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Uber has officially launched its ride-hailing services in the Kathmandu Valley, partnering with local entity TaxiMandu and offering zero commission for a limited period. The expansion into Nepal's capital introduces a familiar app for tourists and residents, entering a market characterized by a complex regulatory environment and the long-standing influence of transport syndicates.
Sri Lanka offers free 30-day tourist visas to Nepali nationals starting May 25, 2026
The Government of Sri Lanka has introduced a free 30-day double-entry tourist visa facility for Nepali nationals, effective May 25, 2026. This initiative, announced by the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Kathmandu, includes Nepal among 40 countries eligible for the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) scheme to boost tourism.
President Paudel Urges Conservation of Himalayan Environment at Everest Summit
President Ram Chandra Paudel has emphasized the critical need for sustainable mountain tourism, responsible mountaineering, and the conservation of the Himalayan environment. Addressing the Sagarmatha Summiters Summit–2026, he highlighted that Mount Everest is a vital natural heritage and a source of national pride, whose preservation is essential for economic benefit through tourism. The President also pointed out challenges like global warming and waste accumulation, calling for increased efforts and international cooperation to protect the Everest region's biodiversity and ensure safer, sustainable mountaineering practices.
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President Paudel Calls for Preserving Sagarmatha's Natural Form and Himalayan Environment
President Ram Chandra Paudel has emphasized the need to preserve the natural form of Sagarmatha and protect the Himalayan environment during the 'Everest Summiters Summit-2026'. He highlighted that Sagarmatha is a global natural asset and stressed that addressing challenges like global temperature rise, climate change effects, and waste accumulation in mountaineering is crucial for conservation and sustainable tourism.
Nepal Tourism Board and UNDP Develop Five-Year Sustainable Tourism Strategy
The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) are collaborating on a five-year strategic plan, set for implementation from 2026 to 2030, to enhance sustainable tourism in Nepal. The strategy, developed by consulting firm Beed, aims to shift the country's tourism model from volume-based to value-based, emphasizing quality experiences and broader appeal beyond adventure tourism.
