In a bid to boost internal tourism and uplift the local economy, the construction of a new park is underway in Bhainse, Ward No. 3 of Rapti Sonari Rural Municipality, with an estimated investment of NPR 9 million.
Tharu Cultural Village Infrastructure in Progress
According to Ward Chairperson Meen Kumar Tharu, the park is being developed under the Tharu Cultural Village Infrastructure Development Project. The project aims to transform Bhainse into a culturally and ecologically attractive tourist destination.
The under-construction park will feature a souvenir house (Koseli Ghar), two swing structures (Jhula), a green belt zone, and an open-air exercise park. Additionally, a variety of plant species will be planted across the park to enhance its natural beauty and create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
“This park is expected to play a crucial role in promoting local tourism once it is completed,” Chairperson Tharu said. “The initiative is part of our long-term vision to invest in tourism for improving the economic conditions of the community.”
Tapping Into Local Tourism Potential
Despite the presence of natural and religious tourist sites such as Bhuvar Bhawani and Barfani Baba temples, the region has yet to fully benefit from its tourism potential. Many residents still seek opportunities outside the village due to the lack of development and promotion of local destinations.
To address this, Rapti Sonari Rural Municipality has initiated multiple tourism development plans in the area. Chairperson Tharu further informed that the Sikta Irrigation Project’s main dam site, located near Bhainse, is also being integrated into a broader tourism strategy. Plans for a water recreation (Jalbihar) facility have been formulated to attract domestic tourists. “The tourism development initiatives aim to stop outmigration by creating local employment and encouraging visitors to explore the natural and cultural assets of the area,” he said.
Strategic Location Near Irrigation Dam to Boost Footfall
Local leader Tulsiram Tharu expressed optimism that the park’s proximity to the main dam of the Sikta Irrigation Project would attract a consistent flow of visitors. The dam site is already a popular spot for locals, and developing tourist-friendly infrastructure nearby is likely to further increase the area’s appeal.
He added that Bainsa Park would serve as a central hub, linking promotional activities and tourism programs for nearby religious destinations such as Bhuvar Bhawani Temple and Barfani Baba Temple. This interconnected approach is expected to enhance visitor experiences and encourage longer stays in the region.
A Step Toward Sustainable Rural Tourism
The development of Bainsa Park represents a significant step toward sustainable rural tourism, combining environmental preservation with economic development. By incorporating elements of Tharu culture, recreational amenities, and green infrastructure, the park is envisioned as a model for future tourism development across the district.
Rapti Sonari Rural Municipality’s continued investment in such projects signals a shift towards prioritizing tourism as a long-term economic engine. With government support, community involvement, and well-planned initiatives, areas like Bhainse have the potential to become thriving domestic tourist hubs.
As construction continues on the Bainsa Park project, local authorities and residents alike remain hopeful that the new facility will transform Bhainse into a vibrant internal tourism destination. With the integration of cultural, natural, and recreational components, the project not only aims to attract visitors but also to retain the youth population by creating economic opportunities close to home. Once completed, Bainsa Park is expected to stand as a symbol of local pride, sustainable development, and the growing promise of rural tourism in Nepal’s western Tarai region.
