Tourist destinations in Chitwan have been witnessing an encouraging influx of visitors following the government’s implementation of a two-day weekly holiday.
According to tourism entrepreneurs in Sauraha, the flow of tourists has increased significantly in recent weeks compared to the past. The rise in arrivals has been particularly noticeable since the government introduced a two-day weekend: Saturday and Sunday effective from April 6.
Sauraha has also become a preferred venue for organizing seminars, weddings, and reception events. Regional Hotel Association Vice- Chair Gunaraj Thapaliya noted a steady growth in tourist arrivals, especially on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
During weekends, domestic tourists outnumber international visitors, while on other days, foreign tourists account for around 70 percent of the total visitors. This marks a notable increase from last year, when foreign tourists made up only about 40 percent.
Tourism entrepreneurs believe that improving road conditions connecting Chitwan with Kathmandu and Bhairahawa would further boost tourist arrivals, as the current routes fall short of expectations and standards.
Ramesh Silwal, proprietor of Hotel Vista Sauraha, said that tourist numbers are naturally expected to rise during holidays.
Similarly, Dipendra Khatiwada, Chair of the United Elephant Safari Operation Cooperatives Ltd, shared that visitors often have to wait for their turn for elephant rides during peak holiday periods. The cooperatives operates 25 elephants providing rides to tourists in the mornings and evenings in Sauraha.
Khatiwada, who is also a former Chair of the Restaurant and Bar Association, added that tourist arrivals have increased compared to last year. Sauraha presently hosts 148 hotels with a total capacity of 7,200 guests. The area has attracted an investment of over Rs 40 billion, generating direct employment for 6,400 people and indirect employment for more than 12,000.
However, tourist flow tends to decline during the rainy season, which will begin in a month from now.
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