The number of foreign tourists entering Nepal through the Gaddachauki border point in Kanchanpur has continued to grow in recent years, creating new opportunities for Sudurpaschim Province to attract more international visitors and strengthen its position on Nepal’s tourism map.
According to the Gaddachauki Immigration Office, 1,753 foreign tourists entered Nepal through the western border during the last fiscal year, while 1,534 tourists exited through the same point. The office also collected NPR 10.52 million in revenue during the period. The figures show a steady upward trend in international arrivals. Gaddachauki recorded 542 foreign tourist arrivals in 2022, which increased to 983 in 2023, 1,154 in 2024, and reached 1,753 in the latest fiscal year.
Gaddachauki Emerging as a Western Tourism Gateway
The increasing number of international visitors entering through Gaddachauki reflects the growing importance of Nepal’s western border for tourism. Located close to major tourist cities in India, the border offers an important opportunity to connect international travellers with destinations across western Nepal. Tourism stakeholders see the rising arrivals as a positive indication of the potential to develop Gaddachauki as a dedicated tourism gateway and introduce visitors to the diverse attractions of Sudurpaschim. The province is home to remarkable destinations including Khaptad, Badimalika, Ramaroshan and Shuklaphanta National Park, along with numerous religious, cultural and natural attractions.
Tourism Information Services Could Strengthen Visitor Experience
Tourism entrepreneur Jagdish Chandra Bhatt has called for the establishment of a tourism information desk at Gaddachauki to provide international visitors with information about destinations, accommodation, transportation and travel experiences available across Nepal. Such a facility could help visitors discover the range of attractions accessible from the western gateway and encourage them to include Sudurpaschim in their Nepal travel itineraries. Bhatt also emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and private tourism sector to promote the region and develop attractive tourism products for international travellers.
Growing Arrivals Create New Opportunities for Sudurpaschim
Dinesh Malla, president of the Kanchanpur Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the growing number of foreign arrivals presents a valuable opportunity to promote Sudurpaschim’s tourism destinations more widely. He highlighted the province’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and diverse tourist attractions as major assets capable of attracting visitors seeking new experiences in Nepal. Stakeholders believe that better destination promotion, improved visitor facilities and stronger tourism connectivity can further increase the number of international travellers exploring Sudurpaschim.
A Promising Future for Western Nepal Tourism
The steady growth in foreign tourist arrivals through Gaddachauki provides a strong foundation for expanding cross-border tourism and destination development in western Nepal. With its proximity to India and access to some of Nepal’s most distinctive natural and cultural attractions, Gaddachauki has the potential to become an important entry point for international visitors. The rising arrivals also offer an encouraging opportunity for Sudurpaschim to showcase its unique tourism experiences to a wider global audience.
