Visitation likely to drop after destruction

The number of Chinese tourists visiting Nepal is likely to fall sharply following the earthquake, according to travel industry sources.

The country has become an increasingly popular destination, particularly for backpackers, hikers and mountaineers.

China is poised to overtake India as the top source of tourists for the Himalayan nation, the birthplace of Buddhism. The number of visitors has increased greatly thanks to improved airline connections and China's changing policy toward Nepal, according to Kathmandu Post.