Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Khadak Raj Paudel has said the government is actively working to preserve Nepal’s cultural heritage, promote tourism and accelerate the development of the country’s civil aviation sector through policy reforms and infrastructure expansion.
Responding to lawmakers during discussions on the budget allocated to his ministry under the Appropriation Bill, 2083 in the National Assembly on Monday, Minister Paudel said the government has placed the highest priority on strengthening Nepal’s tourism industry while expanding aviation infrastructure to improve connectivity and support economic growth.
Government plans stricter Everest climbing requirements
Minister Paudel announced that the government is preparing to introduce a provision in the upcoming Tourism Act and its accompanying regulations requiring climbers to successfully summit a mountain above 7,000 metres before attempting Mount Everest.
He said the proposed measure is intended to reduce the growing pressure on Everest by ensuring that only experienced climbers undertake expeditions to the world’s highest peak. According to the minister, the government remains committed to improving mountaineering safety and promoting sustainable management of Everest in response to increasing concerns over overcrowding.
Civil aviation development remains top priority
The minister said the expansion and modernization of Nepal’s civil aviation sector remain among the ministry’s key priorities. He informed lawmakers that the government is continuing diplomatic efforts to secure international air routes for Pokhara International Airport and Gautam Buddha International Airport to facilitate regular international flight operations. Paudel added that improving international air connectivity is essential to increasing tourist arrivals and enhancing Nepal’s competitiveness as a global tourism destination.
Nijgadh Airport to be developed as alternative international gateway
Minister Paudel also clarified that the government intends to move forward with the development of Nijgadh International Airport as Nepal’s alternative international airport. He said the proposed airport is expected to strengthen the country’s aviation infrastructure and accommodate future growth in international air traffic.
Rising Indian tourist arrivals
Highlighting recent tourism trends, the minister said more than 132,000 Indian tourists visited Muktinath Temple during the past year, underscoring the growing importance of the Indian market for Nepal’s tourism industry.
He stated that the government is working closely with the private sector, non-governmental organizations, development partners and the Nepali diaspora to increase international tourist arrivals and strengthen tourism promotion. According to Paudel, collaboration among all stakeholders will play a crucial role in achieving Nepal’s tourism development goals.
Ayodhya tourist facility expected to strengthen bilateral ties
The minister also informed Parliament that a tourist resting facility has been constructed on land in Ayodhya provided by the Government of India to Nepal. He expressed confidence that the new facility would not only improve services for Nepali pilgrims visiting Ayodhya but also further strengthen cultural and people-to-people ties between Nepal and India.
Concluding his remarks, Minister Paudel reiterated the government’s commitment to implementing policies that support sustainable tourism, improve aviation infrastructure, protect Nepal’s cultural heritage and diversify tourism products. He said the government would continue working with domestic and international partners to enhance Nepal’s tourism competitiveness while ensuring balanced development across the country’s cultural, religious, adventure and aviation sectors.
