Nepalgunj hosted the Nepal–India Cross-Border Tourism Conclave with the objective of strengthening tourism cooperation and enhancing cross-border travel between the two neighboring countries. The three-day event brought together tourism entrepreneurs, policymakers, security officials, and private sector representatives from Nepal and India to discuss common challenges and identify new opportunities for regional tourism growth.
Positioning Nepalgunj as a Tourism Destination
The conclave placed strong emphasis on improving travel facilitation and addressing border-related issues that often hinder tourist movement. Discussions focused on repositioning Nepalgunj not just as a transit hub, but as an attractive tourism destination in its own right, with particular potential in religious, cultural, wellness, and regional tourism.
Speaking at the event, Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) Chief Executive Officer Deepak Raj Joshi highlighted the importance of cross-border collaboration in expanding tourism flows. He noted that closer cooperation could significantly promote emerging segments such as wedding tourism, wellness tourism, and nature-based experiences in Nepal, benefiting communities on both sides of the border.
Business Engagement and Cultural Exchange
The conclave featured a series of panel discussions, business-to-business (B2B) meetings, experience-sharing sessions, and cultural programs. These activities provided a platform for Nepali and Indian tourism businesses to build partnerships, exchange market insights, and explore joint tourism products and packages.
Participants emphasized that stronger coordination among tourism authorities, private sector stakeholders, and security agencies is essential for ensuring smooth and safe cross-border travel. Improved connectivity and visitor-friendly border management were identified as key drivers for increasing tourist arrivals.
Strengthening Regional Tourism Ties
Organizers expressed confidence that the Nepal–India Cross-Border Tourism Conclave would play a crucial role in deepening regional tourism ties and enhancing mutual understanding between the two countries. By promoting collaboration and innovation, the initiative is expected to contribute to sustainable tourism development and position border cities like Nepalgunj as vibrant gateways for cross-border travel between Nepal and India.
