The Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA) marked its 60th anniversary, also known as its Diamond Jubilee, with a grand celebration at Hotel Manaslu, Lazimpat, Kathmandu. The milestone event was officially inaugurated by Dr. Binod Prakash Singh, Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, alongside Mr. Bhola Bikram Thapa, Chairperson of NATTA’s Past Presidents’ Council, and NATTA President, Mr. Kumar Mani Thapaliya.
Established on 27th Falgun 2022 (Bikram Sambat), NATTA has played a pioneering role in Nepal’s tourism sector for six decades. Representing over 1,100 tour and travel companies across the country, the association has been instrumental in shaping tourism policies, fostering international collaborations, and promoting Nepal as a global travel destination. Over the years, NATTA has been a driving force behind the institutionalization of tourism businesses and has played a key role in advocating for tourism-friendly policies.
Since its inception, NATTA has actively participated in international tourism fairs, organized promotional campaigns, and collaborated with stakeholders to elevate Nepal’s status in the global tourism market. Through its continuous efforts, the association has significantly contributed to increasing the number of tourists visiting Nepal annually, directly impacting the country’s economy and global tourism footprint.
In recent years, NATTA has expanded its reach by establishing provincial associations and regional chapters across Nepal, further decentralizing tourism promotion and development. Recognizing the growing role of digital technology, Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents has embraced modern innovations to enhance Nepal’s tourism industry. The association has implemented strategies to integrate advanced digital solutions, improving accessibility and efficiency in the travel and tourism sector.
One of the key highlights of it’s efforts has been its resilience in overcoming challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The association has actively worked on revitalizing Nepal’s tourism sector by introducing new policies, improving infrastructure, and reinforcing Nepal’s image as a safe and attractive travel destination.
Speaking at the event, NATTA President Mr. Kumar Mani Thapaliya emphasized the organization’s remarkable contributions to Nepal’s tourism industry. He stated, “Reflecting on the extraordinary contributions that it has made over the past 60 years, we are proud to have played a pioneering role in establishing Nepal’s tourism sector on an international scale. Our journey continues as we strive to take Nepal’s tourism to greater heights. We remain committed to protecting the rights of tourism professionals, enhancing services with modern technologies, and expanding international tourism.”
During the ceremony, NATTA unveiled a special Diamond Jubilee logo, a commemorative documentary, and the organization’s annual plans for future tourism development. The event witnessed the presence of prominent figures from the tourism sector, including NATTA’s Executive Committee members, former Presidents, government officials, and various tourism stakeholders.
The Chief Guest, Dr. Binod Prakash Singh, acknowledged NATTA’s longstanding contributions and emphasized its role in ensuring the sustainable growth of Nepal’s tourism sector. Other dignitaries, including former Executive Director of NATTA, Dr. Hari Sharma, Past Presidents’ Council Chairperson, Mr. Bhola Bikram Thapa, and former Tourism Secretary, Dr. Divya Prakash Dhakal, also shared their insights on Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents’s achievements and its indispensable role in Nepal’s tourism development.
As NATTA celebrates its Diamond Jubilee, the association remains committed to further enhancing Nepal’s tourism industry. The organization aims to collaborate more closely with the Government of Nepal, the Ministry of Tourism, the private sector, and other stakeholders to ensure a prosperous future for Nepal’s travel and hospitality industry.
The 60th anniversary celebration of NATTA is not only a tribute to its past achievements but also a strong commitment to a thriving and sustainable future for Nepal’s tourism sector. With renewed enthusiasm and strategic vision, NATTA continues to play a vital role in shaping the country’s tourism landscape for years to come.
