July 31, 2026 
Kathmandu: Renowned Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty is arriving in Nepal today, not for a film promotion, movie shoot, or personal vacation, but to participate in a prestigious international convention aimed at promoting Nepal as a global destination for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) tourism and luxury destination weddings.
She is attending the 13th EMF ACE Global Convention & Awards 2026, which is being hosted in Nepal for the first time by India’s leading event and wedding industry organization, EMF Global. The convention will take place at The Soaltee Kathmandu from July 31 to August 2, bringing together around 550 event managers, wedding planners, tourism professionals, investors, and hospitality representatives from seven countries, including India.
Organizers believe that Shilpa Shetty’s presence will significantly enhance the international appeal of the convention. The event aims to showcase Nepal as a premier destination for luxury weddings, international conferences, corporate events, and incentive travel, positioning the country more prominently in the global tourism market.
As part of the convention, delegates will also visit Pokhara, Chitwan, and Janakpur, in addition to Kathmandu. The visits are expected to give key decision-makers from the global events industry firsthand experience of Nepal’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, religious attractions, premium hotels, and hospitality services, potentially leading to more international conferences and destination weddings in the country.
According to EMF Global Founder and Chairman Dr. Jaydeep Mehta, Nepal has immense potential to become one of South Asia’s leading destinations for destination weddings and MICE tourism due to its Himalayan landscapes, spiritual significance, rich cultural heritage, and easy accessibility from India. He said the convention was brought to Nepal to connect these strengths with the international market.
Joining Shilpa Shetty at the convention are Bollywood actors Shakti Kapoor, Vikrant Massey, and acclaimed Nepali actress Manisha Koirala. Their participation is expected to further boost the international profile of the event.
Tourism stakeholders say conventions of this scale generate immediate economic activity for hotels, travel agencies, event management companies, transportation providers, and other service sectors. More importantly, they believe such initiatives will help establish Nepal as a competitive global destination for MICE tourism and luxury destination weddings in the years to come.
