Nepal is propelling sustainable tourism forward through its Tourism Policy 2025 and a landmark $5 million Sustainable Tourism Project (2025–2028), orchestrated by the Nepal Tourism Board and the UN Development Programme. The project targets:
- Creation of 2,500 eco-friendly jobs and skilled-up training for 5,000 tourism professionals.
- Infrastructure upgrades, including resilient trekking trails and community centers in key destinations.
- Digital transformation and workforce skilling to meet Nepal’s target of 3.5 million international arrivals annually by 2032.
Core objectives include local empowerment, community-driven tourism, and the preservation of culture and biodiversity. The country prioritizes eco-conscious models waste reduction, energy conservation, and responsible trekking/adventure tourism while discouraging exploitative practices like elephant rides in favor of conservation-friendly wildlife experiences.
On the global stage, Nepal reaffirmed its ecotourism leadership at the PATA Annual Summit 2025, entering fresh partnerships and hosting the Sagarmatha Sambad for international sustainability dialogue in Kathmandu. These strides aim to boost inclusive local economies, celebrate cultural heritage, and promote sustainable, meaningful travel across Nepal.
