A recent study conducted by the Nepal Rastra Bank has revealed that female tourists tend to stay longer in Nepal compared to their male counterparts. This special study, focusing on the stay duration and spending patterns of foreign tourists visiting Gandaki Province, highlights notable differences between male and female tourists.
The study indicates that the average stay duration for tourists visiting Nepal is 22 days. Within the Gandaki Province, the tourists spend an average of 12 days. Interestingly, female tourists tend to stay longer, with an average stay of 25 days in Nepal compared to 20 days for male tourists. In Gandaki Province, the average stay duration is 13 days for female tourists and 11 days for male tourists.
The longer stay of female tourists may be attributed to several factors, including a greater interest in cultural and immersive experiences, which often require more time. Female tourists may also engage more in activities like yoga, meditation, and wellness retreats, which are popular in Nepal and tend to have longer durations.
Tourists aged between 31 and 45 years have the longest stay duration, averaging 25 days in Nepal. This age group tends to stay an average of 14 days in Gandaki Province. Tourists aged 55 and above typically stay 9 days, and those aged 20 and below have an average stay of 19 days in Gandaki Province.
The preference for longer stays among the 31 to 45 age group could be linked to their greater financial stability and more vacation time. They may also be more interested in trekking and exploring remote areas, which require extended periods.
Analyzing stay durations by continent, the study found that tourists from South America have the longest average stay at 19 days, while tourists from Asia have the shortest average stay at 9 days. In the Gandaki Province, tourists in Manang reported an average stay of 18 days, whereas those in Gorkha reported an average stay of just 4 days.
The longer stays of South American tourists could be due to the distance traveled, making them want to maximize their time in Nepal. On the other hand, the shorter stays of Asian tourists may reflect easier access and the possibility of more frequent visits.
The study, based on feedback from 400 tourists, provides the detailed insights into tourism trends in the Gandaki Province. According to the Ministry of Tourism, the nationwide average stay duration of tourists in 2022 was 13.1 days. In Pokhara, German tourists were noted to spend the most, while Thai tourists spent the least.
The higher spending by German tourists in Pokhara can be linked to their interest in high-end trekking packages and adventure sports. In contrast, Thai tourists might prefer budget travel or shorter stays.
Most tourists visiting the Gandaki Province are Europeans, comprising 46.25% of the total visitors. Asian tourists comprise 35.25%, and North American tourists account for 11.5%. The study also reveals that adventure activities are the primary attraction for tourists, with 40.18% of all visitors participating in such activities.
The high percentage of European tourists may be due to Nepal’s reputation as a premier trekking destination, which is highly popular in Europe. The focus on adventure activities aligns with Nepal’s marketing strategy, positioning the country as a hub for trekking, mountaineering, and other outdoor pursuits.
This study underscores the importance of understanding tourist behaviors and preferences to better cater to their needs and enhance their experiences in Nepal. By recognizing the distinct patterns in stay durations and spending habits, the tourism industry can develop targeted strategies to attract and retain visitors, ultimately boosting the sector’s growth and sustainability.
