Nepal – The sixth edition of the Eastern Travel Mart 2026 was successfully held from March 28 to 30 in Itahari, positioning eastern Nepal as a growing tourism gateway and strengthening cross-border travel partnerships.
Organised by the Nepal Tourism Board, Itahari Sub-Metropolitan City, and tourism associations from eastern Nepal, the three-day event served as a dynamic B2B and promotional platform showcasing the region’s tourism potential.
Boosting Regional Tourism and Cross-Border Collaboration
The mart brought together over 100 travel trade stakeholders, including tour operators, hoteliers, and travel agencies from Indian states such as Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Sikkim, along with participants from Bhutan.
The event facilitated business meetings, exhibitions, and networking sessions aimed at promoting tourism products, cultural experiences, and investment opportunities in Koshi Province.
Focus on Emerging Destinations and Experiences
Eastern Nepal’s diverse offerings—including adventure tourism, cultural heritage, and nature-based experiences—were highlighted during the mart. The initiative is part of Nepal’s broader strategy to develop regional tourism hubs beyond traditional destinations.
Government and Industry Participation
The event was attended by senior officials, including Mukund Prasad Niraula, Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, and Deepak Raj Joshi, CEO of the Nepal Tourism Board. Both leaders emphasized the importance of regional tourism development and cross-border collaboration in driving economic growth.
Recognition for Industry Contribution
A key highlight of the event was the recognition of Hikmat Singh Ayer, who was honoured for 25 years of outstanding service in the tourism sector. His contribution has been instrumental in establishing the Eastern Travel Mart as a major platform for promoting eastern Nepal and strengthening ties with neighbouring markets.
Strengthening Nepal’s Tourism Vision
The Eastern Travel Mart underscores Nepal Tourism Board’s commitment to decentralising tourism development and enhancing international collaboration. By connecting local stakeholders with regional markets, the initiative is expected to boost visitor inflows and create new economic opportunities.
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