Pokhara has always been a significant hub for tourism in Nepal, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture. To better understand the current dynamics of tourism in this picturesque city, we spoke with Mr. Taranath Pahari, Chairman of the Pokhara Tourism Council (PTC), an organization representing 14 tourism-related institutions. Here are his insights on the challenges, opportunities, and the council’s vision for Pokhara’s tourism sector.
Could you tell us about the current state of tourism in Pokhara? How has it evolved in recent years?
“Pokhara has seen remarkable resilience in its tourism sector. Despite facing challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters, the city has bounced back strongly. Initiatives like the construction of Pokhara International Airport are transforming the region, making it more accessible to both domestic and international tourists. We are seeing a steady rise in visitors, and the city is regaining its reputation as Nepal’s tourism capital,” he said.
What initiatives has the Pokhara Tourism Council undertaken to promote sustainable tourism in the region?
“Sustainability is at the core of our mission. The council actively works to promote village tourism, which not only diversifies the offerings but also supports local communities. We engage with stakeholders to implement eco-friendly practices and ensure tourism activities do not harm the region’s natural beauty. For instance, we advocate for responsible trekking and paragliding practices to minimize environmental impact.”
How is the council working to attract both domestic and international tourists to Pokhara?
“We focus on branding Pokhara as a premier destination for adventure and leisure. Marketing campaigns highlight our world-class paragliding, trekking routes, and cultural heritage. The council also collaborates with the tourism ministries to address issues like airport management, ensuring that international tourists have a seamless experience. Recently, I met with the Prime Minister to emphasize the importance of fully operationalizing Pokhara International Airport to attract more flights. This initiative is critical for boosting the international tourism flow into Pokhara,” he shared.
What impact has the COVID-19 pandemic had on tourism in Pokhara, and how is the council working to recover?
“The pandemic was a severe setback, leading to business closures and job losses. However, Pokhara’s tourism sector has shown resilience. The council supported local businesses by organizing promotional events and lobbying for government aid. We also launched campaigns targeting domestic tourists, encouraging them to explore their backyard, which helped sustain the industry during tough times.”
Can you elaborate on any upcoming projects or events aimed at boosting tourism in Pokhara?
“We are planning several events, including adventure sports competitions and cultural festivals, to draw both domestic and international visitors. Additionally, the council is working on a comprehensive plan to promote lesser-known villages around Pokhara, enhancing the overall tourism experience. These projects aim to highlight the diverse attractions Pokhara has to offer beyond its usual hotspots.”
How are you collaborating with local businesses and communities to enhance the overall tourist experience?
“Collaboration is key to our success. We conduct regular workshops and roundtable discussions with local entrepreneurs, hoteliers, and community leaders to address challenges collectively. By supporting local handicrafts, cultural performances, and village tourism initiatives, we ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared widely among Pokhara’s residents.”
What challenges does Pokhara face in terms of infrastructure and accessibility for tourists, and how are you addressing them?
“While the new airport is a significant milestone, issues like limited international flights and inefficient airport management persist. The council is in constant dialogue with tourism ministries to address these problems. We are also advocating for better road networks and improvements in public transportation to make Pokhara more accessible.”
Can you share your vision for the future of tourism in Pokhara over the next five years?
“Our vision is to establish Pokhara as a global tourism hub that balances growth with sustainability. Over the next five years, we aim to attract more high-value international tourists while preserving our cultural and natural heritage. We also plan to expand infrastructure to support diverse tourism activities, from adventure sports to wellness retreats.”
How is the council promoting lesser-known destinations within the Pokhara region to diversify tourism?
“Lesser-known villages and trails around Pokhara are treasures waiting to be discovered. We actively market these destinations through campaigns and partnerships with travel agencies. Our goal is to reduce overcrowding in popular spots while introducing tourists to the unique charms of rural Pokhara.”
How important is eco-tourism for Pokhara, and what measures are in place to protect the environment while promoting tourism?
“Eco-tourism is essential for Pokhara’s long-term sustainability. We advocate for strict adherence to environmental regulations in tourism activities. The council works with local organizations to organize clean-up drives and promote the use of renewable energy in the hospitality sector. We aim to ensure that Pokhara remains as pristine and beautiful for future generations as it is today.”
Can you share the recent developments regarding your meeting with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and its potential impact on tourism in Pokhara?
Absolutely. We recently met with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, along with Honorable Mitralal Basyal, Minister for Industry and Tourism of Gandaki Province, and other tourism stakeholders. The main focus was to urge the government to initiate regular international flights at Pokhara International Airport. This is a crucial step in boosting tourism and establishing Pokhara as Nepal’s official tourism capital. The Prime Minister expressed his commitment to prioritize this issue, especially in light of Visit Nepal Year 2025. This move will significantly enhance connectivity and attract more international tourists to Pokhara, contributing to the region’s growth.
Under the visionary leadership of Mr. Pahari, the Pokhara Tourism Council is addressing challenges and seizing opportunities to propel Pokhara toward becoming a global tourism leader. Their efforts to balance growth with sustainability promise a thriving future for this breathtaking city and its surrounding regions.
