Kathmandu: The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) is showcasing Nepal’s diverse tourism offerings at MATKA 2026 – the Nordic Travel Fair, which is currently underway from January 14 to 18 at the Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre, Finland.

The participation is aimed at strengthening Nepal’s visibility and deepening tourism partnerships in the Nordic market, where interest in nature-based, sustainable, and experience-driven travel continues to grow.

MATKA 2026, the largest travel fair in the Nordic region, has officially begun in Helsinki, with Nepal emerging as one of the key attractions for Nordic travel enthusiasts. From the opening day itself, Nepal’s Stand has been drawing steady interest from visitors keen to learn about air connectivity, seasonal weather, mountaineering opportunities, trekking adventures, and immersive cultural tours.

Nepal is represented through a 54-square-metre national pavilion (Stall No. 7m130), featuring nine Nepali tourism companies: Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd., Himalayan Windows Pvt. Ltd., Snowy Horizon Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd., Goreto Treks and Expedition Pvt. Ltd., Earthbound Expedition Pvt. Ltd., Himalayan Guides Nepal Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd., The Everest Holiday, Queen Bee Travel Assistance, and Wonderland Travels Nepal. Together, they are promoting a wide range of products, from Himalayan expeditions and trekking routes to cultural and customized travel experiences.

Nordic countries, including Finland, remain important source markets for Nepal, particularly for adventure tourism, trekking, nature-based experiences, and sustainable travel. Finnish travelers, known for their strong passion for the outdoors and authentic cultural engagement, have consistently shown interest in Nepal’s Himalayan landscapes, rich heritage, and meaningful journeys beyond conventional tourism. This alignment has positioned Nepal as a dream destination for Nordic travelers seeking both adventure and depth.

Before the start of the Expo, NTB Chief Executive Officer Deepak Raj Joshi also stated that MATKA offers a valuable platform to connect with Nordic travel professionals and consumers. He emphasized that Nepal’s participation reflects its commitment to promoting sustainable, experiential, and year-round tourism, while also strengthening long-standing tourism ties with Finland and the wider Nordic region.

Throughout the fair, NTB officials are engaging in scheduled business-to-business meetings, destination promotion activities, and cultural performances at the Nepal pavilion, with support from the Finland–Nepal Friendship Association.

As MATKA 2026 continues, Nepal’s presence is reinforcing its image as a premier destination for adventure, culture, and responsible tourism in the Nordic market.