Currently serving as an Officiating Director in the Public Relations and Publicity Department at the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), Sunil Sharma oversees the development and execution of impactful promotional campaigns across diverse platforms. He also leads the creation of engaging social media strategies, ensuring Nepal’s unique offerings reach global audiences through compelling digital storytelling.
With an extensive career at NTB, Sharma has gained deep insights into the intricate workings of Nepal's tourism sector. He has collaborated with government bodies on policy and planning initiatives, contributing to the strategic direction of national tourism. At the same time, he has worked closely with grassroots communities and tourism stakeholders to foster development and implement effective marketing and promotional campaigns both domestically and internationally.
This multifaceted experience has provided him with a holistic perspective on tourism, encompassing everything from high-level policy formulation to on-the-ground implementation. His professional journey spans all facets of the tourism industry in Nepal and beyond, including strategic marketing, public relations, and stakeholder coordination.
Passionate about showcasing Nepal’s unique cultural and natural heritage, he is committed to elevating the country’s global presence as a premier travel destination. He is adept at navigating complex challenges and leveraging opportunities to enhance Nepal’s international tourism appeal.
What inspired you to pursue a career in tourism, and what has been the most rewarding experience for you in promoting Nepal as a travel destination?
It's wonderful to reflect on what drew me to this path and what continues to fuel my passion.
My passion for a career in tourism was sparked by an enduring love for Nepal’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultural heritage, and the genuine warmth of its people. As a child, I was intrigued by the visitors I saw exploring my country, their stories revealing facets of Nepal I had yet to discover. This curiosity ignited a lifelong desire to uncover and share the hidden treasures of my homeland.
Growing up near Kathmandu Durbar Square, I was captivated daily by its architectural splendor, from the intricate Malla-era designs to the elegant neoclassical structures. The square’s rich heritage engrossed me, creating moments where time seemed to stand still, deepening my commitment to showcasing Nepal’s cultural and natural wonders to the world.
Showcasing Nepal's unique charm and breathtaking beauty to the world has been the most rewarding aspect of promoting it as a travel destination. Overall, it is to inspire curiosity, engage the senses, and stir a desire to see places.
What steps are being taken to promote tourism in Nepal?
We've truly left no stone unturned in our efforts. We've partnered with influencers, bloggers, and vloggers, and utilized podcasts to showcase Nepal to a global audience.
Furthermore, we're actively leveraging technologies that can penetrate deeply into the international market. This includes a strong focus on platforms like TikTok, where we can engage with Gen Z. Creating reels and prioritizing social media engagement are key components of our current promotional strategy. Also, we are conducting familiarization tours for celebrities, media, etc.
Besides, we are continuing our regular international travel trade fairs, destination promotions, sales missions, and targeted special promotional campaigns such as the Himalayan Travel Mart, Buddhist International Travel Mart, Summiteers Summit, Nepal India China Expo, etc.
We are also focusing on niche market segments such as positioning Nepal as a Wellness and Wedding destination and emerging as a MICE destination. Further, with the #PhotoNepal campaign, we are building a vibrant movement of photo crowdsourcing—celebrating Nepal through the eyes of the people. From regular photo contests to specialized marketing and influencer engagement, we work across every layer of the crowdsourcing ecosystem to amplify Nepal’s visual storytelling.
What are the biggest challenges facing Nepal’s tourism sector today, and how is the Nepal Tourism Board addressing them?
Nepal's tourism sector faces significant hurdles, including limited air connectivity, inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of skilled human resources, and a poor road network. In expanding beyond a few popular spots, the country also struggles with limited destination options and the challenge of developing Nepal as a luxury tourism destination capable of attracting high-end visitors. Equally crucial are the challenges of preserving and conserving Nepal's rich natural and cultural heritage.
Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) significantly contributes to resolving these challenges by serving as a vital link between the travel industry and public sectors. Operating through a public-private partnership model, the NTB fosters collaboration among stakeholders to create effective solutions, integrating all relevant parties to address issues and working jointly with both the travel trade and public sectors for resolution.
Aside from your role at the Nepal Tourism Board, what passion or hobby do you enjoy most?
I enjoy exploring my country and deepening my knowledge about it. I'm an enthusiastic reader and enjoy writing in my spare time. Additionally, I'm an ardent trekker and a passionate photographer, capturing Nepal’s beauty through my lens. My work can be seen on social media, especially on Instagram. My account handle is sunil8848.
What key message or advice would you like to share with the next generation of tourism leaders in Nepal?
Nepal's tourism and hospitality sectors offer immense opportunities, and I strongly encourage young people to consider a career in these fields. To succeed, you will need passion, enthusiasm, and the right attitude and aptitude. The ultimate reward is knowing you're contributing to the country. The industry is very demanding; hence, one should be mentally tough. Above all, a sound understanding of Nepal's history, geography, culture, and religions is essential before entering this industry. After all, marketing and promotion is the art of storytelling, and we need good storytellers for the marketing and promotion of Nepal as a destination.
Also Read
