The Nepal Association of Tour & Travel Agents (NATTA) participated in the 4th Meeting of the BIMSTEC Network of Tour Operators (BNTO) held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, from 21 to 23 July 2026, reaffirming Nepal's commitment to strengthening regional tourism collaboration.
Representing Nepal at the three-day meeting were NATTA President Kumar Mani Thapaliya and Surendra Guruwacharya from the Nepal Association of Tour Operators (NATO). The gathering brought together tourism stakeholders from BIMSTEC member countries to discuss strategies for enhancing regional tourism and fostering stronger partnerships.
Key agenda items included promoting intra-BIMSTEC tourism, advancing the Buddhist Circuit, Ramayana Circuit, and Wellness, Wildlife & Adventure Circuit, as well as exploring the effective utilization of the BIMSTEC Tourism Fund. Delegates also discussed preparations for the 30th Anniversary of BIMSTEC, highlighting tourism as a key driver of regional connectivity and economic growth.
During the discussions, participants emphasized the importance of collaborative tourism initiatives, cross-border travel facilitation, sustainable tourism development, and stronger people-to-people connections among BIMSTEC member states.
NATTA reiterated its commitment to working closely with all BIMSTEC member countries to strengthen regional tourism cooperation, promote sustainable tourism practices, and create new opportunities for tourism businesses and travelers across the Bay of Bengal region.
The meeting is expected to pave the way for enhanced regional tourism partnerships while positioning the BIMSTEC region as a more integrated and attractive destination for international visitors.
