Nepal to be promoted as a destination for ‘Wellness Tourism’

KATHMANDU: The government has announced plans to position Nepal as a global hub for wellness tourism in the international travel market.

Presenting the federal budget for Fiscal Year 2026/27 before a joint session of the Federal Parliament, Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle said tourism development has been given high priority. He added that financial incentives will be provided for the construction of luxury hotels and resorts to boost the sector.

He also said the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) will be restructured by mid-January next year to improve Nepal’s standing on the European Union aviation safety list. As part of the reform, CAAN will be split into separate regulatory and licensing bodies.

The Finance Minister further announced plans to develop the Lumbini–Muktinath religious corridor, the Shaligram route, and dedicated meditation and yoga centers. He said the government aims to integrate yoga, meditation, spiritual practices, and Buddhist and Vedic philosophies, helping promote Nepal’s Himalayan cultural heritage to the world.