Dr. Jane Goodall, is a celebrity in the conservation world. She is a leading primatologist and chimpanzee expert who has now dedicated her life to understanding and protecting wildlife. Her research in Gombe, Tanzania, changed the way science understands primate behaviour.
She attributes her success to the supportive environment she was brought up in, especially her mother. She told young Jane, who dreamed of being near animals in Africa, to always take every opportunity and never give up.
Her story of struggle is nothing short of inspirational. Her family was not wealthy and she wasn’t college educated when life decided to give her an opportunity to be Louis Leakey’s (a leading paleoanthropologist at the time) secretary in Gombe, Tanzania.
It was there that she was given an opportunity to study chimpanzees and she took it. Her groundbreaking research revolutionized our understanding of primate behavior and emphasized the deep connections between humans and animals, something that was not explored.
Beyond her work with chimpanzees, Goodall has become a powerful advocate for conservation and animal welfare globally and especially in Nepal.
Jane Goodall established the Jane Goodall Institute Nepal (JGIN) in 2012 and it aims to promote conservation efforts across the country. The institute’s mission aligns with Goodall’s vision of creating a sustainable world where humans coexist harmoniously with nature.
JGIN focuses on various initiatives, including wildlife conservation, community education, and tree planting programs. By engaging local communities in conservation efforts, the institute fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility towards the environment.
During her recent visit to Nepal in December 2024, Jane Goodall chose Maya Manor Boutique Hotel, a 4-star luxury boutique hotel in Kathmandu, as her home once again, after her first stay in 2015. Located in the heart of Kathmandu, this hotel offers a blend of historical charm, sustainability, and modern luxury.
The mansion was previously the home of Karna Sakya, a well-known conservationist who has dedicated his life to protecting Nepal’s natural heritage. He is also the founder chairman of KGH Group which Maya Manor Boutique Hotel is a part of.
In 2015, Jane Goodall first stayed in Maya Manor Boutique Hotel and in recognition of her stay as well as her contributions to wildlife conservation, Maya Manor dedicated a room in her honor.
The room is called the Jane Goodall Room, it is the largest suite in Maya Manor with a private living room and a beautiful balcony overlooking the Carter Garden.This room reflects the hotel’s commitment to sustainability and luxury, making it a standout among hotels in Kathmandu city.
Since Jane Goodall and her team are Vegan, our chefs at Maya Manor Boutique Hotel developed specialized breakfast and lunches for her which you can also get upon request.
During their lunch at Maya Manor, Dr. Goodall and Mr. Sakya who plays a crucial role in conducting reconnaissance surveys in Chitwan National Park. He was instrumental during the King Mahendra Trust’s efforts for wildlife conservation, now known as NTNC (National Trust for Nature Conservation).
They exchanged ideas on conservation strategies and discussed ways to further engage local communities in sustainable practices. Their conversation highlighted the importance of collaboration between individuals dedicated to environmental stewardship—something both have exemplified throughout their careers.
Jane Goodall’s visit to Nepal is a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of environmental issues worldwide. Her work inspires individuals and communities to take actionable steps toward preserving wildlife and nature for future generations.
At Maya Manor Boutique Hotel, we are proud to have hosted this iconic figure and to contribute to her mission by promoting sustainability and offering eco-friendly luxury accommodations. Her presence reaffirms our commitment to being a leading hotel in Kathmandu that champions conservation and cultural heritage.