Nepal should be promoted as safe destination: Tourism entrepreneurs

By A Staff Reporter 

Kathmandu, Apr. 10: Tourism entrepreneurs and experts have said that the ongoing crisis in West Asia should be viewed not only as a challenge but also an opportunity. 

Speaking at a discussion on alternative strategies to minimise the impact of escalating crisis in West Asia on Nepal's key source markets, air connectivity and tourist arrivals, they suggested promoting Nepal as a safe tourist destination. The discussion was hosted by Nepal Tourism Board on Thursday. 

West Asia is a major source market for Nepal and also a gateway for European and American tourists, and the crisis could affect air connectivity and arrivals.

“The government is committed to promoting Nepal as a safe and accessible destination,” Mukunda Prasad Niraula, Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, said. He added that a special task force has been formed to outline a roadmap.

Ramkaji Khadka, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the government is working to mitigate potential losses through an inter-ministerial committee and coordination with diplomatic missions to explore alternative routes. 

According to him, there is a need to target India and China and leverage tourism as a tool of economic diplomacy.

Vice-Chair of the NTB Ram Prasad Sapkota stressed the need for timely information dissemination and alternative air routes, while also calling for fare concessions to address rising fuel costs.

Likewise, Board Member of NTB Narendra Dev Bhatt emphasised expanding alternative air links, suggesting routes such as Kathmandu–Australia. Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents President Kumar Mani Thapaliya called for initiating flights via Kathmandu–Hong Kong and strengthening coordination among stakeholders.

Sagar Pandey, President of the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal, said uncertainty in Middle East transit routes has increased, and called for fuel subsidies and a stronger role for Nepal Airlines.

Similarly, President of Hotel Association Nepal Binayak Shah said European tourists are cancelling bookings and urged targeted packages for India and China, along with easing entry procedures. He suggested promoting domestic tourism and cultural events.

According to Nepal Association of Tour Operators President Bishweshwar Shrestha, around 47 per cent of bookings have been cancelled, with possible long-term impacts.

Airline representatives said that while arrivals in 2025 were strong and early 2026 remains stable, proactive strategies are needed to reduce the impact of the crisis. They stressed the importance of promoting Nepal as a safe, peaceful and sustainable destination, simplifying visa processes and exploring new markets.

Despite rising fuel prices, no flights have been cancelled, and flexible booking systems have been introduced. Stakeholders said tourism entrepreneurs should also introduce concessional packages to attract visitors.