Bagmati Province’s Minister for Culture and Tourism Suresh Shrestha has said that Thamel, Nepal’s most prominent tourism and commercial hub, has played a significant role in establishing the country’s identity on the international tourism map. Speaking at the 30th and 31st Annual General Meeting and Election of the Thamel Tourism Development Council (TTDC) held in Kathmandu, Minister Shrestha highlighted Thamel’s longstanding contribution to Nepal’s tourism industry and stressed the need for continued investment and infrastructure development to maintain its global appeal.
Bagmati Province Allocates Rs 4 Billion for Tourism Development
Addressing the gathering, Minister Shrestha said the Bagmati Provincial Government has allocated Rs 4 billion for tourism promotion and tourism infrastructure development in the fiscal year 2083/84 BS. He stated that the investment is aimed at strengthening tourism facilities, improving visitor experiences, and enhancing the competitiveness of destinations across the province. The minister also expressed concern over the financial difficulties faced by many entrepreneurs operating businesses in Thamel, noting that some are struggling even to pay house rent. He urged the TTDC to work closely with business owners and landlords to help address the challenges confronting tourism entrepreneurs.
Call for a Safe, Smart and Well-Managed
Speaking on the occasion, Rojina Shrestha, Ward Chairperson of Kathmandu Metropolitan City Ward No. 16, emphasized the need to transform Thamel into a safe, well-managed, and technology-driven tourism destination. She said Thamel has made an important contribution to promoting Nepal internationally and stressed that modernization, improved security, and smart urban management would further strengthen its position as the country’s leading tourism district.
NATTA President Highlights Aviation Challenges
Kumar Mani Thapaliya, President of the Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA), said that the majority of international visitors traveling to Nepal visit Thamel at least once during their stay. However, he observed that the area has become increasingly congested due to rapid commercial expansion and urban development.
Thapaliya also pointed out that Nepal’s tourism sector cannot achieve its full potential without greater investment in aviation infrastructure and increased air connectivity. He emphasized that improving flight capacity and expanding airport infrastructure are essential to supporting sustained growth in international tourist arrivals.
Thamel Tourism Development Council (TTDC) Calls for Special Federal Development Plan
TTDC President Dhruba Adhikari said the council has been working in close collaboration with local entrepreneurs and property owners to promote and develop the area. He stressed that, given its international reputation and its importance to Nepal’s tourism economy, the federal government should formulate a special development plan dedicated to the area’s long-term growth and modernization. Adhikari said such a plan would help preserve Thamel’s identity while improving infrastructure, public services, and the overall visitor experience.
Tourism Leaders Stress Importance of Thamel
Former TTDC President Dr. Ram Sharan Thapaliya, Vice President Sahadev Dhamala (Bimal), General Secretary Badri Timilsina, and other speakers also underscored the importance of developing Thamel as a world-class tourism destination. They highlighted the need for coordinated efforts among government agencies, tourism stakeholders, business communities, and residents to further strengthen Thamel’s competitiveness in the international tourism market.
Over Three Decades of Tourism Leadership
Established in 1991 (2048 BS), the Thamel Tourism Development Council has played a central role in promoting Nepal’s tourism industry through destination management, business coordination, and tourism advocacy. Today, the council represents more than 1,500 property owners and tourism-related businesses, making it one of the country’s largest tourism organizations. Tourism stakeholders at the event expressed confidence that with continued investment, improved infrastructure, stronger aviation connectivity, and effective public-private collaboration, Thamel will continue to serve as Nepal’s premier tourism hub and an important gateway for international visitors exploring the country.
