Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) has proudly announced a remarkable milestone in the country’s tourism sector, with April 2025 witnessing the highest number of international visitor arrivals (IVAs) for any April in the history of Nepali tourism. This achievement not only underlines Nepal’s robust recovery from the pandemic’s aftermath but also highlights the nation’s growing stature as a preferred global travel destination.
In April 2025, Nepal welcomed an impressive 116,490 international tourists, a figure that surpasses the previous year’s April total by 5%. Compared to April 2019, a pre-pandemic benchmark year, this year’s arrivals reached 106.5%, signaling that Nepal’s tourism industry has not just recovered but exceeded past performance levels. This surge further reinforces confidence in Nepal’s tourism potential and its readiness to accommodate a growing influx of global travelers.
From January to April 2025, Nepal received a cumulative 415,048 international visitors, demonstrating consistent monthly growth and reflecting strategic promotional efforts, improved accessibility, and restored global confidence in travel to Nepal. This sustained upward trend is a strong indicator that Nepal is reclaiming and even expanding its place on the global tourism map.
The top five source markets for April 2025 reveal a diverse mix of regional and long-haul travelers. India continues to dominate as the leading contributor, with 25,933 visitors, accounting for 22.3% of the total. The United States follows with 10,053 visitors (8.6%), reflecting strong interest from North America. China contributed 9,037 visitors (7.8%), marking a positive return from East Asia. The United Kingdom and Bangladesh rounded out the top five, sending 6,738 (5.8%) and 5,398 (4.6%) visitors respectively. These figures reflect not only the variety of travelers but also the effectiveness of Nepal’s market-specific outreach efforts.
In terms of regional distribution, South Asia (SAARC) continued to play a vital role, with 33,899 visitors, making up 29.1% of April’s total IVAs. Other Asian countries followed with 22,167 visitors (19%), showcasing growing regional interest in Nepal’s cultural, spiritual, and natural offerings. European nations sent 30,249 tourists, accounting for 26%, maintaining strong traditional ties with Nepal’s trekking and heritage sectors. From Oceania, 6,023 visitors (5.2%) arrived, while the Americas accounted for 12,775 visitors (11%). The Middle East sent 3,504 visitors (3%), and Africa, though a smaller contributor, still added 425 travelers (0.4%). The remaining 7,448 visitors (6.4%) came from various other global regions, underlining Nepal’s broad international appeal.
NTB’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Deepak Raj Joshi, expressed optimism and gratitude for this milestone. “We are encouraged by the positive momentum reflected in the latest arrival figures. This growth reinforces Nepal’s position as a favored destination among international travelers,” he said. Joshi also emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between government bodies, travel stakeholders, and international partners to maintain this momentum throughout the year.
To strengthen its communication strategy and support informed tourism planning, the Nepal Tourism Board has launched a monthly publication titled “Tourism Insights.” This new initiative aims to provide stakeholders with updated statistical data, analytical perspectives, and trend forecasts related to tourism in Nepal. The first edition, covering April 2025, presents detailed visitor data and market analysis and will be further enriched in the coming months.
April’s success can be attributed to multiple factors. Improved air connectivity, relaxed visa processes, and targeted digital marketing campaigns have all played critical roles. Additionally, Nepal’s natural beauty, adventure opportunities, spiritual experiences, and unique cultural heritage continue to captivate travelers seeking meaningful and memorable journeys. The post-pandemic traveler is increasingly looking for destinations that offer authenticity, open spaces, and wellness-oriented experiences attributes Nepal is naturally endowed with.
With peak trekking seasons and cultural events drawing global attention, Nepal’s tourism sector is poised for further growth in the coming months. NTB’s commitment to sustainable tourism, digital innovation, and destination management is expected to drive continued gains and position Nepal as a year-round destination.
This upward trend not only boosts the national economy but also supports local communities, creates jobs, and fosters cultural preservation. The revival and rise of international arrivals are strong indicators that Nepal’s tourism is entering a new era one marked by resilience, strategic development, and global recognition.
Source: NTB
