Nepal Denies Reports of Curbs on Indian Tourists
Nepal Tourism Board says claims about new restrictions and stay limits are false and misleading
- Nepal dismisses reports of fresh curbs on Indian tourists
- Tourism Board says open-border arrangements remain unchanged
- No new limit imposed on Indian visitors’ stay duration
- Nepal launches online vehicle entry system for smoother travel
GG News Bureau
Kathmandu, 13th May: Nepal Tourism Board has dismissed reports claiming Nepal imposed new restrictions on Indian tourists, calling them “false, baseless and misleading”.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Board said reports about mandatory identity cards, a 30-day stay cap for Indian tourists and confiscation of vehicles for overstays were factually incorrect.
“The Government of Nepal has introduced no new policy restricting the duration of stay for Indian tourists,” the statement said.
The Board added that there had been no change in the longstanding open-border arrangements and bilateral understandings between Nepal and India.
Nepal Reaffirms Open Border Policy
The Tourism Board stressed that the historic people-to-people ties, cultural relations and tourism cooperation between India and Nepal remained “strong and unchanged”.
Officials said the reports had created unnecessary confusion and a false perception that Nepal was attempting to curb tourist movement from India.
The Board reiterated that Nepal continued to remain a safe, welcoming and friendly destination for Indian travellers.
Online Vehicle Entry System Introduced
The clarification also highlighted a newly launched digital facilitation system introduced by Nepal’s Department of Customs under the Ministry of Finance.
Under the system, foreign vehicles entering Nepal can now complete temporary entry permits and revenue payments online.
The Tourism Board said the initiative was aimed only at simplifying procedures, reducing inconvenience at border checkpoints and improving travel experience for visitors entering Nepal through land routes.
Focus on Tourism and Cooperation
The statement said Nepal remained committed to promoting smooth cross-border travel, sustainable tourism and quality visitor experiences.
Officials also emphasised Nepal’s commitment to preserving the spirit of friendship and cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.
India and Nepal share an open border arrangement that allows citizens of both countries to travel freely without visas.
