Nepal Honored as ‘Most Attractive Tourism Destination’ at Guangzhou International Travel Fair

Nepal was awarded the title of ‘Most Attractive Tourism Destination’ at the Guangzhou International Travel Fair 2026, held in Guangzhou, China. During the three-day event, the Nepal Tourism Board engaged with Chinese and international industry professionals to promote opportunities in wellness, cultural, religious, adventure, and luxury tourism sectors. The Board highlighted that Nepal Airlines and China Southern Airlines currently operate direct flights between Kathmandu and Guangzhou, facilitating expanded access for tourists.

On May 10, in Kathmandu, it was confirmed that Nepal received this prestigious award based on its natural beauty, spirituality, cultural diversity, and appeal for adventure tourism at the Guangzhou International Travel Fair (GITF) 2026 held from May 21 to 23. Participating under the theme “Nepal: A Lifetime Tourism Experience,” the Nepal Tourism Board coordinated the country’s presence at the international tourism event.

At the fair, Nepal showcased various tourism opportunities including wellness, cultural, religious, adventure, outdoor, and luxury tourism to international visitors and business delegates. Guangzhou city, along with Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area, represents major commercial and tourism hubs, serving as key markets for promoting Nepali tourism. The Board emphasized significant potential for attracting Chinese tourists, particularly in the wellness, religious, cultural, and luxury tourism segments.

The opening day on May 21 featured Nepali cultural dance performances and a special presentation titled “Destination Nepal,” which introduced Chinese visitors and tourism professionals to Nepal’s arts, culture, and heritage. On May 22, Senior Manager of the Nepal Tourism Board, Vimal Kandel, delivered a country presentation outlining Nepal’s tourism potential, destinations, and promotional strategies. He also participated in a panel discussion focused on expanding Nepal’s tourism market. A delegation led by Senior Officer Pradeep Basnet represented Nepal at the event.

Nepal’s pavilion attracted considerable attention through interactive activities such as a “Spin and Win” lucky draw and demonstrations of the Nepali singing bowls under the wellness tourism promotion. Eight Nepali tourism companies participated, providing information on trekking, tours, hotels, and hospitality packages to Chinese and international tourism stakeholders.

Prior to the fair, on May 20, the Nepal Tourism Board collaborated with the Nepalese Consulate General in Guangzhou to participate in the “Nepal: A Lifetime Tourism Experience” promotion and B2B networking event held in Shenzhen, China. The direct flights operated by Nepal Airlines and China Southern Airlines between Kathmandu and Guangzhou not only improve tourism connectivity but are also expected to boost the arrival of Chinese tourists, according to the Board.