Pokhara, April 2: Nepal recorded a rise in tourist arrivals from Asia in March, but a noticeable fall in visitors from the United States and Europe, with officials linking the decline to tensions in the Middle East.
According to the Nepal Tourism Board, 120,516 foreign tourists entered Nepal during the month. South Asia remained the largest contributor, with 42,668 visitors, making up 35 per cent of total arrivals. The figure shows an increase compared to both 2025 and 2024.
Tourists from other Asian countries also grew, reaching 33,436, nearly 28 per cent of the total. Arrivals from countries such as India, China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Thailand drove the increase, while numbers from Japan, Malaysia, and South Korea also rose.
However, Western markets showed a decline. Only 7,974 visitors arrived from the United States in March, down from February. Similarly, arrivals from the United Kingdom dropped to 4,814.
Mani Raj Lamichhane, director of NTB’s Gandaki office, said the regional tensions disrupted travel plans, particularly for European and American tourists who typically visit Nepal during the trekking season. He noted that while Asian arrivals helped offset losses, the overall momentum expected during peak season has weakened.
Some tourists reportedly postponed trips or returned midway due to uncertainties, dampening the usual mid-season energy.
Tourism stakeholders have expressed concern over the trend. Bharat Raj Parajuli said visitor numbers have not met expectations despite it being a busy season.
Officials now suggest shifting promotional efforts toward South Asian and nearby markets, as the industry looks to adjust to changing travel patterns and external disruptions.
People’s News Monitoring Service
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