Government is removing VAT on air tickets

The government is working on removing the value added tax (VAT) on air tickets, according to the tourism minister.

Addressing the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Nepal Chapter successfully concluded its 45th Annual General Meeting (AGM) here today, the chief guest Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Hit Bahadur Tamang committed to working towards removing VAT on air tickets and other unnecessary taxes in tourism to encourage and enhance the highly potential and rewarding tourism sector.

Shared the government’s target of attracting 1.6 million tourists in 2024 and inviting the private sector to introduce new and creative tourism products in international source markets to boost tourist influx Tamang also expressed his happiness at the unanimous election of the new executive committee of PATA Nepal Chapter, noting that such unity is rare among institutions and organisations in the country nowadays.

PATA Nepal Chapter successfully concluded its 45th Annual General Meeting (AGM) today at Park Village Resort under the theme 'Nepal Tourism 2.0: Charting the Future Course.'

The AGM also unanimously elected the new executive committee, with Khem Raj Lakai, chief executive of the Global Academy of Tourism and Hospitality Education (GATE), as chairman. He succeeds Bibhuti Chand Thakur, who was elected chairman on December 18, 2019, and remains in the executive committee as the Immediate Past chairman.

“I am deeply honoured and humbled by this opportunity," said Lakai after his appointment as chair of PATA Nepal Chapter. "It is with profound gratitude and a great sense of responsibility that I step into the role of chairman of PATA," he said, adding, "Being entrusted with the legacy of this esteemed institution is a privilege."

Lakai's association with PATA spans several years in different positions including as a board of trustee of the PATA Foundation, and PATA HQ elected Board member, including extensive service within the PATA Nepal Chapter.

PATA Nepal founding father the late Prabahakar SJB Rana, who brought this wonderful organisation to Nepal and continuously nurtured by amazing leaders of our industry has been honoured on the occasion.

Rana's vision of connecting Nepal to the world now rests on our shoulders, Lakai said, adding that unity is crucial for Nepal in all spectrum of professions. "Once united, we can transform the narrative of our beautiful nation and inspire the world."

Accordingly, the AGM also unanimously elected general secretary Narendra Dev Bhatta (managing director of Heritage Tours and Travel), treasurer Reetal Rana (managing director of Mid Valley International College), and executive members including Lakhpa Phuti Sherpa (founder of Luxury DMC Travel), Rupesh Joshi (director of Buddha Air), Binod Adhikari (director of Aarya village Travels), Sunil Bahadur Bhattrai (executive director of Busy Bee Cafe), Himmat Puri (director of Destinago Tours and Travel), Sarita Lama (managing director of Off The wall Trekking) and Tenzing Peyang  Lama (director of Hotel Lhasa International (Dusit Princess Kathmandu).

During the AGM, PATA Nepal Chapter also elected 4 proxy members to its executive committee including Smritee Kala Pant  (head of BHM/BHTM of Little Angels’ College of Management), Prakash Chandra Lohani (chairman of Alpine Rescue Service), Suman Ghimire (executive director of Jungle Safari lodge), and Imu Regmi (director of Basera Boutique Hotel). 

The executive committee also comprises of 4 Ex officio members including director general of Department of Tourism, director general of Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, corporate director of Nepal Airlines, and representative of Nepal Tourism Board (NTB).

During the formal function and Annual Award Presentation Ceremony in the evening, PATA Nepal Chapter awarded Ambica Shrestha (president of Dwarika's Hotels and Resorts) and Shyam Bahadur Pandey (founder of Hotel Shangrila) with the prestigious 'PATA Lifetime Achievement Award 2024'.

The recognition honours their devoted years of exceptional voluntary service, leadership, significant contributions, and invaluable dedication to the association and the tourism and hospitality industry in Nepal, according to a press note issued by the PATA Nepal Chapter.

Likewise, Lakpa Sonam Sherpa (chairman of Yeti Group) has been rewarded with 'PATA Tourism Trailblazer Award 2024' for his exceptional leadership, pioneering initiatives, and outstanding contributions to promoting, expanding, and developing the tourism industry in Nepal.

Bharat Basnet (founder of Explore Nepal) has been bestowed with the 'PATA Personality of the Year 2024' Award for his unconditional support, persistent activism, advocacy, and commendable engagement towards the promotion and sustainable development of Nepal's tourism sector, as well as his invaluable contributions to the association over the years. 

Similarly, Narendra Deo Bhatta (founder of Heritage Tours and Travels) was honoured with the 'PATA Special Contribution Award 2024' for his unwavering commitment and remarkable contributions to Nepalese tourism, as well as his exceptional legal guidance and support to the association.

Likewise, The Premiere Hotel School, Itahari, received the 'PATA Best Student Chapter of the Year 2023' Award in recognition of their dedication and contributions in engaging with the initiatives and events of the PATA Nepal Chapter throughout 2023.

During the programme, Prof Dr Wolfgang Georg Arlt (founder of Meaningful Tourism Center) delivered the keynote speech on 'Nepal Tourism 2.0,' sharing the manifesto of outcomes from the Experts Roundtable Meet organised by the PATA Nepal Chapter yesterday (June 5).

On behalf of the Meaningful Tourism Center based in Germany, he presented the Meaningful Tourism Award (Gold) to the Community Homestay Network, Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge, and KGH Group of Hotels and Resorts.

Similarly, the Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management received the Meaningful Tourism Award (Silver), while the Nepal Airlines Corporation and Hotel Himalaya received the Meaningful Tourism Award (Bronze).

The outgoing chairman Bibhuti Chand Thakur extended thanks to all the members and stakeholders of Nepal's tourism for the continued collaboration and support to the association; inviting and requesting all present to work together for sustainable growth and development of tourism in the country.

Himalaya Airlines resumes regular flights on Kathmandu-Beijing route

After an interval of three-year due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Himalaya Airlines restarted regular flights between Kathmandu and Beijing from today.

Nepali ambassador to China Bishnu Pukar Shrestha, along with other passengers, flew to Beijing in the resumed first direct flight of the Himalayan Airlines from Kathmandu to Beijing, according to the airlines that has reassured that the scheduled flight operations between Kathmandu and Beijing will be operational every Saturday. "The new service will provide a convenient and efficient travel option for passengers seeking to explore the dynamic cities of Beijing and Kathmandu."

The airline also believes that the resumption of this flight route will be a significant boost to both Nepalese tourism and trade.

The Kathmandu-Beijing-Kathmandu route – that has commenced on June 24, 2023 – departed from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu at 7:40 hours (local time) and will arrive at Beijing Daxing International Airport at 14:15 hours (local time) in Beijing, with a flight duration of 4-hour-and-45 minutes. "The return flight, H9 666, will depart from Beijing at 15:25 hours (local time) and land in Kathmandu at 18:30 hours (local time)," the airliner informed.

"We are thrilled to initiate scheduled flights between Kathmandu and Beijing, especially after the disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic," expressed vice president of the airline Bijay Shrestha. Emphasising that this route will enhance the airline's international presence, Shrestha informed that passengers can now book tickets for the Kathmandu-Beijing-Kathmandu flight at the Himalaya Airlines ticketing counter. "The company is confident that the resumption of this route will facilitate convenient and efficient travel options for individuals commuting between Beijing and Kathmandu, benefiting Nepal's tourism and business sectors."

Crashed Yeti Air ATR’s black box to be sent to France

The probe panel is sending black box of ATR-72 Yeti Airlines aircraft that crashed in Pokhara on January 15 to the manufacturer in France for technical analysis.

Joint secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation and member-secretary of Air Crash Investigation Commission Budhisagar Lamichhane confirmed that the black box of ATR is being sent to France, along with experts next week.

It will help in the effective investigation of the accident, he said, adding that the aircraft manufacturing company in France will analyse it independently. “The expert team of the Air Crash Investigation Commission will also go to France along with the black box.”

The probe panel has so far conducted on-site monitoring of the accident site, collected some necessary documents and discussed with experts.

The Yeti Airlines flight with call sign 9-ANC (ATR-72-212) flying from Kathmandu to Pokhara crashed in the Seti River gorge, killing all the passengers and crew members on the plane. But the body of one person is yet to be found.

Nepal welcomed 614,148 foreign tourists last year

Some 614,148 foreign tourists visited Nepal via air in 2022, almost five times compared to a year ago.

A year ago, in 2021, Nepal had been able to welcome only 150,962 foreign visitors due to Covid-19 pandemic ban on travel worldwide, though some 230,085 forign tourists visited Nepal in 2020.

The significant increase in foreign visitors in 2022 reflects Nepal's Covid-hit tourism industry's attempt to bounce back to normalcy, according to the travel entrepreneurs.

Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) data revealed that some 67,932 foreign tourists visited Nepal via air in December, the last month of the year.

Tourist arrivals see a steady rise this year with April posting the highest number of tourist arrivals of the spring season with 61,589 tourists. 

However, some 88,582 foreign tourists entered Nepal via air in October, the largest monthly arrival this year, according to the NTB data.

Among the foreign countries, India continued to become the largest tourism market accounting for some 34.04 per cent - or 209,105 - of the total arrivals.

The US followed India with 77,009 visitors, whereas the United Kingdom ranked third largest tourist market with 44,781 visitors. Australia and Bangladesh are the fourth and fifth tourist markets, with 26,874 and 25,384 visitors, respectively.

Earlier, China also used to be one of the largest tourist market but due to Covid-19 pandemic, Chinese tourists could not visit Nepal.

PM Dahal inaugurates Pokhara Regional International Airport

The construction of Nijgadh International International Airport will begin soon, according to the Prime Minister.

Inaugurating Pokhara Regional International Airport (PRIA) today, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' said that air route is the most effective way for connectivity for land-locked countries like Nepal. Thus, the construction of Nijgadh International Airport is important, he added.

The proposed Nijgadh International Airport has been claimed to an alternative to the already congested Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), though, the conservation activists have opposed to the construction of airport by destroying one of the best-preserved forests in the Tarai Madhesh.

The Supreme Court, on May 26, 2022, issued a verdict telling the government not to construct the proposed Nijgadh airport. The full text of the verdict clarified the apex court did not rule out the possibility of constructing the airport in Nijgadh of the Bara district in southern Nepal.

Following that, a government-commissioned panel has suggested that Nijgadh is the best option for constructing the next international airport in the country.

The international airport project conceptualised several years ago turned controversial with conservationists opposing it. They have also been condemning the government’s plans to cut down 2.4 million trees and destroy an entire ecosystem.

Nepal’s first international airport TIA in Kathmandu is 71 years old, whereas the second international airport Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA) in Bhairahawa was inaugurated in May 2022.

On the occasion of Gregorian New Year, Dahal inaugurated Pokhara Regional International Airport, which is the country's third international airport that started domestic flights from today, and will start international flights from Frebruary.

Saying that Shankar Raj Pathak, the man who conceptualised Pokhara International Airport, is his teacher, Dahal also praised him. 

Pokhara Metropolitan City has declared a public holiday today to celebrate the inauguration, and also felicitated the architect of the international airport Pathak with a chariot ride.

Urging the Chinese government to extend support in construction of projects including the railway service and in easing the trade by opening the transit points, he also opined that there could not be two opinions that the operation of the international airport in Pokhara will contribute to the economic development of the entire nation along with that of the Gandaki province.

Pokhara, the tourism capital of Nepal and also the capital of Gandaki province, is expected to get more tourists after the new airport starts international flights.

The government will provide support for operation of Pokhara International Airport, said deputy prime minister and finance minister Bishnu Prasad Poudel, On the occasion.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony, he also promised provide maximum government support for construction of other remaining infrastructures for the new airport.

Likewise on the occasion, Gandaki province chief minister Krishna Chandra Pokhrel urged the Chinese government to transform the loan it provided for the Pokhara Regional International Airport into grants.

"I urge the government of China through the Chinese Embassy here to convert the 75 per cent of the total loan into grants," he said. "With the completion of the project, the 47-year-long dream of Pokhara folks had come true."

In first phase, the airport should have its services for the South Asia and in the second phase for the Western countries, Pokhrel said, adding hoping the tourist arrival in the lake city will significantly increase with the operation of new airport. “Now Pokhara should focus on lengthening the tourist stay at least for 15 days."

Nepal had signed a $215.96 million (around Rs 22 billion) soft loan agreement with China in March 2016 for the construction of the new airport in the lake city.

However, the new airport constructed with loan assistance from the Chinese government has been claimed by the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu, to be the support project that falls within the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). 

The spokesperson at the Embassy of China in Kathmandu claimed that the Pokhara Regional International Airport is the flagship project of China-Nepal BRI cooperation. "The inauguration ceremony of Pokhara International Airport will be held at 11 am tomorrow (Sunday), the spokesperson wrote on Twitter yesterday, "This is the flagship project of China-Nepal BRI cooperation," it reads, adding that the Embassy warmly congratulates to Nepali Government and Nepali people. "The newly-built airport is designed and built in accordance with the standards of China and the International Civil Aviation Organization, which reflects the quality of Chinese projects, symbolises the national pride of Nepal, and becomes a remarkable sign for China and Nepal to jointly build the Belt and Road Initiative."

“The new airport not only facilitates personnel exchanges between Nepal and China and other countries, but also proves the true friendship and mutual assistance between the two countries in times of adversity,” the tweeter reads.

"The PRIA is a matter of pride for Pokhara as the airport is the decade-long dream of the residents of Pokhara," according to Pokhara metropolis Mayor Dhana Raj Acharya. "As the airport will prove to be a milestone in the promotion of tourism in this region, it is necessary to convey the message of the grand opening to the whole world."

"Pokhara is a major tourist destination in the country and the tourism sector will benefit immensely with the operation of the new international airport, chairman of the Pokhara Tourism Council Pomnarayan Shrestha said, adding that the new airport is expected to bring a big relief to the tourism sector. "Along with the international airport, we will make a promotional campaign around the world to bring in more tourists in Pokhara."

Constructed by the Chinese construction company CAMCE, the regional international airport was handed over to Nepal last March, during the visit of Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi to Nepal.

Prime Minister to inaugurate Pokhara Regional International Airport on January 1

As the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) is all set for the grand opening of Pokhara Regional International Airport (PRIA) in Pokhara, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' will inaugurate the airport on Sunday.

Pokhara Metropolis has announced a public holiday on Sunday to mark the inauguration and operation of Regional International Airport as it is going to be formally operate on the first day of the Gregorian calendar 2023 AD, 

Except Prime Minister Dahal, deputy prime ministers Bishnu Paudel and Rabi Lamichhane, and top leaders of various political parties, industrialists and tourism professionals will take part in the opening ceremony, according to the CAAN.

The crew and passengers of the aircraft landing at the airport from the first flight in the morning will be welcomed with garlands, the CAAN has palnned.

From Sunday, all domestic flights will be operated from the new airport as Buddha, Yeti and Sourya Air have already conducted the test flight and completed preparations including office management to start flying from the new airport.

The then Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli had laid the foundation of the airport on April 13, 2016, though it took yet another year to start construction. A Chinese company China CAMCE started the construction work one-and-a-half years after the foundation stone was laid. But the China CAMCE has handed over new airport to Nepal in the third week of last March, though only 93 per cent work was completed. The airport was handed over to Nepal on the occasion of Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi's visit to Nepal.

Narrow-body aircraft including Airbus A-320 and Boeing 757-200 that has capacity to carry less than 200 passengers can take off and land at the airport, according to director of Pokhara Regional International Airport Bikram Gautam. "The aircraft, at present however, can only land from the east in the one-way approach airport."

The airport has parking lots that can accommodate 11 aircraft including three large and eight small ones. The runway of the airport is 2,500 meters and the width is 45 meters and the thickness of the runway is 34 cm, Gautam informed, adding that the airport has the capacity to handle 610 passengers per hour during peak hours. "There will be 18-hour daily flights to and from Pokhara International Airport beginning February 23."

Estimated to have cost around Rs 22 billion with concessional loan from China’s Export-Import (Exim) Bank, the airport has domestic and international terminal buildings spread over 14,000 sq meters of land. The China CAMCE has constructed the airport on EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction) model.

Four decades ago, some 3,106 ropanis of land in wards 14, 15 and 18 in Pokhara was acquired to construct the airport. After the land was not enough, another 521 ropanis of land was acquired. But the construction was started by acquiring another 60 acres of land to build a 10 km road around the airport.

The airport that is expected to be a milestone in the promotion of tourism, also wants to convey the message to the world that Nepal is eager to welcome more tourists, , according to the chairman of the Pokhara Tourism Council, Pom Narayan Shrestha. Pokhara's direct connection with international cities will help promote Pokhara more, he said, adding that Pokhara is a major tourist destination and the tourism sector will benefit more with the operation of the airport. "The tourism sector affected by Covid-19 will get relief with the increase in tourist arrivals with the operation of the new airport."

Tourism promotion in New York

 The Consulate General of Nepal in New York hosted a tourism promotion event ‘Nepal-The Wonderland of Natural, Cultural and Spiritual Beauty’ in collaboration with the Pacific Asia Travel Association, New York Chapter in New York.

The programme, which coincided with the celebration week of 75th anniversary of the establishment of Nepal-US diplomatic relations, provided an opportunity to the Consulate to work in collaboration with the professional tourism body to showcase the importance of tourism connectivity between Nepal and USA and promote Nepal's tourism in New York. 

According to a press note issued by the Nepali Embassy in New York, the programme gave a platform to showcase Nepal's tourism potential and major attractions.

In his inaugural remarks, the acting Consul General Bishnu Gautam, welcoming the invitees, highlighted the major tourism features and attractions of Nepal, recently added tourism infrastructure, facilities and new travel facilitation measures taken by Nepal. He appealed the guests and the airliners, travel and tour business community to visit Nepal and also to keep Nepal in their preferred travel destination.

Regional Director of US State Department of Office of Foreign Missions, Regional Office New York Jeannatte M Juricic joined the event in solidarity to promote Nepal-US ties and tourism connectivity, the Embassy informed.

Speaking on the occasion as the chief guest, ambassador Amrit Bahadur Rai, Permanent Representative of Nepal to the UN in New York, shared Nepal's perspective on international tourism and the unique potentialities of Nepal to become an international tourism hub of adventure tourism, recreation, cultural and spiritual learning and yoga and meditation, among others. He urged the guests to visit Nepal as Nepal is back to normal for tourism and other business.

A video message from the chief executive officer of Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) addressed the US friends, travel and tour business communities and travellers of the programme, was played at the programme. The message highlighted major touristic attractions of Nepal, Nepal's best response to tourists during Covid-19 pandemic and appealed the travellers to choose Nepal as their preferred destination.

President of Pacific Asia Travel Association New York Chapter Joebert Opulencia, on the occasion, highlighted travel and tourism potential in Asia-Pacific region and the need to work together for collective promotion of that region.

The event was held as a part of Consulate's efforts to convey a message that after pandemic Nepal is re-open for travel and tourism and Nepal is eager to welcoming US tourists in Nepal, the press note reads.

The guest speakers of the programme, many of them frequent travellers of Nepal, spoke prominently about their memorable experience in Nepal. A writer and a 14 times visitor of Nepal since 1974 and chief executive officer of Sir Edmund Hillary Medal Project Dr Seth Sicroff and British-American Mountaineer, Mt Everest Summiteer, and holder of Guinness World Record including on the first woman to reach earth's highest and deepest points on earth (Mt Everest and Challenger deep) Vanessa O' Brien shared their experience in Nepal, and what keeps them attracting to Nepal.

Other speakers Mt Everest Summiteer and president of US-Nepal Climbers Association Passang Nima Sherpa and president, NRN-New York Chapter Aang Tshiring Sherpa also shared their respective views, or solidarity with the Nepal's efforts to promote tourism.

Vice Consul of the Consulate Sangita Neupane made presentation on ‘Destination Nepal’, while director of Asian American Business Affairs at Greater New York Chamber of Commerce, and founder of Global Medical Tourism and Wellness Centre, Nepal Amit Pratap Shah made a brief presentation on opportunities on Medical Tourism and Wellness Yoga in Nepal. Similarly, Qatar Airlines and Turkish Airlines representatives also made presentations on their efforts to promote international tourism and connectivity between Nepal and the United States. Nepali artistes in New York also performed a Nepali cultural dance.

The programme was moderated by chief executive officer of TV Sunday and TV Journalist Kiran Marahatta. Officials from the Consulate General, PATA-New York Chapter Board Members, Travel and Tour Business community members and media persons were among the participants of the programme.

Nepal Airlines to start regular flights to Saudi Arabia from April 22

 The national flag carrier is flying to Saudi Arabia on a regular basis, for the first time, from April 22.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has already permitted Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) to operate flights to Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, the authority confirmed.

The NAC is starting regular flights on Kathmandu-Riyadh-Kathmandu sector according to its business plan, the national flag carrier also confirmed, adding that it had been preparing to fly on the route for a quite long time but was not granted permission.

Earlier, only a private airliner, Himalayan Airlines, was allowed to operate flights to Saudi Arabia. Now that the NAC has regular flights, it is expected the fare on the route to come down to benefit the passengers.

PATA Nepal organises 'Nepal- Bangladesh Tourism Promotion and B2B Exchange' programme

PATA Nepal Chapter, in collaboration with the PATA Bangladesh Chapter, has successfully concluded the 'Nepal-Bangladesh Tourism Promotion & B2B Exchange' Programme from November 16 to November 21.

The joint collaboration between PATA Chapters of Nepal and Bangladesh was organised as the post-pandemic tourism recovery initiative to help in promoting each other's destinations through mutual tie-ups and collaboration for both inbound and outbound tourism between the two neighbouring nations.

PATA Nepal Chapter, with the support of its member and partner organisations, hosted the PATA Bangladesh Delegation of 17 members; including the deputy director and secretary of Bangladesh Tourism Board, chairman and secretary-general of PATA Bangladesh, 10 tour operators, 2 media and 2 students from PATA Bangladesh Dhaka University Student Chapter.

The exchange programme included the familiarisation visit to Pokhara for Bangladeshi delegates from November 17 to November 19, wherein a 'Tourism Networking and Interaction Session' was organised in collaboration with Pokhara Tourism Council and NTB Pokhara on November 18. The Tourism Networking Programme in Pokhara witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 70 plus tour operators and service providers from the tourism fraternity, according to the PATA Nepal Chapter.

The formal function and B2B session held on November 20 at Park Village Resort included the presentations on destinations insights and business meetings and networking between 12 Bangladeshi tour operators and 14 Nepali tour operators and tourism service providers.

The formal function kicked off with the welcome remarks from PATA Nepal chairman Bibhuti Chand Thakur, who emphasised the immediate focus must embrace the promotion of 'regional travel', as an action plan, for reviving tourism which would be the most appropriate and convenient for travellers and destination management organizations or service providers.

"Since the long haul travel might take a little longer to recover," he said, adding that the nearby destinations, preferably accessible by road or short-haul flights, have more opportunities to build back their tourism. "Nepal-Bangladesh being so close to each other with less than one-hour flight, we through this collaboration expect unveiling a new way forward to strengthening our mutual inbound and outbound tourism business potentials."

Chief executive officer of Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) Dr Dhananjay Regmi and  deputy director and secretary of Bangladesh Tourism Board Mohammad Saiful Hasan, on the occasion, shared their destination insights and thoughts on the prospects of tourism exchange between Nepal and Bangladesh. The head of Department (Brand and Service Improvement) at Himalaya Airlines Ujjwala Dali also presented the operational plans of Himalaya Airlines to Bangladesh as well as other sectors in the region and beyond.

Addressing the formal function,  chairman of PATA Bangladesh Shahi Hamid said that he got fascinated with the warm hospitality of Nepal, and there are many alluring tourism products and services in Nepal to attract many Bangladeshi travellers. He also said that Nepal used to welcome about 26,000 Bangladeshis yearly before the pandemic and this can be easily penetrated double with effective promotion and marketing initiatives.

The chief guest of the programme, secretary of Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Yadav Koirala, on the occasion, expressed his thanks to PATA Chapters of Nepal and Bangladesh for undertaking the needful and timely initiative to promote regional tourism. He also recommended that Nepal needs to enhance its collaborative marketing and promotional events, organise FAM Trips, improve infrastructures (especially road connectivity), and develop extended tour packages for the tourists to Bangladesh and Nepal to flourish tourism in both countries. He further assured that the Tourism Ministry will facilitate the necessary cooperation and support at the government level to increase the tourism engagements between Nepal and Bangladesh.

The event was promoted by Nepal Tourism Board and Bangladesh Tourism Board; and supported by  Himalaya Airlines and Buddha Air (Airlines Partners), Pokhara Tourism Council (Organising partner), The Royal Mountain Travel (Transportation partner),  and Hospitality Partners including- The Everest Hotel, KGH Group of Hotels, Aloft, Radisson, Siddhartha Hotel, and The Old Inn.

Bangladesh Tourism Board, along with PATA Bangladesh Chapter, has extended an invitation and will be hosting Nepali counterparts in Bangladesh soon to further explore exchange and expand the mutual prospects of tourism development between both countries.

Government forms probe committee to study aviation sector

The government has formed a probe committee domestic aircraft.

"The investigative committee will help domestic airlines make more robust, safe and effective," confirmed the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation. "A meeting chaired by prime minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, who is also in charge of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, formed a five-member probe committee led by joint secretary of the ministry Buddhisagar Lamichhane."

"The committee has former director of Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) Bheshraj Subedi, senior captain Krishna Bahadur Poudel and joint secretary at the ministry Pramod Nepal as members and CAAN general manager Laxman Devkota as member secretary," the ministry added. 

A committee will study the physical and mechanical condition of domestic airlines in Nepal regarding various problems seen in their aircrafts and helicopters recently, a press note issued by the ministry reads, adding that the committee has been entrusted with the responsibility to submit the report within three months with suggestions. "The committee will study and observe the physical, mechanical and archival condition of all the aircrafts flying in and out of Nepal."

The committee is also responsible for reviewing the CAAN’s test report on whether the airline has complied with the safety standards approved by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the press note reads. "It will also examine whether the criteria for crew members have been met."

The probe committee will make suggestions to improve the quality of air safety by studying the safety related work to be followed by the CAAN. “We have a responsibility to ensure the safety of the general public and tourists by making Nepal's air service reliable and trustworthy," the statement reads.

A Buddha Air flight from Kathmandu to Biratnagar managed a safe landing at Kathmandu airport as it failed to land at Biratnagar airport due to technical glitch.

Nepal opens up for tourists

 Nepal has resumed on-arrival visa services for foreigners.

According to a new protocol issued by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, now tourists can get on-arrival visa as Nepal reported a sharp decline in the new cases of Covid-19 in the past few weeks. The  new rule has also scrapped the mandatory requirement to stay in quarantine for 14 days in case of those, who have received both the doses of Covid-19 vaccines.

The new protocol was issued under the Infectious Disease Act (1964), after the Covid-19 Crisis Management Ordinance (2020), along with around a dozen ordinances, introduced by the government, became ineffective from September 16 when they failed to get through House within the constitutional deadline. The cabinet, on Monday, approved the new travel protocol under the old Infectious Disease Act. It will be effective from today, according to the Tourism Ministry.

According to the new protocol, all foreigners arriving in Nepal, however, will have to undergo antigen tests at the entry point. "They can directly go to their destinations without having to stay in mandatory quarantine, if they test negative for the virus," the protocol reads, "But those testing positive in the antigen tests are required to stay in a hotel until they test negative for the virus."

If the antigen test facility is not available at the border points, the visiting foreign nationals need to undergo such tests at their respective hotels, the protocol reads, adding that they are allowed to venture outside only after they have a negative PCR test report.

Likewise, Nepalis returning the country with both doses of Covid-19 vaccines can directly go to their homes. They, however, must produce a PCR negative test of Covid-19 taken 72 hours before their departure, the protocol adds.

"Indian nationals, who test negative for the virus can enter Nepal even if they have not received Covid-19 vaccines," it reads, adding that they must furnish PRC negative reports conducted within 72 hours before their arrival at Nepal's border. "They also need to fill up an online form available at the Central Covid-19 Crisis Management Center (CCMC) and produce a hard copy of the form upon their arrival at the border point."

Nepal’s decision to ease quarantine requirements and visa issuance has send a positive message to the international community, according to the travel and tourism entrepreneurs.

One million in tourism businesses jobless due to Covid-19

Around 17 per cent of the hotels in Nepal have completely shut down their businesses, whereas more than one million people in the tourism business lost their jobs due to Covid-19 pandemic, according to a tourism entrepreneurs.

Tourism entrepreneurs -- during a meeting with the Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) - today also claimed that many countries have still kept Nepal in the negative list in view of the Covid-19 infections, which have adversely affected the inflow of tourists.

The entrepreneurs also urged the government to give momentum to the vaccination drive across the country to disseminate the message that Nepal is a safe destination in terms of Covid-19.

They also called for provision of collateral free loans and easy access for the refinance facilities to revive the pandemic-hit tourism industry.

More private-sector investment in the ACA can attract high-spending tourist

Increased private-sector investment in the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA) could bring in more high-spending tourists to help boost the local economy in a post-Covid market, according to a new IFC report.

The report—'Architectural and Cultural Heritage Tourism Products in Nepal: An Assessment of New Private Sector Investment Opportunities in the Annapurna Conservation Area'—examines the opportunities for investors to capitalise on the area’s triple offering of landscape, architecture, and culture.

The Annapurna Conservation Area now caters to two main visitor groups:  Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims visiting Muktinath, an important site for both religions, and adventure tourists—hikers, trekkers, and mountaineers. The Annapurna Area has long been the most popular trekking destination in the country, accounting for roughly 60 per cent of all trekking holidays.

The report says that the area could attract higher value tourists who could spend about 20 per cent more, if there was greater action to boost accommodation. While there are over 1000 hotels, lodges, and tea shops, these cater to low-budget travelers, the report reads. In order to appeal to higher-value tourists, the report lays out four potential investment concepts: converting old, abandoned houses in a street in Tukuche village into boutique hotels; redeveloping an abandoned, heritage house in Jharkot into a boutique luxury hotel; establishing a network of lodges along the Seven-Passes trail in Manang; and setting up a coffee shop franchise in Lower Mustang and Manang.

“High spending tourists are willing to pay premium prices for comfortable accommodation in the Himalayan region, as has been the case in Bhutan,” said IFC’s resident representative in Nepal Babacar S Faye. “In view of the gigantic losses that Nepal’s tourism industry has suffered due to the pandemic, it should create a new roadmap to align with the new market reality," Faye said, adding that it has the opportunity to attract more high-end tourists, a move that will impact the supply chain, and have positive ripple effects on the country’s economy.

To attract higher spending tourists and sustain local communities engaged in tourism, the report makes it clear that more private sector investment is crucial. Tourism in Nepal has been the hardest hit sector by Covid-19 impacts. An estimated 230,000 jobs are at risk, 20,000 tour and trekking guides unemployed, and 2,600 trekking agencies closed, amounting to a loss of around $460 million to the country’s GDP.

The study is part of IFC's continued support to Nepal's tourism sector as it struggles to recover from the pandemic.

Domestic flights to resume from July 1

The domestic airline industry is going to resume the service from July 1.

Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation (MoTCA) started preparations to resume domestic flights from July 1, following the cabinet decision to allow the flights.

The domestic airlines are allowed only fifty per cent passenger as a safety measure against the Covid-19 spread. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) directed the airlines to ensure the implementation of all necessary safety protocols.

The authority has also provided airline staffers a week to reside out of the Kathmandu valley to return to their work stations in line with the readjusted timing of the resumption of domestic flights.

The airline companies, welcoming the government decision, started ticket booking.

Likewise, the ministry has also allowed the international flights to resume their services from tomorrow.

Tourism industry has highest female managers

Female managers outnumbers the male in the tourism industry. 

According to According to an analytical study report by the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS), some 60.7 per cent of tourism establishments had male managers while 39.2 per cent of them had female managers. "The number of establishments with female managers in the tourism industry is the highest among all establishments in Nepal," the report adds.

Province-wise, Province 2 has the lowest proportion of female managers ( some 19.3 per cent) while Province 1 has the highest (some 50.1 per cent),” the report reads, adding that accommodation and food service businesses have a higher proportion of female managers. Likewise, only 38.2 per cent of the establishments in the tourism industry have been registered. "The proportion of registered establishments is low in food and beverages service activities since these micro scale businesses are operating without registration knowingly or unknowingly, although laws require any business to be registered," the report adds.

Tourism is the fourth largest industry by employment: CBS

 Tourism industry is fourth largest employer in the country.

According to an analytical study report by the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS), tourism industry provides some 371,140 jobs, which is 11.5 per cent of total jobs in Nepali industries.

"The largest industry by employment is wholesale and retail trade, which accounts for 30.6 per cent of the total employment, followed by education with 15.9 per cent and manufacturing with 15.8 per cent," the report adds.

Province=wise, Bagmati Province, which includes Kathmandu Valley, accounts for the largest number of tourism personnel in the country, with some 161,674 persons or 43.6 per cent of the total employment, whereas Province 1 stands second with an employment of 56,782 persons or 15.3 per cent, the report reads, adding that Lumbini and Gandaki provinces employ some 47,827 and some 47,447 persons, respectively. "Likewise, Sudurpaschim Province has some 17,195 tourism workers, Karnali has 14,123 tourism workers and Province 2 has 26,092 tourism workers."

According to the report, the number of people engaged in restaurants and mobile food service activities stands at 243,790 or some 65.7 per cent, followed by short-term accommodation activities or the hotel industry with 76,010 people or some 20.5 per cent.

Similarly, airlines employ 2,750 people, and some 17,899 people are engaged in beverage selling activities. Travel agencies provide 13,223 jobs, the report adds. "There are some 134,832 establishments in tourism industry, which is 14.6 per cent of the total establishments in the country."

Bagmati Province has the largest number of 49,234 tourism establishments, accounting for 36.5 per cent of all establishments in the tourism industry, the report further reads, adding that the major tourist attractions of the province are the cultural heritage of Kathmandu Valley and Chitwan National Park. "Province 1 has 24,900 tourism establishments with Everest National Park and Ilam being the main draws for visitors, whereas the number of establishment in Gandaki Province stands at 16,412 with Pokhara Valley, Mt Machhapuchchhre, Annapurna range and Gorkha being the major attracting factors for tourists."

Lumbini Province has some 19,211 tourism establishments with Lumbini and Banke and Bardia national parks being the main attractions. Rara and Shey Phoksundo national parks are the major sites of Karnali Province which has some 6,351 tourism establishments. Likewise, Sudurpaschim Province has some 7,604 establishments with Khaptad National Park and Shukla Phanta National Park being its key destinations. There are some 11,120 tourism establishments in Province 2 with Parsa Wildlife Reserve and Janakpur as the key tourism sites.

The report also reads that the number of tourist standard hotels rose by 54.3 per cent between 2012-13 and 2019-20, while the number of star hotels increased by 29 per cent in eight years.

The number of beds in tourist standard hotels and star hotels rose by 40.9 per cent and 38.2 per cent, respectively between 2012-13 and 2019-20. "In total, the number of beds increased by 39 per cent from 31,657 in 2012-13 to 43,999 in 2019-20."

Similarly, tourism industry's contribution to the national economy (GDP) and employment stood at 6.7 per cent and 6.9 per cent in 2019, just before the Covid-19 struck the country shutting the tourism industry, completely.

"Nepal's tourism industry has not necessarily achieved its full growth potential, according to the report that has been released recently, though the industry has suffered a lot since March 2020.

Due to a surge in tourist arrivals, the amount of foreign exchange earnings from tourism also jumped from Rs 11.71 billion in 2000-01 to Rs 75.80 billion in 2017-18. "Tourism revenue in the fiscal year 2017-18 was equivalent to 9.9 per cent of the total foreign exchange earnings that year," the CBS reports reads, adding that the number of international tourists has also been increasing over the years as the arrivals more than doubled from some 464,000 in 2000 to 1.17 million in 2018.

Quarantine hotels for passengers from India

The government has shortlisted eight hotels in the valley to accommodate passengers coming to Nepal from India.

As the government has halted operation of most international flights from midnight of May 6, it has allowed flights to and from India. The government has shortlisted eight hotels to quarantine passengers arriving from India, according to the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA). "The air travellers from India will have to stay quarantined in the designated eight hotels only."

The ministry has shortlisted View Bhrikuti Hotel at Godavari, Madhav Hotel at Guheswari, Airport Hotel at Gaushala, Amadablam Hotel at Gaushala, Readers Inn at Gaushala, Ananda Ashram at Gaushala and A-One Resort at Jagati for hotel quarantine. The hotels have allocated between 10 and 91 rooms in their facility for the quarantine of the passengers.

According to the ministry, these hotels will transport passengers from the airport as well as provide food and accommodation at Rs 3000. "The hotels have been instructed to charge Rs 3,000 per person, including value added tax (VAT) and service charges," the ministry said, adding that Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), in coordination with the Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) and Air India, has been assigned the responsibility of collecting the details of the passengers and assisting in quarantine management of the passengers. "Passengers from India must stay in quarantine for 10 days."

If they're found to be not abiding by the rules, the hotels will have to report them to the police.

though, the government has stopped the international and domestic flights, there will be emergency flight as and when required.

The K2 summiteers feted

 The government today feted ten Nepali mountaineers, who assaulted a feat that mountaineers had felt to be impossible – the winter ascent of K2 – the world’s second highest peak and the most difficult and dangerous eight thousander.

Earlier in the morning they received a grand welcome in Kathmandu. From the airport, the team were taken around the Kathmandu city from Tinkune to Naya Baneshwor, Maitighar, Bhadrakali, Sundhara and Kantipath. They were accompanied by a motorcycle rally.

They were felicitated at a function at the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) at Bhrikutimandap. The welcome ceremony and felicitation programme was organised with the participation of the Department of Tourism, Nepal Tourism Board, Nepal Mountaineering Association and other tourism organisations.

Situated in the northernmost latitude in the Karakoram range, the 8,611 metres (28,251 feet) K2 – known as Chhogori – is the world's second-tallest peak straddles Pakistan and China. The Nepali team climbed the peak on January 16. When the final ascent began in the wee hours of January 16 temperature plummeted to minus-50 Celsius and climbers recounted feeling frozen as they pushed for the summit, according to one of the mountaineers Normal Purja. “Several of the climbers’ fingers were frostbitten.”

Earlier, the climbing team had to remain inside their tents for seven days because of high winds and clouds besides low temperatures. They also faced a multi-day storm, which affected their plans. At Camp 2 situated at 6,760m (22,178 ft), the team was battered by heavy winds. However, overcoming the Nepali team overcome all those difficulties and made history.

World Bank reaffirms economic growth to limit at 0.6 per cent

 The World Bank (WB) reaffirmed its earlier projection of Nepal’s economic growth to be 0.6 per cent in the current fiscal year, though the government has – in the budget that it announced in June – projected a 7 per cent economic growth.

In October too, the development partner had projected Nepal’s economic growth to be remain 0.6 per cent in the fiscal year 2020-21. “The low growth rate is due to the economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic in the economy that depends heavily on tourism and travel,” the Global Economic Prospects released today reads, adding that the growth for the next fiscal year could be 2.5 per cent. “The tourism revenue is likely to remain significantly below pre-pandemic levels because of depressed demand as potential tourists remain wary of social interactions and continued restrictions on international travel, although recent vaccine news offers hope.”

With this reason, the recovery is likely to remain modest, it adds.

According to Global Economic Prospects, the South Asian region is projected to grow by 3.3 per cent in 2021. “Weak growth prospects reflect a protracted recovery in incomes and employment, especially in the services sector; limited credit provisioning constrained by financial sector vulnerabilities, and muted fiscal policy support,” it reads, adding that the forecast assumes that a vaccine will be distributed on a large scale in the region starting the second half of 2021 and that there is no widespread resurgence in infections. “In South Asia, Maldives could log the highest economic growth as it has opened up for tourism.”

According to World Bank, the global economy contracted by 4.3 per cent in 2020. But the global economy could expand by 4 per cent in 2021 given that an initial Covid-19 vaccine rollout becomes widespread throughout the year. 

ADB approves $150 million loan to upgrade major airports

 The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $150 million concessional loan to improve the capacity of Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) and Gautam Buddha Airport (GBA) in Nepal.

According to a press note issued by the multilateral development partner, tourism is a major source of economic activity in Nepal. “In 2019, tourism generated an estimated $2.05 billion, which accounted for 6.7 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP),” the press note reads, adding that the TIA in Kathmandu is the country’s only international airport and a major hub for domestic air transport. “The GBA in Lumbini will serve as an alternate international air transport facility for Nepal. “Lumbini is the birthplace of the Buddha and is a pilgrimage and major tourist destination.”

“ADB’s support will improve TIA’s safety, capacity, and operational efficiency,” 

In addition, the new GBA international terminal will play a key role in boosting regional tourism in and around Lumbini,” ADB senior transport specialist for South Asia Kai Wei Yeo said, adding that the project will help revive the country’s tourism industry and address the long-term negative effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The loan will support the construction of a parallel taxiway extension and hangar aprons at TIA, and a new international terminal building at GBA to increase capacity, the press note reads.

Another key component of the project is minimising climate change impacts, it reads, adding that this will be carried out by using clean energy materials, such as the solar panels and energy-efficient lighting to be installed at the new GBA terminal building. “ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty.”

Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members; 49 from the region.