Pokhara, a major tourist hub in Nepal, could soon witness regular international flights to China if a sufficient number of travelers opt for this route. Yan Jun, General Manager of China Travel Service International Chengdu Travel Service Co. Ltd., expressed this possibility during a meeting with tourism stakeholders in Pokhara on Wednesday. The discussion was held with a delegation led by Krishna Prasad Acharya, President of the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) Gandaki.
Potential for Direct Pokhara-China Flights
General Manager Yan Jun emphasized that the successful operation of regular international flights from Pokhara would require collaboration among all relevant stakeholders, including government agencies. He highlighted the necessity of adequate Chinese tourist inflow to establish consistent air connectivity between Pokhara and Chinese cities.
Having engaged in discussions with key officials, including Surendra Raj Pandey, Chief Minister of Gandaki Province, and representatives from Pokhara-Lekhnath Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Yan Jun expressed optimism about the possibilities. He noted that the interactions provided him with motivation and confidence regarding the future of tourism collaboration between Nepal and China.
Efforts to Strengthen Pokhara’s International Air Connectivity
Pokhara International Airport, built after years of demand and persistent efforts by the local community, now stands as a vital infrastructure for promoting international tourism. Yan Jun stressed that his company is eager to explore the potential of direct regular flights from Pokhara to China but needs official support and a favorable policy environment.
During his visit, he appreciated the warm hospitality extended by Nepalese officials and business representatives, stating that Pokhara’s tourism industry has significant potential for attracting Chinese visitors. According to him, initiatives like tourism promotion campaigns and infrastructure development are necessary to enhance Pokhara’s appeal to international travelers.
TAAN Gandaki’s Commitment to Chinese Tourist Influx
TAAN Gandaki President Krishna Prasad Acharya welcomed Yan Jun to the TAAN office with a ceremonial garland, recognizing the crucial role of Chinese tourists in Nepal’s tourism economy. He reiterated that Pokhara, known as the “Paradise of Nepal,” is a major attraction for tourists due to the Annapurna trekking circuit, adventure sports like paragliding, and other recreational activities.
Acharya also extended gratitude to the Pokhara team that participated in the first commercial chartered flight between Pokhara and Chengdu. He expressed expectations that similar promotional efforts would continue, facilitating more Chinese tourist arrivals.
Chinese Tourist Numbers Rising Post-COVID
Despite a decline in Chinese tourist arrivals after the COVID-19 pandemic, Nepal has witnessed a gradual increase in visitors from China this year. With China officially recognizing Nepal’s Visit Year initiative, there is optimism that the tourism flow will continue to grow.
The recent commercial chartered flights launched by Sichuan Airlines from China to Pokhara are seen as a crucial step in strengthening Nepal-China tourism relations. Acharya emphasized that although flight fares remain high, TAAN has urged authorities to implement cost-effective flight management to attract more visitors.
A Call for Sustainable Tourism Growth
To ensure long-term benefits, TAAN Gandaki has requested enhanced travel packages, increased promotional events, and assurance of safety and comfort for Chinese tourists in Nepal.
The meeting was attended by prominent figures in Nepal’s tourism industry, including Pomanarayan Shrestha, former president of the Pokhara Tourism Council, and Dharmaraj Panthi, former president of TAAN. Their participation underscored the collective commitment to strengthening Nepal’s tourism prospects through international cooperation.
As Nepal continues to expand its international flight connectivity, a sustained influx of Chinese tourists could make Pokhara a prominent global tourism destination, further boosting Nepal’s economy and cultural exchanges with China.
