The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) has ensured the smooth movement and management of foreign tourists visiting the country, despite recent challenging circumstances that have caused disruptions in transportation and travel logistics. To mitigate inconveniences for the tourists unable to reach their destinations, the board has arranged shuttle bus services to facilitate their transit between airports and hotels.
Coordination with Authorities
According to NTB Chief Executive Officer Deepkaraj Joshi, the board is coordinating closely with the Nepali Army and the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) to ensure safe and efficient travel for visitors. “We are facilitating movement from the airport to hotels and vice versa,” he said. Shuttle buses have been deployed in Kathmandu and Pokhara since Tuesday to assist tourists in reaching their destinations smoothly.
Tourists on trekking or hiking trips are reportedly unaffected, as they are traveling freely without disruptions. However, those arriving in Kathmandu or planning to depart from the city by air have experienced some difficulties. “We are ensuring seamless transit for tourists arriving at the airport or returning from hotels to the airport,” Joshi emphasized.
Assistance During Road Disruptions
Despite road blockages on Tuesday afternoon, the NTB facilitated support for tourists stranded at the airport by providing water, biscuits, and other essentials, and coordinated with security personnel to transport them safely to their hotels at night. This demonstrates the board’s commitment to managing tourists’ needs even under challenging conditions.
Tourist Arrivals and Distribution
In the past 10 days, approximately 35,000 foreign tourists have entered Nepal by air, according to NTB data. Most of these visitors are trekking in regions like Khumbu, Annapurna, and Pokhara, with some remaining in Kathmandu. With the monsoon season ending and the peak tourist season approaching, Nepal is expected to receive a large influx of international visitors in the coming weeks.
The NTB’s proactive measures aim to maintain a tourism-friendly environment during this critical period, ensuring that the tourists feel safe and well-supported despite disruptions caused by protests, curfews, or other unforeseen circumstances.
24-Hour Tourist Assistance
NTB has also established a dedicated team of seven staff members working round-the-clock to provide information and assistance to tourists. Travelers, including both international and domestic trekking operators, have been reaching out to the board for guidance. The board has been responding via phone, toll-free numbers, and email, offering real-time updates and coordination with relevant authorities.
“The system ensures that any tourist facing a crisis can report the situation and receive immediate assistance,” Joshi explained. This continuous engagement has helped the board manage tourist movements effectively, minimizing delays and confusion.
Preparing for Peak Season
With the main tourist season approaching, NTB is emphasizing preparedness to accommodate the expected surge of visitors. The board’s shuttle services, combined with coordination with security and aviation authorities, are part of a broader strategy to enhance the overall visitor experience.
Tourists are encouraged to stay in touch with their travel agencies and guides and follow the advisories issued by the board for safe and hassle-free travel. The board reassures travelers that all trekking and travel infrastructure remains intact, and that normal operations are expected to continue smoothly under strengthened security oversight.
Commitment to Tourism Safety and Management
Through these measures, the NTB has demonstrated a proactive and responsive approach to managing tourism during challenging times. By ensuring the safety, comfort, and convenience of visitors, the board reinforces Nepal’s image as a safe and welcoming destination.
The shuttle bus arrangements, round-the-clock assistance, and coordination with security agencies illustrate the board’s commitment to facilitating seamless travel for foreign tourists, helping Nepal sustain its reputation as a premier trekking and adventure tourism destination.
