Nepal eager to welcome Chinese tourists to visit

Nepal called on Chinese tourists to visit, claiming the Himalayan country's tourism destinations are still intact and safety is guaranteed after massive earthquakes there.

The appeal comes after the country's tourism suffered an loss of around $1.28 billion in the April earthquake.

During a meeting with an eight-member delegation of Chinese tour operators in Kathmandu on Friday afternoon, the Nepal Tourism Board urged the Chinese travel and tour operators to disseminate a positive message and encourage tourists to visit Nepal.

"There is no damage in tourism destinations and there is a smooth operation of hotels and transportation. Please share your impression about beautiful Nepal to your family and friends and tell them Nepal is safe," says Ramesh Kumar Adhikari, administrative head of NTB.

He claims that the arrival of Chinese tourists will also support rebuilding the quake-stricken country.

In response, the visiting delegation members say they found Nepal still beautiful and safe during their eight-day trip to Kathmandu and major tourism hubs like Pokhara and Chitwan.

Linli Ru, a Chinese tour operator says: "We visited many places of Nepal this week and found it totally safe. People are very kind and beautiful. I think Chinese tourists will come soon."

More than 100,000 Chinese tourists visit Nepal every year.