KATHMANDU: Nepal has been conferred the prestigious “Tourism Abode of the Eastern Himalayas” Award at the 9th Bengal Travel Mart (BTM) 2026, recognising the country’s growing profile as a key experiential tourism destination in the Eastern Himalayan region.

The award was presented to the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) during the three-day tourism mart held from January 9 to 11 at The Cinderella Hotel in Siliguri, India, organised by the Eastern Himalayas Travel and Tour Operators’ Association (EHTTOA).

NTB, along with Nepali travel trade companies and tourism stakeholders from Koshi and Madhesh provinces, participated in the event, which is regarded as one of eastern India’s major tourism trade platforms. The mart brought together buyers, sellers and media from India, Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh, offering opportunities for cross-border tourism promotion and business collaboration.

During the event, Nepali exhibitors showcased tourism products and travel packages tailored for travellers from West Bengal, while NTB officials promoted emerging destinations, particularly in Koshi and Madhesh provinces. Promotional materials, including travel guides, maps and souvenirs, were distributed, and media interactions were also conducted at the Nepal pavilion.

NTB was represented by Senior Director Mani Raj Lamichhane, Senior Manager Khadga Bikram Shah and Support Staff Surendra Singh Lama. Ahead of the mart, Lamichhane briefed local media at a press meet organised at the Siliguri Journalists’ Club on January 7.

The mart was formally inaugurated by Siliguri Mayor Gautam Dev on January 9. Addressing the inaugural programme, Lamichhane highlighted Nepal’s diverse tourism offerings and invited participants to visit the country, noting that Koshi Province is observing ‘Visit Koshi Year 2082’ while Madhesh Province is preparing for ‘Visit Madhesh 2083’.

As part of the event, NTB organised a ‘Nepal Night Cultural Programme’ on January 10 to promote Nepal among Indian travellers. The programme featured presentations on Nepal’s tourism attractions, cultural performances, and networking sessions with travel trade representatives and media.

The recognition at BTM 2026, NTB said, reflects Nepal’s sustained efforts to strengthen its presence in regional tourism markets and deepen cross-border cooperation in the Eastern Himalayas.