Floods weigh on Nepal tourism as August arrivals fall

Nepal’s August tourist arrivals fell after devastating floods hit the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli rivers, disrupting travel and causing extensive losses in several districts.

The country welcomed 85,444 international tourists in August 2026, down by 3,336 from the same month a year earlier. The 3.6% year-on-year decline followed 88,680 arrivals in August 2025.

Floodwater entered Nepal through the Rasuwagadhi border point on August 26 and affected Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading districts, along with other communities along the river system. Domestic and foreign tourists travelling to Kailash Mansarovar and Gosainkunda were also affected. The United States and other countries issued travel advisories warning their citizens about travel to Nepal.

India remained the largest source market, supplying 26,373 visitors, or 30.87% of the total, according to the Nepal Tourism Board. China ranked second with 10,304 visitors, up 36.78% from 7,533 a year earlier. Nepal also received 8,710 visitors from Sri Lanka, an increase of 46.24%.

South Asia accounted for the largest regional share, with 41,422 arrivals. Other Asian countries contributed 18,275 visitors, and Europe contributed 10,875. Several smaller markets posted sharp increases, including Ukraine, Cambodia, Bhutan, Russia, Malaysia and Thailand.