Final answer:
Nepal and Bhutan's economies are largely based on agriculture, with tourism playing a significant role. Bhutan emphasizes forestry and practices controlled tourism for environmental and cultural preservation, while Nepal, with attractions like Mount Everest, faces environmental and investment challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
The economic base for both Nepal and Bhutan primarily revolves around agriculture, with a significant contribution from tourism. In Bhutan, aside from agriculture being a predominant economic activity, forestry is also crucial to the nation's economy, involving a majority of its population. The tourism industry in Bhutan is deliberately restricted to preserve the environment and its unique culture. Meanwhile, Nepal's economy benefits greatly from its natural attractions and cultural heritage, with tourism being an important factor; however, it faces challenges such as deforestation and the need for investments in infrastructure to support the industry.
Both countries have to manage the balance between economic development and environmental conservation. Bhutan uses the concept of Gross National Happiness as a developmental guide, while Nepal continuously attracts tourists to landmarks like Mount Everest and historical cultural sites. The similarity in their economic bases, coupled with unique cultural aspects, defines the economic landscapes of these Himalayan nations.