Nepal's Tourism Resilience Amidst Recent Tragedy: What You Should Know Before Visiting
By Editor • September 3, 2026 • 2 min read
As Nepal grapples with the aftermath of devastating flash floods, the tourism sector is urging travelers not to abandon their plans to visit. Following a catastrophic event that struck the Rasuwa district, locals are hopeful that international visitors will continue to support the economy during this challenging time.
Current Situation in Nepal
Arriving in Kathmandu shortly after the floods, which were triggered by a glacier and rock collapse along the Chinese border, I found a country in mourning. While entire villages were destroyed and many lives lost, the bustling streets of Kathmandu belied the tragedy, with traffic flowing and life appearing to continue as usual. However, the heavy hearts of locals reveal the underlying impact of this disaster.
A Call for Support from Local Leaders
Tourism is a vital part of Nepal's economy, with 1.16 million visitors recorded in 2025 alone. In an impassioned plea on social media, Khadak Raj Paudel, Nepal's Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, emphasized that the country remains open and welcoming to tourists. He stated, “Traveling to Nepal at this time is not just a holiday. It’s a support.”
Reassurance from the Tourism Sector
Tourism stakeholders, including René Vijay Shrestha Einhaus, CEO of Dwarika’s Collection, echoed this sentiment, noting that the majority of Nepal is safe for tourists. With many hotel cancellations reported, Shrestha Einhaus stressed the importance of continuing travel to help revive the economy. Similarly, Namgyal Sherpa, CEO of Sherpa Hospitality, advised travelers to review their itineraries but not to cancel their trips, as the disaster has not affected the entire country.
Local and international aid organizations are on the ground providing immediate relief, but the message to potential travelers is clear: visiting Nepal and exploring unaffected regions can significantly aid recovery efforts. As Shrestha Einhaus pointed out, “Every person who comes to Nepal is making a contribution,” highlighting the critical role of tourism in supporting local communities during this time.
Source: www.cntraveler.com
