Pokhara, February 14
Pokhara, declared Nepal’s “Tourism Capital” last year, is set to observe Visit Pokhara 2025 with a target of attracting two million tourists. The initiative, led by Pokhara Metropolitan City, will be officially launched on Saturday at Pokhara Stadium, Mayor Dhanraj Acharya announced.
According to Mayor Acharya, following the Tourism Capital declaration by former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal last year, global interest in Pokhara has surged, prompting the government to prioritise it in policies, programs, and budgets.
Branding Pokhara as a global tourism hub
The Visit Pokhara 2025 campaign aims to enhance both domestic and international tourism by branding Pokhara as a premier travel destination.
A 1,551-member main organising committee has been formed under Mayor Acharya’s leadership, with 43 sub-committees representing various sectors. Additionally, an executive committee, led by Gopi Bahadur Bhattarai, will oversee coordination and implementation throughout the year.
Promotion and global outreach
The campaign will focus on promoting Pokhara’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure tourism to a global audience. Mayor Acharya stated that efforts will be made to collaborate with international partners, foreign embassies, and development agencies to run promotional campaigns worldwide.
Key initiatives include:
- Sister-city agreements with 10 cities (5 domestic, 5 international)
- Encouraging foreign and non-resident Nepali tourists to visit with family and friends
- Hosting national and international summits, competitions, and events
- Organising a Tourism Investment Summit to attract investors
Strengthening connectivity and infrastructure
To facilitate increased tourism, Pokhara aims to enhance national and international air connectivity, advocating for direct flights to major cities in neighboring countries. Infrastructure development projects include:
- Gateway to Muktinath
- Botanical garden and heritage sites
- Airport-Lakeside expressway
- Cycling lanes connecting 10 lakes
- Rehabilitation of Royal and Organic trails
Additionally, the city will establish a tourist information center, public library, art gallery, clock tower, restrooms, and shower facilities. Each ward will develop at least one tourist destination, with promotional campaigns to attract visitors.
Sustainable tourism and local engagement
To ensure a safe and sustainable tourism experience, special attention will be given to:
- Food safety and environmental sustainability
- Training tourism entrepreneurs on service standards
- Launching tourism-friendly business initiatives
Tourist packages from both government and private sectors will be unveiled during the official launch event.
Mayor Acharya called on stakeholders to support the campaign in branding Pokhara globally and bringing economic benefits to local communities.
