Third Edition of Nepal Premier League Drives Hospitality Revenues and Boosts Sports Tourism Potential

29th October 2026, Kathmandu

The ongoing third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) at the TU International Cricket Stadium in Kirtipur has generated substantial economic momentum across Kathmandu Valley’s hospitality, restaurant, and transportation sectors.

NPL Drives Hospitality Revenues

Economic Scale and Hospitality Sector Impact

According to projections by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), direct business transactions surrounding the current edition of the tournament are estimated to reach NPR 1.50 billion across sponsorships, broadcasting deals, ticket sales, and ancillary services.

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• Five-Star Hotel Occupancy: All eight participating franchise teams, including players, international recruits, coaches, and support staff, are accommodated across major five-star hotels in Kathmandu.
• Hospitality Revenue Inflow: According to Vinayak Shah, President of the Hotel Association Nepal (HAN), the tournament has driven measurable occupancy growth and room revenue across premier hotel chains.
• Broader Economic Footprint: Increased mobility of out-of-station supporters and spectators has expanded revenue streams for local eateries, restaurants, public transportation networks, and ride-sharing service providers.
• Micro-Business Opportunities: Vendors and small food outlets surrounding the TU Cricket Ground in Kirtipur have reported higher sales volumes on match days.
• Industry Leader Assessment: Krishna Prasad Sharma, Vice President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), noted that regular mega-sports events generate market liquidity and stimulate private sector growth.

Sports Tourism Promotion and Collaborative Framework

Industry leaders underscored the necessity of converting short-term tournament gains into sustainable sports tourism frameworks through public-private collaboration.

• Multi-Stakeholder Strategy: Hotel Association Nepal called for a unified strategic roadmap involving the Government of Nepal, Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), and hospitality operators to package international cricket events with tourism itineraries.
• Global Branding Reach: International television broadcasting and foreign player participation offer a global promotional channel to market Nepal’s tourism destinations.
• Cross-Border Attraction: The tournament creates opportunities to draw sports enthusiasts and tourists from neighboring cross-border regions into the country.
• Participating Franchises: The eight competing teams driving fan engagements comprise Sudurpaschim Royals, Karnali Yaks, Lumbini Lions, Pokhara Avengers, Chitwan Rhinos, Kathmandu Gurkhas, Janakpur Bolts, and Biratnagar Kings.

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