Pokhara International Airport and Hotel Queen Tower: A Memorable Field Visit

Event Date: 2023-06-02

In an immersive one-day field visit organized for the students of MBA 5th regular and 7th Jobholder programs, the participants had the privilege of exploring two ambitious projects: the recently completed Pokhara International Airport and the under-construction Hotel Queen Tower in Bandipur. Under the expert guidance of Professor Dr. Gyaneshwor Bhattarai, the students gained valuable insights into project management and had the opportunity to interact with the project managers of both ventures.

The field visit began at the Pokhara International Airport, where the students were welcomed by the Project Manager, Mr. Krishna Raj Paudel. Mr. Paudel shared his experiences of overseeing the airport project, highlighting the challenges faced during the construction phase and how they were successfully overcome. The students were impressed by the state-of-the-art facilities, including the modern terminal building and the well-maintained runway. The completion of the project and its subsequent handover to the Government of Nepal marks a significant milestone in the country's efforts to enhance air connectivity and boost tourism.

Following their visit to the airport, the students traveled to the picturesque town of Bandipur to explore the construction site of the Hotel Queen Tower, a highly anticipated five-star-rated establishment. The CEO of the hotel, Mr. Kiran Pokharel, welcomed the students and shared valuable insights into the challenges faced during the construction process, along with the strategies employed to overcome them. The highlight of the hotel project is the planned cable car system, which will provide guests with a unique and memorable experience. The students were captivated by the hotel's architectural design and its commitment to offering a luxurious and environmentally sustainable experience to future guests.

During interactive sessions, both project managers shared their visions for the future of their respective projects. Mr. Paudel expressed his optimism about the Pokhara International Airport becoming a vital aviation hub, attracting tourists and boosting the local economy. He emphasized the need for continuous improvement in facilities and services to ensure a world-class travel experience. Mr. Pokharel, on the other hand, discussed his aspirations for Hotel Queen Tower to become a premier destination, offering exceptional hospitality and promoting sustainable tourism practices.

Professor Dr. Gyaneshwor Bhattarai commended both project managers for their dedication and perseverance in overcoming project-related challenges. He encouraged the students to draw inspiration from their experiences and apply the knowledge gained during the field visit to their future endeavors. The program concluded with a vibrant Q&A session, during which the students had the opportunity to seek further insights from the project managers.

The one-day field visit to the Pokhara International Airport and Hotel Queen Tower proved to be an enriching and enlightening experience for the participating students. Witnessing the successful completion of one project and the ongoing construction of another allowed them to appreciate the complexities and rewards associated with large-scale ventures. The visit served as a valuable platform for bridging the gap between theory and practice, empowering the students to become future leaders in the fields of project management and hospitality.

(Covered  by Sunil Dhakal)