The Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Badri Prasad Pandey, underscored the immense potential of Pokhara as a premier tourism destination in Nepal during a felicitation and welcome program organized by the Pokhara Chamber of Commerce and Industry today. In his address, Minister Pandey expressed his commitment to enhancing Pokhara’s tourism infrastructure and promoting the region on both national and international levels.
The event, which brought together local business leaders, tourism entrepreneurs, and government officials, served as a platform for Minister Pandey to outline the government’s vision for the future of tourism in Pokhara. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector in achieving sustainable tourism development.
Minister Pandey highlighted Pokhara’s unique geographical features, including its proximity to the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, which attract thousands of trekkers and adventurers each year. He also mentioned the city’s growing reputation as a hub for paragliding, boating, and other adventure sports, which have become significant contributors to the local economy.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Minister Pandey assured the audience that the government is working diligently to revive the tourism sector. He emphasized that Pokhara, with its natural beauty and cultural heritage, remains a top priority in the national tourism strategy. The Minister also discussed plans for improving air connectivity, upgrading airport facilities, and developing new tourist attractions to enhance the visitor experience.
In his speech, Minister Pandey also called for the preservation of Pokhara’s cultural heritage, noting that the city’s rich traditions and festivals are integral to its identity. He encouraged local stakeholders to continue their efforts in maintaining and promoting Pokhara’s cultural assets, which are vital to attracting both domestic and international tourists.
The Minister concluded his remarks by expressing his gratitude to the Pokhara Chamber of Commerce and Industry for their continued support in promoting tourism and fostering economic growth in the region. He assured the business community of the government’s unwavering commitment to creating a conducive environment for tourism to thrive in Pokhara.
The event also featured speeches from local leaders and tourism entrepreneurs, who echoed Minister Pandey’s sentiments and shared their own visions for the future of tourism in Pokhara. The program concluded with a ceremonial exchange of felicitations, symbolizing the strong partnership between the government and the private sector in advancing Pokhara’s tourism industry.
