Table of Contents
- 1 Introduction to Five Star Hotel Requirements in Nepal
- 2 How to Register a Five Star hotel in Nepal?
- 3 Essential Documentation for Five Star Hotel Application
- 4 Financial Requirements for Five Star Hotel Operations
- 5 Safety and Security Measures for Five Star Hotels
- 6 Quality Control Standards for Five Star Hotel Services
- 7 Government Fees Structure for Five Star Hotels
- 8 Tourism Department Guidelines for Five Star Hotels
- 9 Compliance Checklist for Five Star Hotel Operations
- 9.1 8. Where are luxury hotels mainly located in Nepal?
- 9.2 9. Does Nepal have seven-star hotels?
- 9.3 10. What standards must a luxury hotel meet in Nepal?
- 9.4 What are the criteria for 5 star rating in Nepal?
- 9.5 What qualifies a hotel to be 5 stars?
- 9.6 What are the requirements to be graded as a 5 * hotel?
- 9.7 What are the 5 star rating criteria?
- 9.8 How to become a 5 Star Hotel in Nepal?
- 9.9 Can Foreigners Register 5 Star Hotel in Nepal?
- 9.10 How to Register 5 Star Hotel in Nepal?
- 10 Five Star Hotels In Nepal by Axion Partners
The Nepal law based Firm Axion Partners presents a concise overview of the criteria for five star hotel in Nepal 2026, highlighting the official standards for luxury infrastructure, service quality, safety, staffing, and sustainability set by tourism authorities to meet international hospitality benchmarks.
Introduction to Five Star Hotel Requirements in Nepal
Nepal is a country with amazing travel and tourism destination where a lot of people from the world want to visit Nepal. So the country is building hotels and other things to help these visitors. Five star hotels in Nepal are very important for this. They give people a place to stay and treat them very well. If someone wants to open a 5 star hotel in Nepal they have to follow a lot of rules. The government makes these rules to make sure the hotel is as good as hotels in countries. The rules are in place to ensure that five star hotels in Nepal are really good and can give people the kind of service they expect from a five star hotel in Nepal.
The Nepal Tourism Board and the Department of Tourism have made a list of what a five star hotel in Nepal should be like. They want these hotels to be as good as hotels in countries but they also want them to show what Nepal is about and be kind to the environment. A Nepal Five star hotel is supposed to be the place for people to stay so it has to meet a lot of rules about the building the services it offers the people who work there and how safe it is. The Nepal five star hotel has to be really good, at all these things.
Our Law Firm, Axion Partners, provides end-to-end legal support for registering 5 star hotel Nepal projects with effectiveness, quality, and expertise.
Email: info@lawaxion.com
Cell/WhatsApp: +977 9709090127
Legal Framework for Five Star Hotel Registration
The legal frameworks that is governing five star hotels in Nepal is based on the Tourism Act 2035 (1978) and its amendments. This Act provides the foundation for all tourism related activities including Nepal hotels 5 star classification. The Hotel, Lodge, Restaurant, Bar and Tourist Guide Rules 2038 (1981) further define operational standards.
To register a five star hotel of Nepal, investors must obtain approval from the Department of Tourism by submitting a detailed project proposal. This proposal must comply with zoning laws, environmental regulations, and cultural preservation guidelines applicable to hotels in Nepal 5 star category.
How to Register a Five Star hotel in Nepal?
The process of register to establish a 5-star hotel in Kathmandu Nepal or other regions follows these steps:
- Step 1: Know about Business Planning and Feasibility Study
- Step 2: Follow Legal Registration and Approvals
- Step 3: Build Infrastructure Development and Compliance
- Step 4: Seperate Hotel Classification and Inspection
- Step 5: Must Licensing and Operational Approvals
- Step 6: The Final Compliance and Grand Opening
Step 1: Business Planning and Feasibility Study
This first step is important for investors that are planning for establish 5 star hotels Nepal where Market demand, competition and investment viability must be carefully analyzed. A detailed business plan is required that includes financial projections, staffing and infrastructure developments. Site selection must comply with environmental and zoning laws applicable to Nepal 5 star hotels. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) may be mandatory.
Step 2: Legal Registration and Approvals
The hotel company must be registered with the Office of Company Registrar (OCR) and obtain PAN and VAT from the Inland Revenue Department. Approval from the Department of Tourism is mandatory for any five star hotel requirements in Nepal. Investors must also secure approval from the Department of Tourism (DoT) by submitting a detailed project proposal outlining the hotel’s infrastructure, services, and expected contribution to Nepal’s tourism industry.A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from local authorities ensures compliance with land-use, safety, and environmental standards for 5 star hotel of Nepal projects.
Step 3: Infrastructure Development and Compliance
With legal approvals in place, the next step involves constructing the 5 star hotel in Nepal must meet infrastructure standards set by the Department of Tourism. This includes at least 100 guest rooms, restaurants, banquet halls, spa, swimming pool, and premium services. Construction must meet fire safety, disaster preparedness, and sustainability requirements applicable to 5-star hotels in Nepal including necessary permits for water supply, electricity, sewage management, and waste disposal. Ensuring compliance with fire safety and disaster preparedness measures is critical at this stage.
Step 4: Hotel Classification and Inspection
Before the hotel can start operations, it must undergo a rigorous classification process conducted by the Hotel Classification Committee under the Department of Tourism. Investors must formally apply for classification, providing documentation that proves the hotel meets five-star standards. The classification process involves an in-depth inspection of infrastructure, service quality, security measures, and guest amenities.This inspection evaluates whether the property meets requirements for 5 star hotel in Nepal, including room standards, service quality, staff professionalism, and sustainability initiatives.
Step 5: Licensing and Operational Approvals
After successful classification, the hotel must obtain an operating license from the Department of Tourism. Additionally, several other permits and licenses are required for smooth operation. This includes a food and beverage license for running restaurants and bars, a liquor license from the Department of Industry for serving alcoholic beverages, and a health and sanitation clearance from local health authorities to ensure food safety and hygiene compliance. Compliance with labor laws and Social Security Fund registration is mandatory for five star hotel in Nepal.
Step 6: Final Compliance and Grand Opening
The final step before launching a five-star hotel in Nepal involves setting up hotel management systems, conducting staff training, and executing a marketing strategy. A trial operation phase is recommended to identify and resolve any operational challenges before the official launch. The hotel management should focus on providing exceptional guest experiences, ensuring that services align with international hospitality standards. Once fully compliant, the nepal 5 star hotel can officially launch and operate under its five-star classification.
By following these detailed steps, investors can successfully register and operate a 5-star hotels in Kathmandu Nepal while complying with all legal and regulatory requirements.
Essential Documentation for Five Star Hotel Application
The application process for a 5 star hotel requirements in Nepal are meticulous preparation and submission of various documents. These include:
- Detailed business plan and feasibility study
- Architectural drawings and site plans
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report
- Fire safety clearance from the local fire department
- No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from relevant government agencies
- Proof of financial capability and investment sources
- Company registration documents
- Land ownership or lease agreements
- Tax clearance certificates
- Citizenship certificates of promoters (for Nepali nationals) or relevant documents for foreign investors
Physical Infrastructure Requirements for Five Star Hotels
The physical infrastructure of a five-star hotel in Nepal must meet exacting standards to qualify for the highest rating. Key requirements include:
- A minimum of 100 well-appointed guest rooms
- Multiple dining outlets offering a variety of cuisines
- Spacious lobby and reception area
- Conference and banquet facilities
- Fitness center and spa
- Swimming pool
- Business center
- 24-hour room service
- Elevators for buildings with more than two floors
- Adequate parking facilities
- Handicap-accessible rooms and public areas
Each room must meet 5 star hotel room requirements in Kathmandu and other regions, with a minimum size of 240 square feet and modern amenities.
Financial Requirements for Five Star Hotel Operations
The minimum investment for nepal five star hotels generally exceeds NPR 1 billion. This covers land, construction, interiors, and operational capital. Financial sustainability is critical for maintaining five-star classification.
Financial requirements also extend to ongoing operations. Five-star hotels must maintain:
- Adequate working capital for smooth operations
- Reserve funds for maintenance and upgrades
- Financial guarantees or deposits as required by regulatory bodies
- Comprehensive insurance coverage
Staff and Service Standards for Five Star Hotels
Service quality defines five star hotels Nepal. Hotels must maintain a minimum staff-to-room ratio of 2:1. Staff should be trained in international hospitality standards and Nepali culture to provide premium guest experiences.
- Employ a minimum staff-to-room ratio of 2:1
- Hire qualified personnel for key management positions
- Provide continuous training programs for all staff members
- Ensure multilingual capabilities among front-of-house staff
- Implement rigorous quality control measures for all service areas
Staff must be well-versed in international hospitality standards while also being knowledgeable about Nepali culture and customs to provide authentic local experiences to guests.s.
Safety and Security Measures for Five Star Hotels
All 5-star hotels in Kathmandu Nepal and across the country must maintain advanced security systems, fire safety compliance, medical access, and sustainable environmental practices in line with national laws.
- 24/7 security personnel and CCTV surveillance
- Advanced fire detection and suppression systems
- Regular safety drills and staff training
- Secure access control systems
- Emergency response protocols
- On-site medical facilities or quick access to medical services
- Food safety and hygiene measures adhering to HACCP principles
Environmental Compliance for Five Star Hotel Projects
In line with Nepal’s commitment to sustainable tourism, five-star hotels in Kathmandu Nepal, must demonstrate strong environmental stewardship:
- Implement energy-efficient systems and renewable energy sources where possible
- Establish waste management and recycling programs
- Use water conservation technologies
- Source local and sustainable products
- Minimize the use of single-use plastics
- Participate in local environmental conservation efforts
Hotels must also comply with the Environmental Protection Act 2053 (1997) and conduct regular environmental audits.
Read More
- How to Establish a Branch Office in Nepal
- Alcohol and Liquor Production License Process in Nepal
- Digital Business Laws in Nepal
Quality Control Standards for Five Star Hotel Services
Regular inspections, audits, guest feedback systems, and SOPs ensure continuous compliance with criteria for 5 star hotel in Nepal. Annual renewal with updated documents and inspections is mandatory.
- Regular internal audits of all service areas
- Mystery guest programs to assess service quality
- Implement a robust guest feedback system
- Maintain detailed standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all departments
- Regular staff performance evaluations and training
- Adherence to international hospitality benchmarks
Licensing Process for Five Star Hotel Operations
The licensing process for a five-star hotel in Nepal involves several steps:
- Submit a comprehensive project proposal to the Department of Tourism
- Obtain initial approval and complete construction
- Apply for hotel classification inspection
- Undergo thorough inspection by the Hotel Classification Committee
- Receive classification certificate upon meeting all criteria
- Apply for operating license from the Department of Tourism
This process can take several months to complete, depending on the readiness of the property and the efficiency of the regulatory bodies.
Government Fees Structure for Five Star Hotels
Five-star hotels in Nepal are subject to various government fees and taxes:
- Initial registration fee
- Annual renewal fee
- Tourism service fee (a percentage of turnover)
- Value Added Tax (VAT) on services
- Corporate income tax
- Municipal taxes and duties
The exact fee structure is subject to change and should be verified with the Department of Tourism and relevant tax authorities.
Inspection Requirements for Five Star Hotel Certification
To obtain and maintain five-star certification, hotels must undergo regular inspections:
- Initial classification inspection
- Annual compliance inspections
- Surprise inspections by regulatory bodies
- Health and safety inspections
- Fire safety inspections
- Food safety audits
These inspections cover all aspects of hotel operations, from guest rooms to back-of-house areas.
Tourism Department Guidelines for Five Star Hotels
The Department of Tourism provides specific guidelines for five-star hotels, including:
- Promotion of Nepali culture and heritage in hotel design and services
- Incorporation of local art and crafts in hotel decor
- Offering of Nepali cuisine alongside international options
- Provision of information on local attractions and activities
- Participation in tourism promotion activities
- Compliance with tourism industry codes of conduct
Renewal Process for Five Star Hotel Registration
Five-star hotel registrations in Nepal typically require annual renewal. The renewal process involves:
- Submission of renewal application to the Department of Tourism
- Provision of updated financial statements and tax clearance certificates
- Compliance report detailing adherence to five-star standards
- Payment of renewal fees
- Inspection to verify continued compliance with standards
- Issuance of renewed certification upon satisfactory inspection
Compliance Checklist for Five Star Hotel Operations
To ensure ongoing compliance, five-star hotels in Nepal should maintain a comprehensive checklist covering:
- Regular maintenance of all facilities and equipment
- Ongoing staff training and development programs
- Up-to-date licenses and permits
- Current health and safety certificates
- Environmental compliance documentation
- Guest satisfaction metrics and improvement plans
- Financial health indicators
- Community engagement and CSR activities
By adhering to these stringent requirements and maintaining high standards of service and facilities, five-star hotels in Nepal can provide world-class experiences to guests while contributing to the country’s tourism industry growth.
1. What is the minimum investment required for a five-star hotel in Nepal?
The minimum investment typically exceeds NPR 1 billion (approximately USD 8.5 million), but the exact amount can vary based on location and project scale.
2. How long does it take to get a five-star hotel license?
The process can take several months to over a year, depending on the readiness of the property and the efficiency of regulatory bodies.
3. What is the minimum room requirement for five-star hotels?
Five-star hotels in Nepal must have a minimum of 100 well-appointed guest rooms.
4. Are foreign investors allowed to own five-star hotels?
Yes, foreign investors can own five-star hotels in Nepal, subject to foreign investment regulations and approvals.
5. What are the annual renewal requirements?
Annual renewal requires submitting updated financial statements, tax clearances, compliance reports, and undergoing inspections.
6. How many staff members are required for operations?
The minimum staff-to-room ratio for five-star hotels is 2:1, meaning at least 200 staff members for a 100-room hotel.
7. What are the main government authorities involved?
The primary authorities are the Department of Tourism, Nepal Tourism Board, and various ministries overseeing environment, labor, and finance.
8. Where are luxury hotels mainly located in Nepal?
Most luxury properties are concentrated in Kathmandu and major tourist destinations. Many 5 star hotels in Kathmandu Nepal operate under strict government standards, and the number of 5 star hotels in Nepal continues to grow each year. Axion Partners regularly assists hotel investors with registration, classification, and compliance across Nepal.
9. Does Nepal have seven-star hotels?
Nepal does not officially recognize a seven-star hotel category. There is no legal classification for how many 5 star hotel in Nepal including 7 star also , as star ratings are recognized only up to five-star level. Axion Partners confirms that only officially approved five star hotels in Nepal are recognized by the Department of Tourism.
10. What standards must a luxury hotel meet in Nepal?
Hotels must comply with the requirements for a 5 star hotel in Nepal, including luxury accommodation, multiple dining outlets, conference and banquet facilities, spa and swimming pool, 24/7 concierge and security services, and strict hygiene standards. These rules apply nationwide regardless of how many hotels are there in Nepal, and Axion Partners provides legal guidance throughout the approval and licensing process.
What are the criteria for 5 star rating in Nepal?
To qualify as a rating in the first 5 star hotel in Nepal, a property must meet strict standards set by the Nepal Tourism Board and the Department of Tourism. A hotel must have at least 100 rooms, including a minimum of 10 suites, with each room meeting required size standards and luxury amenities. Facilities must include multiple restaurants, a bar, conference and banquet halls, and recreational services such as a spa, gym, and swimming pool. The first 5-star hotel in Nepal, Soaltee Hotel Kathmandu, established these luxury benchmarks that today’s hotels follow. As the total 5 star hotel in Nepal continues to grow, all five-star properties must maintain 24/7 concierge, room service, strong security, and high hygiene and safety standards to retain their classification.
What qualifies a hotel to be 5 stars?
1. Meets Nepal’s Department of Tourism guidelines for 5-star classification
2. Offers luxury services, top-tier customer service, and premium facilities
3. Must have multiple dining, leisure, and business facilities
4. Ensures exceptional cleanliness, comfort, and international service standards
What are the requirements to be graded as a 5 * hotel?
1. Infrastructure: High-end architecture, elegant interiors, and modern technology
2. Rooms & Suites: Spacious, well-furnished, and fully equipped
3. Food & Beverage: Multiple restaurants with diverse cuisine and a well-stocked bar
4. Service Excellence: Highly trained staff, concierge, and 24/7 services
5. Recreation & Wellness: Spa, gym, swimming pool, and entertainment facilities
6. Security & Safety: CCTV surveillance, fire safety, and emergency protocols
What are the 5 star rating criteria?
The criteria for 5 star hotel in Nepal are based on six core factors set by the Department of Tourism. Accommodation must meet luxury standards with premium bedding, elegant décor, and modern amenities as required for a list of 5 star hotels in Nepal. Service quality is essential, including 24/7 concierge support, multilingual staff, and personalized guest services. Dining facilities must include at least two quality. Business and event facilities such as conference rooms and banquet halls are mandatory under 5 star hotel criteria in Kathmandu.
How to become a 5 Star Hotel in Nepal?
Step 1: Meet Nepal’s 5-star hotel requirements set by the Department of Tourism
Step 2: Invest in high-end infrastructure, luxury services, and premium guest experiences
Step 3: Ensure compliance with hygiene, safety, and international hospitality standards
Step 4: Obtain official certification from Nepal’s Department of Tourism
Step 5: Maintain exceptional service to receive and sustain 5-star status
Can Foreigners Register 5 Star Hotel in Nepal?
Yes, foreigners can register a 5-star hotel in Nepal, but they must comply with the Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act. Approval from Nepal’s Department of Tourism and Investment Board Nepal (IBN) is required. Additionally, foreign investors must meet the minimum capital investment criteria set by the government. Compliance with local laws, business registration processes, and regulatory approvals is essential before beginning hotel operations.
How to Register 5 Star Hotel in Nepal?
1. Company Registration: Register the hotel business under Nepal’s Company Act
2. Investment Approval: Secure approval from the Department of Industry or Investment Board Nepal
3. Land & Construction Permits: Obtain required approvals for land use and hotel construction
4. Tourism License: Apply for a hotel classification certificate from the Department of Tourism
5. Environmental & Safety Compliance: Ensure all regulatory health, hygiene, and safety measures
6. Final Inspection & Certification: Get inspected and certified as a 5-star hotel by the authorities
Five Star Hotels In Nepal by Axion Partners
This guide explains the core criteria and standards for five star hotel in Nepal, including luxury infrastructure, service quality, safety, staffing, and sustainability requirements set by tourism authorities. With expert insight from Axion Partners, hotel investors and operators can clearly understand five-star benchmarks and maintain world-class hospitality standards across Nepal’s luxury hotel sector.
