Nepal has made a strong presence at Asia’s leading tourism trade fair, the Outbound Travel Mart (OTM) 2026. The event is being held at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai. Under the leadership of the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), 34 private tourism companies, Nepal Airlines Corporation, and representatives from the Tourism Board are participating.
In this context, below is an edited excerpt from a brief conversation with Suman Ghimire, Senior Manager at the Tourism Marketing and Promotion Department of the Nepal Tourism Board. He has been working for the marketing, promotion, and development of Nepal’s tourism sector for the past 18 years and holds a master’s degree in tourism and management.
This fair is highly important and attractive mainly for four reasons:
First, as OTM is an outbound travel show, it provides excellent networking opportunities between buyers and sellers. This year, a total of 36 institutions from Nepal are participating, including the Tourism Board, Nepal Airlines, and 34 private travel trade companies. They are actively promoting Nepal’s tourism offers, packages, and destinations. According to information, exhibitors from 60 countries and more than 2,100 exhibitors are participating in the fair, with an expected turnout of over 50,000 trade visitors. For B2B engagement, this is considered one of the best platforms in the world.
Second, Mumbai is the financial capital of India and an emerging global economic hub. After New York, it is home to the highest number of billionaires. Around 60 percent of India’s total outbound tourists come from this region. In recent years, Indians have been traveling abroad in increasing numbers, and the Indian government has also prioritized outbound tourism. Therefore, this market is extremely important for Nepal.
Third, in its recent budget, the Government of India reduced the tax deducted at source on overseas travel from 5 and 20 percent to just 2 percent. This has made foreign travel easier and more affordable for Indian travelers, increasing their spending capacity. This time, Nepal’s participation is on a large scale, with its pavilion located right at the main entrance of the hall. Since Nepal is the closest and most convenient destination for Indian tourists, we are optimistic that the number of visitors from India will increase further this year.
Fourth, in terms of air connectivity, after Delhi, Mumbai has strong links with Nepal. There are direct flights to Nepal operated by Nepal Airlines and IndiGo. Additionally, the development of expressways and railway services has further improved accessibility. It is hoped that the share of Indian tourists, currently around 30 percent, will increase further. To achieve this, Nepal needs to increase investment and marketing programs in India.
How is the coordination between stakeholders and the Tourism Board in Nepal’s tourism development?
The Nepal Tourism Board is an institution established under a public–private partnership model. It was created to serve as a government representative while reflecting the sentiments, demands, and market needs of private-sector entrepreneurs. In tourism, the private sector is the real business leader, while we act as facilitators.
When participating in international fairs, we move forward only after consultations and suggestions from the private sector. Companies wishing to participate submit online applications, and selections are made accordingly. Compared to last year, enthusiasm and demand from the private sector have increased significantly this time, which has generated new hope in the tourism industry.
Are there any plans to organize such fairs in Nepal in the coming days?
Organizing large travel fairs is not just about business; it is also about branding the city and the country. Such events showcase our hospitality capacity and our potential for MICE tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions). Nepal has successfully organized events such as the Himalayan Travel Mart and the BIMSTEC Travel Mart in the past.
Globally, most such fairs are organized by the private sector. In Nepal as well, organizations like PATA and NATTA are organizing such marts with full government support. Foreign organizers have also shown interest in hosting fairs in Nepal. For such events to be successful, clear government policies, active participation from the private sector, and a strong role of the media are essential. Large fairs like OTM or SATTEZ were also established only after many years of effort. We are optimistic that similar international-level fairs will be held regularly in Nepal in the future.
How do you see the development and prospects of Nepal’s tourism sector in the coming days?
At present, the necessary infrastructure for tourism in Nepal is being developed. We have more than 30 five-star hotels and over 348 star-rated hotels and resorts. The country has the capacity to serve around 3.5 million tourists annually. Two new international airports have been completed, and road networks connecting tourist cities are also being expanded. The private sector has made significant investments in hotels and adventure tourism.
However, there are also some challenges. First, tourism must be placed as a top national priority by the state. Along with political stability, tourism should be developed as the backbone of economic prosperity. Second, roads connecting destinations need to be built faster and with better quality. Third, more aircraft are required for the full commercial operation of the new international airports. And most importantly, the state must make substantial investments in international marketing and promotion of Nepal. In tourism, “those who promote more sell more.” Therefore, the role of the Tourism Board needs to become even more effective in the coming days.
