Taj Chandigarh Secures EarthCheck Platinum for 13 Years

Taj Chandigarh Secures EarthCheck Platinum for 13 Years

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 27, 2026

Taj Chandigarh has marked a major milestone by achieving the EarthCheck Platinum Certification for 13 consecutive years. This recognition highlights the hotel’s consistent efforts towards sustainability and responsible operations, setting it apart as a leader in eco-conscious hospitality.

The certification is awarded by EarthCheck, a globally recognised scientific benchmarking and certification body for the travel and tourism sector. Earning Platinum status is a significant achievement, given that it requires at least 10 continuous years of verified performance across key sustainability measures. By maintaining this level for 13 years, Taj Chandigarh has gone beyond the standard and strengthened its position in responsible hospitality.

image

This achievement also reflects the larger vision of The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), under which Taj Chandigarh operates. Across its portfolio, IHCL has focused on reducing energy use, conserving water, and cutting down waste, all while ensuring a high-quality guest experience. The EarthCheck framework also aligns with global sustainability goals, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), making these efforts part of a broader purpose.

image

Speaking on the milestone, Surinder Singh, Area Director – Operations & General Manager, Taj Chandigarh, said,

“Achieving EarthCheck Platinum Certification for 13 consecutive years is a proud milestone for us. It reflects our deep-rooted commitment to sustainability and responsible hospitality. At Taj Chandigarh, we believe that luxury and environmental responsibility must go hand in hand and this recognition reinforces our continued efforts towards creating a greener future.”

image

Ankur Sharma, Chief Engineer, Taj Chandigarh, added, “This achievement is the result of consistent efforts, innovation and a strong focus on resource efficiency. From energy conservation to water management and waste reduction, our teams work tirelessly to ensure that sustainability is embedded in every aspect of our operations. We remain committed to enhancing our practices and setting new benchmarks in environmental performance.”

With travellers increasingly looking for responsible and sustainable choices, recognitions like this build trust and confidence. Taj Chandigarh’s continued success with EarthCheck Platinum not only celebrates a long-standing achievement but also sets a strong example for the hospitality industry, showing that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand.


The Leela Gandhinagar Introduces E-Cycle Experience to Promote Sustainable Luxury

The Leela Gandhinagar Introduces E-Cycle Experience to Promote Sustainable Luxury

By Hariharan U

Published on April 26, 2026

Marking Earth Day, The Leela Gandhinagar has introduced an immersive e-cycle experience in collaboration with Svitch, reinforcing its focus on sustainability-led luxury.

The initiative is designed to offer guests a low-impact, mindful way to explore Gandhinagar, encouraging slower, more conscious travel while reducing carbon footprint. By integrating eco-friendly mobility into the guest journey, the hotel continues to position sustainability as a core element of its hospitality experience.

image

Set against the city’s serene surroundings, the e-cycle experience allows guests to engage more deeply with their environment, blending wellbeing, exploration, and environmental responsibility. The offering reflects a broader shift in luxury travel, where guests are increasingly seeking experiences that are both meaningful and sustainable.

Commenting on the initiative, Vikas Sood, General Manager, highlighted the hotel’s commitment to creating experiences that are enriching while embedding responsible practices into everyday operations.

The launch was complemented by an Earth Day cyclethon, bringing together guests, hotel associates, and members of the local community. The activity aimed to foster a shared sense of responsibility towards sustainable living, while encouraging active participation in eco-conscious initiatives.

Following the ride, guests experienced the hotel’s signature Aujasya breakfast, aligning the sustainability narrative with wellness-focused dining.

Through initiatives like this, The Leela Gandhinagar continues to evolve the concept of responsible luxury, where sustainability is seamlessly integrated into the guest experience, enhancing both comfort and awareness.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.