Last month, I wrote a series of posts describing the negative effect of political crisis on Nepalese economy. It was the tourism sector that suffered most. Now, there is some hope for the revival of tourism because of the fact that pro-democracy movement of last month has not only managed successfully to restore democracy in the country but also has convinced the Maoist rebels to declare truce. The Maoist rebels are even planning to come to active politics shunning the path of violence. The only thing that Nepalese tourism industry needs is political and social stability. Nepalese tourism industry does not need aggressive marketing or government support to flourish. 8 of the top 10 highest mountain peaks are in this country. People here may be poor but among the most hospitable in the world. Until now, tourist have not suffered any serious violence.
Well, I am happy that now there is real hope for revival of tourism in Nepal after a decade. In 1999, nearly one million tourists visited Nepal while last year the figure was just a bit over of a quarter million (277,000). 4% of GDP comes from tourism in Nepal. So, hopefully, the good days for Nepalese tourism industry is really coming again after may years.
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good to know this
terorrism always not good for tourism, also riot and others thing. People outside the country didnt know how bad it is ( even the riot is only in a small scale )
Bali was bombed twice, but still tourist come to this island. I think this is the same thing as in Nepal, the hospitality of the people make tourist want to come again.
Posted by: hedgehogman | May 8, 2006 9:36 AM | Permalink to Comment