Nepal has initiated a campaign titled “Nepal Calling” to reassure international tourists that the country remains accessible following destructive flash floods. These efforts aim to safeguard the crucial autumn tourism season and protect an industry still in recovery. Khadak Raj Poudel, the Minister of Tourism, announced the campaign through social media, emphasising that important tourist destinations and trekking routes continue to be open.

In a video message, Poudel stated, “Nepal is still open… Our Himalayan trekking routes are still waiting for you.” He highlighted that visiting Nepal during this time would not only be an opportunity for travel but would also provide much-needed support to a nation grappling with disaster. Currently, tourism contributes approximately 6.7 per cent to Nepal’s GDP, directly and indirectly, and supports over one million jobs, according to official statistics.

The situation is particularly urgent, as the floods, which occurred on August 26, struck just prior to the prime tourist season running from September to November. This period accounts for about 40 per cent of foreign tourist arrivals in a year, according to reports from ekantipur.com. In August alone, Nepal recorded 85,444 foreign tourists, reflecting a decline of 3.65 per cent compared to the same month in the previous year, accompanied by an increase in cancellations following the floods.

Impact Of Floods On Tourism Sector

The flash floods were reportedly triggered by an ice-rock avalanche near the Nepal-Tibet border, resulting in severe devastation in northern and central regions of the country. Floodwaters swept downstream through the Bhotekoshi River, destroying homes, vehicles, and vital infrastructure, including roads and bridges. The government has responded by informing Nepali diplomatic missions and international partners that the disaster’s effects were geographically limited and that primary tourist locations and airports remain operational.

Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal communicated to diplomatic and development partners in Kathmandu that regions such as Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara, Chitwan, Lumbini, Janakpur, Annapurna, Sagarmatha, and Bardiya are still welcoming tourists. However, the ramifications of these floods have raised concerns, as tourist bookings are already being affected at a sensitive time, particularly as the industry has not yet fully bounced back from the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mandeep Giri, managing director of the Dome Himalaya Hotel located in Kathmandu’s Thamel district, reported a cancellation rate of around 20 per cent for the September-November season within a week of the floods. He noted that the online booking segment is experiencing a significant reduction, stating that cancellations are escalating daily.

Government Strategies To Restore Confidence

Tourism industry representatives are concerned that graphic images of flooded areas and destruction could lead to potential visitors perceiving that all of Nepal has been affected. Binayak Shah, president of the Hotel Association of Nepal, expressed that it is crucial to effectively communicate the message about safety in Nepal through embassies and missions globally. The International Relations and Tourism Committee of Parliament has called upon the government to implement a rapid strategy to restore confidence in Nepal’s tourism market, including assistance measures for affected tourists.

Committee chairperson Sumnima Udas mentioned the need for clear communication regarding the safety of Nepal’s tourism sector. The government is also evaluating incentives to attract foreign visitors, which may include provisions such as complimentary visas, accommodation discounts, and simplified travel arrangements. Hikmat Singh Air, acting chief of the Nepal Tourism Board, stated that revival initiatives could also encompass discounts on airfares and hotel rates while reinforcing the “Nepal Calling” campaign in collaboration with the Tourism Ministry.

Poudel proposed long-term plans to develop Rasuwa as a “climate heritage” site, linking it to broader climate justice initiatives. Overall, Nepal is striving to mitigate the fallout from the floods on tourism bookings by emphasising that while damage occurred, main tourist routes and destinations are functioning normally.

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