Nepal Environment & Tourism Initiative Foundation (NETIF) participated in the 1st Far-Western Regional Tourism Fair organized from 15th to 17th February 2013 at Dhangadhi. On behalf of NETIF Mr. Ashok Maharjan and Mr. Prabin Paudel participated in the fair. More than 30 stalls from various organizations showcased their product and provided information. The nine districts from the region also showcased their natural, cultural and historical attractions. Some local ethnic dances and songs were performed in the three days event.

Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Post Bahadur Bogati inaugurated the fair. Minister Bogati in his speech appreciated the initiation taken by Nepal Tourism Board to organize this event. He remarked that such an event would be very important to promote the various tourism products and developing domestic tourism in the country. Minister Bogati emphasized that this event will certainly help in exploring and promoting tourism products of the far-western region. At the same time, he also assured local people that in the coming days, Government will give high priority and allocate budget for the infrastructure development and tourism promotion of the region. The Event Director of Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), Mr. Lila Bdr Baniya also emphasized on promoting Far-Western Region in both domestic and international market and further stated that the stakeholders in the industry now needs to make a joint effort to ensure growth in the tourism sector, particularly domestic tourism. Mr. Baniya informed that NTB will develop more promotional materials (documentary, posters and postcards) in coming days.

Likewise representative from Ministry of Tourism, Chamber of Commerce, District Development Committees, Hotel Association, Travel and Trekking Agencies, Local NGOs also shown their concerned about developing the region as one of the prime tourism hub of Nepal. The three days event attracted students, local tourism entrepreneurs and other general visitors. The fair was organized by Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) with the objective of promoting tourism product and exploring different linkages between private sector, public and Government agencies in the far-western region.

During the event, many visitors and local inquired about NETIF and its past activities. Through brochure, video, posters and photo slides NETIF representatives provided brief knowledge about its project activities of Kathmandu Valley Cultural Trekking Trail (KVCTT). Some participates even asked about the NETIF future program to introduce tourism project in the far-western region.

The event seeks to provide a platform for the Far-Western Region’s tourism industry and the economy. It has also helped to explore opportunities and create partnership with local stakeholders and introduced the region’s rich traditions and natural sites.