In a significant step to invigorate tourism in Western Nepal, stakeholders have finalized plans to organize the ‘Cross Border Tourism Conclave’ in Nepalgunj. The event, aimed at enhancing collaboration between Nepalese and Indian tourism operators, will be held from Poush 4–6 (December 19–21) under the auspices of the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and coordinated by the Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA), Banke Chapter.
Local tourism officials and business representatives emphasized that the conclave will serve as a major platform to stimulate tourism in Banke and surrounding regions, reinforcing Nepalgunj’s potential as more than just a transit point.
Program Structure and Objectives
During a preparatory discussion held in Nepalgunj on Saturday, tourism stakeholders highlighted the importance of the conclave in addressing challenges and exchanging knowledge in cross-border tourism. According to Dilliraj Regmi, President of NATTA Banke Chapter, the event is critical for reviving tourism activities and fostering cooperation among regional tourism operators.
“The Cross Border Tourism Conclave is a shared initiative of local tourism businesses, and NATTA is proud to coordinate it. Alongside organizing such events, promoting collaboration and policy dialogue among stakeholders has always been crucial for the sector’s growth,” Regmi said. The conclave will include policy discussions, experience-sharing sessions, and a B2B segment aimed at creating direct business linkages between Nepalese and Indian operators.
Engaging Cultural and Adventure Programs
Former NATTA Banke Chapter President Shreeram Sigdel explained that the conclave will address practical issues faced in cross-border tourism, from border management to tourist facilitation, while also strengthening relationships between stakeholders and policymakers.
The program schedule is designed to combine business, culture, and adventure:
- December 19: Welcome of tourism partners and government officials from Nepal and India.
- December 20: Morning session – Cross Border Tourism Conclave; Afternoon session – B2B meetings; Evening – Nepali cultural performances.
- December 21: Jungle safari at Banke National Park, showcasing local natural attractions.
Sigdel emphasized that the conclave will position Nepalgunj not just as a transit hub but as a tourism destination in its own right, attracting Indian tourists and promoting regional development.
Unified Efforts of Stakeholders
Several local tourism and civic leaders expressed their support for the conclave during the preparatory discussion. Among them were:
- Krishna Prasad Shrestha, Coordinator, Tourism Promotion Forum, Banke & former President, Nepalgunj Chamber of Commerce
- Same Shakya, Former Governor, Lions Club
- Bhimlal Kandel, President, Hotel Entrepreneurs Association, Banke
- Min Bahadur Malla, Social Leader
- Sundar Gurung, President, Banke Art Center
- Amar Birahi Shrestha, President, Spa Association, Banke
They highlighted the necessity of collective effort from all tourism stakeholders to ensure the conclave’s success. NATTA Banke Chapter’s General Secretary, Bhagirama Oli, and Vice President, Jhabilal Sharma, facilitated and welcomed the participants during the discussion, reinforcing the collaborative spirit.
Driving Tourism Forward
The conclave is expected to create meaningful opportunities for tourism growth in Western Nepal. Through policy dialogue, business networking, and cultural engagement, the event aims to enhance cross-border cooperation, attract tourists, and elevate Nepalgunj as a prominent tourism hub. Stakeholders hope that this initiative will pave the way for sustainable regional tourism development while strengthening economic and cultural ties with neighboring India.
