Bijay Amatya | Chief Executive Officer | KORA TOURS Pvt. Ltd.

Can you briefly highlight your journey of promoting Nepalese tourism?

I have dedicated my entire career to the travel and tourism industry, accumulating 48 years of rich experience. Travel has been my passion, and it's a field I've been deeply committed to since the beginning of my professional journey. Straight out of formal education, I immersed myself in the world of travel and tourism, and since then, I haven't looked back.

One of the aspects I'm particularly proud of is my extensive travel around the world to promote Nepalese tourism. Over the years, I have visited more than 80 countries, tirelessly working to showcase the beauty and unique offerings of Nepal to the global audience. This hands-on experience has not only broadened my perspective but has also allowed me to establish valuable connections and partnerships worldwide to enhance our travel agency's offerings.

Could you describe the transformation in Nepal's tourism landscape over the years?

In the past, Nepal was often a brief stop in extended trips to India or Thailand, with limited flights and tourists spending minimal time in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Chitwan and Lumbini emerged gradually. However, our agency, from the outset, concentrated on extending tourists' stays. We targeted those with a profound interest in Nepalese culture, heritage, and traditions, attracting nature and adventure enthusiasts. This focus on special tourists has led to rapid growth for our agency.

What strategies do you believe Nepal can implement to enhance its tourist attraction and appeal to a broader audience?

I firmly prioritize quality over quantity in tourism. The current government celebration of a 10 million tourist milestone seems deceptive, with over 50% being NRNs returning home, making minimal contributions to Nepal's tourism and economy. To truly enhance attraction, we should focus on tailored experiences for tourists seeking high-quality services, spending extended periods in the Himalayas, and making substantial contributions, as one such tourist can outweigh the impact of hundreds of casual visitors. This involves targeted marketing, infrastructure development, and fostering sustainable practices to ensure a lasting appeal.

You mentioned traveling worldwide to promote Nepalese tourism. How do you sell Nepal to the global audience?

I present Nepal as a destination where accommodation suits every budget, offering incredible sights and a rich cultural heritage. It's a place where you can have breakfast in the lap of Mt. Everest. In recent times, we've introduced luxury properties for high-end tourists to enhance their experience. Our goal is to provide the ultimate experience, making Nepal a must-visit destination for all kinds of travelers.

What factors do you attribute to the success of Kora Tours?

Kora Tours' success can be attributed to our unwavering focus on quality tours, catering specifically to the upper class. By positioning ourselves as a capable agency that can meet every need of our discerning clients, we've avoided the pursuit of sheer numbers. Actively representing Nepal in various global platforms, building strong relationships with B2B agencies worldwide, and earning a reputation as a trustworthy and profound travel agency in Nepal have all contributed to our success.

What challenges does Nepalese tourism currently face?

The challenges in Nepalese tourism are multifaceted. Firstly, the inadequacy of road infrastructure poses a significant hurdle, with lengthy travel times negatively impacting tourists' schedules. Additionally, the lack of a robust national airline system contributes to supply issues, and high airfares become a deterrent.

To enhance tourism, there is a need for more attractions, improved accessibility, and an increased number of quality hotels. The global promotion of Nepal, emphasizing its diverse offerings, is crucial. Unfortunately, the absence of a sound, long-term, sustainable tourism policy and the apparent lack of government commitment to its implementation further compound these challenges.