Nepal's tourism sector has been hit hard again, just as hopes were rising for a strong season. The Gen Z protests of September 8 and 9 turned violent as angry protesters clashed with security forces, vandalized property, and set fire to public and private infrastructure. The two days of unrest saw several large and small hotels, departmental stores, government buildings, private houses, and property reduced to ashes in major cities and towns. The aftermath was horrifying for a country that has worked hard to rebuild itself after the 2015 earthquake, the blockade, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Tourism had just begun to regain momentum after years of setbacks. The peak season was days away, and hotel lobbies were preparing to welcome guests from Europe, America, and Asia. Trekking agencies had confirmed bookings, tour guides were preparing to head to the mountains, and airlines were seeing strong demand. But all of this suffered a severe setback. Early estimates put economic losses at more than Rs 25 billion, with nearly two dozen hotels vandalized, looted, or set ablaze in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Biratnagar, and other cities. The Hilton Hotel alone is believed to have suffered damages exceeding Rs 8 billion. Beyond the financial blow, the protests sent an uncomfortable message to the outside world: Nepal can still appear unstable, and visitors may hesitate to come when safety looks uncertain. For the hotel industry, this is especially painful.
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After years of surviving on thin margins, hotels were counting on a good season to recover their investments and pay off debts. Many had hired extra staff and stocked supplies. Now, instead of welcoming guests, they are repairing buildings, dealing with cancellations, and trying to reassure international travel partners that Nepal is still safe. Smaller hotels, particularly those outside Kathmandu, are at risk of closing their doors for good if immediate help does not arrive. Prime Minister Sushila Karki, while assuming office, made it clear that rebuilding the economy and supporting the tourism sector would be her priorities. Her words must now be turned into action, with the new government introducing a relief package that includes tax breaks, low-interest loans, and direct financial support for the hardest-hit businesses. Swift action will also help rebuild trust among international tourists and tour operators. By protecting tourism, we are protecting Nepal's economy. Despite the challenge, tourism leaders remain optimistic about the future.
The Nepal Tourism Board has begun assessing the damage and is preparing a revival plan. International tourism organizations are expected to support promotion campaigns abroad to assure visitors that Nepal is open and welcoming. Industry leaders, including Hotel Association Nepal, are calling for a united effort to send a positive message as the season begins. Besides immediate support, visible security, quick repairs, and a safe environment for visitors are essential to restore confidence among tourism entrepreneurs. Nepal has shown resilience in the face of major disasters, whether earthquakes or pandemics. Recovery is possible this time too, but it requires swift government action and collaboration among all stakeholders. Protecting the tourism sector is not only about saving hotels; it is about saving jobs, foreign income, and the country’s reputation.
