If the numbers are any indication, tourism is definitely on the upswing. Arrivals by air are up by 45 percent this November compared to last year, totalling 29,011 visitors, according to the Department of Immigration. Indian and third country visitors both increased by 26 and 51 percent respectively. In a bid to lure more Chinese visitors, the government recently began a visa on arrival policy for our increasingly well-travelled neighbours to the north. According to Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), Nepal's image as a safe destination for tourists has improved due to NTB sales and promotional missions conducted in tandem with airlines and the private sector.