The hotel industry in Banke, which has witnessed investments worth billions of rupees, is increasingly relying on Indian tourists as its main source of business. According to Keshav Neupane, Vice President of the Hotel Association (HAN) Banke, the recent rise in the number of Indian visitors, particularly those arriving to visit the newly opened casinos, has significantly boosted the local hospitality sector.
Neupane highlighted that if Nepal ensures smooth entry procedures and offers quality hospitality services to Indian travelers, the positive impact on the hotel industry would be substantial. He emphasized the importance of maintaining an open, welcoming environment for foreign guests, noting that such measures could further enhance occupancy rates and revenue for hotels in the region.
Investments Rising in Banke’s Hotel Sector
Rang Bahadur Khadka, President of the Hotel Entrepreneurs’ Association, stated that investment in Banke’s hotel sector has been steadily increasing in recent years. However, he stressed that extending tourists’ length of stay should be a key focus, which requires proactive initiatives from the government.
“At present, Indian tourists are the backbone of the hotel business in Banke,” Khadka said. “Unfortunately, in some cases, local authorities have adopted a mindset of creating difficulties for tourists rather than playing a supportive role. This attitude needs to change if we want sustainable growth in the sector.”
Call for a Change in Government Attitude
Khadka further urged a shift in the government’s approach toward hoteliers, calling on authorities to treat them as partners and guardians of the tourism industry rather than as entities to be burdened with unnecessary hurdles.
He expressed concern that the government has failed to protect tourism as an industry, noting that budget allocations are often spent in areas that do not directly benefit the sector. According to him, effective policies, infrastructure development, and better promotional campaigns targeting key markets such as India are necessary to ensure long-term growth.
Casinos Driving Tourism Activity
One of the recent factors contributing to the surge in Indian tourist arrivals is the opening of casinos in Banke. These entertainment venues have become a major attraction for Indian visitors, many of whom travel to Nepal for short leisure trips that combine gaming, shopping, and cultural exploration.
Hoteliers report that casino-related tourism has had a spillover effect on the local economy, benefiting not just hotels, but also restaurants, transport operators, and other businesses catering to visitors.
However, industry stakeholders stress that for this momentum to continue, Nepal needs to streamline entry processes, improve cross-border travel infrastructure, and ensure safety and security for all tourists.
Local Government’s Role in Tourism Development
Nepalgunj Sub-Metropolitan City Mayor Prashant Bista has assured hoteliers that the local government will play a supportive role in developing tourism and hospitality. He stated that efforts are underway to introduce policies that facilitate hotel growth and make the city more appealing to visitors.
“Our goal is to attract more tourists by enhancing the beauty and appeal of the city,” Bista said. “We are working on beautification projects and infrastructure improvements to make Nepalgunj a welcoming and attractive destination.” Bista emphasized that tourism development requires coordinated efforts between the private sector and the government, and pledged to engage with stakeholders to address challenges faced by the industry.
The Need for Strategic Tourism Policies
Industry experts agree that while Banke’s hotel sector has seen substantial investment, there is an urgent need for well-planned tourism strategies. These include:
- Improved cross-border connectivity with India to encourage short-term and repeat visits.
- Tourist-friendly administrative processes that remove unnecessary delays and restrictions.
- Marketing campaigns showcasing Banke’s unique attractions beyond casinos, such as cultural heritage sites and natural landscapes.
- Public-private partnerships to enhance infrastructure, sanitation, and overall tourist experiences.
Looking Ahead
With Indian tourists currently serving as the main driver of growth, Banke’s hotel industry stands at a critical juncture. The opening of casinos has provided a fresh wave of opportunities, but sustaining and expanding this growth will depend on how well local and national authorities collaborate with the private sector.
If Nepal can create a welcoming environment, address bureaucratic challenges, and invest in infrastructure and promotion, Banke has the potential to become a thriving hub for regional tourism. Otherwise, the momentum could fade, and the billions already invested in the hotel sector may not yield the expected returns.
