KATHMANDU: Nepal has recorded a strong presence at the China International Travel Market (CITM) 2025, winning the prestigious “Best Booth Award” at the three-day travel fair held from December 19 to 21 at the Hainan International Convention and Exhibition Center in Haikou.

Led by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) in collaboration with Nepal Airlines and seven Nepali private-sector travel companies, Nepal’s participation significantly enhanced the country’s visibility among Chinese travel trade professionals, consumers and international delegates.

The Nepal Pavilion, designed around the theme “Nepal – Lifetime Experiences,” featured striking visuals of the Himalayas, a Buddhist stupa façade, the Living Goddess Kumari, and a range of adventure, cultural and scenic attractions. Live cultural performances further drew attention, earning widespread appreciation from visitors and fair participants, according to NTB.

CITM 2025 provided an important platform for destination promotion, marketing and networking, bringing together destination marketing organizations, airlines, hotels and travel businesses from China and around the world. Visitors to the Nepal Pavilion showed keen interest in travel activities, accessibility, entry regulations and overall destination experiences, while Nepali trade representatives engaged in B2B meetings with hosted buyers.

On December 19, the Consulate General of Nepal in Guangzhou organized a special “Explore Nepal” evening near the exhibition venue. The event was attended by government officials and travel trade representatives from Hainan province, along with NTB officials and Nepali private-sector delegates. Lin Qian, Director General of the Haikou Municipal Foreign Affairs Office, attended the programme as chief guest.

Welcoming participants, Consul General Bharat Khanal highlighted Nepal’s tourism strengths and the long-standing relations between Nepal and China. NTB Senior Manager Archana KC Rana delivered a destination presentation focusing on Nepal’s cultural, natural, adventure and wellness offerings, underscoring China as a high-value source market for Nepal. The programme concluded with B2B interactions and networking sessions aimed at fostering new partnerships.

Participants from Nepal’s private sector expressed optimism over the quality of meetings and potential business outcomes.

CITM, one of China’s largest travel trade shows held since 2004, was hosted in Haikou for the first time, marking a new milestone for the event in the coastal province of Hainan.