KATHMANDU: The sixth edition of the Himalayan Travel Mart (HTM 2026) concluded in Kathmandu on Thursday, drawing over 600 delegates from 27 countries and generating more than 2,400 pre-scheduled business appointments across four days of trade meetings, forums, and cultural events.

Held from June 1 to 4 under the theme "New Frontiers in Tourism," the mart brought together representatives from 75 international buyer companies and over 80 exhibiting organisations. The event was organised by the PATA Nepal Chapter in collaboration with the Nepal Tourism Board, Nepal Airlines, and a range of public and private sector partners.

The B2B Mart, held on June 3 and 4, formed the centrepiece of the programme, facilitating direct business interactions between international buyers and Nepalese tourism suppliers. Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Khadak Raj Paudel visited the mart and commended exhibitors for showcasing the country's diverse tourism products, expressing appreciation to organisers, delegates, and sponsors for the event's success.

The HTM Insight Forum brought together tourism experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss emerging travel trends, sustainable tourism practices, technological innovation, wellness tourism, and market diversification.Prior to the mart, international delegates participated in familiarisation trips to Pokhara, Lumbini, Haibung in Sindhupalchok, Kirtipur, and Namo Buddha, offering exposure to Nepal's cultural heritage, adventure, spirituality, and regenerative tourism offerings.

"HTM continues to serve as a catalyst for tourism growth, regional cooperation, and international market connectivity," said PATA Nepal Chapter Chairman Khem Lakai. "The theme 'New Frontiers in Tourism' reflects our collective ambition to embrace innovation, diversify tourism offerings, and create meaningful travel experiences for future generations."

Nepal Tourism Board Officiating CEO Hikmat Singh Ayer thanked international delegates and partners for their continued support in promoting Nepal as a premier travel destination, and congratulated the organising team on delivering another successful edition.

PATA Nepal Chapter CEO Suresh Singh Budal described HTM as a model of public-private partnership, noting its role in strengthening Nepal's tourism brand through business networking, destination promotion, and international market engagement.

The event concluded with a closing celebration at Club Nova, bringing together international delegates and Nepalese tourism professionals to mark new partnerships and shared achievements.