Maoist shutdown affects Nepal’s tourism image

The three-day general strike called by Nepal’s largest opposition party that ended on Tuesday seems to have affected the Himalayan nation’s image as a perfect tourist destination. Utpal Parashar reports.

The three-day general strike called by Nepal’s largest opposition party that ended on Tuesday seems to have affected the Himalayan nation’s image as a perfect tourist destination.

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The strike called by Unified Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) seeking restoration of ‘civilian supremacy’ has led several countries to issue fresh travel advisory to their citizens planning to visit Nepal.

The Australian government issued a statement on December 17 asking potential tourists to exercise high degree of caution in Nepal due to the uncertain political and security situation.

Mentioning the UCPN (M) strike, the statement urged citizens to pay close attention to security at all times. “It is possible that this strike could be extended. Travellers to Nepal will need to exercise caution and be prepared to change their travel plans,” it stated.

Likewise the British government in an advisory issued last week also urged its citizens to remain vigilant at all times because of the Maoist strike and avoid large gatherings and demonstrations.

“Political tensions in Nepal remain high…..If you intend to travel to Nepal, you should remain vigilant and remain in close touch with your tour operator,” the statement mentioned.

Last year 13,846 Australians visited Nepal while 33,658 Britishers and 30,076 US citizens came here. But neighboruing India with 91,000 plus tourists of the total 500,000 was the leading contributor to the tourism sector.

The Himalyan nation plans to double its tourist inflow to one million by 2011 when it celebrates Nepal Tourism Year. But according to the NTY 2011 secretariat, frequent strikes and road blockades will severely affect this aim.