Sanjeev Poudel/ Managing Director/ Global Gateway Int'l Travels & Tours P. Ltd.

What inspired the founding of your travel agency, and what is its core mission?

The concentration of established travel agencies in the Kathmandu Valley motivated me to start one in Chitwan, aiming to offer equally competitive services. During my research, I noticed a significant gap in the travel industry—insufficient after-sales support for ticketing, which often disrupted smooth travel experiences. This led to our mission: not just to sell tickets but to provide comprehensive after-sales support, ensuring that our clients reach their destinations seamlessly and stress-free.

With so many well-established and popular travel agencies in Kathmandu, why should people choose your services in Chitwan?

Absolutely! While the Kathmandu Valley is filled with agencies offering competitive prices, what makes us stand out is our unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction. We don't see our job as complete until our clients have arrived safely at their destination, free of hassles. And while we also offer competitive ticket prices, our real value lies in the personal care we extend. Clients often come to us as customers but leave feeling like family.

Instead of moving abroad like many of your peers, what motivated you to start your own business here at such a young age?

For me, money was never the primary motivator. What drives me is the desire to make a meaningful impact on society. I’ve seen many people move abroad and earn well, but they often lack a deeper sense of fulfilment. I wanted something different. To find my own sense of purpose, I chose to establish a travel agency that focuses on delivering exceptional and seamless travel experiences right here in Nepal. Through this, I aim to contribute positively to my community while doing what I love.

What challenges did you face on your journey, and how did you overcome them?

As a teenager entering the industry, I was often overlooked, with little support from airlines or GDS partners. I faced multiple rejections, but during these tough times, Galileo stepped in as a true ally. Their support was pivotal, giving us the much-needed break and motivation to keep pushing forward. Since then, we haven’t looked back. Though challenges continue to come our way, we approach them with resilience and a positive mindset.

What advice would you give to young people who are eager to move abroad?

While earning a good income abroad is possible, there’s an unparalleled sense of fulfilment in building something in your homeland. Even if your goal is to accumulate wealth, Nepal is brimming with untapped opportunities. Success comes to those who can identify possibilities, even amid adversity. My advice? Explore, find what you’re passionate about, and put in the same dedication you would working abroad—until you reach your goal.

Who and what strategies could help foster the growth of the travel industry in Nepal?

Political instability in Nepal has undoubtedly hampered the travel industry’s potential. However, a forward-thinking tourism minister could turn these challenges into opportunities for growth. One major issue is our heavy reliance on Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), which limits the industry's expansion. Pokhara, a gem among Nepal's tourist destinations, should be attracting international flights to meet its growing visitor demand. Additionally, redirecting 20-30% of international flights to Gautam Buddha International Airport could reduce congestion at TIA, catalyse development in new regions, and minimize delays.

Moreover, since the travel sector is service-driven, improvements in airline responsiveness towards both agencies and clients could make a world of difference. Embracing these changes could breathe new life into our travel industry, setting it on a path to vibrant growth.