In a landmark move to spotlight Nepal’s underexplored yet richly endowed Far Western region, the Far West Travel Mart officially began today with much enthusiasm in Bhimdatta Municipality, Kanchanpur. This three-day tourism exposition, taking place from May 9 to 11, is jointly organized by Bhimdatta Municipality and the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB). With the central theme of promoting the Far West’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure tourism, the event has been carefully curated to build networks, encourage tourism investment, and present the region as a top travel destination for both domestic and international travelers.
The inaugural session was graced by Mr. Udaya Bhattarai, Senior Manager of NTB, who welcomed the guests with an insightful address highlighting the importance of balancing conservation with sustainable tourism development. He stressed that the Far West region is increasingly gaining momentum as a tourism hub with unique experiences ranging from spiritual journeys to ecological exploration. According to him, events like the Far West Travel Mart are not only crucial for regional development but also align with Nepal’s broader goal of inclusive tourism growth.
The Mart was officially inaugurated by the Honorable Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Mr. Badri Prasad Pandey, who opened the event by symbolically watering plants, underscoring the commitment to eco-friendly tourism. In his keynote speech, the Minister highlighted the need for infrastructure development and policy-level collaboration to integrate the Far West into national and international tourism circuits. He emphasized that the government is determined to uplift the region and that such promotional events will act as key drivers in transforming its economic landscape.
Adding to the strategic vision, Mr. Deepak Raj Joshi, CEO of the Nepal Tourism Board, stated, “The Far West is no longer a hidden gem it is a rising destination. Through initiatives like the Travel Mart, we are telling the world that this region is ready to welcome explorers, pilgrims, and adventurers.” He also mentioned that the NTB would continue to support innovative tourism platforms that help spread tourism benefits equitably across Nepal.
One of the key highlights of the Mart is the participation of over 40 prominent tour operators from India, making the event a strong platform for cross-border tourism promotion. Delegates from the Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA), Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), and other tourism-related organizations are also attending the event. Additionally, local tourism entrepreneurs from various districts of the Far West have joined to share experiences, discuss opportunities, and form collaborative ties.
To provide a rich cultural immersion, the event features traditional performances by the Rana Tharu and Tharu communities, offering attendees a glimpse into the vibrant local customs and way of life. These cultural showcases add authenticity to the event and highlight the cultural depth the region has to offer. Tourists and travel agents alike are being introduced to stunning destinations like Badimalika, Khaptad National Park, Ramaroshan, Api Himal, Saipal Himal, and Ugratara Temple, among others. Each of these destinations offers unique experiences, from high-altitude spiritual retreats to unspoiled trekking routes and biodiversity hotspots.
In line with promoting smart tourism, a new QR Code Service has been launched during the Mart. This innovation allows travelers to digitally access comprehensive information about various tourist destinations, transportation options, accommodation details, and cultural heritage, all in real time. The NTB believes that digital tools like these are essential for enhancing visitor experiences and guiding tourists effectively through the region.
The Far West Travel Mart is more than just a promotional event; it is a declaration that Nepal’s Far West is ready to take its place on the global tourism map. The region holds enormous potential for diverse tourism activities with its majestic Himalayan views, dense forests, spiritual sites, and deeply rooted traditions. Whether it’s adventure, pilgrimage, cultural exploration, or nature-based retreats, the Far West offers something for everyone.
The event continues with a series of introductory sessions, networking meetings, and field visits that allow stakeholders to experience first-hand the tourism assets of the Far West. These excursions are expected to foster better understanding, investment interest, and future collaboration between tourism professionals and the local communities. Scheduled to conclude on May 11, the Mart marks a significant step in repositioning Nepal’s tourism narrative to prominently include the Far West.
NTB officials and participating stakeholders are optimistic that this initiative will result in tangible growth in inbound tourism, particularly from neighboring India, and open up new possibilities for sustainable economic development in the region. With continued support from governmental bodies, local communities, and private sector stakeholders, the Far West Travel Mart is poised to become a catalyst for change, reshaping perceptions and transforming the Far West into a must-visit destination in Nepal’s tourism portfolio.
