Babita Hamal: Bringing world-class hospitality to Nepal

Babita Hamal is the Managing Director of Dusit Thani Himalayan Resort in Dhulikhel, owned by Om Stone Asia Capital Pvt Ltd. The resort, which opened in July 2023, is just over an hour’s drive from Tribhuvan International Airport and 25 km from Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. ApEx spoke with Hamal about the resort’s business and the broader hospitality sector.

What inspired you and your team to join the hospitality industry, and what has been  your journey so far with Dusit International? 

My husband had the privilege of leading several remarkable hospitality projects across  Southeast Asia, Africa and the Caribbean islands. After nearly 19 years abroad, we made the decision in 2016 to return to Nepal, driven by a desire to contribute meaningfully to our homeland. We have always believed that tourism holds the potential to transform Nepal, given the country’s abundant natural resources, rich biodiversity and vibrant culture. Particularly in rural areas, tourism projects serve a broader purpose by boosting the local economy and providing  employment opportunities to local communities. 

Dusit International’s commitment to excellence and their supportive team have been instrumental in our journey. The visionary leadership of the Group CEO, Suphajee Suthumpun, has been a  source of great inspiration, guiding us as we navigate this new industry. Their emphasis on  maintaining high standards and delivering exceptional service has resonated with our own values,  making Dusit the perfect partner for this flagship endeavor in Nepal. 

From the initial stages of planning to the grand opening and beyond, the entire Dusit team has  been with us every step of the way. This partnership has not only introduced a new standard of  hospitality in Nepal but has also allowed us to learn and grow, ensuring that our guests receive  an experience that is both unique and unforgettable. 

Dusit Thani Himalayan Resort is located in a unique setting in Dhulikhel. What was the vision behind choosing this location? 

Our goal was to create a sanctuary where guests can escape the hustle and bustle of  city life, yet remain connected with the cultural richness of Nepal. The location allows for easy  access to both the vibrant city life of Kathmandu and the tranquility of nature, making it an ideal  choice for our resort. Moreover, being the first international chain in this vicinity, we saw an  opportunity to bring Dusit International’s renowned hospitality and wellness expertise to a location that has historically been cherished for its tranquility and cultural heritage. 

Since the resort has been operational for about a year, what have been some of the  key challenges and successes you’ve experienced so far? 

Reflecting on the past year since the resort’s opening, we’ve encountered both challenges and significant successes that have shaped our journey.  

Tourism investments, particularly in a high-capital sector like ours, demand a long-term approach to investment recovery. One of the most significant challenges facing us, common among tourism investors in Nepal, is the country’s limited infrastructure. For instance, while our  resort is relatively close to Kathmandu, the road conditions make travel uncomfortable for our  guests. This highlights a critical area where government intervention is necessary, as inadequate  infrastructure impacts the entire tourism industry across Nepal.

Another key challenge has been managing human resources, particularly in the context of  finding skilled professionals, who align with our brand's ethos and high standards. On the success  front, our ability to blend Nepali and Thai hospitality traditions has resonated deeply with our  guests, resulting in high satisfaction rates and repeat visitors. The overwhelmingly positive response from both local and international guests, as well as recognition from esteemed platforms like TripAdvisor, has been incredibly rewarding. 

Sustainability is a major focus in the hospitality industry today. What initiatives has Dusit Thani Himalayan Resort implemented to promote sustainability and environmental responsibility? 

We’ve implemented a strict no-plastic policy and have an efficient waste management system to minimize our environmental footprint. By collaborating with local farmers, we source fresh, organic vegetables, supporting the community and reducing food miles. These efforts align with Dusit’s Four Gracious Pillars, ensuring that our commitment to sustainability is woven into every aspect of the guest experience. 

How does the resort engage with the local community, and what steps are being  taken to support local businesses and culture? 

We offer immersive experiences, such as village tours and visits to local farms, allowing  our guests to connect with and appreciate the rich culture and traditions of the area. Additionally, we're proud that more than 50 percent of our employees are hired locally, ensuring that our operations directly benefit the community and support local businesses. 

What are your future plans for Dusit Thani Himalayan Resort? Are there any new  projects or expansions on the horizon? 

We are excited to announce that we will be expanding our resort with additional 26 keys, set to open by Q4 2024. This will complete our project of 72 keys (86 rooms), allowing us to offer even more guests the opportunity to experience the unique beauty and serenity of our Himalayan retreat. 

Do you have any advice for aspiring hospitality professionals who wish to follow in  your footsteps? 

My advice would be to always put guest experiences at the forefront of your efforts. Empower your team to take ownership and innovate. Cultivate a culture of care and collaboration, and never stop learning and adapting to new trends and challenges in the industry.