Hotels in the Bardibas area of Mahottari have been witnessing overwhelming occupancy as Indian tourists pour in to celebrate the arrival of the New Year 2026. More than 50 hotels across Bardibas are currently operating at full capacity, reflecting a growing trend of cross-border festive tourism in Nepal’s Madhes region.
According to Hiralal Gautam, operator of Hotel Gautam and President of the Nepal Hotel and Tourism Entrepreneurs Federation (Madhesh Province), guests from various Indian cities, including Sitamarhi, Shivahar, Madhubani, Jhanjharpur, Darbhanga, and Muzaffarpur, have significantly increased the number of visitors in Bardibas. He said the festive atmosphere has brought vibrant activity to hotels, restaurants, and local marketplaces.
“Over the past decade, Bardibas has become one of the preferred destinations for Indian tourists during New Year celebrations,” Gautam said. “Their visits have played a vital role in promoting Bardibas’ tourism potential. While celebrating the New Year, these visitors also explore nearby religious and archaeological sites, which further supports destination promotion.”
More Than a Thousand Indian Tourists Arrive
Hotel and Tourism Entrepreneurs Association, Mahottari President and Hotel Gunja operator, Gunja Bahadur Karki, confirmed that more than one thousand Indian tourists have arrived in Bardibas for the New Year celebrations. He stated that almost all small and large hotels in the town are fully booked, demonstrating Bardibas’ rising reputation as a festive getaway destination.
Karki added that the accessibility and natural surroundings make it especially attractive for family travelers. “Visitors can travel from Bardibas up to the Chure hills, enjoy forest landscapes, and visit ancient religious sites. This combination of nature, spirituality, and tranquility makes Bardibas an ideal place to celebrate the New Year,” he said.
Indian Tourists Praise Bardibas’ Peaceful Environment
Indian tourists have also expressed satisfaction with their Bardibas experience. Hari Om Sharan Narayan, who arrived from Sitamarhi with his family, said that visiting Mahottari during the New Year provides a refreshing escape from crowded cities. “Being here brings a sense of peace and happiness. Even staying for a day or two makes us feel relaxed and away from daily chaos,” he shared.
Cultural Programs and Local Cuisine Add Festive Charm
To enhance the festive spirit, local hotels have organized cultural programs featuring traditional Madhesi music and dances. Guests are also being served a variety of regional dishes, allowing them to enjoy the authentic flavors of the Madhesh.
Hotel entrepreneur Bishnu Thapa noted that the New Year influx has revived the local market, which had slowed down due to a two-week-long cold wave. “The festive arrivals have brought life back into Mahottari’s tourism economy,” he said. With growing popularity among Indian tourists and increasing hospitality services, It is steadily emerging as one of Madhes Province’s most promising festive tourism destinations.
