In a significant step toward enhancing Gandaki Province’s tourism landscape and industrial productivity, the provincial government has announced a comprehensive budget plan for the fiscal year 2081/82. With a focus on sustainable tourism, local entrepreneurship, cultural preservation, and infrastructural enhancement, the Ministry of Industry, Tourism, Forest and Environment has been allocated Rs. 84 crore 21 lakh 93 thousand to execute strategic programs that aim to uplift regional prosperity through tourism and enterprise.
Cycling Tourism in Focus: Promoting Adventure and Local Exploration
To promote adventure-based tourism and eco-friendly travel, the Gandaki government has allocated dedicated funds for developing iconic cycling routes. These include the Jomsom trail in Mustang, the historical and scenic terrain of Bandipur in Tanahun, and the picturesque lake-to-lake cycling trail in Pokhara. The program, titled “Round Fewa – View Fewa”, has been prioritized for implementation, with a vision to attract both domestic and international cycling enthusiasts while promoting Pokhara’s unique lake ecology and hilltop panoramas.
Encouraging Mountaineering and Skill Development
Recognizing Gandaki’s proximity to several Himalayan peaks, the budget includes provisions for specialized training programs in mountaineering. These initiatives aim to produce skilled manpower capable of safely leading expeditions while encouraging locals to engage in high-altitude tourism. The province has also committed to honoring local climbers, providing incentives to those who represent the region in national and international mountaineering feats.
Kosheli Ghar: Branding Local Identity Through Products
Under the campaign “Province’s Product: Province’s Identity”, the government plans to establish and operate Kosheli Ghars (souvenir houses) to exhibit and market regionally-produced goods. This initiative is expected to give a significant boost to local artisans and small producers by offering them a platform to reach wider markets, thereby contributing to both tourism and economic growth.
Revitalizing Pokhara as the Tourism Capital
With the slogan “Let’s Go to Pokhara – Enjoy Nature and Culture,” the budget prioritizes the development of Pokhara as a central tourism hub. Planned activities include:
- Improving existing trekking routes and developing new alternative trails
- Constructing essential infrastructure at religious and natural tourist destinations
- Enhancing satellite tourism spots around Pokhara, such as Begnas Lake and Sarangkot
These investments are expected to make Pokhara even more attractive to eco-tourists, spiritual travelers, and adventure seekers.
Promoting Domestic Tourism Through Awareness and Information
In a bid to revive and strengthen domestic tourism, the “Pahile Ghar Desh, Ani Pardesh” (First Homeland, Then Abroad) campaign will be launched. The program includes:
- Establishment of tourist information centers
- Branding and promotion of locally made tourism products
- Skill development and training for human resources in tourism
This multi-pronged approach aims to increase internal mobility, stimulate local economies, and enhance visitor experiences in lesser-known destinations.
Strengthening Tourism Policy and Cultural Tourism
To create a strategic roadmap for tourism in the province, the Gandaki government will formulate a new tourism policy and review the existing tourism master plan. Emphasis will be placed on developing natural, adventure, agricultural, and cultural (NAAC) tourism. Budget allocations will support the conservation and promotion of these diverse segments, reflecting the province’s rich cultural fabric and natural wealth.
Boosting Homestay Tourism: “Stay Local, Feel Special”
Reaffirming its commitment to community-based tourism, Gandaki will expand and strengthen its homestay programs under the banner “Let’s Stay in Gandaki – Feel at Home.” These programs aim to offer tourists an immersive local experience while creating income-generating opportunities for rural households.
Gandaki Province’s FY 2081/82 budget reflects a holistic approach to tourism and industrial development, with sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation at its core. From adventure trails and mountaineering training to homestay expansion and product branding, each initiative ties into a broader vision of regional transformation. With Rs. 842 million earmarked for tourism and industry, the province is poised to leverage its natural beauty and cultural richness into tangible economic benefits for its people.
