The fifth edition of the Himalayan Travel Mart (HTM), Nepal’s premier international tourism trade fair, has officially begun today at Hotel Soaltee in Kathmandu with a mission to elevate Nepal’s global tourism profile and expand business networking among global tourism professionals.
Himalayan Travel Mart Kicks Off in Kathmandu
Jointly organized by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Nepal Chapter and the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), in collaboration with Nepal Airlines and other key national and international tourism associations, the three-day event aims to foster connections between tourism stakeholders and promote Nepal’s growing appeal as a diverse travel destination.
The mart, which will run until Jestha 22 (June 3–5), is hosting over 700 participants including more than 100 international buyers and delegates from over 30 countries, along with local tourism entrepreneurs and related stakeholders.
Focus on Mountain Tourism and Sustainable Development
On the opening day, a special conference titled “Mountain Milestone and Momentum” was held, bringing attention to the need for integrated strategies in the development of mountain and nature-based tourism. Speakers emphasized collaboration, sustainable practices, and innovation as key drivers to shaping the future of tourism in Nepal.
Deepak Raj Joshi, CEO of the Nepal Tourism Board, highlighted how platforms like HTM are essential in showcasing Nepal’s unique destinations to the global market. “Today, we are seeing the expansion of new tourism areas across Nepal. Around 30 years ago, rural areas accounted for nearly 70% of Nepal, but now it’s a 50/50 ratio between rural and urban. As we urbanize, tourism is becoming more nature-centric,” Joshi noted.
International Representation and Business Networking
HTM 2025 has drawn attention from prominent speakers including Andrew Jones, a life member of PATA; Sahid Hamid, President of PATA Bangladesh Chapter; and popular Nepali actress Nisha Adhikari, who also shared insights on promoting Nepal’s tourism to wider audiences.
Narendra Dev Bhatt, General Secretary of PATA and coordinator of the mart, stated that the event plays a vital role in connecting Nepal’s tourism industry with global source markets. “Since its inception in 2017, HTM has become Nepal’s leading international tourism trade platform, enabling strong business connections and fostering professional opportunities in the global travel and hospitality sector,” Bhatt said.
This year’s B2B (business-to-business) sessions include participation from over 60 international buyers from countries such as the United States, Europe, Australia, South Africa, Russia, and CIS nations, and 65 sellers representing Nepal and neighboring countries including India, Bhutan, China, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
Broad Range of Tourism Topics Covered
The mart’s parallel conference sessions will feature 20+ speakers discussing diverse tourism themes such as spiritual, adventure, luxury tourism, sustainable travel, and emerging market trends. Organizers believe the event will not only create strong international tourism linkages but also present Nepal as a holistic, year-round travel destination.
The official inauguration ceremony of the Himalayan Travel Mart 2025 is scheduled for this evening, where government dignitaries, ambassadors, and industry leaders are expected to attend. With its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and a growing focus on sustainability, Nepal is positioning itself strongly on the world tourism map, and events like the Himalayan Travel Mart are playing a pivotal role in that journey.
