Nepal sees record 116,490 tourists in April, signals robust tourism recovery

KATHMANDU: Nepal’s tourism sector achieved a historic milestone in April 2025, welcoming 116,490 foreign tourists—the highest monthly arrivals ever recorded, according to the Nepal Tourism Board. This surge, surpassing pre-COVID levels, underscores Nepal’s growing global appeal and a strong recovery from the pandemic’s impact, boosting hopes for economic revitalization through tourism.

The record-breaking April arrivals marked a 106.5% increase compared to April 2019, when 109,399 tourists visited Nepal before the COVID-19 crisis. India led with 25,933 visitors, followed by the United States (10,053), China (9,037), and the United Kingdom (6,838). However, the board noted stagnant growth in Indian and Chinese arrivals, signaling a need for targeted marketing to these key markets. In comparison, April 2024 saw 111,376 tourists, while April 2023 recorded 98,773, highlighting a consistent upward trend.

“We’ve officially exceeded pre-pandemic levels by 106.5%, a testament to Nepal’s resilient tourism sector and rising global interest,” the Nepal Tourism Board stated. The achievement reflects Nepal’s enduring allure, from its Himalayan peaks to cultural heritage sites, drawing adventure seekers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Deepak Raj Joshi, the board’s CEO, hailed the figures as a positive indicator. “This growth validates Nepal’s timeless appeal and rich tourism heritage,” Joshi said. He attributed the surge to improved infrastructure, global marketing campaigns, and Nepal’s reputation as a safe, diverse destination.

From January to April 2025, Nepal welcomed 415,048 foreign tourists, with 79,991 in January, 96,880 in February, and 121,800 in March. The robust numbers signal a strong start to the year, positioning tourism as a key driver of Nepal’s economy, which relies heavily on foreign exchange earnings from the sector. In 2024, tourism contributed approximately 6% to Nepal’s GDP, and officials hope the 2025 figures will push this higher.

The record arrivals come amid challenges, including limited air connectivity and competition from regional destinations. Analysts urge the government to enhance infrastructure, such as upgrading Tribhuvan International Airport and promoting lesser-known destinations, to sustain the momentum. “Nepal’s tourism potential is immense, but strategic investments are crucial to maintain this growth,” said a tourism expert.

The private sector, including hoteliers and tour operators, expressed optimism but called for policy support. “The numbers are encouraging, but we need better connectivity and promotional campaigns targeting high-potential markets like India and China,” said a representative of the Hotel Association of Nepal.

Environmental concerns also loom, with increased tourist footfall straining fragile Himalayan ecosystems. The government has been urged to prioritize sustainable tourism practices to preserve Nepal’s natural and cultural assets.

As Nepal aims to meet its target of 1.6 million annual tourist arrivals, the April 2025 figures offer a promising outlook. With global travel rebounding, Nepal’s tourism sector is poised for further growth, provided the government addresses infrastructure bottlenecks and invests in sustainable practices. The record-breaking arrivals signal a bright future, but stakeholders emphasize that concerted efforts are needed to translate this momentum into long-term economic gains.