Nepal and India have pledged to strengthen their partnership in promoting cross-border religious tourism, focusing on mutual benefits and shared cultural heritage. The commitment was reaffirmed during an interaction among tourism entrepreneurs from both countries, organized in coordination with the Indian Embassy in Nepal, Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), and Uttar Pradesh Tourism Board.
Key Highlights:
1. Focus on Religious Tourism:
Efforts are being directed toward leveraging the cultural and religious significance of shared heritage sites to boost tourism in border areas.
2. Exposure Visit:
Nepali tourism entrepreneurs recently visited key religious sites in India, including Mathura, Agra, Prayagraj, Lucknow, Varanasi, and Ayodhya. These visits aimed to explore tourism opportunities, address challenges, and strengthen collaborations.
3. Ramayana Circuit:
Janakpur Sub-Metropolitan City Mayor Manoj Kumar Sah highlighted the collaborative efforts to develop the Ayodhya-Janakpur Ramayana Circuit, linking the mythological and cultural significance of these cities.
4. Far-Western Nepal’s Potential:
Nepali tourism entrepreneur Maya Prasad Bhatta emphasized the untapped potential of far-western Nepal, advocating for joint promotion of destinations like Badhimalika and Khaptad alongside jungle safaris and pilgrimage tours.
5. Indian Tourist Interest:
Indian representatives, including Agra Travel Agents Association General Secretary Kaushlendra Singh, expressed eagerness to encourage Indian tourists to explore Nepal, provided improvements in road infrastructure are made.
6. Cultural Ties and Promotion:
The President of Varanasi Tourism Gilt, Santosh Kumar Singh, stressed the importance of utilizing centuries-old cultural and religious ties to attract tourists. He also invited Hindu Nepali tourists to participate in India’s upcoming Kumbh Mela.
7. Future Plans:
• A formal tourism programme was organized in Lucknow, where strategies for enhancing bilateral tourism were discussed.
• NTB and Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department committed to creating an annual schedule of joint promotional events and exchanges.
Nepal’s Tourism Vision:
Nepal aims to capitalize on its rich religious and cultural heritage, promoting destinations like Janakpur, Lumbini, and other sacred sites to Indian tourists while attracting global travelers. Similarly, India seeks to welcome Nepali tourists to its spiritual events and heritage sites, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits both nations.
Conclusion:
The initiative marks a significant step in fostering Nepal-India relations through tourism, bridging cultural ties, and enhancing economic prospects for both nations.