Nepal has been declared safe for travellers, said Ramesh Kumar Adhikari, Administrative Chief of Nepal Tourism Board (NTB).

Addressing reporters at the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Travel Mart here, Adhikari said, “Nepal is gearing to welcome tourists from this autumn season. Coming out of the recent earthquake and aftershocks, Nepal is now back to normal business.”

‘Trekking trails safe’ The earthquake affected only a small portion of the territory and now visitors are no longer at risk. Almost 80 per cent of the country and most tourist destinations were not touched by the earthquake.

“Of the 35 trekking routes, only two are affected. Two of the most popular trekking areas of Nepal, Annapurna and Mount Everest, have been given the green light by the US-based earthquake engineering specialists Miyamoto International. Operators looking for reassurance on safety for travellers in the Annapurna and Mount Everest regions had to rely on anecdotal evidence to date,” he said.

Quoting reports, Adhikari said that only 17 per cent of accommodation facilities had suffered some damages in the Everest region and they would be ready by this month-end. In Annapurna region, only three per cent of accommodation suffered damage.

Roads links intact Road and air transport links remain intact across the country; the majority of hotels and restaurants are back in operation.

Adhikari said most trekking areas, except Manaslu and Langtang, were not affected by the earthquake and trekking can be undertaken in these areas any time.

Chitwan, Pokhara, Annapurna region and Bardia also escaped widespread damage, and are thus ready to showcase their abundance of natural life.

“The birthplace of the Buddha, Lumbini, did not suffer any damage and is thankfully all set to welcome visitors back to its sacred soil. Pashupathinath, Muktinath and many religious places have been unaffected by the 25/04 earthquake,” he added.

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