70% of Nepal tourism budget goes to global marketing and future office in India
The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), the country’s national tourism promotion agency, unveiled a record budget of nearly US$12 million for fiscal year 2025/2026.
The plan, approved during an Executive Committee meeting in July, contents ambitious new programs to strengthen Nepal’s global tourism presence.
Rishi Ram Bhandari, coordinator of the Budget Formulation Sub-Committee, said the budget was finalized on time with a focus on implementation efficiency. Executive Director Deepak Raj Joshi called it “a declaration of a new era in Nepal’s tourism development.”
Heavy Focus on International Promotion
Roughly $8.4 million—about 70% of the total budget—has been earmarked for global marketing and promotional initiatives. Key allocations include:
- Tourism Market Promotion: $3.27 million
- Public Relations and Publicity: $971,000
- Research and Planning: $200,000
- Tourism Heritage Development: $1.39 million
- Regional Offices: $834,000
- Special Promotional Events: $3.46 million
The NTB will participate in international trade fairs, sales missions, digital campaigns, diaspora outreach, cine-tourism, and branding programs. Preparations are also underway to open a dedicated NTB office in India to enhance regional campaigns.
Destination Development and Local Empowerment
In addition, the Board has set aside $13.95 million for destination development and community-focused programs.
Projects include trekking trail upgrades, Buddhist circuit promotion, green hospitality certification, and training programs for guides, tour operators, and mountain communities. Cultural and adventure tourism—such as Mithila art, paragliding competitions, elephant festivals, and safari tourism—will also be promoted.
Nepal Waives Permit Fees for 97 Peaks to Boost Far-West Tourism
Meanwhile, in another development, Nepal has removed climbing permit fees for 97 peaks in the remote Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces for the next two years. The plan aims to attract mountaineers, boost local economies, and promote little-known mountains.
The decision, made on July 17, 2025, covers peaks from 5,870 to 7,132 metres—77 in Karnali and 20 in Sudurpaschim. Many are “virgin peaks” that have never been climbed, including Saipal (7,030 m), Api (7,132 m), and Api West (7,076 m).
Tourism leaders hope this will bring jobs and income to areas with poor roads and few opportunities.
With climbing fees rising—USD$350 for smaller peaks and US$15,000 for the Everest—the scheme could turn Nepal’s most western provinces into a new hotspot for adventure tourism. Success will depend on better access, infrastructure, and global promotion.
TravelMole Editorial Team
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