Nepal Launches First Wild Nepal Safari Mart 2026 to Promote Sustainable Wildlife Tourism
The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) has officially launched the country’s first-ever Wild Nepal Safari Mart 2026 in Meghauli, marking a major step toward positioning Nepal as a leading global destination for sustainable wildlife tourism.
Held on April 24, 2026, the event brought together international buyers, conservationists, tourism professionals, and local stakeholders to showcase Nepal’s rich biodiversity beyond its famous Himalayan peaks.
The inaugural Wild Nepal Safari Mart 2026 welcomed more than 30 international delegates from countries including Bangladesh, India, Thailand, Germany, and Turkey. Representatives from Nepal’s major protected areas, including Chitwan National Park, Shuklaphanta National Park, and Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, also participated in the event.
Addressing the opening session, Mukunda Prasad Niraula, Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, said that the Safari Mart serves as an important bridge between environmental conservation and economic growth.
“Nepal is known not only for its Himalayas but also for its rich biodiversity and world-class wildlife tourism,” Niraula said. He described the Chitwan region as a successful model of conservation, where local communities play a vital role as both protectors and beneficiaries of natural resources.
Deepak Raj Joshi, CEO of the Nepal Tourism Board, highlighted the event’s theme, “Rare, Remarkable and Responsible.” He noted that although Nepal covers less than 0.1 percent of the world’s landmass, it is home to extraordinary wildlife species such as the one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, and snow leopard.
“Responsible tourism means protecting ecosystems and ensuring that our tourism industry remains climate-conscious, inclusive, and ethical,” Joshi said during his keynote address.
International conservationist Mohit Agrawal also spoke about the growing importance of “animal diplomacy,” where wildlife becomes a symbol of shared global responsibility. He emphasized that Nepal’s strong community-led conservation efforts make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking meaningful and nature-positive experiences.
The event featured high-level B2B networking sessions, expert presentations on wildlife conservation challenges and successes, and cultural performances by indigenous Tharu and Kumal communities. Warden Ganesh Pant shared valuable insights into Nepal’s conservation achievements and future opportunities.
Surya Thapaliya, Senior Manager at NTB, described the Mart as a strategic platform to connect global tourism markets with Nepal’s unique wilderness experiences.
“This is not just an event, but a strategic platform to connect global markets with Nepal’s unique wilderness,” he said.
Bharatpur Acting Mayor Chitrasen Adhikari also emphasized local government readiness to support sustainable tourism development in the region.
The Wild Nepal Safari Mart 2026 is expected to create long-term partnerships that will strengthen Nepal’s reputation as a top wildlife tourism destination where conservation and community development go hand in hand.
Through this initiative, Nepal aims to transform its protected areas and wild landscapes into competitive, year-round tourism products for international travelers.
