There has been a call to identify tourist destinations in Banke and increase investment in tourism infrastructure. This was discussed during a workshop in Kohalpur on Saturday, focused on “Opportunities and Strengthening of Local Tourism Entrepreneurs.” Bardiya National Park‘s Chief Conservation Officer, Birendra Prasad Kandel, highlighted the potential for tourism promotion through activities like jungle walks, Chure hiking, rafting, and elephant safaris.
He emphasized the need to engage northern residents in agriculture to enhance ecotourism, alongside cultural, religious, and agricultural tourism. Additionally, Kandel emphasized the importance of involving the northern region’s residents in agricultural initiatives to strengthen ecotourism. He stressed that integrating agriculture with tourism would create a sustainable model that benefits both visitors and local communities in Banke. Furthermore, he highlighted the need to promote cultural, religious, and agricultural tourism, ensuring a diverse range of experiences for travelers.
Kandel emphasized the need for tourism entrepreneurs to invest in jeeps for jungle safaris, highlighting the pressing challenges faced by the park due to the drying conditions in the Chure region. He pointed out that only 16 out of the 80 ponds in the park currently hold water, which significantly affects the wildlife and overall safari experience. The scarcity of water not only impacts the animals’ natural habitat but also limits the appeal of jungle safaris for visitors.
Encouraging private investment in safari jeeps, he suggested, could enhance tourist experiences and sustain the park’s ecological balance. Additionally, Kandel raised concerns about the inadequate availability of quality hotels and accommodations around the park, which poses a major challenge for tourism growth. Due to the lack of proper lodging facilities, both domestic and international tourists are compelled to seek accommodation in Nepalgunj and Kohalpur, reducing the potential economic benefits for the local community.
He stressed the importance of developing better hospitality services near the park to retain visitors and strengthen the local tourism economy. By addressing these infrastructure gaps, the region could attract more tourists, boost local businesses, and create employment opportunities for residents.
Hari Subedi, an associate professor at Mahendra Multiple Campus, emphasized the importance of organizing activities that highlight the region’s tourism potential. He pointed out that although some infrastructure is in place, it remains inadequate to fully support tourism growth. He also mentioned that forest parks are available for visitors seeking a serene natural setting. Additionally, certain tourist destinations have been identified for further development, aiming to enhance the area’s appeal to travelers.
Tourism entrepreneur Ashok Gaudel emphasized the significance of prioritizing local tourism development while also aiming to bring in more visitors. He pointed out that for tourism to thrive, it is crucial to have clear and well-defined destinations that serve as guides for tourists. These well-planned spots not only direct visitors but also enrich their overall experience, making their trips more memorable and fulfilling.
Gaudel further elaborated that having a structured and well-thought-out tourism plan is key to unlocking the full potential of a region. By developing such plans, destinations can become more attractive to tourists, offering them a seamless experience. He believes that organizing tourism efforts thoughtfully will not only improve the visitor experience but also contribute to the sustainable growth of the region’s tourism industry.
Satish Niraula, the former president of the Nepalgunj Cycling Club, echoed these sentiments, noting that Banke’s tourism sector remains underdeveloped. He proposed that trekking opportunities in the Chure area of Ghabhar Valley could serve as a unique attraction to boost tourism in the region. By tapping into the natural beauty and cultural significance of such areas, Niraula believes Banke could draw more tourists and increase its tourism profile.
During the event, various speakers, including Member of Parliament Surya Dhakal, provincial assembly members Basanti Adhikari and Krishna KC, and Dharm Rokaya, president of the Environment Rural Development Center, emphasized the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders for the development of the tourism sector.
