Hotel Mirage Regency offers a peaceful, welcoming space in Kathmandu’s ever-changing hospitality scene. More than just a place to stay, it offers travelers a true home away from home, regardless of their purpose in the city. Located in Battisputali, just a few minutes' drive away from Tribhuvan International Airport and a short walk from the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, this family-run establishment combines personalized care with a genuine commitment to comfort - a philosophy rooted in its heritage and heartfelt service.
A Dream Born from the Heart
For Mahesh Goyal, Managing Director of Hotel Mirage Regency, hospitality is not just a career option — it is a passion, something he loves. "Hospitality has always been close to my heart," he said, reclining in the hotel lobby more like a family sitting room than a corporate reception. "When we launched Mirage Lords Inn in 2014, our vision was simple — to offer tourists a place that would feel homey, dependable and memorable."
Back then, Kathmandu's hotel scene was divided between no-frills budget accommodation and ostentatious luxury properties. Goyal spotted an opportunity to bridge this gap. Why not offer a hotel that combines exceptional service, comfort and convenience with a personal, human touch? With an investment of nearly Rs 400 million, this vision began to take shape. It was not just about building a structure, it was about crafting an experience where guests felt truly connected.
In the first phase, the hotel partnered with India's Lords Hotels & Resorts and operated as Mirage Lords Inn. This collaboration attracted a steady stream of Indian tourists, pilgrims and travel operators. But the change came with the COVID-19 pandemic.
"When the pandemic struck, we took the bold decision to go independent," Goyal explained. "We parted ways with the franchise and rebranded as Mirage Regency."
This move was a gamble. Abandoning brand recognition meant building a reputation from scratch. Yet, the trade-off was worth it. Independence allowed Goyal and his team to shape the hotel into a unique, authentic creation. Small, thoughtful details, like staff taking the time to know guests personally, created a warm, familiar atmosphere. Returning guests, in particular, cherished the sense of belonging that only an authentic family-run hotel can provide.
Hospitality with a Human Touch
Mirage Regency offers 45 thoughtfully designed rooms—Deluxe, Executive, and Suites—catering to all types of visitors, from business professionals and Pashupatinath Temple pilgrims to families exploring Kathmandu. The hotel blends comfort and conveniences to meet every guest’s needs.
Its in-house multi-cuisine restaurant, Coriander, is a culinary gem, serving Nepali and Indian cuisines alongside international favorites. Loved by guests and locals alike, it is a serene spot known for consistent quality. The hotel also features well-equipped conference and banquet halls, airport transfers and tailored itineraries for pilgrims, reflecting its deep ties to Indian and religious tourism. What truly sets Mirage Regency apart is its staff. "Many team members have been with us since day one," Goyal explained. "They are family, and that warmth extends to our guests." This loyalty creates a rare continuity—returning guests are greeted by familiar faces, a personal touch that chain hotels struggle to replicate.
Relationships Over Reputation
Mirage Regency has been prioritizing connection to get business in an age dominated by online reviews and flashy marketing. "We believe in relationships," Goyal said. "You can build a hotel with money, but trust takes time, effort and heart."
While other hotels chase brand prestige, Mirage focuses on service, care and consistency which has been helping it to get strong repeat business, especially during holidays and school breaks. Word-of-mouth referrals are some of the best sources of reservations for Mirage, with some guests bypassing online platforms to call for "their usual room" or simply walk in, confident that they will be welcomed like family.
A New Generation Steps In
As the hotel evolves, so does its staff and leadership. The second generation of the Goyal family is fully involved in everyday work of the hotel. Goyal’s son has joined the business, bringing fresh ideas and a tech-savvy approach to the property.
“He handles our online presence, B2B partnerships and digital strategy,” Goyal said proudly. "We are from different generations. I focus on values and experience; he brings data and outreach. Together, it is a perfect balance." This blend of old-school hospitality and new-school marketing has helped Mirage Regency sustain a robust 60–70% occupancy throughout the year, with full capacity during peak seasons.
Looking Ahead
As the hotel continues to grow in strength, the promoters are not resting on its laurels. They have already advised plans for room renovations, upgraded room amenities and new facilities to meet evolving guest needs. Sustainability is also a priority, with initiatives like reducing plastic use and adopting energy-efficient systems.
Goyal believes that growth should never be in terms of comfort or service. "It is not about being the biggest hotel," he said. “We want to be the one guests remember and cannot wait to return to.” Mirage Regency is considering opening up new dining experiences at Coriander through food festivals and themed dinner nights to attract local visitors and build a more dynamic dining experience for resident guests.
When asked about a moment that best reflects what Mirage Regency stands for, Goyal shares an interesting moment: “A gentleman once came to the front desk, saying he had stayed with us five years ago and that had not made a booking. He said he knew we had a room for him. And he was right.”
That one moment of loyalty, memory and trust speaks volumes about the kind of relationships this hotel has built over the years.
A Quiet Force in Kathmandu
Amid a boom of international chains and star-rated hotels in Kathmandu, Mirage Regency has a low-key presence. It does not compete with glitz but excels in care, treating guests like friends with genuine warmth and attention. "Guests may forget the decor or even the food," said Goyal. "But they will always remember how we made them feel."
A Living Legacy
As Kathmandu grows, Mirage Regency is evolving while staying true to its roots. More than a hotel; the property is a legacy built on principles, driven by relationships and motivated by passion. It keeps on offering a type of hospitality that is homecoming rather than checking in. Its motto, "Exhilarating Hospitality”, is not just a tagline — it is a promise woven into every welcome, smile and thoughtful gesture.
For visitors seeking a stay where comfort meets authenticity, where service feels personal and where stories unfold over a cup of tea, Mirage Regency is not just an accommodation—it is an experience that feels like coming home.
(This article was originally published in May 2025 issue of New Business Age Magazine.)
