Pokhara is set to take a major step toward sustainable tourism development as the Pokhara Metropolitan City announced a new tourism infrastructure project with financial support from the Asian Development Bank aimed at strengthening eco-tourism, improving accessibility, and promoting environmentally friendly transportation.
The ambitious initiative is being launched under the ongoing Regional Urban Development Project and Urban Resilience and Livelihood Improvement Program, with authorities emphasizing that the project will significantly contribute to long-term sustainable tourism growth in Nepal’s tourism capital.
Special Access Road and Cycling Lane to Connect Panchase Tourism Area
Under the new project, Pokhara Metropolitan City will construct a special access road with a dedicated cycling lane connecting the tourism-rich Panchase region, along with the establishment of a study and research center designed to support biodiversity research and environmental studies.
The new access route will stretch from Ghantichhina of Pokhara Metropolitan City–23 to Panchase Bhanjyang, a strategically important tourism area located at the meeting point of Kaski, Parbat, and Syangja districts. Officials believe the infrastructure will make one of western Nepal’s important natural tourism destinations more accessible while encouraging eco-friendly travel experiences for both domestic and international visitors.
Rs 1.30 Billion Investment Approved for Major Tourism Infrastructure Development
Pokhara Metropolitan City Mayor Dhan Raj Acharya confirmed that the municipal executive meeting held on Thursday officially approved both the tender documents and the Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) report required to begin project implementation.
According to Mayor Acharya, the total estimated cost of the project stands at approximately Rs 1.30 billion, making it one of the city’s major infrastructure investments focused specifically on sustainable tourism development. He stated that with the formal approval process now completed, Pokhara has moved forward with a new initiative that aligns tourism development with environmental conservation and long-term urban sustainability goals.
Project Expected to Boost Eco-Tourism and Biodiversity Research
City officials believe the project will deliver multiple long-term benefits beyond tourism promotion. In addition to attracting more visitors to the Panchase region, the infrastructure development is expected to improve sustainable urban transportation systems, encourage cycling tourism, and promote the construction of environment-friendly infrastructure in one of Nepal’s key tourism hubs.
The inclusion of a dedicated study center is also expected to support scientific research related to biodiversity conservation, environmental studies, and sustainable ecosystem management in the Panchase area, which is widely recognized for its rich natural diversity.
New Chapter for Pokhara’s Sustainable Tourism Future
As Nepal increasingly focuses on sustainable and responsible tourism development, the new Pokhara project is being viewed as a landmark investment that combines tourism promotion with environmental protection and green mobility infrastructure.
Local authorities believe the initiative will strengthen Pokhara’s position not only as Nepal’s leading tourism destination but also as a model city for sustainable tourism development in South Asia. With major international financial backing and long-term planning now in place, the project marks a significant new chapter in Pokhara’s vision for environmentally responsible tourism growth and economic prosperity.
