Pokhara Tourism Council seeks Governor’s support for tourism revival

September 23, Kathmandu: The Pokhara Tourism Council has urged Governor Dr Bishwanath Paudel to initiate measures for reviving the tourism sector. A delegation led by council president Taranath Pahari submitted a memorandum in Kathmandu, highlighting the industry’s struggles due to recent unrest.

The council condemned vandalism and looting during protests, which have led to widespread booking cancellations, severely impacting Pokhara’s tourism industry, a key economic driver with over Rs 700 billion in investments.

The entrepreneurs said that with the peak season nearing, political uncertainty and upcoming elections threaten further declines in tourist arrivals. The council requested compensation for affected businesses, loan repayment extensions without penalties, short-term operational loans, and loan restructuring for up to 25 years.

It also urged lower interest rates and recognition of tourism as an industry. The delegation discussed revival strategies with Nepal Tourism Board CEO Deepak Raj Joshi.