Kathmandu, June 15 -- Social media in Nepal has been flooded in recent weeks with videos and images of Indian tourists travelling across the country. Some show groups cooking food by the roadside, others depict pilgrims resting on the route to Muktinath.

The visuals have triggered two parallel debates. One questions whether such visitors contribute meaningfully to Nepal's economy. The other, largely from an Indian perspective, asks whether Nepal has adequate infrastructure, food options and accommodation for religious travellers.

Amid the discussion, the Ministry of Tourism on Sunday issued guidance for Indian pilgrims entering Nepal via road routes to major religious sites. The notice outlines what visitors should and should not do whi...