Kathmandu, May 27, 2025 - In a significant move to bolster the tourism potential of Karnali Province, the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation hosted the "National Tourism Dialogue" at Singha Durbar on Friday. The event, graced by Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, federal and provincial ministers, and representatives from the private sector, focused on addressing challenges and strategizing the development of tourism in one of Nepal’s most culturally and naturally rich provinces.
Karnali’s Untapped Potential
Karnali Province, often referred to as Nepal’s hidden gem, boasts unparalleled tourism prospects. From its pristine natural landscapes and abundant medicinal herbs to its rich cultural heritage and vast hydropower potential, the province has all the ingredients to become a major tourism hub. The provincial government has identified key pillars to advance tourism, including the preparation of a 10-year Tourism Master Plan, prioritization of tourism in periodic plans, and formulation of tourism-related laws and regulations.
Persistent Challenges
Despite its vast potential, Karnali faces significant hurdles. The lack of upgraded airports, poor road infrastructure, inadequate communication and electricity facilities, and minimal private sector engagement have stymied progress. Additionally, the commercialization of medicinal herbs, fruits, and agricultural products remains underdeveloped.
Participants highlighted specific logistical challenges, such as the need for travelers to transit through Nepalgunj for flights connecting Surkhet to Karnali airports and the absence of direct air connectivity from Surkhet to other provincial capitals.
A Roadmap for Transformation
The dialogue emphasized actionable strategies to unlock Karnali’s tourism potential:
1. Increased Federal Support: Participants urged the federal government to allocate a larger budget, recognizing Karnali as a specially protected region.
2. Infrastructure Development: Upgrading airports, improving road networks, and ensuring stable electricity and internet connectivity were deemed critical.
3. Private Sector Engagement: Initiatives like skywalks, paragliding, rafting, and adventure tourism programs were proposed to attract investment.
4. Promotional Campaigns: Branding Karnali as a premier destination through events like the Karnali Travel Mart was recommended to boost visibility.
5. Policy Revisions: Revisiting revenue-sharing formulas to better accommodate Karnali’s unique demographic and geographic realities was proposed.
Collaborative Efforts for Sustainable Growth
Addressing the gathering, Honorable Minister Suresh Adhikari of Karnali Province highlighted the importance of inter-governmental collaboration and private-public partnerships. “This dialogue is a step forward in positioning Karnali as a tourism hub while ensuring sustainability and inclusivity,” he remarked.
As Nepal strives to revitalize its tourism sector post-pandemic, initiatives like these underline the importance of leveraging local strengths and addressing systemic challenges. With strategic investments and a clear vision, Karnali Province stands poised to transform into a beacon of sustainable tourism and development.
Ecosphere News will continue to follow developments and provide insights into Nepal’s tourism and environmental advancements.
