The Nepal Association of Tour & Travel Agents (NATTA) participated in the 4th Meeting of the BIMSTEC Network of Tour Operators (BNTO) held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, from July 21 to 23, 2026.
Nepal was represented at the meeting by Kumar Mani Thapaliya, President of NATTA, and Surendra Guruwacharya from NATO. The participation provided Nepal with an opportunity to engage with tourism stakeholders from BIMSTEC member countries and discuss strategies for strengthening regional tourism cooperation.
Focus on Intra-BIMSTEC Tourism Promotion
The meeting focused on promoting intra-BIMSTEC tourism and strengthening tourism linkages among member states. Participants discussed ways to improve regional travel, enhance connectivity and encourage greater movement of tourists within the BIMSTEC region.
The discussions also highlighted the importance of joint tourism initiatives that can showcase the shared cultural, historical, spiritual and natural heritage of the member countries.
Buddhist and Ramayana Circuits Highlighted
A key focus of the meeting was the development and promotion of the Buddhist Circuit, Ramayana Circuit, and Wellness, Wildlife and Adventure Circuit.
These tourism circuits are expected to connect destinations across BIMSTEC countries and create integrated travel experiences for international and regional visitors. The Buddhist Circuit, in particular, holds significant importance for Nepal, as Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, remains one of the region’s most important pilgrimage destinations.
Similarly, the Ramayana Circuit can connect destinations associated with the Ramayana tradition, while wellness, wildlife and adventure tourism can help promote the diverse natural and cultural attractions of the BIMSTEC region.
Effective Utilisation of BIMSTEC Tourism Fund Discussed
The meeting also discussed the effective utilisation of the BIMSTEC Tourism Fund to support regional tourism development. Participants explored the potential for using the fund to strengthen cooperation, support joint promotional campaigns and develop tourism initiatives that benefit member countries collectively. The discussions also included preparations for the 30th anniversary of BIMSTEC, with tourism expected to remain an important area of cooperation as the regional organisation marks the milestone.
NATTA Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Cooperation
NATTA has reaffirmed its commitment to working with tourism organisations and stakeholders across all BIMSTEC member countries to strengthen regional tourism cooperation. The association said regional collaboration would be important for enhancing people-to-people connectivity, promoting cross-border travel and developing sustainable tourism across the region.
Through its participation in the BNTO meeting, NATTA is seeking to strengthen Nepal’s engagement in regional tourism initiatives and promote the country’s diverse cultural, spiritual, adventure and wellness tourism offerings among BIMSTEC member states.
