Dharahara, the iconic tower in the heart of Nepal’s federal capital, has generated Rs 5.5 million in entry fees within a month of opening to the public after its reconstruction. The tower, which began charging visitors from November 24, has witnessed significant footfall, with around 1,200 visitors climbing it daily on average.
Acting Project Director Prakash Aryal stated that over 31,000 people had visited Dharahara as of Monday, excluding children below 12 years, whose data is not recorded. The tower remains closed every Wednesday, while it is open from 10:30 am to 3:00 pm on other days.
Entry fees for Nepali citizens are set at Rs 200, with a 50% discount available for students, senior citizens, children, and disabled individuals. Tourists from SAARC countries are charged Rs 500, while visitors from other countries pay Rs 1,000.
Additional charges have been introduced for accessing the Dharahara premises, with an entry fee of Rs 50. Parking fees are set at Rs 20 per hour for four-wheelers and Rs 10 for two-wheelers. Non-commercial advertisements at the tower cost Rs 5,000 per hour, with similar charges applied for videography. Photography incurs a fee of Rs 1,000.
The decision to open Dharahara and set these fees was approved by a cabinet meeting on November 21. The reopening of Dharahara marks a significant step in the revitalization of cultural heritage and tourism in Nepal’s capital city.