The 5th edition of the Himalayan Travel Mart 2025 (HTM 2025) ended on a high note in Kathmandu, setting new standards for global tourism cooperation. Held from June 3 to 5 at The Soaltee Kathmandu, the event welcomed more than 700 delegates from 30 countries, including over 100 international participants.
This year’s theme, “Mountains, Milestones, and Momentum,” celebrated two key moments—50 years of the PATA Nepal Chapter and 75 years since the first successful climb of Mount Annapurna. HTM 2025 positioned Nepal as a strong voice in the global tourism industry, highlighting its role as the “Gateway to the Himalayas.”
The three-day event was led by the PATA Nepal Chapter, in collaboration with the Nepal Tourism Board, Nepal Airlines, and many public-private partners. It featured a mix of business networking, B2B meetings, cultural events, and destination familiarization tours, giving delegates a full experience of Nepal’s tourism potential.
Hon. Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Mr. Badri Prasad Pandey, inaugurated the event. In his keynote speech, he praised Nepal’s progress and emphasized the importance of sustainable tourism, public-private cooperation, and cross-border ties. He noted that the HTM platform not only boosts tourism but also preserves cultural heritage.
Khem Lakai, Chairman of the PATA Nepal Chapter, welcomed the guests, spotlighting Nepal’s rise as a year-round travel destination. He called for stronger international alliances to expand Nepal’s reach. Deepak Raj Joshi, CEO of the Nepal Tourism Board, shared plans to promote new travel circuits that offer unique, authentic experiences.
Veteran tourism leader Karna Sakya delivered an inspiring keynote focused on Nepal’s tourism journey, reflecting on its challenges and future opportunities. He urged the industry to embrace innovation and eco-friendly practices.
A key highlight was the HTM Conference on June 3, where global tourism experts explored key themes such as spiritual and adventure tourism, cultural awareness, and global travel trends. On June 4 and 5, more than 2,100 pre-scheduled B2B meetings brought together buyers from 21 countries and sellers from six destinations, sparking meaningful partnerships.
Before the main event, international delegates joined Pre-Mart FAM Trips from May 30 to June 2. They explored top destinations like Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, Panauti, and Dhulikhel. These trips highlighted Nepal’s cultural depth, natural beauty, community tourism, and wellness offerings—giving participants firsthand insight into what Nepal has to offer.
Evenings during the mart were filled with networking events hosted by tourism partners including Banbas, Landmark Hotels & Resorts, and Bagaicha Adventure Resort. These gatherings helped delegates connect in relaxed, culturally immersive settings.
The event concluded with a Grand Closing Ceremony at LOD (Lord of the Drinks) in Kathmandu. It featured music, dance, and a strong display of Nepali hospitality. This festive ending celebrated not just the event’s success but also Nepal’s growing role in shaping the future of tourism.
HTM 2025 was made possible by a wide range of partners from aviation, hospitality, and conservation sectors. Their support helped underline Nepal’s commitment to sustainable, inclusive tourism that benefits both visitors and local communities.
As the global tourism landscape evolves, the message from Nepal is clear: with the momentum of HTM 2025, the country is ready to welcome the world—season after season.
