KATHMANDU: More than 1.2 million foreign tourists visited the country during the 2025/26 fiscal year, with India retaining its position as the largest source market, according to the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB).

The NTB reported that 311,531 visitors arrived from India, accounting for 25.76 percent of total international arrivals. The United States ranked second with 111,325 visitors, followed by China with 109,892. Other major source markets included Bangladesh (58,163), the United Kingdom (56,649), Australia (53,195), Sri Lanka (43,211), Bhutan (36,289), Myanmar (30,737), Germany (29,296), Thailand (27,201), Japan (25,762), and Malaysia (25,640).

The highest monthly arrivals were recorded between mid-October and mid-November 2025, when 124,829 foreign tourists entered the country. Strong arrivals were also recorded during the periods from mid-March to mid-April (119,390), mid-February to mid-March (114,152), and mid-September to mid-October (111,780).

The Board attributed the growth to expanded international promotion, improved air connectivity, and closer coordination with the private sector. During the fiscal year, it carried out more than 40 tourism promotion programs abroad, including over 12 campaigns in major Indian cities, while also organizing cross-border tourism events along the southern border to encourage more overland visitors.

Acting Chief Executive Officer Hikmat Singh Ayer said the latest figures reflect the tourism sector’s transition from post-pandemic recovery to sustained growth. He said the Board plans to strengthen promotional campaigns in key and emerging markets, including China, the United States, Australia, and Bangladesh, while focusing on attracting higher-spending visitors and encouraging longer stays.

The NTB also expects tourist arrivals to rise further during the current fiscal year, supported by the government’s Wellness Tourism Year 2027 initiative and expanded international marketing efforts.