Govt identifies tourism as cornerstone, targets doubling daily tourist spending

KATHMANDU: The government has identified tourism as a cornerstone of national development and set a target to double average daily tourist spending within five years.

The initiative designates 2027 as National Wellness Year to promote health, yoga and spiritual tourism as strategic growth areas aimed at driving higher-value visitor spending.

In a major policy shift, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) will be restructured into two autonomous entities: a dedicated regulator and a separate service provider, a move intended to enhance air safety and align operations with international aviation standards.

Infrastructure development will be prioritised across key pilgrimage and heritage circuits, including Pashupatinath, Lumbini, Janakpur and Muktinath, with upgrades aimed at improving visitor experience and extending stays in regional hubs.

The government has also committed to operating Pokhara International Airport and Gautam Buddha International Airport at full capacity by establishing direct connectivity with major global hubs, a step essential to capture higher tourist spending and expand market access.

The National Commitment frames these measures as part of a broader economic strategy to boost tourism revenue, create jobs and stimulate local economies, with implementation details and timelines expected as the government moves to operationalise the plan.