Nepal has long been a preferred destination for Indian and Chinese tourists, offering a mix of spiritual, cultural, and adventure experiences. Recently, a delegation of tourism entrepreneurs from India and China visited Nepal to explore the possibilities of expanding tourism cooperation. Their insights highlight the diverse expectations of tourists from both nations and the untapped potential of Nepal as a premier destination.
Nepal as a Wedding Destination for Indian Tourists
Indian tourism entrepreneur Upal Majumdar recognizes Nepal as a significant pilgrimage site for Indian travelers. However, he believes Nepal’s appeal extends beyond spiritual tourism. “Indian tourists can visit Nepal not only for pilgrimage but also for weddings and leisure travel,” said Majumdar. “Nepal’s culture and natural beauty are truly captivating.”
With an increasing trend of destination weddings in India, he sees Pokhara emerging as a preferred wedding destination. As Indian couples and their families seek unique and picturesque locations for their weddings, Nepal’s serene landscapes and well-equipped hospitality sector make it an attractive option in delegation.
Indian businesswoman Tarun Deep was particularly impressed by Pokhara’s offerings. “I have frequently visited Kathmandu, but coming to Pokhara was a surprise. The city offers so many tourism services that I wasn’t aware of,” she said.
She emphasized that Indian families often organize wedding functions at home and then celebrate with a smaller group at a destination. “With Pokhara’s beautiful settings, it could easily become a top wedding destination for Indian couples,” she added.
Chinese Tourists Prefer Adventure and Serenity
Unlike Indian tourists, Chinese travelers seek adventure and tranquil experiences. Chinese tourism entrepreneur Kris Zhang, who visited Nepal in 2018, noted that Chinese visitors are drawn to Nepal’s natural beauty and adventure activities in delegation. “Chinese tourists enjoy hiking and Nepal’s peaceful environment,” she said. “When I visited Nepal seven years ago, I was deeply impressed by the experience.”
Jasmine Zhang, a representative from the Guangzhou International Travel Fair, was equally captivated by Pokhara’s tourism services. “Pokhara offers high-quality hotels and restaurants. The natural serenity, paragliding, and trekking opportunities will certainly appeal to Chinese travelers,” she noted.
Nepal-India-China Tourism Expo in Pokhara
A group of Indian and Chinese tourism entrepreneurs gathered in Pokhara to explore Nepal’s tourism potential with delegation. The three-day Nepal-India-China Expo (NICE) was organized by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Nepal Chapter and Pokhara Tourism Council. The event aimed to introduce Nepal’s tourism products and services to Indian and Chinese travel businesses.
Over 140 Nepali tourism entrepreneurs set up stalls to showcase their offerings. Indian and Chinese representatives expressed keen interest in Nepal’s tourism packages, from adventure and pilgrimage tours to luxury accommodations.
PATA Nepal Chapter Chairman Khem Raj Lakai noted that Indian and Chinese tourists have different preferences with delegation. “Indian tourism entrepreneurs see Nepal as an ideal destination for weddings, pilgrimage, and leisure travel, while Chinese tourists prefer quiet retreats, hiking, and adventure activities like paragliding,” he explained.
Customizing Tourism Packages for Different Markets
Nepali tourism entrepreneurs are adapting their services to cater to these varying demands. According to Chhiring Dolma Gurung of Sherpa Hospitality, Chinese tourists are more interested in trekking and staying in Himalayan regions, whereas Indian visitors prefer accommodations in the Terai regions, particularly in Chitwan and Lumbini.
“Chinese representatives inquired about trekking options and hotels in mountainous areas, while Indian entrepreneurs were more interested in accommodations in Chitwan and Lumbini,” she said.
Sherpa Hospitality operates 15 hotels across Nepal, including in Everest, Annapurna, Mustang, Chitwan, and Lumbini. They are keen to design tailored packages based on tourists’ preferences.
Dharmaraj Panthi of Earth Nepal Travel and Trek noted that Chinese and Indian businesses had distinct interests. “Chinese representatives were more focused on short trekking options and adventure sports, while Indian entrepreneurs were eager to learn about Muktinath, Pashupatinath, and leisure tourism,” he shared.
Nepali businesses presented diverse packages, including long and short treks, pilgrimage tours, and wedding destination arrangements. Representatives from major travel agencies expressed interest in forming long-term partnerships with delegation.
Nepal’s Tourism Industry Poised for Growth
Mahesh Raj Wagley, Operating Manager at Rupakot Resort, observed that Indian and Chinese delegates were impressed by Nepal’s hospitality sector. “Many were fascinated by our promotional videos and services. Guests who visit our resort often extend their stay due to the peaceful atmosphere,” he said.
He also noted that Indian tourists enjoy Pokhara’s nightlife, spending time at Lakeside before returning to their hotels late at night. “They prefer vibrant nightlife with music and crowds, while Chinese tourists enjoy a more peaceful retreat at resorts,” he explained.
Monika Kandel from Destinago Tour and Travel mentioned that both Indian and Chinese businesses took brochures detailing Nepal’s tourist attractions. “Most of them asked about tour packages, destinations, and duration. They took our contact details and promised to follow up via email, WhatsApp, and WeChat,” she said.
Strengthening Tourism Ties
The NICE expo has laid the groundwork for future collaborations. PATA Nepal Chairman Lakai emphasized the need for regular events to promote Nepal’s tourism offerings. “While other countries have made significant progress post-pandemic, Nepal still faces challenges. Organizing such expos helps us showcase our tourism potential more effectively,” he stated.
With India and China being two of the largest travel markets in the world, forging strong tourism ties with these nations could significantly boost Nepal’s tourism sector. Pokhara Tourism Council Chairman Taranath Pahari acknowledged the significance of the expo. “Nepali tourism businesses have participated in expos in India and China before, but this time, we brought Indian and Chinese entrepreneurs to Pokhara to experience our tourism offerings firsthand,” he said.
Deepak Raj Joshi, CEO of Nepal Tourism Board, emphasized that hosting such events in Nepal is more effective than sending Nepali businesses abroad. “When international tourism entrepreneurs visit Nepal, they not only learn about our products but also experience them personally. This helps them promote Nepal to their clients back home,” he said.
A Bright Future for Nepal’s Tourism
The presence of 50 Indian and 50 Chinese tourism entrepreneurs at the NICE expo is expected to boost future tourist arrivals. As Nepal continues to refine its tourism infrastructure and services, the country is well-positioned to attract more visitors from its neighboring giants.
Despite political and economic challenges, tourism remains a bridge connecting Nepal with India and China. With strategic marketing and targeted tourism packages, Nepal can further cement its status as a sought-after destination for Indian and Chinese travelers alike.
