KATHMANDU: Experts and tourism stakeholders have highlighted the need for comprehensive policy and structural reforms to revitalize Nepal’s tourism industry, which they say holds the potential to significantly boost employment and strengthen the national economy.
Speaking at a policy conclave organized to mark the 8th anniversary of IHM College in Kathmandu on Friday, participants highlighted the importance of launching special packages and exploring new tourist destinations to prolong foreign visitors’ stay in Nepal.
Dr Ramhari Lamichhane, a tourism expert and former member secretary of CTEVT, stressed the need to improve the quality of hospitality services to ensure a more pleasant experience for international tourists.
“Even traditional practices can be integrated into tourism offerings,” he said, adding that new and innovative packages could enhance visitor engagement and satisfaction.
He also highlighted the importance of creating job opportunities within the country through tourism and local production.
Chief Executive of Hospital Guides, Surach Prasain, said the conclave aimed to develop a common perspective on how to incorporate tourism and hospitality-related priorities into the upcoming national budget.
Mahesh Phunyal, Director General at Ramada Incore Hotel, stated that investing in the hospitality industry and workforce development would be instrumental in attracting more foreign tourists. Balram Pathak, Director General at Royal Tulip Kathmandu Hotel, echoed this view, stressing the need to produce a skilled workforce for the tourism and hospitality sector.
Hospitality professionals Rabindra Singh and Pranisha Dhungel said that challenges in the sector require immediate attention from all stakeholders.
The conclave also addressed several critical issues, including high airfare, inadequate road infrastructure, insufficient promotion of new tourist destinations, and the need for stronger linkages between hospitality education and the tourism industry.
Participants agreed that these concerns must be tackled through policy reforms and adequate budget allocations.
Comment