The Bhedetar Sky Walk, one of eastern Nepal’s newest adventure tourism attractions, is significantly boosting tourist arrivals and stimulating the local economy, reinforcing Bhedetar’s reputation as a leading tourism destination in Koshi Province. Already popular for its cool climate and panoramic natural scenery, Bhedetar has witnessed growing visitor interest since the introduction of the Sky Walk, which has added a new dimension to adventure tourism in the region.
Over 312,000 Visitors Since Launch
Constructed and operated with an investment of approximately Rs. 200 million, the Sky Walk has welcomed more than 312,000 visitors within just two years of operation. The project is a joint initiative of Wonders Amusement Parks & Attraction Pvt. Ltd., the Koshi Provincial Government, and local stakeholders.
The attraction is located at Charles Point, above the Bhedetar town centre, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and plains. According to Sanjeev Rokaya, Operator and Manager of the Sky Walk, the impressive visitor turnout demonstrates the growing popularity of Bhedetar as an adventure tourism destination.
Revenue Declines Despite Strong Visitor Numbers
Despite attracting a large number of visitors, the attraction recorded a decline in annual revenue during the last fiscal year. The Sky Walk generated Rs. 90 million in revenue in FY 2081/82, while earnings fell to Rs. 60 million in FY 2082/83. The entry fee for the attraction is Rs. 500 per person. Rokaya said the increasing number of visitors over the past two years reflects the continued expansion of Bhedetar’s tourism market and the destination’s growing appeal among domestic and international travellers.
Indian Tourist Arrivals Continue to Rise
A significant number of visitors come from Nepal’s Terai region as well as neighbouring Indian border cities. Tourism entrepreneurs say the growing share of Indian tourists represents a promising opportunity for Bhedetar’s tourism industry, particularly as cross-border travel continues to increase. The attraction’s accessibility and unique adventure experience have made it a preferred stop for visitors exploring eastern Nepal.
Local Businesses Benefit from Tourism Growth
The operation of the Sky Walk has had a positive impact on the local hospitality industry, with hotels, restaurants and other tourism-related businesses reporting increased commercial activity. The attraction currently provides direct employment to 21 people, while also creating indirect employment opportunities across hotels, restaurants, transportation services, retail shops and businesses selling local products. Local entrepreneurs say the increased tourist flow has contributed to higher incomes and expanded business opportunities throughout the Bhedetar area.
Local Government Encourages Private Investment
Jitendra Rumdali Rai, Chairperson of Sangurigadhi Rural Municipality, said the Sky Walk has played an important role in energising Bhedetar’s tourism economy. To attract greater private sector participation, the rural municipality introduced a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Act last year, aiming to encourage tourism infrastructure development and increase private investment in the sector. The municipality hopes that expanding tourism facilities will further strengthen local economic activity and create additional employment opportunities.
Koshi Province Prioritises Tourism-Led Growth
The Koshi Provincial Government has identified tourism as one of the key pillars of regional economic development. Under its tourism development policy, the province aims to increase tourist arrivals, extend visitors’ length of stay and encourage higher tourism spending while linking tourism more closely with local employment and economic growth.
The provincial government also organised Koshi Tourism Year 2082, focusing on promoting natural, cultural and adventure tourism destinations while supporting local entrepreneurs, hotels, transport operators and tourism-related businesses. Chief Minister Hikmat Kumar Karki has previously stated that expanding tourism activities is expected to generate greater economic opportunities and employment across the province.
Adventure Tourism Driving Bhedetar’s Future
Tourism entrepreneurs believe that the arrival of more than 312,000 visitors in just two years, combined with increasing numbers of Indian tourists and growing business activity, demonstrates Bhedetar’s strong potential to become one of Nepal’s leading adventure tourism destinations. They say continued investment in tourism infrastructure and destination promotion will further strengthen the region’s position in Nepal’s tourism market.
