Mercure Kathmandu: A Hub for Business, Leisure, and Cultural Experiences

Kathmandu’s hospitality industry sees the arrival of Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights, a property under the globally renowned Accor brand. Business 360 spoke to Vineet Mishra, Cluster General Manager at Accor, who was in Kathmandu for the opening of Mercure Kathmandu. With an extensive background in luxury and upscale hospitality management, Mishra brings a wealth of experience in launching and overseeing world-class properties across South Asia.

On the occasion, Mishra shared what makes Kathmandu an attractive destination for Accor, how Mercure’s global presence will enhance Nepal’s tourism industry, and the hotel’s commitment to sustainability and local integration. He also shed light on Accor’s plans for skill development, digital marketing strategies, and collaborations with key stakeholders in Nepal’s hospitality sector. From business travellers to leisure guests, Mercure Kathmandu aims to redefine international hospitality while embracing the warmth and culture that Nepal is known for.

As Nepal continues to position itself as a global tourism hub, the entry of internationally acclaimed brands like Mercure is a testament to the country’s growing potential. With a stunning rooftop bar, exceptional food and beverage offerings, and a dedication to high service standards, Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights is set to become a key player in the city's evolving hospitality scene. Mishra discusses what makes this launch special and how Accor plans to contribute to the future of Nepal’s tourism and hospitality sector. Excerpts:

What inspired Accor to partner with Mercure in Kathmandu?

First of all, it’s a pleasure to be here. We have been looking forward to this moment for years. Nepal needs no introduction; Kathmandu is globally recognised by travellers. Beyond tourism, business and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) travel to Nepal is increasing every year. It made perfect sense for Accor to establish a presence here. When we explored this opportunity with Metropolitan Hotel Private Limited, we quickly realised that Mercure was the perfect brand for this debut. Mercure is a hyper-localised brand that blends international hospitality standards with local elements, making it a great fit for Kathmandu.

What factors, beyond standard market research and business analyses, make Kathmandu particularly appealing to Mercure as a potential location?

The people. Nepali people have an incredibly warm heart and a smile that is unforgettable. Hospitality is ingrained in this country’s culture. Kathmandu is a city rich in history, traditions and breathtaking landscapes. Visiting Nepal is more than just a trip; it is an experience that stays with you forever.

Apart from the human element, Kathmandu is evolving. The city is seeing improvements in infrastructure, tourism initiatives and digital connectivity. Travellers today seek destinations that offer a mix of adventure, spirituality and luxury, and Kathmandu offers all three. Mercure’s ethos aligns well with this evolving narrative, allowing us to create an immersive experience for our guests.

Our vision is to establish Mercure Kathmandu as a benchmark for international hospitality in Nepal. We want to be more than just a hotel – we want to be an integral part of the city’s cultural and business landscape. By integrating local elements, embracing sustainability and offering world-class service, we aim to make a lasting impact on Nepal’s hospitality industry. We aspire to be the preferred choice for both domestic and international travellers, fostering a new era of hospitality that blends tradition with modernity. Nepal has immense potential, and we want to be a driving force in its hospitality evolution.

How does this partnership align with Accor’s overall growth strategy in South Asia?

Accor is aggressively expanding in South Asia. This is our 67th hotel in the region, with more openings planned. Mercure has a strong global presence, and with the support of our local partners, we believe this hotel will be highly successful. Our international expertise combined with local insights will allow us to deliver an exceptional hospitality experience.

We also view Kathmandu as a gateway to Nepal’s untapped potential in the tourism and business sectors. By being among the pioneers of international hospitality brands in this segment, we aim to set a benchmark for quality service while ensuring sustainable growth.

Accor has a vast global network. How do you see your entry into Nepal impacting the country’s hospitality and tourism sector?

Through this hotel, we are exposing Nepal and Kathmandu to millions of Accor Live Limitless (ALL) members. Our digital and marketing reach will significantly enhance Kathmandu’s visibility. Whenever we talk about Mercure, we will highlight Kathmandu and its unique offerings, promoting the country to international travellers.

Beyond marketing, Accor’s presence will create employment opportunities, introduce international service standards, and foster tourism-friendly policies. We are not just bringing a brand; we are bringing a commitment to the development of Nepal’s hospitality industry.

Besides the Accor Live Limitless membership programme, what other strategies will you use to promote Nepal’s tourism?

Our digital footprint is extensive. We don’t just promote hotels; we promote entire destinations. Our marketing channels – print, digital and social media – will highlight the experiences Kathmandu offers. Mercure is known for integrating local culture into its properties, and we will showcase that uniqueness globally.

Additionally, we will collaborate with travel influencers, travel agencies and media to create immersive storytelling that resonates with a global audience. We are also working on curated travel experiences where guests can explore Kathmandu’s heritage sites, adventure activities, and local markets with guided insights.

Will you collaborate with other stakeholders in Nepal’s hospitality sector?

Absolutely. The hotel’s location is excellent – closed to the airport, consulates and business districts. We will be forming partnerships, establishing contracts, and encouraging business travellers to stay with us. But beyond contracts, hospitality is about experiences. Every guest who stays with us becomes an ambassador for the hotel and for Kathmandu.

We also want locals to experience Mercure. Our food and beverage offerings, the stunning rooftop views, and our vibrant ambiance make this hotel not just a place to stay but a destination in itself. Additionally, we are keen to collaborate with local artisans, chefs and businesses to promote Nepal’s culture and economy. From sourcing ingredients locally to organising cultural events, we want Mercure Kathmandu to be a hub for authentic experiences.

Sustainability is a key focus globally. How does Accor incorporate sustainable practices in its hotels, including Mercure Kathmandu?

Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We have eliminated single-use plastics – our water bottles are glass, for example. We implement energy-saving measures and prioritise sourcing local products to reduce our carbon footprint. We also have an internal digital reporting system where hotels track and measure their sustainability efforts.

We are exploring rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient lighting, and waste management programmes to minimise our ecological footprint. Our aim is not just to meet sustainability benchmarks but to exceed them, ensuring that tourism in Nepal remains responsible and beneficial to future generations.

Many young professionals today are looking for skills rather than just salaries. Does Mercure Kathmandu have any plans for skill development?

At Accor, we refer to our team members as ‘Heartists’ because hospitality is a work of heart and art. We are committed to nurturing young talent, offering training and career opportunities. We welcome collaborations with local institutions to develop skilled professionals who can excel in the hospitality industry.

We also offer cross-training programmes where employees can gain experience in different departments, enhancing their skill set and opening doors for career growth. We want to inspire the next generation of hospitality leaders from Nepal.

What unique services or experiences will Mercure Kathmandu offer to differentiate itself from other hotels in the region?

Mercure Kathmandu is designed with a smart balance of food and beverage, rooms, and meeting spaces. The location gives us an edge, as it is in an emerging area of Kathmandu. Our Indian restaurant and rooftop Sukra Bar will offer unparalleled views. The rooftop pool is another highlight. But most importantly, our team’s extensive training and warm hospitality will set us apart.

Additionally, we will host cultural evenings, featuring local artists, musicians and storytellers to provide guests with a genuine Nepali experience. Our curated local excursions will allow guests to explore Kathmandu in a way that goes beyond the usual tourist spots.

How will you ensure that international travellers receive the same high standards of service at Mercure Kathmandu as they do in other Accor properties worldwide?

Accor has a rigorous training programme. With over 5,700 hotels worldwide, we cannot leave quality to chance. Our team undergoes intensive training before the hotel even opens. Specialists from different disciplines train our staff to ensure both technical excellence and exceptional guest service. A happy and well-trained team is the foundation of a great hotel experience.

Furthermore, we follow a stringent guest feedback system, where every review and experience is assessed to continuously refine our service quality. Our commitment is to ensure that every guest leaves with memorable experiences.

What is your vision for Mercure Kathmandu in the coming years?

Our vision is to establish Mercure Kathmandu as a benchmark for international hospitality in Nepal. We want to be more than just a hotel – we want to be an integral part of the city’s cultural and business landscape. By integrating local elements, embracing sustainability and offering world-class service, we aim to make a lasting impact on Nepal’s hospitality industry. We aspire to be the preferred choice for both domestic and international travellers, fostering a new era of hospitality that blends tradition with modernity. Nepal has immense potential, and we want to be a driving force in its hospitality evolution