Kathmandu, May 11 – The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) has appealed to the Nepal government to revise its currency limit policy for Indian tourists entering the country via land routes. The organisation proposed that Indian visitors be allowed to carry up to the equivalent of USD 5,000 in Indian rupees, a significant increase from the current cap of Rs 25,000.
According to FNCCI President Chandra Prasad Dhakal, the current restriction is inadequate if Nepal aims to promote Indian tourism. “When there is a provision to carry USD 5,000 for those who use flights to visit Nepal, why shouldn’t the same provision apply to Indian tourists entering Nepal via land?” Dhakal questioned during a pre-budget consultation meeting held with Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel in Kathmandu.
USD 5,000 is roughly equivalent to Rs 4,25,000, nearly 17 times the current land route allowance.
Dhakal also highlighted the need for infrastructural development along the Nepal-India border to accommodate the growing number of visitors. He emphasized that improving border facilities and easing financial restrictions would significantly enhance Nepal’s appeal as a tourist destination for Indians.
Beyond tourism, the FNCCI president recommended the implementation of consistent economic policies and a unified tax system to create a more investment-friendly environment, aiming to attract both domestic and foreign investors.
