Nepal projects 1.6 million tourist arrivals by 2030

KATHMANDU: Nepal is witnessing a significant surge in tourist arrivals, with government officials projecting the number of international visitors to reach approximately 1.6 million by 2030.

According to Surya Thapaliya, Senior Manager at the Nepal Tourism Board, over 70,000 tourists visited Nepal in July 2025 alone, marking a notable rise compared to the same period in 2024.

Based on current trends, total arrivals in 2025 are expected to exceed 1.2 million.

Officials highlight that further improvements in aviation infrastructure and expansion of flight destinations—especially by Nepal Airlines—could accelerate this growth.

While private airline services have contributed significantly to the influx of tourists, there is a strong need for Nepal Airlines to enhance its international connectivity.

In July 2025, Indian tourists accounted for the highest number of visitors, with 27,152 arrivals—around 38.7% of the total.

China followed with 6,890 tourists, the U.S. with 6,626, Bangladesh with 4,413, and the U.K. with 3,547.

The growing interest from neighboring countries like India, China, and Sri Lanka, as well as long-haul markets such as the U.S. and U.K., is proving highly beneficial for Nepal’s tourism industry.

The surge in arrivals is revitalizing billions of rupees worth of investment in hotels and hospitality businesses, while also contributing to an increase in foreign currency inflow.