In the past year, Kaski district has seen the construction of 4,434 meters of new pedestrian trails, a notable achievement under the province’s Ministry of Industry, Tourism, Forests, and Environment. The Tourism and Industry Office, operating under the provincial government, spearheaded these developments.
According to Maharaj Dhakal, Chief of the Tourism and Industry Office, significant progress was made in enhancing trails and infrastructure in various municipalities and rural municipalities including Pokhara Metropolitan City, Madi, Rupa, Annapurna, and Machapuchhre. Out of 47 planned tourism infrastructure projects for the fiscal year 2080/81, 43 have been completed. However, two projects did not proceed beyond the contract stage, and two others were initiated but remained incomplete. The allocated budget for tourism infrastructure last year was NPR 28 million.
Dhakal emphasized that the construction of these trails has greatly facilitated both tourists and residents. Improved infrastructure in tourist parks has increased their appeal, while difficult paths have been made easier and railings have been installed in various locations. “By prioritizing locations with high tourist activity, we have constructed foot trails that enhance convenience for both tourists and locals,” he stated.
Noteworthy completed projects include the Khorakhari Kuna-Kahun Khola Trail in Pokhara-20, the Maurebager Margi-Betaini Gyan Bisouna Tourist Trail in Pokhara-22 and 23, the Jalkeni-Bhairavkot-Kalika-Rithumada Pedestrian Trail in Rupa-1, and the Hanuman Pokhari-Bhotepokhari Hiking Trail in Pokhara-33. Other significant projects involve the Lankuribot Tourist Rest Area in Pokhara-16, Barahakshetra Tourism Infrastructure in Pokhara-31, and various enhancements in Madi and Pokhara, including the construction of sacred and recreational parks.
Additionally, several trails have been developed, such as the Lamichhane Gaon Trail in Pokhara-28, the enhancement of the Durga Temple in Pokhara-19, and major tourism infrastructure projects in Madi-2 and Pokhara-33. The development also included paths linking Mukti Nath Sat Sang Ashram in Pokhara-29, construction of parks in Pokhara-3, and the Biruda trail improvements.
In summary, the extensive efforts in building and upgrading pedestrian trails and tourism infrastructure across various locations in Kaski district have significantly improved accessibility and attractiveness, supporting both tourism and local community needs.
