Kathmandu second potential area for tourism

The trekking routes and tourist areas of various VDCs of Myagdi districts have been overshadowed by fair weather roads staking their existence.

The motorable roads constructed from district headquarters Beni to Jomsom of Mustang and Sikh and Ghar VDCs have adversely affected the trekking routes of tourism importance.

Until two years back, up to 3,000 tourists used to travel through the serene trekking routes of Ghodepani, Nagi and Khopra but operation of these new non-blacktopped roads have witnessed decline of tourists.

According Bagbir Paija, a social worker of Sikh VDC, trekkers have ceased to move though the trekking routes, which has resulted in closure of hotels.

The locals have urged the authorities to look into the matter seriously and make alternative arrangements for the early resumption of trekking routes.A study report of the World Bank (WB) has put Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, at the top priority for investment potential. In a meeting with the tourism-related entrepreneurs and stakeholders on investment prospects in Bhairahawa, Lisa Choegyal, a consultant of the WB said that the report has put Kathmandu as the second most potential area for tourism investment after Lumbini.

Similarly, wider cultural tourism region linking Pokhara, Chitwan, Lumbini, Ridi, Palpa, Gorkha and Bandipur has been placed at the third priority in investment potential, she said.

Lisa, who is in the course of her study on tourism development potential in Lumbini, said that her study will concentrate on the infrastructure development, including standard and eco-friendly roads, five-star hotels and other tourism requirements.
The previous study had recommended for building an international convention centre, meditation home, and wider prayer center for Buddhists, she said.