Kathmandu: Tourism experts and stakeholders have emphasized the need for policy reforms, structural improvements, and targeted travel packages to revitalize Nepal’s tourism industry, enhance employment opportunities, and strengthen the national economy.

Speaking at a policy conclave organized in Kathmandu on the occasion of the 8th anniversary of IHM College, panelists stressed the importance of exploring new destinations and prolonging the stay of foreign tourists in Nepal.

Tourism expert and former CTEVT member secretary Dr. Ramhari Lamichhane highlighted the need to enhance the quality of hospitality services and leverage Nepal’s traditional practices to attract visitors. “New schemes and innovative packages can help improve the tourist experience,” he said. He also underscored the need to create domestic employment through tourism and local production.

RSS tourism reporter CB Adhikari echoed the need for government-led policy reforms and stronger collaboration among tourism stakeholders. “Infrastructure development and public-private partnerships are crucial for sustainable tourism,” he said.

Surach Prasain, Chief Executive at Hospital Guides, noted that the conclave aimed to shape a unified vision for integrating tourism and hospitality priorities into the upcoming national budget.

Mahesh Phunyal, Director General of Ramada Incore Hotel, called for increased investment in hospitality infrastructure and human resources to attract more international tourists. Similarly, Balram Pathak, Director General of Royal Tulip Kathmandu Hotel, emphasized the urgency of producing a skilled workforce to meet industry demands.

Other hospitality professionals, including Rabindra Singh and Pranisha Dhungel, pointed out existing challenges in the sector and called for immediate action by all stakeholders.

Key issues discussed included high airfares, poor road connectivity, the need for promotional campaigns, exploration of new tourist destinations, better integration of hospitality education with tourism initiatives, and increased budget allocations.