Kathmandu, Oct. 28 -- The introduction of a two-day weekend by the government has transformed the weekly rhythm for Binayak Shah, president of Hotel Association Nepal (HAN). Nowadays, whenever Shah picks up his phone or meets acquaintances, a familiar question greets him: "Where is the best place near Kathmandu to take the family for a drive? Which hotels and resorts are ideal?"

Shah gladly guides callers through options for weekend getaways. "Many people ask where they should go with their families and which hotels are good," Shah recently shared with Kantipur, reflecting on his evolving role. "Lately, my job has practically become advising friends and acquaintances about tourist destinations."

Initially introduced in April by the Rast...