In a significant move aimed at elevating tourism prospects on a global scale, the Gandaki Province government has unveiled the pioneering “Visit Pokhara – Revel in Nature and Culture” program in the picturesque city of Pokhara.
Chief Minister Dilli Raj Bhatta, while introducing the comprehensive policy and program for the fiscal year 2081/82, highlighted the pivotal role of the “Visit Pokhara – Revel in Nature and Culture” initiative, positioning Pokhara as the epicenter of this transformative endeavor.
At the heart of the policy lies the “First Domestic, Then International” strategy, emphasizing the enhancement of domestic tourism as a precursor to international outreach. The program outlines multifaceted plans, including the exploration of new tourist hotspots, diversification of tourism offerings, development of alternative travel routes, facilitation of mountaineering expeditions, and augmentation of tourist amenities and infrastructure.
Furthermore, Chief Minister Bhatta underscored the government’s commitment to fostering collaborative ventures between the public and private sectors to bolster tourism infrastructure, innovate tourism-related products, and execute comprehensive branding and promotional campaigns domestically and internationally.
The program encompasses a wide array of activities, ranging from cultural and commercial festivals, parades, and conventions to the establishment of homestays, museums, eco-parks, and man-made tourist attractions. It aims to attract both domestic and international tourists through robust promotional efforts and strategic publicity campaigns.
Central to the initiative is the implementation of the “Round Phewa – View Phewa” program, which includes the development of tourist-centric infrastructure such as the Truss Bridge, spanning from Chhunger to Magrebagar, aimed at captivating tourists with its architectural marvel. Additionally, the policy highlights the integration of tourism sectors to foster the development of regions like Dhorpatan and Gajendra Mokshadhama.
The program also focuses on the identification and enhancement of suitable locations for trekking and cycling, with plans to elevate routes like the Manaslu Larky Pass – Manang – Mustang and Kaski’s Annapurna Conservation Area into premier trekking destinations.
Chief Minister Bhatta emphasized the government’s dedication to fostering various forms of tourism, including religious, cultural, spiritual, literary, adventurous, and sports tourism. Special emphasis was placed on enhancing major religious sites and promoting pilgrimage tourism, exemplified by initiatives targeting destinations like Muktinath, Bindabasini, and Manakamana.
In alignment with these efforts, the government is prioritizing the conservation and development of the Dhaulagiri region as a protected area, intending to promote trekking tourism and lay the groundwork for pilgrimage tourism. This initiative underscores the province’s commitment to sustainable tourism development and its aspirations to position Pokhara as a premier global tourism destination.
