It would not be an exaggeration if we say that the year 2007 has been the year of hope and rejoice about for the tourism sector in Nepal. With the advent of peace and stability, Nepal has again emerged as a major tourist destination.

As Prachanda Man Shrestha, CEO, Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) said, “After almost nine years, we have seen positive a growth in tourism in 2007. We have gained the confidence of international visitors for Nepal as a tourist destination.” The palpable growth in tourist arrival has been a mojor boost for all the stakeholders of this sector. Ram Kaji, president, Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA) added, “ This year around five million tourist came to Nepal and this is a huge encouragement for us.”

Besides the huge tourist arrival the significant increase in number of international airlines operating in Nepal provided yet another positive indication for this sector.

However, tourists are not the only reason that has soared up the demand for the travel in Nepal. Rick Symington, Manger- Bangladesh and Nepal, Hong Kong Dragon Airlines which also started its operation this year, pointed out that the increment in the number of Nepali Traveling abroad for study and work has also made international airlines venture in Nepal. Symington added,” we are pleased that we are receiving  a broad mix of travelers- not just returning tourist, but also the local community. In Hong Kong itself there is large Nepali Diaspora who regularly travel between the two cities to visit relatives and for business purposes.”

Missing NAC

The year that saw many airlines pass through the Nepali sky also experienced the lackluster performance of the national carrier- Nepal Airlines- that has become  a major concern for all. In a landlocked country like ours national carriers holds a major importance even for the country itself.

This very sentiment is shared by all as shrestha reminisces, “ In 1998 and 1999, it was Nepal Airlines which brought many people to Nepal helping us fulfill the target of half a million tourists. We always expect it to grow”.

Meanwhile, Koney talked about its effect on people, “ many tourists opted for other destinatons due to the expensive fare, as the NAC did not have any flight. Even the Nepalis who go abroad for work are bearing the brunt.”

Challenges:

This sudden change in the tourism sector has also brought into light the challenges that the stakeholders have to meet for their sustainability and further growth. “positive refurther growth. “positive response of market towards Nepal has certainly posed a challenges to us to address supply management capability.” Shrestha pointed out.

The issue of infrastructure development and investment seems to be dominating the list of challenges. And when it comes to improving infrastructure everyone had one place as a priority and that is the Tribhuwan International Airport. “ it is the first place that the tourists see when they arrive and the place needs upgrading as it has become very congested” said Koney.

Gautam opined, “the growing interest of international airlines after the peace process has made us realize that we have become an important market and thus CAAN is working towards providing the necessary  services for further growth.”

However, in terms of investment there still seems to be certain inhabitations as Prasai said, “a small mishap and things will change here. We have been massive cancellation of reservations in the past. So there still is this fear of uncertainty that often makes investors hesitate in starting big projects.” Shrestha added. “people are quite excited to invest in tourism but they are looking for the right time for investment.” Striving  to meet the present challenges, the tourism sector is entering the year 2008 with much hope as this year brought imminent optimistic trends.

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