Cross-border shopping, especially along the Nepal-India border, has become a key factor in Nepal’s outbound tourism, as per a survey by the National Statistics Office (NSO). The survey, covering the period from October 16, 2024, to October 15, 2025, revealed that Nepalis took over 4.1 million trips abroad during this time, with 3.5 million same-day trips and 622,000 overnight trips recorded.
The survey highlighted that shopping was the main reason for same-day outbound travel, constituting nearly two-thirds (63.9%) of all same-day trips. This emphasizes the significance of cross-border shopping, particularly along the Nepal-India border, where Nepali residents often visit Indian towns for cost-effective purchases.
India stood out as the top destination for same-day outbound trips by Nepali residents, showcasing the strong economic and social bonds between the two countries. Provinces like Madhesh and Lumbini, which share borders with India, recorded high shopping expenditure, reflecting robust cross-border trade activities. Overnight trips, on the other hand, were mainly driven by visits to friends and relatives, health-related purposes, and religious activities.
Outbound travel by Nepali residents peaked during November-January, indicating a seasonal trend influenced by festivals and favorable travel periods, according to the report.
