Govinda Adhikari is a passionate hotelier with over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry. With a core strength in sales, he has built a reputation as a driven professional who excels at leading high-performing teams, setting bold goals, and achieving them with focus and accountability. Known for leading from the front, he fosters a culture of ownership and collaboration, ensuring that success is measured not only in numbers but also in creating meaningful guest experiences and driving sustainable business growth.
How did you first get into the hospitality industry?
I began my hospitality career as a Learn and Earn trainee at Soaltee Crowne Plaza Kathmandu, where I gained invaluable hands-on experience across hotel operations. This early foundation gave me a deep appreciation for the importance of service excellence and the intricate details that shape the guest experience.
For the past 13 years, I have focused my career on Sales and Marketing, building strong expertise and a proven track record in driving revenue growth, expanding market presence, and strengthening guest engagement. Beyond numbers, I take pride in developing long-term relationships with clients and partners, and in creating strategies that deliver both business success and meaningful guest experiences.
In your view, what are the signature experiences or strengths that set Hotel Yak and Yeti apart from others in the area?
Hotel Yak & Yeti stands as one of Kathmandu’s most iconic 5-star destinations, seamlessly blending the grandeur of living history with the comforts of modern luxury. Set within the historic Lal Durbar Palace, the hotel offers guests a rare opportunity to immerse themselves in Nepal’s rich heritage while enjoying world-class amenities and personalized service.
Surrounded by lush gardens and timeless architecture, it creates a serene sanctuary in the heart of the bustling city. Beyond its elegant rooms and contemporary facilities, Hotel Yak & Yeti curates experiences that are both sophisticated and soulful—whether through cultural immersion, refined dining, or warm, heartfelt hospitality. This distinctive combination of heritage, tranquility, and innovation makes it a truly unmatched destination in Kathmandu.
How do you train and motivate your sales team to hit ambitious targets?
Achieving ambitious sales targets requires more than just setting numbers—it demands a structured, strategic, and human-centered approach. I believe that success comes from investing in people first. That’s why I place strong emphasis on proper onboarding, continuous training, and setting clear goals anchored in SMART targets. At the same time, I work to keep the team motivated through recognition and rewards, ensuring that individual contributions are celebrated.
Equally important is empowering the team with the right tools, resources, and ongoing support so they can perform at their best. By combining structure with inspiration, and strategy with empathy, I create an environment where people feel both accountable and motivated to exceed expectations. This approach not only drives consistent results but also fosters a culture of growth, ownership, and long-term success.
Where do you see the greatest growth opportunities for the hotel in the next few years?
I see significant growth opportunities in untapped regional South Asian markets, particularly in India, Bangladesh, and China, where travelers are increasingly seeking weekend getaways and culturally immersive experiences. At the same time, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism continues to expand, presenting new avenues for business.
Emerging trends in sustainability and wellness also offer tremendous potential. By investing in eco-friendly practices and wellness-focused offerings—such as spa retreats, mindful dining experiences, and cultural immersion programs—we can attract the conscious traveler and position the hotel as a destination that delivers both meaningful experiences and responsible hospitality over the coming years.
What’s one thing you wish more people understood about hotel sales?
I believe that hotel sales is not just about selling a product—it’s about delivering experiences, building trust, and fostering long-term relationships. I often tell my colleagues: you don’t simply build a business; you build people, and they, in turn, build the business.
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