EMPOWERING TOURISM, SHOWCASING NEPAL'S BEAUTY, CULTURE AND POTENTIAL

Ananya Paudyal

Business Development Manager (Mountain Tiger Nepal Pvt. Ltd.)

My Journey in Bon:

He started working in the travel industry in 2015, with a lot of appreciation for Bon Holidays and Bon Travel, which gave him a platform to prove his potential. He began by managing social media and doing graphic design. As this is his family business, he gradually learned about sales too. By 2018, he was involved in market research and sales, gaining a better understanding of tourism. Now, he successfully manages the inbound operations at Bon under the brand name Mountain Tiger, where he serves as the Executive Director.

My Inspiration:

I've always looked up to Binod Raj Paudyal Chairman at Bon Travel (MY DAD) because he's the one who has brought me to where I am today. He's also living a second life after surviving a plane crash a miraculous event that changed everything. After that, I decided to stay and support him, instead of going abroad for my studies. Now, I'm here not only to support my father but also to support my country.
There are many important people in my life, but three stand out the most. The first is my dad, who has been my constant inspiration. The second is Ramesh Poudel Sir CEO at Bon Travel, who is like a mentor to me. He's my kaka, my role model, and always someone I turn to when I need advice or support. And the third is my brother, Sagar Khanal sir CEO at Bon Holidays, who has always guided me and convinced me to stay on a productive path.
Without these three people, I would feel powerless. They are the foundation of my strength and motivation.

How is the Currant Tourism in Nepal?

Tourism in Nepal is facing some challenges. Our main tourist seasons March to May and mid-September to November used to be very busy, but visitor numbers are now lower than expected. Factors like higher airfare, airport maintenance issues, and safety concerns have impacted the flow of tourists. Nepal is a beautiful and must-visit country in the world, but we need to solve these problems to attract more tourists.

How does Nepal's infrastructure, such as the quality of hotels and restaurants, support tourism?

Nepal's infrastructure faces challenges, especially in transportation due to natural disruptions like landslides and floods. However, in the hotel and restaurant sector, we have a wide range of options catering to both budget and luxury tourists. We are targeting high-end travellers, positioning Nepal not just as a place of pilgrimage, but as a luxury destination. We are very satisfied with the growth and quality of our hospitality services, and we believe Nepal has great potential to become a top choice for luxury tourism.

You have travelled a lot. Which places should we focus on for inbound tourists?

Nepal is a wonderful country with so much to offer, yet it's often underrated. We focus on three key destinations that attract inbound tourists. Kathmandu is perfect for those who want to explore UNESCO World Heritage sites. Pokhara, known for its stunning natural beauty, is a must-visit for nature lovers. Chitwan offers incredible wildlife experiences for those seeking adventure. These locations are just a few highlights, as Nepal offers diverse ecological regions and activities. From hiking and adventure tours in Pokhara to food tasting, Nepal has something for everyone, making it a truly unique destination.

What should NTB do to promote Nepal?

NTB should focus on strategic marketing to highlight Nepal's unique attractions, using visual content on digital platforms to reach a global audience. Promoting in multiple languages would help connect with diverse travellers. They could also partner with airlines to offer special Air Fare and Travel agency for travel packages, support eco-friendly tourism, and collaborate with influencers to broaden Nepal's appeal worldwide.

In this modern, tech-driven era, how are you building your tech side?

Today's world is powered by AI, and we're adapting to this shift. AI touches all aspects of our work, from automated booking confirmations to digital content creation. We're in a continuous learning phase, progressing every day to stay ahead.

How do you create new destinations and attractions?

Creating new destinations is a responsible process that requires careful exploration. We travel personally to identify routes and destinations before designing an itinerary. It's not just about finding new places, but ensuring we offer clients memorable experiences and activities. We focus on hidden gems, improving infrastructure, and working with local communities to preserve culture.

How are you promoting yourself and Nepal?

I personally believe Nepal is incredibly beautiful, and more people should know about our country. One way we're promoting Nepal is by positioning it as a filmmaking destination. We're not only focusing on tourism but also attracting film production houses to shoot here. If we get recognized by major studios like Marvel, it will help Nepal gain international recognition and showcase our country to a global audience.