Post by : Raman

Kathmandu, Nepal – The streets of Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, have turned into scenes of chaos as widespread protests, largely led by the country’s younger generation, erupted into violence this week. The unrest has shocked the nation, as demonstrators attacked and set fire to several luxury hotels, including Hilton Kathmandu, Hyatt Regency Kathmandu, and Varnabas Museum Hotel, while also targeting government buildings and the homes of politicians.

The protests, popularly known as the 'Gen Z Protests,' began in response to the government’s abrupt ban on 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. While the ban was intended to curb dissent, it quickly became a symbol of a broader frustration with corruption, nepotism, and the ostentatious lifestyles of Nepal’s political and business elites. What started as a protest against the social media ban escalated into a wider movement against inequality, high unemployment, and government mismanagement.

Destruction of Luxury Hotels

The destruction of luxury hotels in Kathmandu became a stark symbol of the ongoing unrest. The Hilton Kathmandu, which had opened in July 2024, was engulfed in flames, its glass façade and iconic architecture reduced to a blackened shell. The hotel was considered one of the tallest structures in Kathmandu, and its burning dramatically changed the city skyline.

Hyatt Regency Kathmandu, situated just ten minutes from the Hilton, also faced the wrath of protesters. The five-star hotel, which blends traditional Newari-style architecture with modern luxury, was attacked, leading to temporary closure and cancellation of all upcoming bookings. A tragic incident occurred when a 55-year-old woman from Ghaziabad, India, died while trying to escape her room using a makeshift rope of curtains and sheets. Her husband sustained injuries during the incident, highlighting the dangers faced by hotel guests amid the chaos.

Similarly, the Varnabas Museum Hotel, a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, was damaged by arson. Inaugurated in February 2024, the hotel reflected Kathmandu’s scenic peaks in its modern architecture, and its dining hall replicated the Everest Base Camp experience. The damage to these properties has not only shocked Nepal’s tourism industry but also drawn international attention to the scale of the unrest.

The Government Under Pressure

The violence extended beyond luxury hotels. Protesters set fire to government buildings, including the parliament, forcing the Prime Minister to resign and flee the country. This unprecedented political upheaval has created fear and uncertainty across Kathmandu, with citywide curfews and clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement becoming common.

Authorities reported that the unrest has so far resulted in approximately 51 deaths, with many more injured. The demonstrations reflect deep-rooted frustrations with social inequality, poor governance, and limited opportunities for young people in one of the poorest countries in the world.

Why Gen Z is Leading the Protests

Nepal’s younger population, particularly Gen Z, has been at the forefront of the protests. Many of these young people are highly educated but face limited job opportunities, forcing them to struggle in an economy with few prospects. The stark contrast between their hardships and the luxurious lifestyles of Nepal’s elites has fueled anger and resentment.

The protests also illustrate how technology and social media have empowered youth voices, even when governments attempt to restrict digital platforms. While the social media ban was quickly reversed, the movement expanded into a broader demand for accountability, transparency, and equality in Nepal’s political and social systems.

Impact on Tourism and Economy

Tourism is a critical sector for Nepal, accounting for a significant portion of the country’s revenue. The attacks on luxury hotels, along with images and videos of burning buildings, have sent shockwaves through the tourism industry. International travelers may now view Nepal as a risky destination, which could severely affect the country’s economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hotels like Hilton and Hyatt, which cater to international and high-paying guests, are key to attracting revenue from tourism. Their temporary closure will not only affect hotel staff and local businesses but could also undermine foreign investment and partnerships in the hospitality sector.

The current unrest in Kathmandu is a reflection of Nepal’s larger challenges – social inequality, corruption, and political instability. While the immediate trigger was the social media ban, the movement has become a broader cry for justice and reform. For lasting peace, the government will need to address the concerns of its youth, improve transparency, and ensure that wealth and resources are distributed more equitably.

As Nepal navigates this period of crisis, the world watches closely. The burning hotels and government buildings serve as a stark reminder that the country’s social and political issues cannot be ignored. The resilience of its citizens, particularly the youth, will likely play a decisive role in shaping Nepal’s future, and how quickly the nation can restore stability and confidence in its governance and economy.

Nepal, Kathmandu, Hilton Kathmandu, Hyatt Regency, Luxury Hotels, Gen Z Protests, Nepal Unrest