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Tourism in Nepal: Marketing
Challenges BOOK Destination Nepal An expert analyzes the pros and cons of Nepal's tourism promotion strategy By KESHAB POUDEL Despite its significant contribution to Nepal's economy, few steps have been taken to analyze the manifold aspects of tourism. Dr Hari Prasad Shrestha, making the first effort to review the impact of tourism, has empirically analyzed promotional efforts in developing tourism. Unlike other authors, Shrestha surveys the historical development of tourism in Nepal with a precise review of its theoretical foundations. Even after five decades since the country was opened for tourism, nobody realizes its importance and vulnerability. Political parties continue to call Bandhs (general strike), causing inconveniences for tourists. The government, too, hardly acknowledges the need to maintain cleanliness in the city. According to an estimate, the total investment in the tourism sector is so high that Nepal's economy will collapse if the industry faces any instability. Nepal needs to have a sound system to analyze the trends of tourist arrivals, length of stay, and likes and dislikes. In the absence of such a system, it would be impossible to develop a workable plan. Dr. Shrestha suggests that Nepal must overcome its problems on a systematic and time-bound basis. He draws the conclusion that lack of coordination between the government and the private sector retards the growth of tourism in Nepal. Until the 1980s Nepal was regarded a paradise for tourists. That perception is gradually changing because of growing environmental problems, especially in Kathmandu valley. Although growth in terms of tourist arrivals and investment in the sector is very high in Nepal, nobody knows how long it can be sustained in the absence of scientific studies. Dr. Shrestha, an expert in research and marketing, has wide knowledge of the country's tourism management. Nepal, with its many cultural, historical and natural sites, has the potential to promote tourism. The problems is the lack of short- and long-term marketing strategies. Exotic destinations and promises of adventure alone cannot draw tourists. Equally vital in a highly competitive international market is a well-planned promotional strategy. In the past decade, Nepal has generated millions of dollars from tourism but has spent very little on developing infrastructures and marketing. Dr. Shrestha's book points to some important realities in the areas of tourism promotion, including the sophistication attained by international tourism marketing. There is still time to evaluate our marketing strategy and work out an efficient plan. In the absence of commitment, the tourism sector will have to face a very dire situation. At a time when a large segment of the population is dependent on the tourism industry, this book makes a strong case for promoting Nepal more effectively around the world. |
| Coverstory
| WWF
Confrence | Deuba's
Candidcy | Road
To Bangaladesh | Interview
| Socialism-21 | |
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