PATA Nepal Chapter marks golden jubilee, 50 years of public–private partnership in tourism

KATHMANDU: The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Nepal Chapter celebrated its Golden Jubilee on Monday in Kathmandu, marking 50 years of public–private partnership in developing Nepal’s tourism sector.

The ceremony brought together senior government officials, tourism leaders, former chairpersons, private‑sector pioneers, international partners and industry professionals to reflect on the Chapter’s achievements since its founding in 1975. Organisers said the programme highlighted the Chapter’s role in tourism planning, policy advocacy, marketing, human capital development and recovery initiatives over five decades.

The event was inaugurated by Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Anil Kumar Sinha, who commended PATA Nepal Chapter’s role in shaping tourism policy and supporting sector recovery. Video remarks from PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hameed conveyed congratulations and appreciation for the Chapter’s work within the global PATA network.

The celebration opened with welcome music by Sursudha and a cultural dance by the Chapter’s Young Tourism Professionals, showcasing Nepal’s cultural heritage and the dynamism of the next generation of tourism leaders. PATA Nepal Chapter Chairman Khem Lakai welcomed attendees and expressed gratitude to past and present leaders, members and partners for their continued trust and collaboration throughout the Chapter’s 50‑year journey.

A commemorative film titled 'Reflections on 50 Years of the Public–Private Partnership Journey of PATA Nepal Chapter' traced key milestones and contributions since 1975. Remarks were also delivered by Dipendra Purus Dhakal, adviser to PATA Nepal Chapter; Mukund Prasad Niraula, Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation; Prabin Pandey, former chairman of the Chapter; and Deepak Raj Joshi, CEO of Nepal Tourism Board. Speakers praised the Chapter’s role in promoting sustainable and responsible tourism and wished it well for the next 50 years.

As part of the Golden Jubilee, PATA Nepal Chapter presented its Annual Awards 2025. The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Karna Sakya for his lifelong contribution to tourism, sustainability, conservation and hospitality; the Tourism Trail Blazer Award was presented to Shiva Dhakal for leadership in community‑based and sustainable tourism; Bijay Amatya, CEO of Kora Tours, was named Tourism Personality of the Year for his consistent contributions to the industry and the Chapter; and Anthony Lindsay Jones received a Special Contribution Award for his pioneering role in rafting, adventure and cultural tourism.

The event also felicitated partner organisations, tourism associations, educational institutions and individuals for their long‑standing collaboration and support. The Golden Jubilee celebration reaffirmed PATA Nepal Chapter’s commitment to advancing sustainable, inclusive and resilient tourism while celebrating five decades of partnership, leadership and a shared vision for Nepal’s tourism future.