With the inspiring slogan “In the Lap of Nature and Culture”, the Karnali Tourism Meet-2026 has officially begun in Birendranagar, Surkhet, creating renewed optimism for positioning Karnali Province as a competitive destination in the international tourism market.
Organized by the Nepal Tourism Board and Birendranagar Municipality, in coordination with the Hotel Entrepreneurs Federation Surkhet, Dullu Municipality, and Gurans Rural Municipality, the event has brought together tourism leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and international stakeholders under one platform. The three-day event, held in Birendranagar, focuses on discussions around Karnali’s tourism potential, cultural richness, and strategies for sustainable tourism development.
High-Level Participation Highlights Tourism Importance
The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of key national and provincial leaders, reflecting the growing importance of Karnali in Nepal’s tourism roadmap. The event was inaugurated by Karnali Province Minister for Industry, Tourism, Forest, and Environment Suresh Adhikari as the chief guest. Distinguished attendees included Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Mukunda Prasad Niraula, CEO of Nepal Tourism Board Hikmat Singh Ayer, Mayor of Birendranagar Municipality Mohanmaya Dhakal, Chairperson of Gurans Rural Municipality Top Bahadur BC, Chief District Officer of Surkhet Jagdishwor Upadhaya, representatives from tourism associations, Indian tourism entrepreneurs, and private sector stakeholders from Karnali and Lumbini provinces.
The diverse participation highlighted Karnali’s emerging role as a cross-border tourism destination with strong regional and international relevance.
Karnali as a Land of Experience, Not Just a Destination
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Minister Suresh Adhikari emphasized that it is not just a place to visit but a region to experience deeply. He stated that although Karnali has historically been perceived as geographically remote, it is now gaining recognition as a land of immense tourism potential. “It is not only for travel, but it is also for experience,” he said. “Its culture, nature, and communities are its real strength.”
He stressed the need to brand iconic destinations such as Rara Lake, Shey-Phoksundo, Kakrebihar, Gurans region, Humla, and Dolpa for international tourism markets. The minister also highlighted that Nepal–India tourism cooperation is expected to grow further, stating that the Karnali Tourism Meet would help strengthen bilateral tourism ties and open new opportunities for collaboration.
Karnali as a Living Museum of Himalayan Culture
Secretary Mukunda Prasad Niraula described the place as more than just a province in western Nepal, calling it a “living museum” of Himalayan civilization, biodiversity, and traditional lifestyles. He noted that global tourism trends are shifting toward authentic experiences rather than artificial attractions. “Tourists today seek cultural understanding, local life experiences, spiritual peace, and connection with nature,” he said. “Karnali offers all of these.”
He also emphasized the growing importance of Surkhet as a strategic tourism hub, noting that it is no longer just a transit point but a gateway to its tourism economy. According to him, improvements in road connectivity, air access, hotel infrastructure, and business activities have significantly increased Surkhet’s importance. He urged tourism entrepreneurs to ensure high-quality services so that visitors leave with memorable experiences, as Surkhet is often the first impression of Karnali for many tourists.
Government’s Focus on Tourism Transformation
Secretary Niraula further stated that the Government of Nepal is actively promoting tourism as a key driver of economic transformation. He highlighted ongoing policy reforms, including amendments to tourism laws, investment-friendly frameworks, rural tourism promotion, wellness tourism strategies, and expansion of religious and adventure tourism.
“The province should no longer be seen as remote, but as a land of rare opportunities,” he said. “It should now be promoted as a high-value tourism destination.” He added that tourism must contribute to employment generation, local product promotion, and improved livelihoods for local communities. He also extended an invitation to Indian tourism entrepreneurs to explore Karnali, invest in tourism development, and promote the region among Indian travelers.
India Identified as Key Tourism Market
Officiating CEO of Nepal Tourism Board Hikmat Singh Ayer highlighted India as one of the largest tourism source markets for Nepal and identified Karnali as a highly promising destination for Indian tourists. He noted that although Karnali does not share a direct border with India, it is accessible within a few hours of travel, making it a convenient destination for Indian visitors.
He said Karnali’s cool climate, cultural diversity, and Himalayan experiences make it an ideal summer tourism package. “We invite Indian tourists to explore Karnali, especially during this season,” he said. He stressed the need to improve service quality, expand infrastructure, strengthen connectivity, and build partnerships with Indian tourism stakeholders.
Local Governments Emphasize Tourism Development
Birendranagar Mayor Mohanmaya Dhakal highlighted the untapped tourism potential of the province, stating that its attractions have not been adequately promoted. She emphasized that Surkhet serves as an entry point for journeys toward Kailash Mansarovar, increasing its strategic importance in international tourism. She reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay for visitors.
Similarly, Gurans Rural Municipality Chairperson Top Bahadur BC said local governments are actively promoting tourism as an industry and raising awareness at the community level. He said the event has opened new opportunities for increasing tourist arrivals in Karnali.
Private Sector and International Interest
Tourism entrepreneur Shreeram Sigdel described Surkhet as the “gateway of Karnali tourism” and emphasized its potential as a tourism hub. Indian tourism industry representative Rajesh Sinha, President of the Travel Trade Welfare Association of India, said Karnali has emerged as a new and exciting destination for Indian travelers. He expressed commitment to developing travel packages and promoting Karnali in the Indian market, especially during the summer season.
Surkhet Chief District Officer Jagdishwor Upadhaya assured that security arrangements for tourists and tourism activities remain a priority for the local administration. Surkhet Chamber of Commerce President Harsh Bikram Khadka expressed confidence that the event would serve as a milestone for Karnali’s tourism development, highlighting attractions such as Kakrebihar, Bulbule Lake, Bheri rafting, and Deuti Bajai Temple.
Academic Insight and Cultural Showcase
A working paper titled “Karnali Province Tourism: Opportunities and Challenges” was presented by Associate Professor Hari Subedi of Mahendra Multiple Campus, providing academic insight into the region’s tourism landscape. The opening ceremony concluded with remarks from event coordinator and Hotel Entrepreneurs Federation Karnali President Tarka Bahadur Shahi, who stressed the need for cooperation among the government, private sector, and local bodies. The event also featured vibrant cultural performances, including Hudke dance, Deuda performances, and traditional Karnali cultural displays, showcasing the region’s rich heritage.
FAM Trips and Tourism Exposure Programs Ahead
As part of the Karnali Tourism Meet-2026, familiarization trips have been planned for participating Indian tourism entrepreneurs and journalists. On Friday, participants will visit Dailekh and Gurans Hill Station, where they will experience local culture, organic cuisine, and tourism potential. On Saturday, tours will continue in Surkhet, including visits to Gothikanda, Kotgadhi, and other scenic sites. The program is scheduled to conclude on Jestha 10, marking the end of a significant tourism promotion initiative aimed at integrating Karnali into global tourism networks.
