Nepal awarded ‘ Most Popular Destination’ at GITF, China

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Nepal made a sparkling presence at Guangzhou International Travel Fair (GITF), one of the largest tourism fairs in China from 25-27 February 2016, with calculated anticipation that China will soon take over India- the single largest market so far – as number 1 tourism market for Nepal ; amidst enthusiasm triggered by Nepal Airline’s preparation of operating its flight to Guangzhou from Kathmandu probably from May 2016 and China Southern’s plan to resume suspended flights from 14 June 2016.

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 “, said Mr. Bimal Kadel, Senior Assistant Manager addressing the Chinese media and trade at a conference in GITF coordinated by World Bank. He emphasized that “We should provide Chinese cuisines, Chinese Speaking Guides, and Discounted Entry Fees to heritage sites so that you feel comfortable and honored during your trip to Nepal”, considering the behavioral preference and the prominence of the Chinese market.

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.

Furthermore, a special briefing with the theme of NEPALNOW for 32 Chinese tour operators was organized at a dinner program at Garden Hotel of Guangzhou along with the Nepalese tour operators– S & T Holidays, Aavash Travels & Treks, Yeti World Group, and Bhutan International Treks — and Nepal Airlines which was supported by World Bank as a part of tourism recovery post-April earthquake.