PATA Nepal Chapter to showcase diverse tourism products, services at ITB Berlin 2024

KATHMANDU: The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Nepal Chapter, in collaboration with 38 Nepali exhibitors, is preparing to showcase and promote Nepal's diverse tourism products and services at ITB Berlin 2024, the world's leading travel trade show in Germany.

Since Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) was unable to organise international trade fairs this year, the PATA Nepal Chapter has not only secured a consistent space for the Nepal Pavilion, but has also successfully maintained the image and visibility of destination Nepal at the world's premier travel hub, ITB Berlin. The travel trade show will take place from March 5 to March 7, 2024, in Germany. In addition, the PATA Nepal Chapter has facilitated the participation of private sector tourism businesses that were eagerly seeking support amid uncertainty.

The PATA Nepal Chapter has been actively promoting tourism both within Nepal and internationally, aligning with the spirit of PATA, to support its member organisations and contribute to the growth of sustainable tourism development in Nepal.

A briefing session was organised at Bricks Cafe, Lalitpur, on January 19, to provide participants with necessary preparatory aspects and updates for the event. The timely initiative by the PATA Nepal Chapter was appreciated by all Nepali exhibitors, who also shared their thoughts and feedback to ensure successful participation at ITB 2024.

Reflecting on history, PATA Nepal Chapter, on behalf of the government, has led participation at ITB and WTM from the 1970s to the 1990s before the establishment of NTB. Once again, the organisation has taken a timely initiative to lead destination promotion and ensured that the private sector did not feel discouraged.

Following the briefing session, PATA Nepal Chapter Executive Committee was invited by tourism entrepreneurs from Chitwan, a popular wildlife destination in the southern plains of Nepal, for a FAM Trip and Executive Committee meeting. The trip was hosted at the newly built Siddhartha Vilasa Banbas, nestled in lush green and eco-friendly surroundings in Khairahani, near Chitwan National Park. The resort aims to revitalise the enchantment of Chitwan and provide a rejuvenated wildlife experience for visitors.

During the visit, the executive committee explored other properties, including Jungle Safari Lodge, Sapana Village Resort, and Riverbank Jungle Resort. Likewise, interactions with local stakeholders focused on tourism prospects and strategies to promote sustainable tourism in the region. The committee has decided to expand its operations nationwide by establishing offices in major tourist locations in all provinces, including Chitwan and Pokhara.

Meanwhile, a sub-committee has been formed by PATA Nepal Chapter to draft the concept paper in this regard.