Tourism: A Key Driver for Nepal’s Prosperity, Says President

In a significant push for sustainable agriculture and cultural promotion, President Ramchandra Paudel has proposed advancing the ‘farm to plate’ concept by encouraging hotels to directly procure agro and organic products from farmers. The suggestion was made during the ‘First Hospitality Day, 2080,’ organized by the Hotel Association Nepal (HAN) to commemorate its establishment day.

President Paudel emphasized the importance of showcasing Nepal’s indigenous food and culture on a global stage. He recommended that hotels take the initiative by either operating their own agriculture farms or entering agreements with local farmers. The President commended the hospitality sector for contributing to the country’s global reputation, emphasizing the mantra of ‘Atithi Devo Bhawa’ (Guests are gods).

Speaking at the event, President Paudel highlighted the integral role of service, hospitality, and reception in shaping the country’s identity. He urged hotel entrepreneurs to focus on these aspects as potential drivers of national prosperity.

President Paudel also underscored the potential of tourism as a foundation for income generation and prosperity. He encouraged the promotion of Nepal’s unique specialties, natural beauty, culture, and civilization in the global tourism market. Expressing optimism, he anticipated that the arrival of over one million tourists so far would bring further excitement in the coming days.

HAN Chairperson Binayak Shah echoed the sentiment, requesting the government to recognize the hotel industry, which contributes nearly as much as the country’s annual budget in investment, as a national priority. Shah emphasized the sector’s employment generation and its significant eight percent contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP).

The Nepal Tourism Board reported one million tourists arriving via air in 2023, prompting the government’s goal to double this number in 2024. Currently, Nepal has the capacity to accommodate 3.5 million tourists annually, with around 10,000 operational hotels, including five-star establishments, lodges, and resorts.

During the event, President Paudel honored former HAN presidents for their substantial contributions to the development of the hospitality sector. Additionally, he unveiled HAN’s ‘Year Book 2024,’ along with launching ‘Hospitality Day 2080,’ ‘Nepali Heritage Food Best,’ and an e-learning video.