KATHMANDU: Nepal’s tourism sector continues to regain altitude, nearing full recovery from the pandemic downturn. According to the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), the country welcomed 128,443 international visitors in October 2025, a 3.3 percent increase from last year and a 96 percent rebound compared to 2019 — the last full pre-pandemic year.

With 943,716 visitors recorded between January and October, Nepal has already surpassed last year’s pace and achieved a 98 percent recovery, positioning itself among South Asia’s fastest-recovering destinations.

Tourists from India once again topped the list, followed by travelers from the United States, United Kingdom, China, and Germany. Europe remained the largest regional contributor with over 40,000 arrivals, reflecting Nepal’s enduring draw among adventure seekers, trekkers, and spiritual travelers alike.

“This level of recovery shows Nepal’s global appeal remains strong,” said tourism entreprenuers. “Visitors are coming back not only for trekking and mountaineering but also for wellness retreats, culture, and eco-tourism.”

The report also highlights the sector’s growing economic footprint. During Bhadra 2082, foreign currency earnings reached Rs 6.21 billion, while Ashoj saw foreign direct investment commitments of Rs 1.46 billion across 103 new projects — from boutique lodges and adventure start-ups to eco-friendly mountain resorts.

The autumn mountaineering season added further momentum, with 175 teams and 1,450 climbers from 83 countries scaling Nepal’s peaks. The activity generated royalties worth Rs 255.16 million, reinforcing mountaineering as one of Nepal’s most resilient tourism assets.

Tourism entrepreneurs say the season’s success reflects a blend of renewed confidence and shifting traveler behavior — more visitors are choosing meaningful, experience-based journeys over short sightseeing trips. “We’re seeing a steady rise in climbers, wellness travelers, and slow trekkers seeking connection rather than just adventure,” said one Kathmandu-based expedition organizer.