Kathmandu: Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Sudan Kirati, has stressed the need for applying a new approach in the development of Nepal’s tourism industry. In his address to the 45th General Assembly of Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) here today, the Minister said Nepal’s tourism industry can thrive if it remains vibrant throughout the year. He proposed the idea of promoting tourist arrivals during the off-season, which spans from the month of Jeth to Bhadau (mid-May to mid-September).
Minister Kirati acknowledged that political instability had hindered the pace of tourism development in Nepal According to him, Nepal’s tourism will see a significant progress if we can welcome even a less than one percent of the population from close neighbours India and China visit be encouraged to visit Nepal. He also highlighted the urgency to upgrade three international airports in Nepal to promote the tourist arrivals.
The event was attended by Minister of State for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Sushil Sirpali Thakuri, as well as key figures from the Nepal Tourism Board, including Vice-Chair Chandra Prasad Rijal and Executive Officer Dr. Dhananjaya Regmi. Association Chair Nilhari Bastola was also present. Three journalists including the Rastriya Samachar Samiti correspondent Achyut Remgi were honoured on the occasion in recognition of their contribution to the development of the promotion and expansion of Nepal’s mountaineering tourism. Other journalists are Setopati online’s Sabina Karki and Subash Thapa of AP1 Television.