Nepal to launch ‘Devbhumi Nepal’ campaign for spiritual tourism promotion

Kathmandu – In the upcoming fiscal year 2083/84, a national campaign titled ‘Devbhumi Nepal’ will be launched to establish Nepal as a global spiritual tourism hub.

President Ram Chandra Poudel, presenting the policy and program at the joint session of the Federal Parliament on Monday, stated that religious, cultural, wellness, film, and adventure tourism have been given special priority.

Through the policy and program, the government aims to make air services more reliable and transition the tourism sector to a digital system. The government has prioritized expanding aviation infrastructure and fully operating international airports.

Similarly, the government plans to implement structural reforms in the civil aviation sector, increase private sector participation, and strictly adhere to international safety standards.

The policy and program mention diplomatic efforts to attract more international airlines to Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa and Pokhara International Airport.

Additionally, to facilitate tourism services, tourist visa services will be fully integrated into an online system. The ‘One Door Digital Tourism System’ will be implemented to provide integrated tourist permits and services directly from immigration points. The government is preparing to celebrate the year 2085 as ‘Visit Nepal’ year, aiming to increase tourist arrivals, spending, and duration of stay.

Furthermore, the ‘Devbhumi Nepal’ national campaign will be launched to establish Nepal as a global spiritual tourism center. The government has announced a policy to connect search and rescue systems with modern technology for the safety of mountain tourism.

The policy and program also mention promoting adventure tourism through activities like paragliding, bungee jumping, and skydiving. At least 10 new trekking routes will be identified and operationalized in the Himalayan, mid-hill, and Terai regions.

The government plans to restructure the Nepal Tourism Board into a public-private partnership model to make it more innovative. The policy highlights the development of the tourism ecosystem, giving special priority to new tourist destinations in Karnali, Sudurpaschim, Madhesh, and Koshi provinces.