Nischal Rai is an associate sales director at Barahi Hospitality and Leisure. He began his career as a naturalist at Machan Wildlife Resort within the Royal Chitwan National Park from 2001 to 2004. Over the years, he progressed to roles like Sales Executive and Sales Manager and eventually took on leadership positions, including his current role as the Associate Director of Sales & Marketing at Barahi Hospitality & Leisure, overseeing various establishments like Barahi Jungle Lodge, Hotel Barahi in Pokhara & Kathmandu, Sarangkot Mountain Lodge, and Aabas Pokhara.
How do you see your current role in contributing to your organization and tourism in Nepal?
As the Associate Sales Director of Barahi Hospitality & Leisure, my role is instrumental in contributing to both the success of the organization and the broader tourism industry in Nepal. Here's how I see my current role:
Revenue Generation: My primary responsibility is to drive revenue for the hotel through strategic sales initiatives. By identifying key market segments and implementing effective pricing strategies, I contribute directly to the financial health of the organization.
Market Expansion: I work on expanding the hotel's reach into new markets, both domestically and internationally. This involves developing relationships with travel agencies, tour operators, corporate clients, and other stakeholders to increase the hotel's visibility and attract a diverse range of guests.
Brand Building: As a representative of our local brand chain, I play a crucial role in building and maintaining the hotel's brand image. Through effective communication, marketing campaigns, and exceptional customer service, I aim to enhance the reputation of the hotel within the tourism industry and among potential clientele.
Customer Satisfaction: Ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction is paramount in the hospitality industry. I work closely with the operations team to understand guest feedback and address any concerns promptly. By consistently delivering exceptional experiences to guests, I contribute to positive word-of-mouth marketing and repeat business.
Industry Advocacy: Beyond the hotel's immediate operations, I also participate in industry events, trade shows, and networking opportunities to advocate for the growth and development of the tourism sector in Nepal. By sharing insights, collaborating with industry peers, and supporting initiatives that promote sustainable tourism practices, I contribute to the overall advancement of the tourism industry.
In summary, my role as the Associate Sales Director of Barahi Hospitality & Leisure is multifaceted, encompassing revenue generation, market expansion, brand building, customer satisfaction, and industry advocacy. By fulfilling these responsibilities effectively, I not only contribute to the success of the organization but also play a part in the growth and development of the tourism industry in Nepal.
What, in your opinion, needs to be done to help Nepal's tourism industry flourish?
To help Nepal's tourism industry flourish, several key steps can be taken:
Infrastructure Development: Improve transportation infrastructure, including roads, airports, and public transportation, to make it easier for tourists to access popular destinations within Nepal.
Sustainable Tourism Practices: Encourage sustainable tourism practices to preserve Nepal's natural beauty and cultural heritage for future generations. This includes promoting eco-friendly accommodations, responsible tourism, and conservation efforts.
Marketing and Promotion: Increase marketing efforts to promote Nepal as a premier tourist destination globally. This can be done through targeted advertising campaigns, participation in international travel fairs, and leveraging social media influencers to showcase Nepal's attractions.
Diversification of Tourism Offerings: Expand tourism offerings beyond trekking and mountaineering to include cultural experiences, exclusive wildlife safaris for up-market clienteles, adventure sports, wellness tourism, and rural tourism. This will attract a wider range of tourists with varying interests.
Training and Capacity Building: Invest in training programs for tourism professionals to enhance their skills in hospitality, customer service, and sustainable tourism practices. This will improve the overall quality of tourism services in Nepal.
Infrastructure for Remote Areas: Develop infrastructure in remote areas to encourage tourism beyond the popular trekking routes. This includes improving accommodation options, sanitation facilities, and safety measures.
Government Support: Provide policy support, incentives, and regulations conducive to tourism development. This may include tax incentives for tourism businesses, streamlined visa processes, and regulations to protect the environment and cultural heritage sites, along with IUCN-listed sites.
Community Involvement: Involve local communities in tourism planning and development to ensure that they benefit from tourism activities and have a stake in preserving their natural and cultural assets.
By implementing these measures, Nepal can unlock the full potential of its tourism industry and contribute to sustainable economic growth and development.
What are you passionate about, or what keeps you entertained, motivated, and refreshed?
Networking and Socializing: Engaging with colleagues, clients, and industry peers can provide inspiration and new perspectives. Networking events, industry conferences, and social gatherings can be both enjoyable and professionally enriching.
Continuous Learning: Staying updated on industry trends, sales strategies, and hospitality developments can keep you motivated and excited about your work. This might involve attending workshops.
Engaging in hobbies outside of work can provide a welcome break from the daily routine. Whether it’s listening to music or watching movies,.
Travel: Given your role in the hospitality industry, travel might already be a part of your job. However, taking leisure trips or exploring new destinations can be a source of inspiration and rejuvenation.
Quality Time with Loved Ones: Spending time with family and friends can provide emotional support and balance in your life, helping you recharge and stay motivated.
Finding a balance between work and personal life is essential for maintaining overall well-being and sustained motivation in any demanding profession, including the hospitality industry.
What is the best thing to do in Nepal that you would suggest to a tourist or visitor?
One of the most breathtaking experiences you can have in Nepal is trekking in the Himalayas. The country is famous for its stunning mountain landscapes, trekking routes like the Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp, various other different regions, serene valleys, and vibrant local cultures. Additionally, visit UNESCO World Heritage and IUCN Sites in different parts of Nepal.
Apart from this, we should also encourage and give insights into our different wildlife destinations, such as Koshi Tappu, Shukla Phata National Park, Chitwan National Park, Bardia National Park, which is famous for one-horned rhinoceros, the recent success story of tiger conservation, and the overall biodiversity of our country, from mountains to Terai (lowlands).
.jpg)
