How Homotel International Was Born: A COVID-Era Innovation in Hospitality

The COVID-19 pandemic brought the global hospitality industry to a standstill. Hotels closed their doors, travel halted, and thousands of SMEs across Nepal and beyond faced immense pressure — from paying rent and salaries to keeping day-to-day operations running. But amidst this uncertainty, a small team of visionaries came together with a bold idea and that spark led to the creation of Homotel International Pvt. Ltd.

Ideas Brewed Over Coffee

It all started during those long, quiet days of the pandemic. Following social distancing norms, we Mr. Tej Bahadur Dhakal (Chairman), Mr. Keshab Prasad Dahal (Director), and myself, Dr. Dinesh Basnet — would occasionally meet over freshly brewed Americanos, finding comfort in routine conversations and dreams of innovation. We often gathered in our nearest circle, shared insights, challenges, and above all, discussed what next for the hospitality industry.

We knew the world was changing. Travelers would seek privacy, hygiene, comfort, and flexibility more than ever before. And we saw a gap — one that we could fill with something entirely new.

The Concept: Home + Hotel + Motel = Homotel

During one of our regular coffee conversations, the idea was born:

What if we created a space that feels like home for long-stay guests?
Functions like a hotel for travelers who want overnight comfort?
And serves as a motel for those needing short stays near airports or highways?
This unique hybrid model would cater to the evolving needs of travelers — students, professionals, families, transit guests — all under one concept.
That’s when the name clicked — Homotel.
Home + Hotel + Motel = Homotel

We quickly registered the company as Homotel International Pvt. Ltd. and began scouting for the perfect commercial location to bring our vision to life.

Today’s Homotel: Where Comfort Meets Concept
What started as a concept is now a reality. Homotel International currently offers:
9 thoughtfully designed rooms, including studio and family suites
A cozy, elegant coffee shop on the ground floor — Himcha Café, which has already become a local favorite for its ambiance and signature brews

And this is just the beginning. With future plans to expand and add more locations, Homotel aims to become a new category in hospitality — blending the warmth of a home, the service of a hotel, and the practicality of a motel.

Why Homotel Stands Out?

• Ideal for transit guests (close to airport/highway)
• Perfect for short-term or long-term stays
• Hygienic, safe, and pandemic-conscious design
• Community vibe with in-house Himcha Café
• Affordable for SMEs, students, and professionals

Looking Ahead

Homotel International is more than just a business; it’s a story of resilience and innovation. Born from crisis, shaped by collaboration, and designed for the future — it represents how hospitality can evolve, adapt, and thrive even in the toughest of times.

So, whether you’re looking for a home away from home, a pit stop for your journey, or simply a great cup of coffee — Homotel welcomes you.

Visit us. Stay with us. Be at home — at Homotel.