The Gen-Z protests of September 8 and 9 not only caused tragic human loss and physical destruction but also damaged Nepal’s international image, dealing a heavy setback to its tourism sector.
Just as the peak tourist season was about to begin, the unrest—marked by violence and arson—disrupted preparations and damaged key infrastructures. Several foreign tourists have already canceled bookings, adding to the sector’s woes. Tourism, which had been recovering from the earthquake, blockade, and the COVID-19 pandemic, now faces fresh challenges.
Economist Dr. Samir Khatiwada stressed that despite infrastructure losses, tourism retains immense potential. He urged the government to proactively promote Nepal’s image abroad and address issues at Tribhuvan International Airport, the country’s main gateway.
Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) CEO Deepak Raj Joshi said a draft revival plan is being finalized in consultation with stakeholders. “Tourism will definitely revive. Based on past experience and with international support, recovery will be quick,” he assured. According to NTB, around 15,000 foreign tourists are currently in Nepal, with priority given to their safety and comfort.
Hotel Association Nepal (HAN) Chair Binayak Shah echoed the call for unity, saying, “As the tourist season is about to begin, it is important to send a positive message from Nepal.” He emphasized creating conditions for both safe travel within Nepal and smooth departures for outbound tourists.
PATA Nepal Chapter General Secretary Narendra Dev Bhatta also expressed optimism, urging swift efforts to restore normalcy. Meanwhile, the Mountaineering Association of Nepal and Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) issued a joint statement calling for law and order and a tourism-friendly environment.
A preliminary HAN study revealed that around two dozen hotels were severely damaged during the protests. Hotels in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Butwal, Bhairahawa, Jhapa, Biratnagar, Dhangadhi, Mahottari, and Dang Tulsipur were looted, vandalized, or set on fire. The Hilton Hotel in Kathmandu alone reported losses exceeding Rs 8 billion. Overall, the tourism sector is estimated to have suffered more than Rs 25 billion in damages during just two days of violence.
