The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Nepal Chapter has successfully celebrated its Golden Jubilee, commemorating 50 years of dedicated contribution to Nepal’s tourism promotion and development through public–private partnership. Established in 1975, the chapter marked this historic milestone with a grand ceremony held on December 29, 2025, at Royal Tulip, Kathmandu.
The event celebrated five decades of leadership, innovation, and collaboration that have played a vital role in shaping Nepal’s tourism policies, marketing strategies, and human resource development.
Distinguished Presence from Government and Tourism Sectors
The Golden Jubilee ceremony witnessed the presence of senior government officials, tourism industry leaders, former PATA Nepal Chapter presidents, private sector pioneers, international partners, PATA members, and tourism entrepreneurs.
The event was inaugurated by the Honorable Anil Kumar Sinha, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, who praised PATA Nepal Chapter’s continuous efforts in tourism policy advocacy, destination promotion, capacity building, and tourism revival. He highlighted the chapter’s contribution to strengthening Nepal’s tourism resilience and enhancing its international reputation.
Global Recognition from PATA Headquarters
PATA’s international Chief Executive Officer Noor Ahmad Hamid extended his congratulations through a video message, recognizing the Nepal Chapter as a model within the global PATA network. He acknowledged its consistent contribution to promoting sustainable tourism and strengthening partnerships across Asia and the Pacific region.
Cultural Performances and Commemorative Showcases
The celebration featured a welcoming musical performance, cultural dances presented by the Young Tourism Professionals (YTPs), and the screening of a commemorative video titled “50 Years of PATA Nepal Chapter’s Public–Private Partnership Journey.” The video highlighted major milestones, landmark campaigns, and impactful initiatives carried out by the chapter over the past five decades.
Leadership Reflections and Future Vision
PATA Nepal Chapter President Khem Lakai expressed gratitude to founding members, former leaders, partners, and current members for their invaluable contributions. He emphasized that the chapter’s success has been built on collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to sustainable tourism development.
Several speakers also shared insights on the chapter’s achievements in promoting responsible tourism, community engagement, and environmental conservation, while extending best wishes for the next 50 years.
Honoring Tourism Pioneers
On the occasion of the Golden Jubilee, distinguished individuals were honored for their outstanding contributions to Nepal’s tourism sector:
- Karna Shakya received the Lifetime Achievement Award
- Shiva Dhakal was honored with the Tourism Trailblazer Award
- Bijaya Amatya received the Tourism Personality of the Year Award
- Anthony Lindsay Jones was presented with the Special Contribution Award
These recognitions highlighted the individuals’ lifelong dedication to strengthening Nepal’s tourism industry.
Renewed Commitment to Sustainable Tourism
The Golden Jubilee ceremony reaffirmed PATA Nepal Chapter’s unwavering commitment to promoting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient tourism development in Nepal. As the chapter moves forward, it aims to further strengthen public–private collaboration, promote responsible travel practices, and support innovation in tourism for the benefit of communities, businesses, and visitors alike. The celebration concluded with a collective pledge to continue building Nepal’s tourism future with integrity, inclusiveness, and global cooperation.
