POKHARA, March 31: The recent pro-monarchy protests in Kathmandu have raised concerns within Nepal’s tourism sector, particularly during the peak season from March to May when foreign tourists visit for trekking and mountaineering. Hotels in popular destinations like Pokhara, Chitwan, and Kathmandu had received advance bookings, with large hotels operating at around 70 percent occupancy. Small and medium-sized hotels are also expecting good business.
The violent protest held last Friday in the capital has caused anxiety among foreign tourists preparing to visit Nepal, with some reconsidering their plans. According to business owners, tourists have begun asking about the situation’s impact and whether it will affect their travels. Some are even considering canceling their bookings, while others remain in a 'wait and watch’ state.
“There haven’t been cancellations yet, but tourists are definitely concerned about the recent events in Nepal,” said Naresh Bhattarai, operator of Mount Kailash Resort, “They are asking questions and expressing deep concerns about the incident’s impact.”
On the day of the protest, the Australian Embassy in Nepal issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to exercise caution while traveling. The incident has also been reported internationally, spreading further through social media. Bhattarai said the impact on the tourism sector is certain if similar protests occur in key tourist areas like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan.
Madhesi Morcha in ‘wait and watch’ mode
“If such incidents continue, booking cancellations will be inevitable,” he said, “No cancellations have occurred so far, but there is widespread concern and inquiries.”
Bhattarai added that tourism is a sensitive sector and even minor incidents can have significant effects. “This is the peak season, and violent activities during this period are especially concerning,” he said, “The earnings from March to May help cover expenses for the months ahead. Foreign, Indian, and domestic tourists are currently visiting in good numbers, but disruptions like protests can negatively impact the industry.”
Bhattarai warned that further protests could prompt embassies to advise their citizens against traveling to Nepal. “Tourism has been doing well, with hotel occupancy at around 80 percent. But this violent incident has attracted national and international attention, spreading negative messages about Nepal,” he said.
Pokhara’s Landmark Hotel operator, Om Prakash Pandey, reported that some tourists have grown cautious since the incident in Kathmandu. “A group of 39 tourists planning a 10-day trip to Nepal asked whether they should cancel their visit. They haven’t canceled yet, but they are definitely hesitant,” he said.
Pandey added that negative messages about the incident have spread rapidly in Europe through social media and news outlets. “Many tourists believe the entire country is unsafe, not just certain areas of Kathmandu,” said Pandey, who also serves as the president of the Regional Hotel Association Chitwan.
Despite attempts to reassure tourists, the situation remains uncertain. “If protests or strikes occur again, the tourism industry will face serious consequences,” he said.
Pokhara Tourism Board chief Maniraj Lamichhane said the incident has created fear among potential visitors. “International media have reported extensively on the incident in Kathmandu, and social media has amplified the message,” he said.
He added that several embassies have already issued warnings to their citizens. “No bookings have been canceled so far, but tourists are anxious. If incidents escalate, the impact on tourism will be unavoidable,” he said.