Journey to a Million: Nepal's Tourism Resurgence

KATHMANDU, Jan 03:Nepal's tourism, bouncing back with a remarkable 1 million visitors in 2023, signals a strong recovery post-pandemic. Key figures in the industry share their views on what fueled this resurgence, the hurdles faced, and the promising future ahead.

In 2023, as reported by Mani Lamichhane, Director of Nepal Tourism Board (NTB). Monthly figures reveal a consistent flow. January commenced with 55,074 visitors, followed by 73,255 in February, 99,428 in March, 98,774 in April, 77,702 in May, 72,248 in July, 57,725 in August, 67,153 in September, 91,012 in October, 18,630 in November, and culminating in the substantial figure of 96,566 in December.

This resurgence follows a challenging period during the Covid-19 pandemic. Comparatively, 2023 reached 80 percent of the 2019's pre-pandemic milestone of 1.2 million visitors. 400,202 more tourists visited Nepal compared to 2022 which is a 40 percent increase.

Bijaya Amatya, Kora Tour's CEO, highlighted the tourist backlog post-pandemic due to travel bans being lifted. NTB promotions and private sector contributions played a significant role. Tourist stats have improved, including a rise in high-end visitors and new resorts in secluded areas. However, traditional trekking routes face challenges due to destruction of old routes and over saturation of vehicle roads. 

He believes that approximately 45% of visitors are NRNs or Indian businessmen. A separate visa for immigrants is planned from 2024. The removal of Nepal from the EU blacklist is a top priority, emphasizing the need to address NTB's internal issues. Amatya suggests NTB should focus on marketing over infrastructure, leaving the latter to the government. New tours and markets are being explored, with plans to attract tourists from places like Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos. 

Mani Lamicchane, Head of Research, planning and monitoring of NTB, highlighted the global tourism revival and the effectiveness of promotional programs, emphasizing improved relations with India. Unified efforts and support from everyone have contributed to the success. Although luxury tourists are gradually increasing, the primary focus was on reaching the target of 1 million visitors, which has been accomplished. 

Statistics on tourists, including diplomatic missions and NRNs, are now more dispersed among many hotels. The new policy for accurate counting will be implemented this month. The "Visit Nepal Year" campaign by the government is in progress. Some companies are actively involved in eco-tourism, though accurate tracking of eco-tourists is a challenge. Engagement with women's groups and local porters is ongoing, and exploration of new places is underway. Lamicchane expressed satisfaction with the current direction of progress.

Sajan Shakya, general secretary and spokesperson of Hotel Association Nepal (HAN) delves into Nepal's tourism trends, highlighting peak trekking seasons and diverse visitor interests. Thamel, with its alluring hotels, plays a pivotal role in this appeal.

HAN has significantly aided its members with marketing, standardization, and training, resulting in an enhanced tourist experience. Quality of Nepal's hotel sector has increased as there are nine more 5-star hotels from 2019. While acknowledging 1 million recorded arrivals, Shakya stresses the importance of addressing unrecorded visits, including homestays. He advocates for government intervention in infrastructure development, aiming for improved flight connectivity and roads. 

Shakya envisions the private sector sustaining 3 million tourists through strategic efforts, including lobbying, new airport operations, and promotional expansions across India, China, and Europe. HAN's support to its members includes marketing, standardization, and training. Shakya called for government infrastructure development and believes the private sector can sustain 3 million tourists. HAN aims to achieve this through lobbying and by continuing promotional programs. 

In conclusion, the three perspectives converge on Nepal's tourism success, emphasizing collaboration, overcoming challenges, and strategic planning for sustained growth. The industry leaders foresee a positive trajectory and remain optimistic about Nepal's tourism potential beyond 2023.