Government and Marriott International Sign Agreement to Develop Lumbini Marriott Resort & Spa
Lumbini Palace Resort Limited has signed a Hotel Management Agreement (HMA) with Marriott International to operate the upcoming Lumbini Marriott Resort & Spa, marking Marriott’s first and only presence outside the Kathmandu Valley.
The agreement was concluded in the presence of senior representatives from Lumbini Palace Resort Limited and top executives from Marriott International, including Asia Pacific leadership. The partnership brings the globally renowned Marriott brand to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha and a major spiritual and tourism destination in Nepal.
According to the company, the resort is planned as a five-star, multi-concept destination combining luxury hospitality with water-based recreation, wellness, eco-tourism, sports tourism, and cultural experiences. The project aims to begin operations as a five-star resort within the current fiscal year.
The resort is being developed as Nepal’s first integrated water resort, featuring advanced water fountains, musical and 3D water shows, motor boating, mini cruises, water restaurants, water spa facilities, and a wide range of water-based recreational activities. These features are expected to introduce new dimensions to Nepal’s tourism offerings.
Environmental sustainability is a core focus of the project. The resort is targeting Green Certification (Gold) and is being designed as a wellness retreat and eco-resort, with emphasis on environmental conservation, energy efficiency, sustainable development, and low carbon emissions. The developers also plan to position it as Nepal’s first organic five-star wellness luxury resort, integrating naturopathy and holistic health concepts.
In addition, the project aims to promote sports tourism by developing international-standard infrastructure suitable for hosting a wide range of sporting activities, positioning the resort as a multi-specialty destination unique in Nepal.
To highlight Lumbini’s cultural and spiritual significance, the resort will include Buddha-themed attractions such as a Buddha Theme Park, mini stupas, a mini Buddha museum, meditation zones, and cultural centers. These facilities are intended to blend global hospitality standards with Nepal’s cultural heritage.
The resort has appointed hospitality professional Vijayananmaran Sanmugam, who brings more than 25 years of experience in national and international hotel management, as Vice President for Operations and Assets Development. International consultants have also been engaged to support management and asset development.
Developers state that the project will contribute to local employment, promote local production, and support tourism growth, thereby generating direct and indirect economic benefits. Preparations are also underway for a future initial public offering (IPO), signaling long-term investment plans and broader public participation in the project
With this development, Lumbini Marriott Resort & Spa is expected to emerge as a landmark destination, strengthening Nepal’s position on the global tourism map while supporting sustainable and diversified tourism growth.
