Nepal Tourism Board Launches Inaugural 'Safari Mart' in Chitwan

Chitwan. The Nepal Tourism Board has officially launched the first-ever 'Safari Mart' in Meghauli, Chitwan. The inaugural 'Wild Nepal Safari Mart 2026' was organized in collaboration with the Nepal Tourism Board, local government, and tourism entrepreneurs.

During the inauguration, Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Mukunda Prasad Niraula, described the event as a significant opportunity to showcase Nepal's wildlife tourism on the global stage. He stated, "Nepal is known not only for its mountains but also for its rich biodiversity, living culture, and world-class wildlife tourism." He added that discussions at the mart would open new avenues for investment, collaboration, and the promotion of Nepal's unique wildlife tourism products.

Acting Mayor of Bharatpur Metropolitan City, Chitrasen Adhikari, expressed readiness to develop Chitwan and Meghauli into world-class wildlife tourism hubs. He emphasized the local government's crucial role in sustainable tourism infrastructure and community participation.

Deepak Raj Joshi, CEO of the Nepal Tourism Board, termed the event a historic milestone in Nepal's tourism journey, highlighting it as a unique and responsible tourism concept.

Nepal Tourism Board Vice-Chairman Ram Prasad Sapkota described the mart as a shared 'platform' rather than just a business event, while Senior Manager Surya Thapalia noted its significance as a strategic platform.

International conservationist and keynote speaker Mohit Agrawal noted the rapidly growing global demand for responsible tourism. He said, "The world is now seeking destinations where a balance between tourism and conservation is maintained, and a deep connection between humans and nature is established."

At the event, Dr. Bishwa Raj Subedi presented on the opportunities and challenges of the tourism sector in Chitwan, while Chief Conservation Officer of Chitwan National Park, Ganesh Pant, provided insights into conservation achievements and future priorities.