On the occasion of the 46th World Tourism Day, Nepal conveyed a strong message to the international community, positioning itself as a safe, open, and tourist-friendly destination. Organized by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation in collaboration with the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), the celebratory program was held at the Board’s hall in Kathmandu on Saturday.
Speakers highlighted that Nepal’s tourism sector, which recently faced disruptions due to the Gen-Z movement, has now entered a recovery phase. The event emphasized Nepal’s determination to make tourism a cornerstone of sustainable development, echoing this year’s global theme: “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.”
Prime Minister’s Message: Tourism as the Backbone of the Economy
Prime Minister Sushila Karki, in her written message read out at the event, described Nepal as a land of unmatched natural beauty, rich biodiversity, multiethnic and multilingual heritage, and globally renowned Himalayas. She stressed that tourism must serve as a strong pillar of the national economy, bringing in foreign currency, creating jobs, and uplifting local livelihoods.
She acknowledged the temporary setbacks caused by political movements but emphasized that recovery had already begun. Her message underlined that this year’s World Tourism Day serves as an inspiration to promote tourism as a tool for sustainable growth, cultural understanding, and international friendship. “The government is committed to expanding tourism infrastructure, improving service quality, and sending a clear message to the world that Nepal is safe and welcoming,” she affirmed.
Ministry Highlights Role of Private Sector
Chairing the event, Tourism Secretary Hari Prasad Mainali noted that the growth of Nepal’s tourism industry is impossible without private sector involvement. While acknowledging the disruptions caused by the Gen-Z protests, he expressed optimism after witnessing the resilience and high morale of tourism entrepreneurs.
“The Ministry is always open to removing legal and policy hurdles and will continue to act as a facilitator for the industry,” he assured. Similarly, Joint Secretary Indu Ghimire stressed the need for collaboration, remarking that recovery and sustainable transformation can only be achieved when the government and private sector walk hand in hand. She reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for tourism to flourish.
Nepal Tourism Board: Signs of Recovery
NTB’s Chief Executive Officer Deepak Raj Joshi reflected on the history of World Tourism Day, which has been celebrated globally since 1980. He shared encouraging statistics showing Nepal’s rapid recovery after the protests.
“Before the Gen-Z movement, Nepal received an average of 3,300 tourists daily. During the week of the protests, arrivals dropped to 1,600, but quickly climbed to 2,200 the following week and are now around 2,900,” Joshi reported. He said the consistent joint efforts of the government and private sector ensured Nepal remained recognized internationally as a safe and welcoming destination.
Honoring Contributions to Tourism
The event also featured the recognition of individuals and institutions who have made significant contributions to tourism:
- Api Himal Rural Municipality of Darchula was honored for promoting trekking and mountain adventure tourism at the local level.
- Veteran climbing guide Chhiring Tendi Sherpa from Solukhumbu was recognized for over 50 years of service in mountaineering.
- Ang Norbu Sherpa was awarded for his contributions to mountain rescue missions.
- Siddhi Bahadur Tamang, who holds records for summiting K2 and multiple ascents of Everest and Manaslu, was also honored.
- Rabindra Raj Pandey from the domestic aviation sector, Kumar Mani Thapaliya from NATTA for emerging leadership, and Sabina Karki from tourism journalism were among the 19 awardees.
This recognition ceremony highlighted the diversity of contributions shaping Nepal’s tourism, from mountaineering to aviation, rural promotion, and media.
New Tourism Publications and Special Welcome
On the same occasion, NTB and the Village Tourism Promotion Forum jointly launched a new book titled “Village Tourism and Identity.” The publication aims to shed light on the potential of rural tourism to diversify Nepal’s travel offerings and ensure benefits reach grassroots communities.
In a symbolic gesture, the first two foreign tourists arriving in Nepal on Saturday, George Cordell Branun from the United States and Herzog Amunategui from Chile, were warmly welcomed at Tribhuvan International Airport by NTB officials.
Looking Ahead: Tourism for Transformation
The 46th World Tourism Day celebration in Nepal underscored more than festivities. It reflected the nation’s firm commitment to positioning tourism as a driver of economic strength, cultural pride, international cooperation, and sustainable transformation.
As Nepal continues to bounce back from political disruptions, stakeholders remain united in ensuring that the country’s rich natural and cultural treasures attract travelers from around the globe, while also safeguarding local communities and traditions.
