The Tourism Policy of Nepal 2008 (2065) was formulated to develop tourism as a major pillar of economic growth, employment generation, and sustainable development.
It focuses on promoting Nepal as an attractive, safe, and environmentally friendly destination by encouraging both domestic and international tourism. The policy also emphasizes the active role of the private sector, community participation, and public-private partnerships in developing the tourism industry.
Vision:
To develop Nepal as a world-class tourist destination by promoting sustainable, inclusive, and high-quality tourism that contributes significantly to the national economy and cultural preservation.
Main Objectives of Tourism Policy 2008:
- Enhance the Contribution of Tourism to the National Economy:
Increase tourism’s share in GDP by expanding services, infrastructure, and employment opportunities. - Promote Sustainable and Responsible Tourism:
Ensure that tourism development is environmentally friendly, culturally respectful, and socially inclusive. - Develop and Diversify Tourism Products:
Promote new forms of tourism such as eco-tourism, adventure tourism, cultural tourism, village tourism, and medical tourism. - Strengthen Institutional and Legal Frameworks:
Improve coordination among tourism stakeholders, government bodies, and private sectors through clear policies and institutional support. - Increase Tourist Arrivals and Length of Stay:
Attract more international and domestic tourists through improved marketing, infrastructure, and quality services. - Promote Private Sector Participation:
Encourage private investment in hotels, resorts, trekking, and other tourism facilities. - Enhance Human Resource Development:
Develop skilled manpower in hospitality, guiding, and tourism management through training and education programs. - Ensure Safety and Security of Tourists:
Maintain a safe and secure environment for travelers through effective law enforcement and emergency response systems.
Major Strategies of Tourism Policy 2008:
- Product Diversification and Promotion:
Develop diverse tourism products highlighting Nepal’s natural beauty, culture, and adventure opportunities.
Promote niche tourism segments such as mountaineering, wildlife safaris, pilgrimage, and wellness tourism. - Infrastructure Development:
Expand airports, roads, communication, and accommodation facilities in major tourist areas. - Public-Private Partnership (PPP):
Strengthen collaboration between government and private sectors to improve tourism quality and competitiveness. - Community-Based Tourism:
Promote rural and village tourism by involving local communities to ensure equitable benefits. - International Marketing and Branding:
Market Nepal globally through digital platforms, travel fairs, and tourism campaigns such as Visit Nepal. - Human Resource and Institutional Development:
Establish training institutions and tourism academies to improve service quality. - Environmental Conservation:
Protect natural and cultural heritage by promoting eco-friendly practices and responsible tourism. - Regional Balance in Tourism Development:
Focus on developing new tourist destinations across all provinces to reduce regional disparities.
