Kathmandu: Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Governor Maha Prasad Adhikari has stated that Nepal’s economy is becoming more viable, with an improving business environment. Speaking at the Hotelier Summit, organized by Capital Nepal Business Magazine, Governor Adhikari emphasized the significant role of tourism in generating foreign currency and creating jobs.

He expressed optimism about the growth of the hospitality sector, noting that the addition of star-rated hotels would enhance Nepal's tourism infrastructure. Industrialist and parliamentarian Binod Kumar Chaudhary also stressed the importance of international chain hotels entering Nepal, which he believes has drawn global attention to the country.

Chaudhary underscored that prioritizing tourism and hotel infrastructure development is crucial for making Nepal an attractive global destination. Official data revealed that Nepal now has 182 five-star hotels and 1,234 lodges and resorts, with 31 international airlines operating flights to Nepal.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Nepal saw over a million tourists annually, a number that was matched in the last fiscal year. Nepal earned an estimated Rs 68 billion from foreign tourists in 2023. The average tourist stays in Nepal for 13.2 days and spends about 41 USD per day, with most visiting for holiday, trekking, mountaineering, and entertainment.

The government's 2024/25 budget includes various initiatives to boost tourism, such as identifying and promoting new destinations, implementing a one-stop service system for tourists, automating mountaineering permits, and promoting Nepal as a destination for weddings.