In a bid to promote the tourism, culture, cuisine and unique travel experiences of Nepal and China, a major tourism promotion event was held in Kathmandu on Thursday. Organized by the China National Tourist Office (CNTO) in Kathmandu, the “Nihao! China” Tourism Promotion Programme concluded with an energetic display of cultural performances, interactive promotional activities, and an awards distribution ceremony celebrating the growing collaboration between the two nations’ tourism sectors.
Strengthening Cross-Border Tourism Collaboration
Speaking at the event, Xiao Jiang, Director of the China National Tourist Office in Kathmandu, highlighted the Office’s ongoing efforts to develop stronger ties between the tourism industries of Nepal and China. She noted that CNTO Kathmandu is committed to building a bridge between tourism professionals, creating platforms for cooperation, and informing Nepali travelers about diverse Chinese tourism products.
Director Xiao emphasized that the Office has been working closely with both public and private tourism stakeholders to advance bilateral tourism engagement. “We support and assist local governments to promote their tourism resources, travel routes and products in Nepal,” she said. She added that the increasing flow of travelers between the two neighbouring countries presents immense potential for deeper, more strategic tourism partnerships.
Expanding Opportunities for Nepali Travel Operators
During her remarks, Director Xiao also highlighted the Office’s efforts to support Nepali outbound travel agencies. She explained that CNTO has been regularly selecting Nepali tour agents to participate in the China International Travel Mart (CITM), one of the largest travel fairs in Asia, and other major international tourism festivals hosted.
“These opportunities enable Nepali travel operators to explore and better understand the Chinese tourism market,” she noted. By attending such fairs, Nepali agencies can expand their professional networks, discover new business prospects, and strengthen long-term collaboration with Chinese travel enterprises.
Promoting Chinese Cuisines and Cultural Experiences
Also speaking at the programme, Mohan Suwal, an official at CNTO Kathmandu, shared extensive insights into it’s rich tourism attractions, diverse cultural heritage and possibilities for joint tourism promotion.
He delivered an in-depth presentation on Chinese cuisines, describing the country as one of the world’s most diverse culinary hubs. Suwal emphasized that Chinese food culture is deeply rooted in regional identity, traditional techniques, and unique ingredients, making it a major attraction for international travelers. He stated that greater collaboration in the culinary and cultural tourism sector could open new avenues for Nepal–China tourism development.
Air China Reaffirms Commitment to Tourism Exchange
The programme also featured remarks from Ma Kun, General Manager of Air China in Kathmandu, who underscored it’s commitment to strengthening tourism relations between the two countries. He reaffirmed the airline’s dedication to offering a platform that facilitates tourism exchanges, enhances accessibility and promotes meaningful partnerships within the tourism business community. Air China, one of the key carriers connecting Nepal, expressed its readiness to play a central role in expanding travel opportunities and supporting tourism growth.
Recognition of Top Travel Agencies
A highlight of the event was the awards ceremony, where several top-selling travel agencies were recognized for their outstanding business performance and strong collaboration with Air China. The awards celebrated the travel companies that have contributed significantly to promoting China-bound travel from Nepal.
The event was attended by a distinguished gathering, including diplomats, representatives of airlines, tourism entrepreneurs, and officials from Nepali and Chinese travel agencies. Their presence underscored the growing enthusiasm for tourism revival and cross-border partnership in the post-pandemic era.
National Tourist Office: Promoting Tourism Since 2001
Established in 2001, the China National Tourist Office in Kathmandu has continuously worked to promote Chinese tourism resources, provide travel information, and facilitate seamless travel experiences for Nepali visitors heading to China. The Office serves as a key institution in the growing tourism relationship between the two countries.
With the successful conclusion of the “Nihao! China” event, stakeholders expressed optimism that such promotional initiatives will further boost cultural exchange, strengthen tourism cooperation, and encourage more travelers to experience the natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights of Nepal and China.
