Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) received the prestigious ‘Tourism Abode of the Eastern Himalayas’ award at the 9th edition of the Bengal Travel Mart (BTM)–2026, held from January 9 to 11, 2026, at The Cinderella Hotel, Siliguri, India. The recognition acknowledges Nepal’s successful establishment as a premium experiential tourism destination in the Eastern Himalayas.
According to NTB, the award highlights the board’s continuous promotional efforts to strengthen Nepal’s tourism identity in the Eastern Himalayas on an international stage. BTM is organized by the Eastern Himalaya Travel and Tour Operators Association (EHTTOA) and is regarded as one of the most significant tourism trade platforms in Eastern India, attracting tourism professionals, media representatives, and stakeholders from India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.
Nepal’s Participation and Representation
Nepal Tourism Board, alongside travel trade companies and tourism representatives from Koshi and Madhesh Provinces, actively participated in BTM–2026. Over the three-day event, Nepalese exhibitors showcased special tourism packages, services, and activities aimed at West Bengal-focused clients, while also forging business relationships with Indian and Bhutanese buyers.
The Nepal pavilion highlighted new tourism products from Koshi and Madhesh Provinces, providing visitors with detailed information, travel maps, promotional posters, brochures, and souvenirs. This initiative offered stakeholders a comprehensive view of Nepal’s evolving tourism offerings.
Senior representatives from NTB, including Senior Director Mr. Maniraj Lamichhane, Senior Manager Khadga Bikram Shah, and supporting staff Surendra Singh Lama, actively participated in the event and engaged with potential buyers and media.
Promoting Nepal’s Tourism Potential
Ahead of the mart, a press conference on January 7, 2026, was held at the Siliguri Journalist Club, where Senior Director Lamichhane briefed local media on Nepal’s tourism potential, emphasizing investment and travel opportunities.
During the official inauguration of BTM–2026, Lamichhane highlighted Nepal’s diverse tourism products, including adventure tourism, cultural tourism, and experiential travel. He also drew attention to ongoing initiatives such as ‘Visit Koshi Year–2082’ and ‘Visit Madhesh–2083’, inviting participants to explore Nepal as a unique destination.
Cultural Engagement and Nepal Night
On the evening of January 10, the NTB organized a ‘Nepal Night Cultural Program’ to showcase Nepal as a captivating destination for Indian tourists. Senior Director Lamichhane delivered a welcoming speech, encouraging visitors to plan their next holiday in Nepal, while Senior Manager Shah presented Nepal’s key attractions, activities, and cross-border tourism opportunities connecting West Bengal with Koshi and Madhesh Provinces.
The program also featured traditional Nepalese dance performances, reinforcing Nepal’s cultural richness and appeal as a travel destination.
Strengthening Regional Tourism Collaboration
As a gesture of goodwill, NTB, along with delegations from Koshi and Madhesh Provinces, presented tokens of appreciation to dignitaries, including Dr. Prerana Chamling, Additional Secretary of Sikkim’s Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation; Karma Wangdi, Marketing Manager of Bhutan Tourism; Sandipa Ghosh, President of BTM; and Suresh Thakuri, President of EHTTOA.
Through its participation at BTM–2026, the Nepal Tourism Board has enhanced cross-border tourism cooperation, strengthening Nepal’s presence in the Eastern Himalayas and fostering sustainable tourism collaboration with neighboring countries.
The award and active participation in BTM–2026 are considered major achievements for Nepal, as they reflect the country’s growing reputation in the international tourism arena. By presenting curated experiences from Koshi and Madhesh Provinces, NTB has successfully positioned Nepal as a must-visit destination in the Eastern Himalayas, opening new avenues for business, cultural exchange, and tourism development.
