On this occasion, several personalities were honored for their outstanding contributions to the sector, among which Mr. Kumar Mani Thapaliya was presented with the prestigious Tourism Excellence Award 2025, honoring his decades of service, leadership, and commitment to elevating Nepal’s tourism sector.
Nepal observed the 46th World Tourism Day 2025 with a grand celebration organized jointly by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism & Civil Aviation and the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB). The event highlighted the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation” while recognizing outstanding contributions to the nation’s tourism industry.
A Veteran Leader in Nepal’s Tourism Industry
Mr. Thapaliya has been actively shaping Nepal’s tourism landscape since the early 2000s. Currently, he serves as the President of the Nepal Association of Tour & Travel Agents (NATTA) for the 2024–2026 term and is also a Board Member of the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) since 2025.
In addition, he leads Precious Travels & Tours as Chief Executive Officer, a role he has held since 2010. Through these multiple responsibilities, he has skillfully combined institutional leadership with professional expertise, contributing significantly to tourism development, capacity building, and policy reform.
Key Role in Policy and Strategic Development
One of Mr. Thapaliya’s most notable achievements has been his active involvement in drafting Nepal’s Tourism Policy 2081. His emphasis on sustainability, ethical practices, and a business-friendly environment has been instrumental in shaping a roadmap for the sector’s long-term growth.
Under his leadership, NATTA has worked closely with government bodies and private stakeholders to align tourism with international best practices while addressing the unique needs of Nepal’s diverse destinations.
Building Global Partnerships for Nepal
A central aspect of Mr. Thapaliya’s contribution has been his focus on international collaboration. He has played a pivotal role in strengthening Nepal’s ties with globally recognized tourism associations, including:
- ABTO Bhutan
- IATO India & ABTO India
- UFTAA (United Federation of Travel Agents’ Associations)
- UMTA Myanmar
- IMTA China
- TOAB Bangladesh
These strategic alliances have expanded Nepal’s visibility on the world stage, fostering cooperation, cultural exchange, and joint promotion across South Asia, East Asia, and beyond.
Commitment to Sustainable and Ethical Tourism
Throughout his career, Mr. Thapaliya has championed tourism not only as an economic driver but also as a catalyst for cultural preservation and environmental sustainability. His vision emphasizes aligning Nepal’s tourism with global standards while ensuring that the country’s unique cultural identity and natural resources remain central to its appeal.
Colleagues and industry stakeholders recognize him for his diplomatic approach, inclusive leadership, and tireless advocacy, qualities that have earned him respect both at home and internationally.
A Well-Deserved Honor
The Tourism Excellence Award 2025 serves as a testament to Mr. Thapaliya’s decades-long dedication and visionary leadership. Speaking on the recognition, industry representatives highlighted that his efforts have not only strengthened Nepal’s tourism infrastructure but also enhanced its reputation as a premier global travel destination.
As Nepal continues its journey toward recovery and sustainable transformation, leaders like Kumar Mani Thapaliya remain at the forefront of ensuring that the sector grows responsibly, inclusively, and in alignment with global opportunities.
