Tikapur Park, one of the most visited tourist attractions in Nepal’s Kailali District, welcomed over 253,468 domestic tourists during the fiscal year 2081/82 (2024–2025), marking a significant increase in visitor numbers and revenue generation. Operated under the jurisdiction of Tikapur Municipality, the park has become a popular destination for families, students, and local tourists due to its scenic charm, recreational facilities, and rising entrepreneurial activities such as photography and picnicking.
Major Increase in Tourist Numbers and Revenue Collection
According to data provided by Nanda KC, the Revenue Chief of Tikapur Municipality, the park drew in 218,208 general domestic tourists, contributing NPR 6.54 million in entry fees. In addition, 35,260 students and senior citizens visited the park, generating NPR 558,900 in revenue. These figures alone amount to over NPR 7.1 million, excluding other sources of income.
Overall, the municipality collected a total of NPR 9.34 million in revenue from the park during the fiscal year 2081/82. This reflects a significant increase compared to NPR 6.39 million generated in 2080/81, indicating over 46% year-on-year growth in earnings from the park.
KC further reported that the park collected NPR 837,100 from vehicle parking charges, showing that many visitors are arriving in personal or group transport, a sign of growing accessibility and popularity. An additional NPR 1.43 million was collected through miscellaneous services, including picnic spots, photography permits, and camera use, underscoring the growing variety of services the park offers.
Birendra Rest House and Daily Footfall Growth
One of the key factors behind the growing number of visitors is the reopening of the Birendra Rest House, a facility inside the park that has attracted more tourists seeking leisure and extended stays. With an average of 500 visitors per day, the park has become a thriving local hub of recreation and tourism activity. The increase in facilities, cleanliness, and better management has played a pivotal role in enhancing the park’s reputation, drawing not only locals but also visitors from neighboring districts and even provinces.
Youth Employment Through Photography Booms Inside the Park
An interesting development contributing to Tikapur Park’s rising popularity is the growing number of young people engaging in professional photography. Currently, around 35 local youths work as freelance photographers inside the park, capturing moments for couples, families, and groups.
One such example is Nain Bahadur Chaudhary from Tikapur-3, who left his poultry business two years ago to pursue photography. “In the beginning, I could earn up to NPR 4,000 to 5,000 per day, which was more than what I used to make from poultry farming,” he shared. However, with more people entering the field, competition has increased, and daily income has slightly decreased, he added.
Similarly, Sunil Chaudhary, a recent Grade 12 graduate from Khadga Smriti Secondary School, now spends his free time working as a photographer in the park. “Some days I make NPR 2,000 to 3,000, and some days less,” he said, “but it’s enough to manage my education and living expenses.” This growing trend of youth involvement in park-based photography has provided a source of income, skills development, and local entrepreneurship, contributing positively to the park’s vibrant atmosphere.
