Nepal’s tourism potentials promoted during Trade fair in China

Kathmandu / February 28: In a bid to promote ailing tourism industry of the country following the April earthquake and blockade imposed by India, Nepal made a sparkling presence at Guangzhou International Travel Fair (GITF), one of the largest tourism fairs in China from 25-27 February 2016.

A press statement issued by Nepal Tourism Board informed that Nepal showcased its tourism products at the fair under four themes: tours of Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan, trekking in the Himalayas, spiritual tours including Lumbini, and Conference/Incentive tours.

“The free visa for Chinese tourists has been implemented and we heartily welcome you to enjoy the beauty of the country and hospitality of the Nepalese people “, the statement quoted Bimal Kadel, Senior Assistant Manager as saying. “We provide Chinese cuisines, Chinese Speaking Guides and Discounted Entry Fees to heritage sites so that you feel comfortable and honoured during your trip to Nepal,” he added.

Kathmandu is connected to Lhasa, Chengdu, Kunming and Guangzhou directly by various Chinese airlines, which not only bring Chinese tourists but also serves as transit points for various cities of Australia and US connecting Nepal. During the media meet, Mr. Yin Xu, Deputy Inspector of Guangzhou Tourism highlighted the potentials of Guangzhou tourism while welcoming the Nepalese delegates and stressed that “Nepal’s landscape and scenery are breathtaking, the sky is so clear and blue, and the people are very friendly that Chinese visitors have thoroughly enjoyed their trip to Nepal”.

Around 135,000 Chinese tourists visited Nepal annually before the earthquake. Currently their duration of stay is 10 days and prefer to visit places like Kathmandu, Nagarkot, Pokhara, Chitwan and some of them even visit Lumbini. However, with the gradual shift in their interests to trekking activities it is now likely that they will expand their length of stay even more.