KATHMANDU: The Nepal Tourism Board has concluded a successful showcase at the 32nd Moscow International Travel and Tourism Exhibition (MITT) 2026, signalling a determined push to grow arrivals from Russia as the two countries mark 70 years of diplomatic relations.

Held at the Crocus Expo Center in Moscow from March 11 to 13, MITT drew exhibitors from more than 30 countries and recorded a footfall of over 16,000 visitors, cementing its standing as one of the region's most important destination promotion platforms.

Nepal Tourism Board led the country's participation alongside seven private sector tour operators. The delegation was headed by NTB Executive Committee Member and Director General of the Department of Immigration Ram Chandra Tiwari, accompanied by Senior Director Santosh Panta and Senior Officer Kabindra Bhatta. Nepal's Chargé d'Affaires in Moscow, Maheshwor Mani Tripathi, also visited the Nepal Pavilion and supported the delegation throughout the event.

Officials engaged directly with visitors, underlining Nepal's commitment to deepening tourism ties with Russia. Private sector representatives described the platform as well-suited for reaching the Russian market and expressed strong optimism about the outcomes of their engagements.

A market with growing promise

Nepal received over 15,000 Russian visitors in 2025, and the market is seen as having significant room for growth. Russians' affinity for exploration, adventure and rich cultural experiences aligns closely with Nepal's core tourism offerings — from Himalayan trekking and mountaineering to heritage and spiritual tourism.

NTB's participation in MITT 2026 takes on added significance this year, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Russia — a milestone that both sides are looking to build upon through stronger people-to-people and tourism ties.