Nepal returns to normal

Life in Kathmandu and other major cities returned to normal yesterday. There is a renewed energy and hope for peaceful and progressive days ahead, be it in the tourism sector, manufacturing industry or any other business.  However, some highways are barricaded but are expected to be cleared shortly.

Tourism, the backbone of Nepalese economy, was the hardest hit by the recent political uncertainties. Now with the restoration of democracy, tourism entrepreneurs are optimistic about the revival of the industry.

"Mt. Everest and the beautiful trekking routes in the country will always attract trekkers to Nepal as we have lots of repeat clients who simply fell in love with the country after their first visit. Now they would love to come back as we had advised them not to travel earlier this month due to uncertain political situation. Now we are confident to take care of our clients ensuring a memorable experience in the Himalayan kingdom," opines Mr. Binod Rai, director of Nepal Insight trekking.

"We are very positive to bring our clients back to Nepal as the political uncertainty has just ended. Nepal is always loved by the tourists and we had a few cases where our groups even cancelled their India trip as they could not come to Nepal. We mostly sell Nepal as an extension trip of India as such it is very important for us to have permanent peace in Nepal," says Mr. Laxman Karki, manager of Le Passage to India, a leading tour operator based in Delhi.

"Though the occupancy of our hotel was good in the past few weeks despite of the political movement in the country, we are now looking forward to mark 100 percent occupancy with the new political development. As you know Nepal is a quick recovery destination," said Rajesh Subba, sales director of Radisson Hotel in Kathmandu.

The safety and security of tourists were well taken care of during the recent political movement.  Nepal tourism board, with the help of tourism associations, worked hard to ensure all international and domestic flights passengers were transferred to/from the airport, even during curfew.  Coach Service with special curfew pass was plying on the streets leaving no tourist stranded.
There is great expectation that with the lasting democracy and process for peace restoration in the country, Nepal is bound to bounce back as a leading tourism destination.

By Pankaj Pradhananga

KATHMANDU, Nepal (eTN)

April 27, 2006   Posted in: Nepal