Nepal's tourism sector needs a sustainability shift

Sustainability has become a buzzword in policy design, but Nepal's tourism sector requires careful planning and stakeholder collaboration to ensure genuine benefits and avoid "greenwashing." Tourism contributes significantly to Nepal's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), with domestic travelers making up over 65 percent of the income. These travelers visit for corporate retreats, pilgrimages, trekking, and weekend getaways, demonstrating the vital role of local tourism.

International visitors contribute the remaining 35 percent, primarily for mountaineering, trekking, and cultural experiences. The article stresses the importance of developing thoughtful tourism experiences and enhancing quality, considering the impact on all stakeholders. Lessons from UNESCO's "Next 50 Dialogues" reveal concerns about the disconnect between youth and their cultural roots due to the lack of heritage in school curricula.

Furthermore, local and indigenous cultures and products are not well-integrated into the tourism sector. The superficial linkages to food, craft, and music benefit only a few, with little income reaching the grassroots. This lack of economic opportunity contributes to outward migration. Nepal is missing a significant social and economic opportunity by not supporting its cultural products.

As international hotel brands expand in Nepal, offering standardized service and sustainability, they appeal to a broad tourist base. Domestic tourists are also increasingly drawn to these properties for staycations. While these developments bring employment and training, the article calls for diversification to include budget options and curated stays like homestays or niche properties, ensuring choices for all types of travelers.