Visitor numbers at Banke National Park have been steadily rising each year, thanks to the park’s rich natural resources, wildlife, and tourism offerings. The park’s Chief Senior Conservation Officer, Manoj Kumar Shah, reported that 444 tourists visited the park in the last fiscal year. Among them were 4 tourists from SAARC countries and 10 from other foreign nations. This represents a 127% increase from the previous year’s 317 visitors.
The park collected NPR 183,333 in revenue from visitor entrance fees during the past fiscal year. Tourists engage in various activities at the park, including jungle walks, jeep safaris, elephant safaris, bird watching, camping, and hiking.
Since its establishment in 2067 BS (2010 AD), Banke National Park has welcomed a total of 2,052 tourists, including 17 from SAARC countries and 38 from other international destinations. Shah noted that the highest number of visitors was recorded in the last fiscal year.
As a gateway to Banke, Karnali, and Sudurpashchim provinces, the park provides a convenient transit point for travelers along the East-West Highway, enhancing its appeal as a tourist destination. Located 15 kilometers from Nepalgunj Airport, the park is easily accessible by both road and air, and its proximity to the India-Nepal border adds to its convenience.
The park, primarily known for its Bengal tiger habitat, currently houses 21 tigers. The natural beauty and wildlife of the park are becoming increasingly popular among tourists. Bhaskar Khafle, founder chairman of the Lumbini Hotel Entrepreneurs Association, highlighted that the park is developing into a “transit point” for tourists due to its affordability and accessibility.
Krishna Chaudhary, chairman of the Gaphar Valley Community Homestay, mentioned that the growing number of visitors and the appeal of the Churia Range’s stunning views and hiking opportunities are contributing to the park’s popularity. The rise in domestic tourism has also increased the importance of homestays, with Gaphar Homestay, Khadkwar Homestay, and Newa Gaon Homestay operating in the park’s central area.
