The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) has expressed serious concern over misleading and factually incorrect information circulating across various media outlets and online platforms regarding alleged new travel regulations for Indian visitors to Nepal. Reports claiming that the Government of Nepal has introduced mandatory identity card requirements for Indian nationals crossing the Nepal–India border, imposed a 30-day cap on Indian tourist stays, or authorized the confiscation of vehicles for overstaying have been categorically dismissed as false, baseless, and misleading. The NTB has clarified that no such new policy has been introduced and that there has been no change in the longstanding open-border arrangements and bilateral understandings between Nepal and India.
Open Border Arrangements Remain Unchanged
The Government of Nepal has reaffirmed that the historic open-border system between Nepal and India continues to remain intact. There are no new restrictions on the duration of stay for Indian tourists, and the existing travel facilitation practices remain unchanged.
Authorities emphasized that the cultural, social, and people-to-people ties between the two countries remain strong and continue to serve as the foundation of tourism and cross-border mobility. The NTB further stressed that tourism cooperation between Nepal and India is built on mutual trust, ease of travel, and shared heritage, all of which remain unaffected by recent false reports.
New Digital System Introduced to Ease Border Procedures
In contrast to the misinformation being spread, the Government of Nepal has recently introduced a new online facilitation system designed to simplify travel procedures for Indian tourists and other international visitors entering Nepal via land routes with private vehicles.
Developed by the Department of Customs under the Ministry of Finance, the system allows foreign vehicles to obtain temporary entry permits and complete revenue payments entirely online. This digital initiative is aimed at reducing congestion at border points, minimizing administrative delays, and improving the overall travel experience. Officials have highlighted that the system is not a restrictive measure but a facilitative reform intended to modernize border management and enhance tourism services.
NTB Urges Responsible Reporting and Verification
The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) has strongly urged media organizations, digital platforms, tourism stakeholders, and the general public to avoid spreading unverified or misleading information regarding Nepal’s tourism policies. It has called for reliance on official government sources for accurate and updated information, emphasizing the importance of responsible reporting in maintaining Nepal’s reputation as a welcoming destination.
Nepal Reaffirms Commitment to Friendly Tourism Environment
Reiterating its position, the Government of Nepal has stated that the country remains a safe, friendly, and open destination for visitors from India and around the world.
Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to promoting smooth cross-border travel, sustainable tourism development, and high-quality visitor experiences while preserving the long-standing spirit of friendship and cooperation between Nepal and India.
