Nepal tourism budget 2019/20

Just three months into the end of 2018-2019, the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA) has begun preparing budget plans for the next fiscal year.

As the country hosts the Nepal Year 2020 (VNY) Campaign, the 2019-20 fiscal year will be more campaign-oriented.

The Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA) has begun formulating budget plans for the fiscal year 2019/20, just three months before the conclusion of the 2018/19 fiscal year.

This upcoming budget is of particular significance as it aligns with the Visit Nepal Year 2020 (VNY) campaign, a national initiative aimed at attracting two million international tourists by 2020. As part of this campaign-oriented fiscal year, the ministry will focus on promoting both international and domestic tourism.

The VNY campaign, initially announced in 2018, highlights Nepal’s ambitious goal of establishing itself as a premier travel destination. While international arrivals remain a central priority, the ministry recognizes the growing importance of domestic tourism. According to Ghanashyam Upadhyaya, the ministry’s spokesperson, domestic tourism has witnessed notable growth in recent years. He stated, “We are proposing several programs in coordination with national authorities to meet the demands of domestic tourists.”

The proposed budget and programs for the fiscal year 2019/20 are closely aligned with the 15th Five-Year National Plan. Upadhyaya explained that the budget would primarily ensure the continuity of initiatives launched under the existing policy framework. A significant portion of the allocation will be directed towards developing and promoting destinations across the country. This includes extending support to 100 tourist destinations that have been designated by the government. “The work related to these destinations will continue,” Upadhyaya affirmed. He further noted that the ministry aims to enhance the Himalayan tourist route, improve infrastructure, and create a favorable environment for travelers.

In November 2018, the ministry introduced 100 new destinations spanning Nepal’s 77 districts, with the goal of encouraging longer tourist stays. Local governments have been entrusted with the responsibility of protecting and promoting these destinations. Trekking and adventure tourism are expected to play a pivotal role in the ministry’s budget strategy, with efforts underway to identify and promote new trekking routes.

Infrastructure development remains a top priority in the Nepal tourism budget 2019/20. The Gautam Buddha International Airport is anticipated to become operational during the upcoming fiscal year, while the Pokhara International Airport is also making significant progress. These projects are expected to enhance accessibility and connectivity, thereby supporting the overall growth of the tourism sector. Recognizing the past criticism for failing to meet infrastructure goals, the ministry has pledged to prioritize this area in the new fiscal year.