With the arrival of the new year, the number of domestic tourists at homestays in Banke has increased. The trend of visiting tourist destinations and spending quality time with family and friends has led to a rise in domestic tourists at Gabhara Community Homestay in Baijanath Rural Municipality, Khadkwar in Kohalpur, and Newa Gaun Homestay in Rapti Sonari.
According to Krishna Chaudhary, the president of the Gabhara Mini Valley Community Homestay Management Committee, over 3,000 domestic tourists have visited the homestay since the start of Chait. Gabhara Homestay is becoming a destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Guests can also enjoy jungle safaris in Banke National Park via car or elephant for wildlife observation.
Similarly, at the Khadkwar Homestay in Kohalpur Municipality-13, there has been an increase in domestic tourists. Lalbahadur Rana, the chairman of the homestay management committee, mentioned that despite being quiet at other times, the number of visitors from districts like Nepalgunj has risen during the New Year period. Visitors are also offered wildlife observation through elephant safaris in coordination with the park.
In addition to wildlife observation during the day, cultural dances are performed in the evening for tourists. The homestay, which was started for cultural preservation and sustainable livelihoods for locals, is achieving business success. With added facilities, the number of domestic tourists is also growing.
At the Newa Gaun Homestay in Rapti Sonari-8, the number of visitors coming to Banke National Park has increased compared to other times, according to the operator, Shobi Tharu. Former President of the Hotel Entrepreneurs Association of Banke, Bhim Kandel, mentioned that during the tourist season, domestic tourists are increasing at homestays in Banke. He attributed this to the end of student exams, government employees taking holidays, and the New Year, which has boosted the number of domestic tourists at key tourist spots.
