The recent protests and unrest against the Nepalese government by the general public have led to a 30% decrease in the number of tourists visiting the country. Tourism is a crucial industry for Nepal’s economy and a primary source of foreign currency. The large-scale protests and unrest, led by Gen Z and young people against the government, began after the start of the country’s tourist season.
The protests were initiated in response to the Nepalese government’s decision to ban certain social media platforms. However, the confrontations and unrest resulting from the protests led to a significant loss of life. According to the latest statistics released by Nepalese authorities, the death toll from the confrontations has reached 72, with over 2,000 people injured. In response to the protesters’ demands, the Nepalese government has reversed its decision to ban certain social media platforms. However, due to the continued unrest, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has resigned. With the fall of Oli’s government, a transitional government has been formed in Nepal at the request of the protesters. Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki has been appointed as the transitional Prime Minister.
During the unrest, protesters caused significant damage to state and public property and buildings. The unrest was controlled by deploying armed forces to the streets. Following the unrest, the streets of the capital, Kathmandu, have become peaceful. Shops, cafes, restaurants, and other businesses catering to tourists have reopened. However, the number of tourists visiting these places has not increased. One of the most important segments of Nepal’s tourism industry is tourists who visit for trekking in the country’s natural environment and those who visit Mount Everest, the world’s highest mountain. Nepal welcomes approximately 1.2 million tourists annually, and the tourism industry contributes 8% to the country’s GDP.
Nepal’s tourism authority, hotel companies, and companies providing services to tourists have stated that since the beginning of the unrest, the number of tourists visiting the country has decreased by 30%. They also reported that a large number of tourists who had made bookings to visit the country are canceling their trips. Sources in Nepal’s tourism sector said that between 8% and 10% of bookings have been canceled.
