Nepal recorded a significant increase in international tourist arrivals during the first six months of 2026, reflecting the country’s continued recovery and growing appeal as a global travel destination.
According to the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), a total of 620,453 foreign tourists visited Nepal between January and June 2026, compared to 577,689 arrivals during the corresponding period in 2025. This represents an increase of 42,764 visitors, or approximately 7.4 percent year-on-year.
The NTB attributed the steady growth primarily to the expansion of international air connectivity, with increased flight frequencies and improved access to Kathmandu from several overseas destinations. Enhanced airline services have made Nepal more accessible to international travelers, contributing to the rise in visitor numbers.
Monthly Tourist Arrivals Show Consistent Performance
The monthly arrival figures for the first half of 2026 indicate stable tourist inflows throughout the period:
- January: 92,573 tourists
- February: 105,441 tourists
- March: 102,516 tourists
- April: 107,934 tourists
- May: 102,626 tourists
- June: 91,363 tourists
Among these, April recorded the highest number of arrivals with 107,934 visitors, coinciding with its peak spring trekking and mountaineering season, when thousands of adventure travelers visit the country for expeditions and trekking activities.
Positive Outlook for Nepal’s Tourism Industry
The sustained increase in tourist arrivals underscores the resilience of Nepal’s tourism sector and highlights the effectiveness of ongoing promotional campaigns, improved international connectivity, and growing confidence among global travelers.
Tourism stakeholders remain optimistic that visitor numbers will continue to rise during the second half of the year, supported by upcoming autumn trekking, cultural festivals, and international tourism promotion initiatives.
With international travel continuing to recover, Nepal is expected to maintain its upward momentum and further strengthen its position as one of South Asia’s leading adventure, cultural, and nature-based tourism destinations.
