Tourism sector back on its feet after earthquake, says Minister Sherpa

KATHMANDU: Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Kripasur Sherpa today said the tourism sector, which was badly affected by the April 25 earthquake, is back on its feet and urged all international tour operators to send visitors to Nepal.

Addressing an interaction “Post-Earthquake: Resurgence of Tourism in Nepal” organised by the Institution of Foreign Affairs in the capital, Sherpa urged all international tour operators to send more tourists to Nepal to help revitalize the country’s economy.

He also stated that only two of 35 trekking routes had been affected by the quake.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Mahendra Bahadur Pandey said it was necessary to bring an end to bandhs and strikes to encourage more tourists to visit Nepal.

The programme was attended by foreign envoys, tour operators and representatives from the tourism industry.

Minister Pandey further appealed to the international community to review their travel advisory.

Presenting his paper, former CEO of Nepal Tourism Board, Prachanda Man Shrestha, said it was imperative to improve international image of the country, rebuild tourist-attractions and ensure safety in order to attract foreigner tourists.

A representative of Hotel Association of Nepal said almost all hotels were now back in business with new look and services.