Rani Ghat, located in Kohalpur Municipality–13, Khadkwar of Banke district, is fast becoming a preferred spot for domestic tourists. Situated in the central area of Banke National Park, the picturesque site has been witnessing a significant increase in visitors, particularly for recreational outings and nature-based activities.
Attraction of Rani Ghat
The scenic Rani Ghat River and its surrounding landscapes have drawn the attention of tourists from Banke and neighboring districts. Anshu Shahi, a visitor from Nepalgunj–21, Purauni, shared that the combination of the river for bathing and the proximity to Hattisar makes Rani Ghat an attractive destination for domestic travelers. The area offers both natural beauty and recreational opportunities, making it a family-friendly and safe spot for picnics and day trips.
Spanning approximately five hectares, Rani Ghat has become a weekend destination for residents from Banke, Bardiya, Dang, and Surkhet. Dinesh Kumar Wali, chairman of the Rani Ghat Park Management Committee, stated that hundreds of domestic tourists now visit daily. He emphasized that the increase in footfall reflects the growing interest in local, nature-based tourism in the midwestern region of Nepal.
Facilities for Visitors
To ensure a comfortable experience for visitors, the Rani Ghat area has been equipped with basic amenities, including drinking water, toilets, electricity, designated photo zones, swings, vehicle parking, and watchtowers. These facilities allow tourists to enjoy extended stays while maintaining convenience and safety.
Moreover, visitors can indulge in river bathing along the nearby Rani Ghat River. The proximity to Hattisar enables tourists to arrange elephant safaris in coordination with Banke National Park authorities, adding an adventurous aspect to the visit. These facilities have significantly contributed to the increase in domestic tourist traffic over recent months.
Boost to Local Homestays and Tourism Economy
The surge in domestic tourists has positively impacted the Khadkwar homestay network. Tourists visiting Rani Ghat for picnics or short excursions often choose to experience local hospitality, including traditional meals prepared at homestays. Lal Bahadur Rana, chairman of Khadkwar Homestay, noted that visitors are increasingly exploring organic local cuisine, which has enhanced the demand for homestay services.
According to him, following the popularity of Gabhar and Dhakeri areas within Banke National Park, Rani Ghat in Kohalpur–13 has now emerged as a favorite destination for domestic tourists. Local homestays have benefited from the influx, which has also encouraged the promotion of organic and traditional culinary experiences.
Gabhar Valley Sees Similar Tourist Activity
The mid-region of Banke National Park, including the Gabhar Valley, has also seen a rise in domestic tourist activity. Visitors frequently travel there for picnics, sightseeing, and nature exploration. Krishna Chaudhary, chairman of Gabhar Valley Homestay, highlighted that the season for outings and picnics has boosted footfall, bringing attention and revenue to community homestays in the area.
Both Rani Ghat and Gabhar Valley have become examples of how community-based tourism and local natural resources can attract domestic visitors while promoting sustainable tourism practices. The integration of recreational facilities, local hospitality, and natural experiences has created a holistic tourist environment that appeals to families, students, and adventure enthusiasts alike.
Rani Ghat’s Growing Popularity
The rising number of visitors demonstrates the potential of Rani Ghat as a key domestic tourism hub within Banke district. Its combination of natural beauty, river-based activities, and cultural experiences positions it as a destination with year-round appeal. The growth of homestays, organized safaris, and picnic facilities further strengthens its reputation as a convenient and attractive getaway for domestic tourists.
With the ongoing development and management efforts by local authorities and park management committees, Rani Ghat is poised to continue attracting a growing number of domestic tourists. The site not only contributes to regional tourism growth but also supports local economies through increased engagement with homestays, food services, and recreational activity providers.
