Korala can boost cross-border tourism between Nepal and Tibet

BY HARI KRISHNA SHARMA,Mustang, Nov. 16: A 13-member delegation led by Lomanthang Rural Municipality Chairman Tashi Nhurbu Gurung has returned from a week-long visit to Tibet, expressing optimism about expanding cross-border tourism and cultural exchange through the Korala border point. The team traveled via Chhoser-based Nechung Immigration Office, which recently completed its first year of service.

The delegation, including Lomanthang Vice-chairman Chyumi Bisht Gurung and Lo-Ghekar Damodarkunda Vice-chairman Chhiring Lhamo Gurung, toured major religious and cultural sites across Tibet following the commercial opening of the Korala checkpoint on September 15. The group entered Tibet through Nepal-China pillar No. 24 and the Lizi-Nechung (Korala) road network.

During the visit, Nepali representatives held meetings with Tibetan officials, business groups, and local communities. The team observed several prominent locations, including Zhomwosen district, Shigatse, Lhasa, the sacred sites linked to Guru Padmasambhava, the Winter Palace, Potala Palace, Norbulingka, and centuries-old monasteries and palaces.

Chairman Gurung said Tibetans showed strong interest in using Korala as a gateway for economic, social, religious, and cultural exchange. “Many Buddhists are eager to travel through Korala to visit Nepal’s religious sites, especially Lumbini,” he said. Tibetans previously entered Nepal primarily through Khasa and Tatopani or via Tribhuvan International Airport.

Gurung emphasised the need for Nepal to further streamline visa procedures to accommodate growing interest. According to him, Tibetans are planning short-distance trips to Mustang, medium-range visits to Pokhara and Kathmandu, and longer journeys to Lumbini and India. Although winter conditions prevented the delegation from visiting Kailash Mansarovar, Gurung stated that Korala remained the shortest and most accessible route to the sacred site from Nepal.

Local stakeholders believe the opening of Korala could significantly boost Chinese tourist arrivals. Mustang Chamber of Commerce President Raju Lalchan said Nepal must utilise the opportunity as China appears keen to develop Korala as both an economic and religious route.

The Mustang Immigration Office currently offers a free 150-day on-arrival visa for Chinese and other foreign nationals entering Nepal. Foreigners traveling to restricted areas must pay an additional 500 US dollars and related fees, said Immigration Chief Prabesh Baduwal.

Historically, Korala served as a traditional route between Upper Mustang and Tibet until it was closed in the 1960s following the Khampa rebellion. With renewed exchanges now underway, officials hope the border will play a transformative role in regional tourism and development.