With a strong emphasis on promoting domestic tourism through improved bus and air connectivity, the Hotel Association Pokhara (HAPN) has successfully concluded its ‘Jau Hai Pokhara’ campaign. The initiative aimed to connect Pokhara with major cities of western Nepal through quality transport services, encouraging more internal tourists to visit the scenic lake city and its surrounding attractions.
Strengthening Pokhara’s Ties with Western Nepal
The campaign, which ran from Jestha 29 to Ashadh 2, saw a series of interactive programs, press conferences, and strategic discussions held in five key cities of western Nepal, Palpa, Butwal, Nepalgunj, Surkhet, and Dang (Ghorahi). The primary goal was to explore ways to improve accessibility to Pokhara, regarded as one of Nepal’s most iconic tourist destinations.
Organized under the leadership of Laxman Subedi, President of the Hotel Association Pokhara and the campaign coordinator, the program engaged tourism entrepreneurs, transportation service providers, local government representatives, and media personnel to build regional tourism partnerships.
Emphasis on Quality Bus and Air Services
During the campaign, stakeholders strongly advocated for the launch of quality bus services to ensure comfortable and reliable travel experiences for tourists. In addition, discussions were held on coordinating with airlines and local authorities to enhance regional air connectivity, especially linking Pokhara with major western cities.
Speakers at the various events emphasized that strengthening infrastructure and transport services is vital to boost the flow of domestic tourists and help balance tourism development across provinces. They stressed that Pokhara can serve as a central tourism hub for Western Nepal if well-connected via road and air.
Reinvigorating a Campaign Two Decades in the Making
The ‘Jau Hai Pokhara’ campaign is not new. In fact, it was first launched by the HAPN two decades ago with the goal of encouraging Nepali citizens to explore Pokhara. Over the years, the campaign has grown into a symbol of local tourism promotion and a model for collaboration between stakeholders from different regions.
“This year’s campaign has taken on greater significance in the post-pandemic era, as Nepalis increasingly look toward local destinations for travel and recreation,” said Laxman Subedi. “Improving access is the first step toward unlocking the tourism potential of Pokhara and its surrounding areas.”
Connecting the Seven Provinces Through Tourism
One of the campaign’s long-term visions is to connect all seven provinces of Nepal to Pokhara through improved transportation networks. In that regard, the HAPN is actively advocating for partnerships with transport companies, civil aviation operators, and provincial governments.
“We believe Pokhara can become a central gateway for tourism for the entire country if we ensure ease of access,” said Subedi. “Tourism thrives when destinations are reachable, and our campaign is focused on just that, making Pokhara more accessible for all Nepalis.”
Focus on Collaboration with Local Governments
Throughout the campaign, the importance of collaboration between the private sector and local governments was a key theme. Officials highlighted the need for joint efforts to develop tourism-friendly policies, invest in infrastructure, and support initiatives that promote internal travel.
Representatives from municipalities, tourism offices, and chambers of commerce participated in the discussions, expressing commitment to working together to make tourism a shared priority in western Nepal.
Local Tourism as a Driver of Economic Revival
The campaign also stressed the economic benefits of domestic tourism. By attracting tourists from nearby regions, Pokhara’s hotel industry, restaurants, transportation services, and local artisans can all benefit from increased economic activity. It was noted that investing in local tourism is a sustainable way to ensure economic recovery and resilience in the face of global uncertainties. Participants pointed out that enhancing domestic travel experiences also builds national pride, promotes cultural exchange, and reduces dependency on foreign tourist markets.
A Call to Action
The successful completion of the ‘Jau Hai Pokhara’ campaign marks an important step toward a more connected, inclusive, and resilient tourism economy in Nepal. With growing momentum and stakeholder collaboration, the HAPN plans to continue its advocacy for improved travel networks and regional integration.
Stakeholders have expressed optimism that the recommendations and relationships built during the campaign will soon translate into tangible improvements, making Pokhara not just a destination, but a gateway to the west.
As Nepal aims to boost its domestic tourism sector, campaigns like ‘Jau Hai Pokhara’ serve as shining examples of how vision, collaboration, and connectivity can create new opportunities for sustainable tourism development across the country.
