Tourism in the Kanchenjunga region has seen a significant surge in recent months, with a notable rise in both domestic and international tourist arrivals. According to Tushan Limbu, the Information Officer at the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Management Council, there has been a marked increase in the number of foreign tourists visiting the Kanchenjunga Base Camp. In the first four months of the current fiscal year, a total of 1,085 foreign tourists have visited the Kanchenjunga Himal, a number that hasn’t been seen since 2057 BS (2000 AD). For comparison, during the fiscal years 2056/57 and 2057/58, 799 and 873 foreign tourists visited the area, respectively.
Tourists from countries such as France, Australia, Germany, and the United States have been particularly frequent. The growing number of visitors has also been felt locally, especially during the festival seasons when domestic tourists flock to the region. Hotel and lodge owners in the area have reported that local accommodations have been fully booked during these times. Fupuchohang Sherpa, a local hotel operator, highlighted a 30% increase in hotel revenues this year, reflecting the growth in tourism.
The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Management Council has been working closely with local communities and businesses to promote sustainable tourism in the region. Local business owners are actively involved in improving tourism infrastructure to cater to the increasing number of visitors. The council’s efforts are focused on making tourism in the region not only more accessible but also sustainable for the long term.
This surge in tourism not only boosts the local economy but also brings attention to the conservation of the area, ensuring that both the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Kanchenjunga are preserved for future generations. The ongoing collaboration between the local communities, businesses, and the council is key to making Kanchenjunga a thriving and sustainable tourism destination.
