Exploring post-COVID-19 travel intentions of foreign tourists in Nepal: An empirical study using structural equation modeling

<p>Amidst the global challenges posed by the rapid transmission of a new coronavirus, the tourism sector has undergone an unprecedented downturn, similar to all economic sectors. In light of this, the present study aims to examine the travel intentions of foreign tourists in the post-COVID-19 era in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal using Social Cognitive Theory. Structural equation modeling was used for data analysis of 350 tourists. The study revealed that the travel intention after the COVID-19 outbreak was significantly influenced by severity perception and personal positive effects, both of which were shaped by environmental changes. Results indicate that a common challenge faced by tourists was the lack of quality hotels and homestays, and the suggested managerial solution was to increase the number and enhance the quality of available accommodations. Tourism in Nepal serves as an enduring source of national income, offering a significant competitive advantage, thus rendering sustainable tourism unavoidable.<strong></strong></p>