The government of Nepal has imposed a ban on solo travel across the country for tourists on its soil since April 1. Goal: Protecting the nation’s economy and passenger safety.
A turning point for local tourism. Nepal has banned traveling alone across the country from April 1. This strong decision is aimed at protecting the country’s economy and passenger safety. As a reminder, the state had already banned solo climbing of Mount Everest five years ago for similar reasons.
“When you travel alone, there is no one to help you in an emergency. It is good for them to go to the cities, but the infrastructure in the remote mountains is inadequate. If tourists go missing or are found dead, even the government cannot track them as they travel on remote roads,” said Mani R., Director, Nepal Tourism Board. Lamichane said. CNN.
The cost of rescue operations in Nepal is rising
Known for its classic landscapes and areas conducive to trekking, Nepal relies heavily on these two aspects to fuel its tourism. However, the individual trips that tourists typically take have a strong economic impact on the country. With the democratization of the practice in Nepal, the cost of search and rescue operations for lost solo travelers has exploded in recent years.
Mani R. Lamichane mentioned another financial concern of the Nepalese government. Unauthorized companies offering this type of travel do not pay taxes and therefore indirectly cost Nepalese jobs.
“Web specialist. Infuriatingly humble coffee ninja. Wannabe zombie advocate. Subtly charming tv fanatic. Avid social media scholar.”