POKHARA, Feb 16: With the general election scheduled for March 5, tourism entrepreneurs in Pokhara say the upcoming polls have begun affecting foreign tourist arrivals at the start of the peak season.
Although the main tourist season begins in March, arrivals typically begin rising from February. However, hoteliers say bookings and arrivals have remained sluggish compared to previous years.
Naresh Bhattarai, operator of Mount Kailash Resort, said hotel occupancy, which would normally reach around 50 percent at this time of year, is currently hovering at about 25 percent.
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“In previous years, advance bookings for early March would reach around 80 percent. This year, bookings have reached only about 40 percent so far,” Bhattarai said. “Some guests have put their trips on hold, while others have canceled due to the election.”
He said uncertainty surrounding the political environment has discouraged visitors and warned that cancellations could increase if tensions escalate before or after the polls.
Tourism entrepreneurs noted that this period typically sees an influx of European trekkers and Indian tourists seeking to escape the heat. However, arrivals from both segments appear to have slowed.
Hari Sharma, president of Hotel Association Gandaki, said occupancy rates have dropped to around 20 percent, far below the usual 50 percent during the early season.
“Foreign tourists are hesitant to travel during elections, fearing restrictions or disruptions,” Sharma said. “Even confirmed bookings are being canceled.”
Operators said the government has yet to clearly communicate travel assurances during the election period. They argued that timely information on security arrangements could help restore confidence among foreign visitors, who usually plan trips months in advance.
Tourism entrepreneurs also warned that repeated public statements by political leaders about potential unrest could negatively influence international perception and further dampen arrivals.
