KATHMANDU: Nepali Congress lawmaker NP Saud has called on the government to prioritize the promotion of lesser-known but promising tourist destinations across Nepal, stressing that the country’s tourism sector remains underutilized despite its vast natural and cultural wealth.
Speaking at a meeting of the International Relations and Tourism Committee of the House of Representatives on Wednesday, Saud expressed concern that Nepal’s immense potential in tourism has not yet been systematically harnessed.
“Geographically, Nepal is a uniquely diverse and beautiful country. We need to strategically highlight and promote this identity,” he said, adding that the country holds significant opportunities for tourism diversification. “However, we are still struggling to overcome long-standing challenges.”
Saud highlighted the need for clearer and more proactive policies to revitalize the tourism industry, noting that Nepal has yet to meet its target of attracting 2 million annual international visitors.
“We’ve set a goal of reaching two million tourists per year, but we haven’t been able to achieve it,” he said. “We must do more to increase our tourist numbers.”
Pointing to the Kathmandu Valley alone, Saud highlighted the existence of 40 trekking routes, many of which remain unexplored and poorly promoted. He urged the Ministry of Tourism to identify and develop such routes and destinations with greater focus.
Saud, who is also a former foreign minister, stressed the importance of tailored plans to attract tourists from neighboring economic powerhouses India and China, saying Nepal must leverage its proximity and cultural ties to both countries for better tourism outcomes.
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