Nepal is preparing a major tourism push in 2026 by focusing on visitors from Southeast Asia, aiming to attract more international tourists and strengthen its tourism industry.
The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) has declared 2026 as the Nepal ASEAN Tourism Year, targeting countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and others in the ASEAN bloc. The move follows strong tourism growth in 2025, when Nepal welcomed around 1.16 million foreign visitors.
According to the NTB, ASEAN is a high-potential market due to its growing middle class and rising demand for overseas travel. Many travelers from the region are interested in Nepal’s trekking routes, cultural heritage, Buddhist sites, and adventure tourism.
To promote Nepal in Southeast Asia, the tourism board plans to launch marketing campaigns, work with airlines and travel agencies, and partner with social media influencers. Special travel packages will be created to make trips to Nepal easier and more affordable for ASEAN tourists.
Nepal offers a wide range of attractions, including Himalayan treks such as Everest Base Camp, UNESCO-listed cultural sites in Kathmandu Valley, spiritual destinations like Lumbini, and wildlife experiences in national parks such as Chitwan.
Tourism is a key part of Nepal’s economy. Officials believe the ASEAN-focused strategy will create jobs, support local businesses, and promote sustainable tourism growth as Nepal looks to strengthen its position as a leading regional travel destination.
