Nepal envoy stresses tourism, people-to-people ties with Bangladesh

Nepalese Ambassador to Bangladesh Ghanashyam Bhandari on Wednesday stressed tourism and people-to-people contacts as important pillars of Bangladesh-Nepal relations.

Underscoring the geographical proximity, cultural similarities and diverse tourism offerings of Nepal, he encouraged Bangladeshi travellers to visit, explore and experience the Himalayan country.

Speaking at a programme in Dhaka in the evening, he also highlighted the impact of the devastating flash floods of August 26, 2026.

The ambassador emphasized the resilience of Nepal’s tourism industry and ongoing efforts to further strengthen the sector.

The Embassy of Nepal, in collaboration with the Nepal Tourism Board, organised the tourism promotion programme under the theme “Nepal Is Calling: Visit, Explore, Experience”.

Secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism of Bangladesh Dr Nurun Nahar Chowdhury underscored the importance of tourism cooperation and enhanced connectivity in deepening ties between the two countries.

She urged participating travel and tour entrepreneurs to expand business networks, forge stronger partnerships, develop joint tourism packages and bring the peoples of the two countries closer.

Santosh Kumar Ghimire, senior manager at the Nepal Tourism Board, made a presentation on Nepal’s diverse tourism offerings, spanning leisure, culture, spirituality, adventure, wellness and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) tourism.

He presented Nepal as a year-round destination that is safe, hospitable and ready to welcome visitors.

Deputy Chief of Mission Pratik Karki, Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB) President Mohammed Hanif and Asian Tourism Fair Chairman Mohiuddin Helal also spoke on the occasion.

The programme began with business-to-business (B2B) sessions involving tour and travel agencies from Nepal and Bangladesh, providing an opportunity for both sides to explore tourism packages, group travel and joint promotional initiatives.

The sessions were followed by a formal programme attended by tour operators, travel agency representatives and other key stakeholders from the tourism and hospitality sectors of both countries.

Cultural performances showcasing the richness of Nepali culture were presented during the event.

A raffle draw was also held, with prizes including air tickets sponsored by Himalaya Airlines and exclusive holiday packages sponsored by participating Nepali tour and travel agencies.

Representatives of Nepali tour operators and travel agencies, led by the Nepal Tourism Board, are participating in the 14th Bangladesh Travel and Tourism Fair (BTTF), scheduled to be held in Dhaka from October 29 to 31, 2026.