The Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) Gandaki has expressed strong objections to the recent imposition of tourism fees by local authorities. The controversy began when Machapuchhre Rural Municipality in Kaski introduced entry fees of Rs. 500 for foreign tourists and Rs. 100 for domestic tourists, which were later revoked due to public outcry.
The issue has resurfaced with Chumnubri Rural Municipality in Gorkha now charging Rs. 1,000 for foreign tourists and Rs. 200 for domestic tourists. TAAN Gandaki’s Chairperson, Krishna Prasad Acharya, warned that such unilateral decisions could drive tourists to alternative destinations, potentially damaging the region’s tourism industry. He pointed out that if all 13 municipalities in the Annapurna Circuit began imposing similar fees, it could lead to a significant decline in tourist numbers.
Former TAAN Gandaki Chairperson, Dharma Raj Panthe, criticized the timing of these fees, noting that they could negatively impact the tourism sector, which is struggling to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized that rather than hindering tourism with additional costs, efforts should be focused on revitalizing the sector.
In response, TAAN Gandaki has formally requested the repeal of the new tourism fees. A delegation led by Acharya met with Gandaki Province’s Minister for Industry and Tourism, Mitralal Basyal, to present a memorandum urging the cancellation of the fees and the promotion of tourism activities.
Minister Basyal acknowledged the concerns and assured that he would review the situation with the concerned municipalities and advocate for the withdrawal of the fees. He agreed that imposing additional costs on tourists during a time of economic recovery is inappropriate and promised to work towards a resolution.
