The Society of Travel and Tour Operators Nepal SOTTO-Nepal successfully concluded its 18th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and annual picnic on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the Royal Tulip Kathmandu, located near the serene surroundings of Shivapuri National Park. The event brought together leading travel entrepreneurs, tourism stakeholders, and member agencies in a collaborative atmosphere focused on reviewing the past year and strengthening future strategies for Nepal’s tourism sector.
The program was designed as both a formal institutional gathering and a community-building occasion, reflecting the dual objective of governance and networking within the travel trade fraternity. From registration and breakfast to the national anthem and a moment of silence, the AGM opened with a disciplined and respectful tone, setting the stage for constructive deliberations.
Annual Reports and Institutional Updates of SOTTO-Nepal
During the formal session, the General Secretary and Treasurer of SOTTO-Nepal presented detailed progress reports highlighting organizational activities, financial performance, and key initiatives undertaken over the past year. The reports underscored steady operational continuity despite external challenges affecting the global tourism industry.
Members actively engaged in discussions on policy-related matters, including the appointment of auditors and the review of remuneration structures. These discussions reflected the association’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and institutional strengthening.
A key focus of the General Secretary’s report was SOTTO-Nepal’s ongoing advocacy efforts against the implementation of Value Added Tax (VAT) on the tourism sector. Members emphasized that such taxation measures could impact Nepal’s international competitiveness, particularly at a time when the industry is still recovering from multiple external shocks.
Industry Challenges and Recovery Outlook
The AGM also served as a platform to reflect on broader industry challenges. Members discussed the gradual recovery of tourism following the COVID-19 pandemic and acknowledged that while arrival numbers have improved, the sector continues to face uncertainty due to global geopolitical tensions.
Issues such as fluctuating flight operations, rising operational costs, and foreign exchange instability were identified as key concerns affecting outbound and inbound tourism flows. Participants stressed the need for coordinated policy responses and stronger public-private collaboration to ensure long-term stability and resilience in the tourism ecosystem.
Expansion of Membership Network
A major highlight of the AGM was the formal induction of 15 new member agencies into SOTTO-Nepal, strengthening the organization’s institutional base and expanding its national network. Among the newly welcomed members were prominent travel firms such as Let’s Go Tours and Travels, Zeta Tours and Travels, and Zeotale Travels and Tours, along with 12 other agencies contributing to Nepal’s growing tourism landscape. The inclusion of new members was widely viewed as a positive sign of confidence in SOTTO-Nepal’s role as a representative body advocating for the rights and interests of travel operators across the country.
International Outreach and Collaboration
The meeting also reviewed successful international initiatives undertaken during the year, particularly the Business-to-Business (B2B) Sales Mission held in Kolkata, India, in January 2026. The program was organized in collaboration with the Nepal Tourism Board and supported by Buddha Air.
The event brought together more than 140 Indian travel entrepreneurs and industry stakeholders, creating a strong platform for cross-border tourism promotion. Participants highlighted the importance of such initiatives in strengthening regional tourism ties and expanding Nepal’s visibility in key international markets.
Annual Picnic and Networking Session
Following the formal proceedings, members transitioned into the annual “Banbhoj” (picnic), held within the peaceful natural surroundings near Shivapuri. The informal gathering provided an opportunity for travel professionals to engage in relaxed networking, exchange ideas, and strengthen interpersonal relationships within the industry. The picnic was widely appreciated as a vital component of the AGM, helping to reinforce unity and camaraderie among members beyond formal discussions.
Conclusion and Organizing Committee Remarks
Concluding the event, the organizing committee expressed gratitude to all participating members for their presence and contributions. In its closing remarks, SOTTO-Nepal emphasized that the successful completion of the 18th AGM and picnic reflects the collective strength and resilience of Nepal’s travel trade community.
The organization reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for favorable tourism policies, promoting international partnerships, and supporting the sustainable growth of Nepal’s tourism sector in the coming years.
