Confederation of Nepalese Industries Young Entrepreneurs Forum (CNIYEF) members met with Mr. Deepak Raj Joshi, CEO, Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) to learn in detail and discuss about #VisitNepal2020. The objective of the discussion was for CNIYEF to learn about NTB’s plan to bring in 2 million tourists to Nepal in 2020 and celebrate 1 million tourists in 2018. The agenda was also for NTB to learn and receive feedback on tourism and #VisitNepal2020 from dynamic entrepreneurs and young leaders from CNIYEF.
During the discussion, Mr. Joshi mentioned that apart from the popular destinations, NTB is also looking to promote three circuits – Ramayan circuit, Shiva Circuit and Buddha Circuit. He also talked about the idea of having a duty-free zone in different parts of the nation to attract tourists.
Mr. Joshi rightfully highlighted that Nepal is perceived as a spiritual destination. When CNIYEF members asked him if the management of 2 million tourists is possible in a small country like Nepal, he said there are enough hotels to accommodate that many tourists. His only concern is in Kathmandu where he admits there are management issues but elsewhere he is confident that visitors will have a good experience.
He encouraged CNIYEF entrepreneurs to bring in ideas to foster tourism in Nepal. He also talked about Nepal being a naturally-blessed nation for tourism. However, he admitted the spending per tourist which is $54 per day per tourist is very low and we should look at ways to increase this number.
Saloni Sethia, member at CNIYEF questioned why Nepal is not looking forward in utilizing platforms like AirBnB as the platform is still under question in Nepal from a legal viewpoint. Another member suggested local products like tea from Nepal be promoted heavily; the product is considered to be one of the best in the world.
The event concluded with cake-cutting ceremony to celebrate 1 million tourists in 2018.
Confederation of Nepalese Industries Young Entrepreneurs Forum (CNIYEF) is a youth wing of Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI). CNIYEF was formed to bring together young entrepreneurs and leaders of Nepal so as to groom them to be the next generation of business leaders for Nepal.
