Foreign tourists planning to visit Nepal have begun canceling their advance bookings following the recent floods and landslides that caused widespread damage across the country.
October marks the start of the autumn tourist season. However, according to tourism entrepreneurs, road travel has been disrupted due to heavy rains, prompting tourists to cancel their bookings over safety concerns. Stakeholders in the tourism industry report that the floods during this critical time have negatively impacted the tourism industry.
"Bookings for October are being canceled," said Sagar Pandey, president of the Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN). "Given the current road conditions and safety issues, tourists have already started canceling, and it is estimated that cancellations could reach 25%."
October is typically the peak month for foreign tourists visiting Nepal.
"Most bookings until mid to late October have been canceled," Pandey noted. "However, bookings for November remain unaffected so far, with tourists adopting a 'wait and see' approach."
The clear weather and cultural festivals during this time make October and November the most popular months for trekking and holidays in Nepal. Many tourists prefer these two months to experience Nepal’s scenic landscapes and vibrant culture.
