Nepal’s tourism industry is currently facing unprecedented difficulties, according to two leading institutions in the sector, the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) and the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN). Both organizations issued a joint statement expressing deep concern over the recent protests led by the GEN-Z movement and their impact on the country’s tourism environment.
Tourism Industry Urges Calm and Cooperation
In the joint press release, NMA and TAAN highlighted that the tourism sector is operating under extremely challenging circumstances. The organizations stressed that while the GEN-Z movement has raised important concerns regarding corruption and governance, it is crucial to maintain peace and order to prevent further disruption to the country’s economy and the tourism-friendly environment.
The statement emphasized the urgency of addressing GEN-Z’s demands without any delay, noting that immediate action is essential to protect the nation from further harm. “The path of destruction must come to an end,” the release read, underlining the importance of constructive dialogue and cooperation between all stakeholders.
Call for Citizen Government and Peaceful Resolution
The joint statement also proposed the formation of a citizen-led government under an impartial and widely accepted leadership to address the grievances raised by GEN-Z. Both organizations appealed for swift measures to ensure national peace and stability, which they described as indispensable for reviving the tourism industry and safeguarding livelihoods dependent on it.
According to NMA and TAAN, the creation of a peaceful and orderly environment is not only necessary for tourism recovery but also vital for maintaining Nepal’s image as a safe and welcoming destination for domestic and international visitors. The organizations stressed that the tourism sector thrives only when security, law, and civil harmony are ensured across the country.
Condolences for Losses During Protests
The Nepal Mountaineering Association and TAAN also expressed their heartfelt condolences to the families of young individuals who lost their lives during the GEN-Z demonstrations. The organizations extended wishes for a speedy recovery to those injured during the protests, reaffirming their solidarity with the affected families and communities.
The statement recognized that the protests, while highlighting legitimate concerns, have caused significant disruption to tourism activities, including trekking, mountaineering expeditions, and hospitality services. Travel operators, guides, and hoteliers across the country are struggling to maintain operations amid road blockages, security concerns, and general unrest.
Tourism Sector Under Strain
Tourism, being one of Nepal’s primary sources of foreign exchange and employment, has already been struggling due to external challenges such as global economic fluctuations and natural disasters. The added pressure from civil unrest has further strained the industry. According to industry insiders, cancellations of trekking and mountaineering expeditions, hotel bookings, and domestic flights have already led to substantial financial losses.
Both NMA and TAAN urged the government and civil society to prioritize the restoration of a peaceful environment, emphasizing that the tourism sector cannot recover until order is reestablished. They also appealed to tourists to remain patient and reassured them that the industry is committed to providing safe and enjoyable experiences once conditions stabilize.
Appeal for Unity and Collaboration
The joint statement concluded with a strong call for unity among all stakeholders. NMA and TAAN emphasized that collaboration between government authorities, civil society, local communities, and tourism operators is critical to ensuring that Nepal’s tourism sector survives and thrives.
They highlighted that while the GEN-Z movement’s demands must be addressed, it is equally important to prevent further damage to infrastructure, cultural sites, and the natural environment that attracts visitors from around the world. The organizations stressed that sustainable tourism depends on maintaining both peace and public confidence in Nepal’s stability.
Looking Forward
In light of the current challenges, NMA and TAAN urged prompt action to implement GEN-Z’s legitimate demands and to establish a governance framework that is transparent, accountable, and inclusive. The organizations called for immediate peace-building measures and the creation of a secure environment where tourism activities can resume safely and sustainably.
The press release made it clear that the future of Nepal’s tourism industry hinges not only on policy decisions but also on the collective responsibility of the nation to ensure harmony, stability, and respect for life. Both associations reiterated their commitment to supporting initiatives that promote peace, protect human lives, and safeguard Nepal’s reputation as a premier travel destination.
