Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Khadak Raj Paudel has emphasized the need to develop Pokhara into a world-class international tourism destination, stating that the government has placed high priority on improving infrastructure, enhancing connectivity, and expanding the city’s presence in the global tourism market.
Addressing an interaction program on Tourism Promotion and Development of Tourism Infrastructure, organized by Pokhara Metropolitan City on Sunday, Minister Paudel said Nepal’s tourism capital has immense potential to attract more international visitors and that the government is committed to creating the necessary conditions to realize that vision.
Road Connectivity and Tourism Infrastructure Among Top Priorities
Minister Paudel said the government has prioritized the upgradation of road networks leading to Pokhara to ensure safer, faster, and more comfortable travel for both domestic and international tourists. He noted that improved transportation infrastructure is essential for strengthening Pokhara’s tourism industry and supporting sustainable growth in the region.
According to the minister, the federal government is also investing in the development of tourism infrastructure and expanding access to international markets as part of its long-term strategy to position Pokhara as one of South Asia’s leading travel destinations.
Special Focus on International Flights from Pokhara Airport
The tourism minister also reiterated the government’s commitment to making Pokhara International Airport fully operational for regular international flights. He said the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation is making special efforts to ensure the launch and expansion of international air services from the airport, which is considered crucial for increasing foreign tourist arrivals and strengthening Pokhara’s role as an international gateway. The airport, inaugurated in 2023, has long been viewed as a key catalyst for tourism growth, although regular international commercial flights have remained limited.
Promoting Lake and River-Based Tourism
Highlighting Pokhara’s unique natural assets, Minister Paudel said the city should expand tourism activities centered on its lakes and rivers. Describing Pokhara as a “city of lakes and rivers,” he stressed that water-based tourism has significant potential to diversify tourism products and attract visitors seeking adventure, recreation, and nature-based experiences.
He also informed participants that the federal government has already allocated the necessary budget for the construction of the Swaminarayan Temple and the Rishi Vatsayan Temple, projects expected to further strengthen Pokhara’s religious and cultural tourism offerings.
Mayor Highlights Ongoing Development Projects
Speaking at the program, Dhan Raj Acharya said Pokhara has achieved several important development milestones through collaboration with development partners. He added that numerous tourism and infrastructure projects are currently under implementation, reflecting the city’s continued commitment to enhancing its tourism potential and urban development.
Stakeholders Discuss Tourism Development
The interaction brought together the Ministry’s Secretary, senior government officials, tourism entrepreneurs, and stakeholders from Nepal’s tourism industry to discuss strategies for tourism promotion, infrastructure development, and strengthening Pokhara’s position as a premier international destination.
The discussion focused on improving connectivity, expanding tourism products, and enhancing cooperation among federal, provincial, and local governments to accelerate the sustainable growth of Pokhara’s tourism sector.
