Nepal Denies New Travel Restrictions on Indian Tourists, Calls Reports ‘False’

Recent reports across some media outlets and online platforms claimed that Nepal had introduced fresh restrictions for Indian tourists. These included mandatory identity requirements at the border, a cap on stay duration, and strict penalties such as vehicle confiscation for overstays. The claims quickly spread, raising concerns among travellers and tourism stakeholders in both countries.

Responding to the reports, the Nepal Tourism Board issued a strong clarification dismissing all such claims. It stated, "Reports claiming that the Government of Nepal has imposed new restrictions requiring mandatory identity cards for Indians crossing the Nepal-India border, capped Indian tourist stays at 30 days, or authorised confiscation of vehicles for overstays are entirely false, baseless, and misleading."

The board emphasised that no such policy changes have been introduced.

Are there any changes to travel rules or stay limits?

According to the tourism body, there have been no changes to the existing arrangements. It reaffirmed that there is no restriction on how long Indian tourists can stay under any newly introduced rule. The long-standing open-border system between India and Nepal remains intact.

It further clarified that "no new policy has been introduced restricting the duration of stay for Indian tourists, nor have any changes been made to the longstanding open-border arrangements and bilateral understandings between Nepal and India."

What remains unchanged in India-Nepal travel relations?

The deep-rooted ties between the two countries continue to define travel and tourism movement. The tourism board highlighted this continuity, stating, "The historic people-to-people relations, cultural ties, and tourism cooperation between the two countries remain strong and unchanged."

This means Indian travellers can continue visiting Nepal under the same framework that has existed for decades.

Has anything new been introduced at all?

While denying restrictions, the Nepal government has introduced a facilitative measure aimed at easing travel. A new digital system allows foreign vehicles entering Nepal to complete permit procedures and payments online, reducing delays at border checkpoints.

Explaining this initiative, the board said, "Under this newly launched digital system developed by the Department of Customs under the Ministry of Finance, foreign vehicles entering Nepal can now complete temporary entry permits and revenue payments entirely online."

It added that the move is designed "solely to simplify procedures, reduce inconvenience at border points, and enhance the overall visitor experience."

Why is the board urging caution?

The Nepal Tourism Board has called on media platforms and the public to verify information before sharing it. It stressed the importance of relying on official government sources to avoid confusion and misinformation that could impact tourism.

Is Nepal still a safe destination for Indian tourists?

Reassuring travellers, the board reiterated Nepal’s welcoming stance. It stated, "Nepal remains a safe, welcoming, and friendly destination for visitors from India and around the world." It also reaffirmed its commitment to smooth travel and strong bilateral cooperation.

(With inputs from ANI)