Hotel Association Nepal (HAN), led by its President Binayak Shah, held a high-level discussion with Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Khadak Raj Paudel (Ganes) and senior ministry officials on October 27, 2026, to discuss key priorities for promoting and strengthening Nepal’s tourism industry.
The meeting focused on improving the operation of international airports, restructuring the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), strengthening Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) and establishing a National Tourism Authority to enhance coordination and support tourism development.
Effective Operation of Pokhara and Gautam Buddha International Airports
The effective operation of Pokhara International Airport and Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa was among the major issues discussed. Participants emphasized the need to make both airports more effective in supporting international air connectivity and attracting visitors to destinations beyond Kathmandu.
Improved international connectivity could create new opportunities for tourism businesses in Pokhara, Lumbini and surrounding areas. Strengthening the role of these airports was highlighted as an important step towards expanding Nepal’s tourism markets, encouraging regional tourism development and improving the country’s accessibility for international travellers.
Restructuring Nepal Tourism Board
The meeting also discussed restructuring the Nepal Tourism Board to make the institution more effective, responsive and results-oriented in promoting Nepal as an international tourism destination. Participants highlighted the importance of strengthening its institutional capacity and adapting promotional strategies to changing global tourism trends and travellers’ expectations. A more effective tourism promotion framework could help improve destination marketing and coordination between the public and private sectors. The discussion underscored the importance of collaboration among tourism stakeholders in enhancing Nepal’s visibility in international markets and supporting the growth of the tourism industry.
Strengthening Nepal Airlines Corporation
Strengthening and streamlining Nepal Airlines Corporation was another key priority raised during the meeting. Participants discussed the importance of improving the national carrier’s operational efficiency, service delivery and competitiveness in the international aviation market. A stronger national carrier could contribute to tourism development by supporting international air connectivity and making Nepal more accessible to overseas visitors. Improving the corporation’s performance was therefore highlighted as an important component of the country’s broader tourism promotion efforts.
Proposal for a National Tourism Authority
The establishment of a National Tourism Authority was also discussed as a potential measure to improve coordination and create a more integrated framework for tourism development. Participants emphasized the importance of addressing institutional challenges and strengthening cooperation among government agencies and private-sector stakeholders. The meeting brought together representatives from the government and tourism industry to exchange views on these priorities.
It was attended by the ministry’s Secretary and Joint Secretaries, Nepal Tourism Board board members and its acting Chief Executive Officer, along with presidents and office-bearers of various tourism-related associations and organisations. The discussion concluded with a decision to continue holding similar meetings periodically between tourism associations and government bodies. Regular dialogue is expected to provide a platform for addressing industry concerns, identifying priorities and strengthening cooperation in support of Nepal’s tourism development.
