Despite political turmoil, tourist arrivals in September recorded a significant growth of 25 percent compared to the same month in 2002, Nepal Tourism Board said Wednesday.

According to the Board’s data, a total of 23,7543 tourists arrived in Nepal in September. Number of visitors increased both in Indian and non-Indian category during the month.

In particular, number of Indian tourists grew by 20 percent. Likewise, the number of visitors from the UK, the USA, Germany, France, Japan and China increased by 20, 8, 39, 7, 45, 2 and 13 percent respectively.

It may be noted, Nepal is ranked as the first eco-tourism destination for British tourists. It is equally charming to most European tourists, as per a recent survey conducted by the World Tourism Organisation, according to The Himalayan Times.