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Government attempts to attract more foreign tourists are hindered by irrevelant policies, say stakeholders. Simplifying entry permits, akin to countries with high tourist inflows, could stimulate tourism growth, they suggest.
Maniraj Lamichhane, Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) director, advocates for a global 'free visa' policy to boost tourism, emphasizing its positive impact on tourist arrivals.
In February, Singapore attracted 1.5 million tourists, partly due to a visa exemption with China. Nepal aims for 3.5 million tourists in a decade, contrasting Singapore's annual 1.5 million.
Thamel Tourism Development Council president Bhabishwor Sharma supports visa exemptions, believing they could bolster Nepal's tourism without significant financial impact.
Pokhara Tourism Council chairman Pom Narayan Shrestha sees a free visa policy enhancing Nepal's international image and tourist appeal.
Nepal currently offers free visas for Chinese citizens for 150 days and SAARC citizens for 30 days, with the potential to extend to other countries.
Despite surpassing last year's tourist target and declaring 2023-2031 as a tourism decade, Nepal's tourism potential remains untapped due to ineffective policies. Proposed visa exemption efforts have stalled in parliament.
Nepal's rich natural and cultural heritage, including national parks, mountains, and historic sites, has global appeal. However, tourism remains 'seasonal' due to policy shortcomings, urging a proactive approach to attract tourists year-round.
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