Travel

Nepal Government Tourism Packages

November 18, 2024

The Nepal government, through the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and local tourism offices, promotes a variety of tourism packages aimed at showcasing the country’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure opportunities. While the government itself doesn’t operate direct tours, it collaborates with private agencies to promote these activities. Below are popular categories of Nepal government tourism packages:

1. Trekking Packages

Nepal is renowned for its trekking trails, and the government emphasizes eco-tourism and community-based trekking routes. Some promoted packages include:

Special Initiatives:

  • Community Homestay Treks (to support local economies).
  • Restricted Area Trekking Permits for regions like Mustang and Dolpo.

2. Cultural and Heritage Packages

  • Kathmandu Valley Tours: Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Patan Durbar Square.
  • Lumbini Pilgrimage: Visit the birthplace of Lord Buddha, a UNESCO site with monasteries from around the world.
  • Janakpur Dham: A spiritual journey to the birthplace of Goddess Sita.

Government Initiatives:

  • Special pilgrim packages for Hindu and Buddhist tourists.
  • Promotions of ancient festivals like Indra Jatra, Dashain, and Tihar.

3. Adventure Tourism Packages

Nepal actively promotes adrenaline-filled activities, such as:

  • Whitewater Rafting: Trishuli, Bhote Koshi, and Seti rivers.
  • Paragliding: Pokhara is a prime spot for paragliding with stunning mountain views.
  • Bungee Jumping: The Bhote Koshi gorge is among the highest bungee spots in the world.
  • Jungle Safaris: Chitwan and Bardia National Parks for spotting rhinos, tigers, and elephants.

4. Eco and Wildlife Tourism

  • Government-promoted Conservation Areas:
    • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP).
    • Sagarmatha National Park.
    • Rara Lake Trek.
  • Focus on eco-tourism and sustainable travel.

5. Religious and Spiritual Tourism

  • Muktinath Pilgrimage: A revered site for Hindus and Buddhists.
  • Kagbeni and Upper Mustang: Tibetan Buddhism-influenced regions.
  • Meditation and Yoga Packages: Government-backed retreats in Pokhara and Kathmandu.

6. Rural and Community Homestay Tourism

  • Initiated by the Nepal government to promote rural livelihoods:
    • Stay in traditional Gurung, Magar, or Tharu villages.
    • Learn about farming, handicrafts, and local customs.
  • Popular Homestay Destinations: Ghandruk, Bandipur, and Sirubari.

7. Nepal Tourism Year Initiatives

The government periodically launches promotional campaigns (e.g., Visit Nepal 2020) with discounted travel and bundled tourism experiences:

  • Special Trekking Packages during these years.
  • Discounts on entry permits for select national parks.

How to Access Government Tourism Packages

  1. Nepal Tourism Board (NTB)
    • Official website: https://www.welcomenepal.com
  2. Authorized Tour Operators
    • The government licenses local agencies to offer guided treks and tours.
  3. Tourist Information Centers
    • Located in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and major trekking hubs.