PATA Nepal Chapter takes lead in elevating Nepal’s tourism profile: showcases at ITB Berlin 2024

KATHMANDU: PATA Nepal Chapter is making significant strides in the promotion of tourism, showcasing Nepal’s diverse offerings on the global stage. Committed to supporting its member organizations and fostering sustainable tourism development, the chapter is gearing up for a prominent presence at ITB Berlin 2024, the world’s premier travel hub.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Nepal Tourism Board was unable to organize international trade fairs this year. However, the PATA Nepal Chapter has seized the opportunity to secure a consistent space for the Nepal Pavilion at ITB Berlin, scheduled from March 5th to March 7th, 2024, in Germany.

This initiative aims not only to maintain the image and visibility of destination Nepal but also to extend support to private sector tourism businesses seeking opportunities amid uncertainties.

In collaboration with 38 Nepali exhibitors, the PATA Nepal Chapter is set to showcase and promote Nepal’s rich tourism products at ITB Berlin 2024. A preparatory Briefing Session was conducted on January 19th, 2024, at Bricks Cafe, Lalitpur, Nepal, providing crucial insights and updates for participants.

The initiative received praise from Nepali exhibitors, who expressed gratitude for the timely preparation for a successful participation at ITB2024.

The historical legacy of the PATA Nepal Chapter in leading destination promotion dates back to the 1970s to the 1990s, representing the government at international events like ITB and WTM.

This year, in the absence of NTB-led initiatives, the chapter has once again taken the mantle to ensure the continuity of destination promotion and uphold the spirits of private sector stakeholders.

Post the briefing session, the PATA Nepal Chapter Executive Committee embarked on a FAM Trip and Executive Committee Meeting in Chitwan, a popular wildlife destination in Nepal’s southern plains.

Hosted at the Siddhartha Vilasa Banbas near Chitwan National Park, the trip aimed to explore tourism prospects and strategies for sustainable tourism in the region.

The Executive Committee visited prominent properties like Jungle Safari Lodge, Sapana Village Resort, and Riverbank Jungle Resort during the trip. Discussions with local stakeholders emphasized the importance of sustainable tourism practices.

As part of its expansion plans, the committee has decided to establish offices in major tourist locations across all provinces, including Chitwan and Pokhara. A sub-committee has been formed by the PATA Nepal Chapter to draft a concept paper for this nationwide expansion.