"HAN and USAID Host Nepal Tourism Dialogue 2024 "

KATHMANDU, Aug 21:Hotel Association Nepal (HAN) organized a tourism dialogue at Hotel Shankar in Lazimpat on August 8, 2024, to address the current situation and prospects of Nepal's tourism and hospitality sector. The event aimed to highlight policy rules and complexities affecting the industry, including insights into the country’s annual budget and monetary policy. Multiple sessions focused on new topics, with participants from major tourism associations like the Nepal Tourism Board, the Nepal Association of Tour & Travel Agents (NATTA), the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), and Nepal. 

 

The participants discussed key tourism concerns and priorities, emphasizing a need for serious government interest in addressing issues raised by provinces. Despite Nepal's capacity to serve millions of tourists, the existing tourism policy was criticized for needing to be stronger and updated, with calls for necessary modifications.

 

A few key points were:

- The need for online ticketing systems for tourists at border crossings and improved hotel registration processes.

- Concerns regarding the safety of roads in Karnali Province and the need for regular air traffic.

- Issues faced by Indian tourists regarding currency restrictions and the need for temporary permits for vehicle travel.

- The necessity for policies that support small hoteliers and promote lesser-known destinations.

 

The dialogue also touched on manpower development, highlighting the shortage of skilled workers due to foreign employment and the need for revised training programs in the tourism sector. While, in terms of infrastructure, the discussions emphasized the interconnection between hotels, aviation, and tourism, advocating for stricter transport policies and improved road connectivity to enhance the overall tourism experience. 

The dialogue concluded with a call for united efforts among various tourism associations to promote Nepal as a year-round destination, addressing the need for better marketing strategies and cooperation between hotels and airlines. This initiative by HAN aims to strengthen the tourism sector and ensure its recognition as a vital source of income for the country.