Himalayan Hideaway Resort Pokhara, The Centara Collection has announced the appointment of Thaksorn Than Sertsirikai as Executive Chef, reinforcing the luxury resort’s commitment to elevating its culinary experiences and strengthening its positioning as one of Nepal’s premier hospitality destinations.
Widely recognised in the hospitality industry as Chef Than, the acclaimed culinary professional brings nearly four decades of international experience spanning luxury resorts, upscale hotels, and global hospitality brands across Asia and beyond. His appointment marks a significant addition to the resort’s leadership team as it continues to enhance its experiential offerings for international and regional travellers visiting Nepal’s scenic Himalayan region.
Located in Pokhara, one of Nepal’s most popular tourism destinations, the resort is part of The Centara Collection, the curated luxury portfolio of Centara Hotels & Resorts. The property is known for blending upscale hospitality with immersive Himalayan experiences, attracting travellers seeking nature, wellness, adventure, and premium culinary experiences.
Nearly Four Decades of Global Culinary Expertise
Chef Than brings with him a distinguished culinary career spanning 38 years, having held senior positions at several prominent hospitality establishments across Thailand and international markets.
Over the years, he has worked with renowned hotel and resort brands including Ambassador Hotel Pattaya, Krabi Resort, Centara Krabi, Novotel Rayong, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, and Amari Hua Hin.
His international culinary journey has also included professional assignments in Singapore, Mali, and Phuket, experiences that have shaped a broad cross-cultural culinary perspective and refined his expertise across multiple cuisines and dining concepts.
Chef Than has earned widespread recognition for his mastery of Thai, Chinese, and Western cuisines, combining classical techniques with contemporary presentation and locally inspired influences. Among his most notable achievements is receiving the prestigious Iron Pan Chef award for Thai cuisine, honouring his technical excellence and longstanding contribution to the culinary profession.
A Culinary Vision Rooted in Thai and Himalayan Traditions
In his new role at Himalayan Hideaway Resort Pokhara, Chef Than will lead the resort’s culinary operations with a focus on developing a distinctive dining identity that integrates authentic Thai flavours with local Nepali and Himalayan culinary traditions.
According to the resort, his approach will centre on using locally sourced ingredients and regional flavours while introducing guests to refined and authentic Thai cuisine. The strategy aligns with the growing global hospitality trend of destination-led gastronomy, where culinary experiences increasingly reflect local culture, ingredients, and storytelling.
Guests visiting the resort can expect thoughtfully curated menus featuring signature Thai dishes alongside modern interpretations of traditional Nepali cuisine, designed to create a culinary journey inspired by both international sophistication and the Himalayan landscape.
“I am truly excited to be here,” Chef Than said following his appointment.
“I want to share my passion for Thai cooking with guests in Nepal, and at the same time I am eager to learn from the incredible local ingredients and traditions around us — to create something that is both familiar and entirely new.”
Industry observers note that culinary experiences have become a key differentiator for luxury resorts, particularly in experiential travel destinations such as Pokhara, where travellers increasingly seek authentic, locally connected, and globally inspired dining offerings.
Strengthening Pokhara’s Luxury Hospitality Landscape
Chef Than’s appointment comes as Nepal’s hospitality and tourism sector continues to recover and evolve, driven by rising international arrivals, wellness tourism, adventure travel, and increasing demand for premium hospitality experiences.
Pokhara remains one of Nepal’s most visited leisure destinations, serving as the gateway to the Annapurna mountain region and attracting travellers seeking trekking, wellness retreats, nature tourism, and luxury escapes.
Hospitality analysts believe the appointment reflects Himalayan Hideaway Resort Pokhara’s strategy of enhancing its luxury positioning through world-class culinary leadership and personalised guest experiences. By integrating international culinary standards with regional authenticity, the resort aims to further strengthen its appeal among discerning global travellers.
The resort stated that Chef Than’s arrival reinforces its broader commitment to delivering elevated hospitality experiences where exceptional dining, cultural immersion, and Himalayan luxury converge.
