Visitors` arrival to Nepal by air route registered a 13.8% growth in June 2006 reaching a total of 21,444 visitors. The growth was fuelled by an increase in Indian visitor numbers by 23% while the…
Visitors` arrival to Nepal by air route registered a 13.8% growth in June 2006 reaching a total of 21,444 visitors. The growth was fuelled by an increase in Indian visitor numbers by 23% while the non-Indian market remained stagnant compared to the same period last year. This was indicated in the figures by Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation quoting Immigration Office, Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.
Indian arrivals climbed to a record high this summer to 14,189 visitors with the market singly contributing to the two third of the total arrival of the month. June being a high season for Indian visitors to Nepal, the market has once again emerged as a promising segment as it became the only market to grow from Asia while the remaining observed sharp decline during the month. Japan, another major contributor from Asian market, also suffered a loss of 16.2% while China dropped by 10.7%.
Despite the fall from some Asian markets, signs of recovery were observed from European segment. Out of 16.6% growth in the European arrivals, the German (79.4%), French (43.4%), Italian (14.1%) and Spanish (35%) markets rose including other smaller segments, while British (-3.7%), Dutch (-42.8%) and Danish (-42.5%) markets fell down. On the other hand, visitors from Australia too increased by 16.4% while US arrivals showed 10.9% growth.
The growth in June marks a clear indication of Nepalese tourism reviving. NTB has been launching various promotional campaigns in India based on the new tourism brand, targeting the summer season. Agents have reported high response to the advertorials NTB has been publishing in Indian major dailies targeting the pilgrimage and weekend break segments. With the signs of stability returning in the destination and a growing demand from the market, this could be a clear indication to the Nepalese travel trade to prepare for a better season ahead.
