Nepal Tourism Surges: Indian Visitors Lead the Charge

Nepal welcomed 88,248 international tourists in September, a positive sign for its tourism industry. Indian nationals formed the largest segment, with 17,425 arrivals, representing a 12% year-on-year increase. This growth continued into the first nine months of 2026, with total arrivals reaching 865,920, a 6% rise. Despite earlier concerns regarding floods and landslides, the tourism season showed resilience.

In a notable bilateral initiative, tourism stakeholders from Nepal and India have committed to developing a Buddhist and cultural tourism circuit. This circuit will connect Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, with eight northeastern states of India. The agreement aims to position Lumbini as a key transit hub and expand tourism networks, encouraging longer stays by linking journeys with significant sites related to Buddha's life.