Beni Municipality has initiated a comprehensive ‘ward tourism project’ aimed at strengthening tourism infrastructure and promoting local identity by involving all 10 wards of the municipality. The initiative focuses on originality, innovation, and coordinated development of tourism-related facilities across the region.
Integrated Tourism Development Across All Wards
The project has been designed to ensure inclusive participation of all wards under Beni Municipality, with an emphasis on developing tourism infrastructure in a planned and coordinated manner. According to municipal authorities, the initiative seeks to build synergy between local government bodies, provincial and federal agencies, and the private sector to promote sustainable tourism growth.
Mayor Surat KC said the policy was introduced to strengthen collaboration among all levels of government and stakeholders in implementing tourism development activities across all wards of the municipality.
Gateway to Mustang and Religious Tourism Hub
Highlighting the region’s geographical and cultural significance, Mayor KC noted that Beni Bazaar, located at the confluence of the Myagdi and Kaligandaki rivers, serves as a key transit point and gateway to Mustang, particularly the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath.
He added that the municipality has prioritized infrastructure development and tourism promotion to encourage travelers and pilgrims heading to Mustang to extend their stay in Beni Bazaar and the surrounding areas, thereby increasing local economic benefits.
Increasing Tourist Flow via Beni–Jomsom Route
Officials noted that approximately 800,000 tourists traveled to Mustang via the Beni–Jomsom road in the last fiscal year, highlighting the route’s importance as a major tourism corridor. The municipality aims to capitalize on this high tourist flow by improving facilities, services, and attractions along the route.
To enhance visitor experience and cultural appeal, the municipality has also undertaken several landmark projects, including the installation of a 21-foot-tall, 10-headed statue of the mythological figure Ravana from the Hindu epic Ramayana in Ward No. 5. The structure has become a new attraction for both domestic and international visitors.
Ongoing Beautification and Infrastructure Projects
As part of its continued tourism development strategy, Beni Municipality is currently implementing the beautification of Galeshwar Bazaar, a key religious and cultural site in the region. Similarly, plans for the development of Lovely Hill as a tourism destination and the construction of Peace Park are also underway. These initiatives aim to diversify tourism offerings in the municipality by combining natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational spaces.
Budget Allocation for Tourism Promotion
Deputy Mayor Jyoti Lamichhane stated that the municipality has allocated a budget of Rs 10 million for tourism promotion activities in the current fiscal year. The fund will be utilized for infrastructure development, promotional campaigns, and improvement of tourist facilities across all wards.
She emphasized that tourism has been identified as a key driver of local economic development and employment generation, and the municipality is committed to strengthening the sector through strategic investments.
Toward a Sustainable Tourism Model
Officials believe that the ward-level tourism project will help transform Beni into a more structured and attractive destination for both pilgrims and adventure travelers. By integrating cultural heritage sites, natural landscapes, and improved infrastructure, the municipality aims to position itself as a major stopover point for visitors traveling to Mustang and the wider Annapurna region.
With coordinated efforts from government bodies and stakeholders, Beni Municipality expects the initiative to significantly contribute to local income generation, tourism growth, and long-term regional development.
