POKHARA: The Pokhara Tourism Council (PTC) has issued a Code of Conduct for Tourists, urging visitors to travel responsibly and contribute to maintaining Pokhara as a clean, safe, and sustainable tourism destination.

Issuing the advisory on Sunday, the Council emphasized that Pokhara—renowned for its lakes, mountains, and living culture—depends on responsible visitor behaviour to preserve its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Under the code, tourists are requested to respect nature, local culture, and existing laws, while following safety guidelines during their stay.

Guidelines for Visitors

• The Council has encouraged tourists to:
• Follow local rules and safety instructions
• Respect cultural traditions and religious sites
• Dress appropriately in public and cultural areas
• Maintain patience and discipline in crowded places
• Use waste bins, reduce plastic use, and conserve water and electricity
• Support local businesses and purchase local products
• Seek permission before photographing individuals
• Follow traffic rules, use zebra crossings, and walk on footpaths

Tourists have also been advised to avoid activities that harm the environment or disturb public order, including littering, smoking or urinating in public places, spitting, making loud noise, damaging natural sites, engaging with wildlife or wildlife products, trespassing into restricted areas, and violating local laws.

The Council warned that failure to comply with the code of conduct may lead to penalties under prevailing laws of Nepal.

Welcoming visitors to Pokhara, the Tourism Council stated that responsible tourism is key to positioning the city as a world-class sustainable destination, urging travelers to “take only memories and leave only footprints.”