Kathmandu: The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) has launched a new monthly digital publication titled “Tourism Insights”, featuring key statistics, trends, and global perspectives related to the tourism sector. The platform aims to provide policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers with reliable, data-driven insights to support evidence-based decision-making and strategic planning for tourism growth.
The publication was unveiled during a “Meet and Greet” event held in Kathmandu on Sunday, under the theme “Current Tourism Scenario and Strategies for Revival.” According to Kavindra Bhatt, Officer at NTB’s Research Department, the report includes data on tourist arrivals, major source markets, regional distribution, foreign exchange earnings, and foreign direct investment. It also incorporates international data and trends from organizations such as the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).
Speaking at the event, NTB CEO Deepak Raj Joshi expressed confidence that “Tourism Insights” will serve as a vital tool to guide Nepal’s tourism industry toward sustainable development. He highlighted the board’s ongoing efforts to enhance safety and rebuild confidence in Nepal as a secure and attractive travel destination following recent challenges.
NTB Vice Chairperson Ram Prasad Sapkota emphasized the need for stronger coordination with the private sector and urged the government to recognize tourism as a key economic priority. Similarly, Board Member Rishi Bhandari voiced concern that the current government has not placed tourism high on its agenda, despite its potential for national growth.
Board Member and PATA Nepal Chapter Secretary-General Narendra Bhatt stressed the importance of developing long-term strategies to safeguard the tourism industry during crises. Kumar Thapaliya, NTB Board Member and President of NATA, mentioned that plans are underway to establish offices in key markets such as India to enhance promotional activities, though he expressed concern over legal constraints limiting the board’s efficiency.
Hotel Association Nepal (HAN) President Binayak Shah highlighted ongoing challenges faced by the hotel sector and called for collective action. Other private-sector representatives, including PATA Nepal Chair Khem Lakai, TAAN President Sagar Pandey, SOTTO Nepal President Man Bahadur Shahi, and Rural Tourism Promotion Forum Secretary-General Chopendra Khadka, urged the government and NTB to promote Nepal as a safe destination through international media campaigns, invite global influencers, and form a joint public-private task force to tackle ongoing tourism challenges.
