KATHMANDU, JUNE 5

The 6th edition of the Himalayan Travel Mart (HTM 2026) concluded in Kathmandu on Thursday with strong international participation and renewed commitments to position Nepal as a global tourism hub under the theme "New Frontiers in Tourism."

The four-day event, held from June 1 to 4, brought together more than 600 delegates from 27 countries, including over 100 international participants, 75 buyer companies and more than 80 tourism-related organisations, according to organisers.

Jointly organised by the PATA Nepal Chapter in collaboration with the Nepal Tourism Board, Nepal Airlines and private sector partners, the event focused on tourism promotion, business networking and international collaboration.

HTM 2026 featured business-to-business (B2B) meetings, thematic discussions, destination showcases and cultural programmes aimed at promoting sustainable, innovative and experience-based tourism.

Chairman of PATA Nepal Chapter PATA Nepal Chapter Khem Lakai said the mart has become a key platform for tourism growth and international connectivity, adding that this year's theme reflects efforts to diversify Nepal's tourism offerings.

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During the closing ceremony, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Nepal Tourism Board Nepal Tourism Board Hikmat Singh Ayer thanked international delegates and stakeholders for their continued support in promoting Nepal as a leading travel destination.

Prior to the event, international participants visited several destinations including Pokhara, Lumbini, Kirtipur, Namo Buddha and Sindhupalchok as part of familiarisation trips showcasing Nepal's cultural, spiritual and adventure tourism potential.

The B2B sessions alone facilitated more than 2,400 pre-scheduled meetings between international buyers and Nepali tourism operators, generating new business opportunities and partnerships, organisers said.

Tourism Minister Khadak Raj Paudel visited the exhibition area and praised exhibitors for promoting Nepal's tourism products and strengthening the country's global visibility.

Organisers said the event has reinforced Nepal's positioning as a "Gateway to the Himalayas" and a key platform for tourism dialogue, innovation and international cooperation.