Nepal and India Establish Joint Tourism Council

The newly formed council aims to boost visitor numbers and foster long-term business partnerships across the border.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Travel — General

Screen-print poster illustration of Himalayan mountain peaks and traditional arches, evoking travel and cultural heritage between India and Nepal.
Nepal and India have launched a joint tourism council to increase cross-border travel and strengthen hospitality partnerships between the two nations. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Nepal and India have launched a joint tourism council to promote travel and expand business cooperation between the two nations. The initiative was formalized during a three-day connect programme that featured site visits and industry meetings.

Why it matters

This collaboration seeks to significantly increase the flow of Indian tourists into Nepal while strengthening regional hospitality networks. It provides a structured framework for operators to develop cross-border packages and sustain professional relationships.

The initiative launched during the October 2026 programme, which focused on developing joint tourism packages and site coordination. It targets key regional destinations including Ramgram, Amaltari, Maulakalika, Sauraha, and Meghauli.

The players

Non-Resident Nepali Association International Coordination Council

This organization represents the Nepali diaspora and works to promote the interests of the country on a global stage.

Prosperous Chitwan Campaign

This regional group focuses on the economic and infrastructure development of the Chitwan district in Nepal.

The details

The council comprises hospitality experts, resort managers, and tour operators who will facilitate regular networking events. By integrating resources, the group intends to streamline the travel experience and create cohesive promotional strategies for destinations in both countries.

Timeline

  1. The Nepal-India Cross-Border Tourism Connect 2026 programme took place from October 25 to October 27, 2026.

Travel Outlook

This council reflects a broader shift toward regional integration in South Asian tourism, mirroring the patterns set by the BIMSTEC Master Plan for Transport Connectivity. It moves beyond individual national marketing to create a cohesive trans-border destination strategy.

Travelers can expect the development of new, integrated tour packages that span across both Nepali and Indian regions in the coming months. These joint offerings may simplify logistical planning for cross-border trips and offer more guided access to regional sites.

The takeaway

The creation of this council signals a new phase of cooperation that simplifies access to multiple regional tourist sites. Industry professionals and travelers should monitor upcoming joint package announcements to optimize their cross-border itineraries.

Further reading

Learn more about international tourism trends on our Travel — General section page.

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Do you believe cross-border tourism councils effectively help local businesses in your area grow?