Nepal Urged To Elevate Tourism To Equal Status With Industry By Pokhara’s Hotel Association Highlighting Urgent Need For Policy Alignment

Published on December 28, 2025

The Hotel Association Pokhara in Nepal has called for the government to provide the tourism sector with the same level of recognition and support as the industrial sector. This appeal comes in light of the growing challenges faced by the tourism industry, particularly in the aftermath of political unrest and the economic impact of the Gen-Z Movement. Despite promises made in the government’s current fiscal year’s budget to treat both sectors equally, little progress has been made, leaving the tourism sector struggling. The association believes that granting tourism equal status will not only help recover losses but also boost Nepal’s economy by enhancing air connectivity and fostering domestic and international tourism.

The Hotel Association Pokhara in Nepal has called on the government to grant the tourism sector the same recognition and support as the industrial sector. This call for equality between these two critical sectors is not new; it has been a topic of ongoing discussion, especially as both sectors contribute significantly to the nation’s economy. The association’s leadership emphasized that ensuring parity would help not only stabilize the tourism sector but also encourage its growth, as it faces challenges that other sectors do not necessarily encounter.

The association’s memorandum, submitted to the Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, highlighted the need for equal treatment between tourism and industry in governmental policies and support. Despite the government’s announcement in the current fiscal year’s budget to treat both sectors equally, the association pointed out that little progress has been made in translating this promise into concrete actions. The memorandum expressed frustration over the lack of implementation and called for a more proactive approach from the government to align tourism with the same status and privileges that the industrial sector enjoys.

In addition to the demand for equal treatment, the association raised several key concerns aimed at revitalizing Nepal’s tourism sector, particularly in the aftermath of the disruptions caused by the Gen-Z Movement. One of the primary demands focused on improving air connectivity to stimulate both international and domestic tourism. The association advocates for the establishment of regular flight services from Pokhara International Airport to major cities in neighboring countries such as India and China. The lack of such connectivity has been seen as a significant barrier to attracting international tourists, and the association argues that opening up air routes to these neighboring countries would not only boost international tourism but also foster stronger cross-border business and cultural ties.

The importance of this connectivity cannot be overstated. Nepal’s tourism potential is immense, especially in Pokhara, which is known for its scenic beauty, adventure tourism, and rich cultural heritage. Regular international flights would open new doors for tourists, making Nepal more accessible for travelers from nearby countries. The association further called for the expansion of domestic flight routes to connect provincial cities within Nepal. By targeting border regions and areas with high tourism potential, the association believes that the government can help nurture a thriving domestic tourism market. This move would also support local economies by encouraging travel to and within Nepal, thus promoting the tourism sector beyond just the well-known hotspots.

Another pressing issue raised in the memorandum was the economic impact of the Gen-Z Movement on the hotel and hospitality sectors. The association stressed that these sectors were directly affected by the disruptions caused by protests, cancellations, and the resulting decline in bookings and tourist traffic. The Gen-Z Movement, which gained traction for various political reasons, resulted in significant disruptions to daily life and business operations, particularly in major tourist destinations. The hotel and hospitality sectors were left grappling with lost revenue and reduced demand, leading to a challenging period for businesses that rely heavily on tourism.

As a solution, the association requested that the government provide rightful compensation to the affected hotel and hospitality businesses. This compensation would serve as an acknowledgment of the financial hardship endured by the sector and a way to help businesses recover. Given the vital role tourism plays in Nepal’s economy, the association believes that the government’s support would not only help mitigate the losses sustained but also ensure that businesses are able to recover quickly and continue to contribute to the nation’s growth.

In response to the memorandum, the Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation reassured the association that the government was committed to addressing the concerns raised. The minister acknowledged the need for equal treatment for the tourism and industrial sectors and affirmed that measures were being taken to fulfill this commitment. Additionally, the minister mentioned that the government was actively working on plans to establish international flight routes from Pokhara International Airport. This development is seen as a key step in making Pokhara a more attractive destination for international travelers and enhancing Nepal’s appeal on the global tourism map.

The submission of the memorandum was also attended by various officials, including representatives from the Gandaki Province Tourism and Industry Ministry, as well as business leaders and officials from the Nepal Tourism Board Gandaki Province Office. Their presence underscored the importance of collaboration between the government, local authorities, and the business community in ensuring the growth and sustainability of Nepal’s tourism industry. The collective efforts of these stakeholders are crucial for overcoming challenges and harnessing the full potential of Nepal’s tourism resources.

Looking ahead, the Hotel Association Pokhara remains steadfast in advocating for policies that will enable the tourism sector to thrive. Despite the setbacks faced in recent years, particularly due to external factors such as political unrest and global economic challenges, the association believes that with the right support, the tourism sector can bounce back stronger than ever. The calls for better air connectivity and financial support are not just about recovery but about positioning Nepal as a competitive player in the global tourism industry.

The government’s response to these issues will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Nepal’s tourism industry. By addressing the concerns raised by the association and working to implement the necessary changes, the government can help revitalize the tourism sector, making it more attractive to both international and domestic visitors. With improved infrastructure, better connectivity, and the right policies in place, Nepal’s tourism potential can be fully realized, ensuring long-term growth and prosperity for the nation.