PATA urges travel industry to provide accurate information as key destinations in Nepal remain unaffected

KATHMANDU: Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has issued an urgent appeal to the international travel industry to provide accurate information regarding the recent flash floods in Nepal, emphasising that the vast majority of the country remains open and safe for visitors.

The association stressed that key tourist destinations, including Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara, the Annapurna region, the Everest and Khumbu region, Chitwan, Bardiya, Lumbini and the Tarai, are unaffected. Nepal's airports and major tourism infrastructure continue to operate normally.

The flash floods, which occurred on August 26, caused significant loss of life and widespread damage. The devastation is geographically concentrated along specific river corridors in the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli areas, particularly in the Rasuwa district and downstream communities.

Addressing the spread of misinformation during the country's main booking season, PATA highlighted that international coverage has not consistently made the distinction between affected and unaffected areas, leading to unnecessary trip cancellations. The organisation urged travel businesses, media and stakeholders to review their publications and correct any guidance that portrays the entire country as impacted.

"Tourism provides livelihoods for millions of people, and continued visitor activity in destinations that remain operational can help sustain businesses, workers and communities while recovery efforts focus on the areas most directly affected," the statement noted.

To support the rebuilding effort, the PATA Foundation announced it will shortly launch the Nepal Tourism Recovery Fund. The initiative will focus on restoring the livelihoods of guides, drivers, porters and families operating homestays, lodges, teahouses and small hotels along the impacted corridors. Many of these individuals have lost their homes, premises and equipment.

In a joint statement, PATA Chairman Henry Oh and Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the PATA Foundation, Andrew Jones, said, "Our thoughts are with Nepal following the devastating flash floods of August 26." They extended their deepest condolences to families who lost loved ones and expressed solidarity with affected tourism workers, local communities and first responders working in difficult conditions.

PATA also called upon its student chapters worldwide to reach out to the PATA Nepal Student Chapter to offer support and assist in disseminating an accurate picture of the country's status.

Travellers and stakeholders are advised to consult the Nepal Tourism Board's daily updated portal, NepalNow, for destination status and to rely exclusively on casualty figures issued by the Nepal Police and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA).