Himal Press 
Mercure Kathmandu Hotel (Representative Image)
KATHMANDU: A survey conducted by the National Statistics Office (NSO) has revealed that Nepal’s hospitality sector, comprising 142,223 accommodation and food service establishments, is making significant contributions to the national economy.
The findings of the Nepal Hotels and Restaurants Survey, 2023, show that these establishments collectively employ 387,747 individuals, including business owners, partners, unpaid family members, and salaried employees. Of these, 106,459 are paid employees who receive approximately Rs 20.61 billion in salaries, wages and benefits annually.
These establishments spend Rs 216.73 billion annually on inputs while generating services worth Rs 326.01 billion, resulting in a value addition of Rs 109.27 billion to the economy.
The survey also revealed substantial capital investment in the industry, with fixed assets valued at Rs 543.25 billion. The survey finding shows that 28.4% of these establishments have availed bank loans for their operations.
