Nepal Assures Tourist Safety Amid Recent Disturbances
The Nepal Tourism Board recently made an appeal to international governments to reconsider their travel advisories for Nepal, specifying that it is indeed a safe destination for tourists. At an event named ‘Meet and Greet with the Diplomatic Corps’ that took place amid Dashain celebrations in the heart of Kathmandu, it was announced that the situation in Nepal has normalized.
This announcement is significant considering certain recent events that had created a sense of unease among potential visitors. Protests spearheaded by the Gen Z faction on the 9th and 10th of September prompted a number of embassies to issue travel warnings cautioning tourists about potential disruptions. However, these disturbances were temporary, and the tourism sector in Nepal has regained its momentum.
During the gathering, a clear message was voiced to the diplomatic community: ‘Nepal is stable, secure, and fully accessible, with operational transportation and health services.’ This reassurance comes after the military swiftly brought the situation under control. Moreover, the transitional period is over with the forming of the new government.
Now, all of the nation’s functional systems, including key institutions such as security agencies and tourist police, are operating as per usual. More importantly, the indispensable infrastructural elements like roads, airports, and hospitals are active and providing their necessary services without any disruptions.
In the course of addressing the diplomats, the unique natural and cultural allure of Nepal was highlighted. The tourism board called for proactive support from the international diplomats in endorsing the country positively at a global level. They urged the representatives to actively work towards reframing Nepal’s current image in the international arena.
In the wake of the protests, a total of 25 hotels in the country experienced minor damages, impacting over 2,000 jobs in the tourism sector. Yet, the resilience of Nepal’s tourism industry was heavily underlined by assuring that these impacts were temporary. Additionally, the safety of tourists was never compromised and will remain a topmost priority.
The diplomats present at the event were encouraged to deliver the message to their respective governments and citizens: Nepal is safe, open, and ready to embrace visitors with its rich cultural heritages and warm hospitality. It is a nation that thrives on welcoming travelers and showcases its pride and history through its hospitality.
On the eve of ‘World Tourism Day’, this special event was attended by diplomats from 15 different countries, namely the United States, India, Egypt, Norway, Qatar, Malaysia, and Pakistan, to name a few. Besides dignitaries, representatives from Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tourism, Forest and Environment, the Department of Immigration, as well as significant stakeholders from the tourism industry were in attendance.
The gathering was not just about institutional or national representation; it was also about highlighting the cultural extravagance Nepal offers to the world. Festivals such as Dashain, Tihar, and Nepal Sambat are integral parts of Nepalese culture and present Nepal as a land of reunion and rejuvenation.
Tourism in Nepal was emphasized not merely from an economic perspective, but also from a socio-diplomatic point of view. It was noted that the tourism sector has the potential to not only boost the economy but also fortify social ties and foster diplomatic relationships.
In conclusion, the Nepal Tourism Board reaffirmed its commitment to maintain a progressive and collaborative approach with its international partners. It is intent on making collective efforts to promote Nepal as a major tourist destination on the global map. The board believes that despite recent challenges, Nepal remains a vibrant and safe destination, offering unique experiences to its visitors.