Although Nepal’s peak tourism season generally begins in March with a rise in arrivals from February, this year visitor numbers have not increased as expected due to the elections scheduled for March 5. Many travelers have postponed or canceled plans, leading to a drop in hotel occupancy in destinations such as Pokhara to around 25%, compared to roughly 50% during the same period in previous years. Tour operators report that European trekkers and Indian tourists, who usually arrive at this time, are delaying their trips. Officials suggest that clear government assurances regarding safety during the election period could help restore traveler confidence.
