Introduction and preparation for visit Nepal 2020

Nepal though a poor country has been blessed with rich natural and cultural heritage and
hence has opened gate of opportunities for her. Tourism has come long way with its root
back developed in 50s. With its growing and valuable contribution towards the
development of Nepalese economy in context of increase in national production and
income, creating employment opportunities, improving regional imbalance and to
develop the image of Nepal. In an international community, made an immense need to
promulgate different plans and programs, implementations strategies, facilities and
incentives scheme creation of institutional arrangements, develop and expand tourist’s
attraction points. Nepal is 5th among the top 10 countries to visit in the world and
number one in Best Valued Destination in the world. Then why wouldn’t they be, Nepal
boasts pristine natural beauty, sky – high Himalayas Range and endless culture and
traditions spread out all over the country.

According to the United Nation world Tourism Organization (UN/WTO), tourism entails
the movement of people to countries or places outside their usual environment for
personal or business/ professional purposes. These people are called visitors. Generally
speaking, a visitor is classified as a day visitor if their trip doesn’t include an overnight
stay and a tourist if it does include an overnight stay. The purpose of their trip can be for
business, leisure or personal reasons, other than to be employed by a resident entity in the
country or place visited. The Late Sir Stafford Sands, a successful lawyer and politician,
who is often referred as the “Father of Tourism” because of his pioneering efforts in
guiding the early development of the industry. Nepal, especially Pokhara referred as the
most beautiful and visited place in comparison to other places for tourists. The culture,
religion and climate are a major factor which has contributed a lot in the development of
tourism in Nepal. Although many of us have been “tourists” at some point in our lives,
defining what tourism actually is can be difficult. Despite, government of Nepal is
planned to steer two new international airports on Pokhara and Lumbini likewise
arranging 200-300 new airbus especially focusing to entire tourists. Besides, hotel
association has planned to expand 4,000 new rooms holding four- and five-star
prerequisite on genuine destinations

After the success of Visit Nepal Year 1998 and Nepal Tourism Year 2011, the Tourism
Board of Nepal introduced Visit Nepal Campaign 2020. The Campaign was announced in
2015 to be held in 2018 but later postponed to 2020. The Visit Nepal 2020 Campaign was
scheduled in 2018 to promote that Nepal was a safe place to travel and only 12 of 75
districts were affected by the earthquake. The crawling upgrading activity of Tribhuvan
International Airport and delayed construction of Gautam Buddha International Airport in
Lumbini and improper transportation infrastructure led the Tourism Board to postpone
the campaign to 2020. I view VNY 2020 as not another tourism campaign but as a
country development strategy which must be given due focus collaboratively from the
government, private and civic sectors.

Goals
 1. Increase annual international tourist arrivals to Nepal to two million by 2020.
2. Augment economic opportunities and increase employment in tourism sector to
one million.

Objectives.

1. To improve livelihoods of the people across the country by developing integrated

tourism infrastructure, increasing tourism activities.
2. To develop Nepal as an attractive and major tourist destination by exploring,
conserving, developing and promoting tangible as well as intangible, natural,
cultural, biological and human made heritages.
3. To develop, expand and promote tourism by means of easy, safe, reliable and
regular air and land transportations.

SWOT ANALYSIS OF NEPALESE TOURISM

Strengths

1. Abundance of natural endowments – pristine and unexplored tourism resources

like forests, rivers, rich biodiversity, and Himalayan mountains
2. Rich cultural heritage – multi ethnic communities, colorful festivals
3. Reasonably efficient air connectivity to Delhi and Kolkata and within the region
4. Tourism reorganized as a key industry by all neighboring states
5. Availability of trained and trainable manpower
6. English and Hindi easily understood and spoken throughout

Opportunities

1. The Government of India has given special attention to the Northeast.

2. Besides intra-regional tours, there are opportunities for promoting cross border
tours to neighboring countries like Bhutan, Bangladesh, Thailand, Malaysia,
Nepal, and so on.
3. There is a potential for private sector investment in tourism projects.

Weaknesses

1. Lack of network and synergy among public and private organizations in the
region
2. Inadequate funding of resources for tourism promotion
3. No regional tourism development or marketing plan
4. Absence of railway network within the region
5. Insufficient infrastructure

Threats

1. Competition from other tourism destinations within and outside the country
 2. Threats from terrorism and the negative perception of the whole region
3. The possibility of uncontrolled tourism development
4. The possibility of tension between the government and security concerns leading
to the imposition of RAP (Rules of Appellate Procedure)

Tourist Destination in Nepal

Pokhara

Pokhara, at the base of the foothills, is 200 kilometers west of Kathmandu and
surrounded by some of the highest mountains in the world - Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and
Annapurna I. For many trekkers, Pokhara is the gateway to the Himalayas. It is the
starting point for treks to Jomsom and the Annapurna region. But visitors will enjoy
Pokhara and the beautiful scenery even if they are not planning on heading off on a hike.
Similarly, Pokhara consist of many cave and temple.

By population, it is the second largest town in Nepal after Kathmandu but still does not
feel like a big city. People coming from the Kathmandu Valley notice the much cleaner
air and pleasant climate almost immediately. Lake Phewa, with its cluster of lakeside
hotels, restaurants, and shops, is ideal for those looking for relaxation and for day
excursions.

Lumbini

Lumbini is famous for being the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the historic Buddha,
known as Buddha Shakyamuni. Situated off the main tourist track, almost 250 kilometers
from Kathmandu, Lumbini is a worthwhile detour on the route from Pokhara to the
Chitwan National Park. In this pilgrimage town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there is
a feeling of tranquility. Most of the visitors are Buddhist pilgrims from around the world,
retracing Buddha's footsteps through the stations of his life. The Maya Devi Temple,
dedicated to Buddha's mother, is believed to be the spot where Buddha was born. It
contains an ancient stone relief from the 2nd century AD depicting Buddha's birth.

According to the people who have authenticated this place as the birthplace of Buddha all
the boundaries of the wall of the garden in Lumbini proves that this is the place where
Buddha was born. This place is now protected by the Ancient Monument Preservation
Act which was passed in the year 1956. Lumbini has a huge historical significance for a
lot of people. All the people who follow Buddhism have a goal to visit Lumbini where
Buddha was born. The popularity of Lumbini is increasing day by day because a number
of people are converting into Buddhism and planning to visit here. There has been a lot of
hotels set up around Lumbini so that the tourists are able to stay during their visit here.
Key attractions: Ashokan Pillar, Buddhist temples, the Japan Peace Stupa, Bodhi Tree,
the Lumbini Museum, and the Lumbini International Research Institute.
Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park is the place to come to experience a different side of Nepal, apart
from the hiking and the intrigue of Kathmandu. This is the place for wildlife viewing and
a safari-type atmosphere. At an altitude of only 100 meters in some areas, much lower
than Kathmandu at 1400 meters, this area has a tropical monsoon climate, usually quite
different than what most people expect to find in Nepal. Visitors come here primarily to
see wildlife. Tours from the lodges take visitors out into the park, either on foot, or more
often, on elephants for close-up views of the animals. The park is home to rhinos, Bengal
tigers, leopards, sloth bears, gaur (buffalo) deer, and many other critters. Freshwater
dolphins (gangetic) and crocodiles inhabit the rivers and streams but are rarely seen.
More than 500 species of birds make Chitwan a paradise for ornithologists.

Chitwan lies southwest of Kathmandu close to the Indian frontier and is included in the
UNESCO list of world cultural heritage sites. The best time to visit Chitwan is from
October to February. Average temperatures hover about 25°C (77°F), with high
humidity, although the mornings can be quite cool. June to September is the monsoon
season, with frequent and heavy rain.

Ghandurk

Ghandruk, the beautiful village known for its homestays and the view of majestic
mountains, was declared one of the most picturesque towns of Asia by CNN Travel. The
village in western Nepal, which serves the taste of its ethnic Gurung culture, has been
among the most popular destinations for national and international tourists for decades
and is considered a must-stop during the Annapurna Circuit trek. Ghandruk provides one
of the best views of Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Hiunchuli and
Machhapuchhre, and is home to a Gurung museum.

Gorkha

Some 25 km north of Abu Khaireni, the picturesque town called Gorkha is the
ancient home of the lionhearted Gorkha people. Around 300 years ago, when Prithvi
Narayan Shah unified all the rivalling fiefdoms of Nepal into one monarchy and
divided up the country into 50 different states, Gorkha was born along the slopes of
Himalayas in north-central Nepal. Needless to say, the place has immense historical
and cultural significance and is dipped in tremendous natural beauty.

The two major ethnic groups that populate Gorkha are Gurungs and Magars, who have
earned a reputation for bravery in the two World Wars, winning Victoria Crosses from
the British government. But it is only in the battlefield that they displayed their fierce
attribute, remaining a friendly people in normal circumstances with a reputation for
excellent hospitality. “The Honey Hunters of Nepal”, a popular documentary made by
Eric Valli and Diane Summers was shot in Gorkha where the local people still continue
the practice of collecting wild honey. Major place to visit Gorkha: -
  Gorkha Durbar

The Durbar Square is the prime attraction of Gorkha valley, being birthplace and
early home to unified Nepal's first ruler, Prithvi Narayan Shah. The complex is a
fort, a palace and a religious destination all punched into one. Perching atop high
hills, Gorkha Durbar overlooks the sprawling emerald green Trisuli Valley. If you
look down from the edge, you can see the tiniest sliver of a stream flowing through
the valley. And if you look straight, you can even see the entire range of Annapurna,
Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli, standing majestically in the distance. You
can go up by taxi since it is not possible for everyone to climb that many stairs. To
reach the palace called Dhuni Pati, one has to climb 1700 steps from the bottom of
the hill

 Gorkha Museum

At only INR 20 entry fee (INR 50 for non-SAARC residents), the Gorkha Museum is
a good visit. The architecture of this grand Newari-style building outshines the
collection of it. The hallways inside are lined with art and craft items, some weapons
and historical remnants of the Newari culture and the Shah and Malla kingdoms. It's
the corridors and galleries and hallways themselves, and the huge garden outside that
steals the show.

 Temples and Shrines

No Nepal district can be without numerous Hindu temples and shrines and Gorkha is
not an exception. There is a Mahadev temple, a Vishnu temple, a Ganesh temple and
a Bhimsen temple here in close vicinity. If you are wondering who Bhimsen is and
why is he named with these heavyweight deities of the Hindu pantheon, then be
assured that Bhimsen is quite as important over here. He is the Newari god of money
and commerce and is very much revered.

Upper mustang

The second least populated district of Nepal- mustang has an astonishing view to offer.
The culture involved in this area is often compared with Tibetan culture. The trekking in
this area was officially allowed in 1992 after a long time of restrictions. Even in the
monsoon seasons, the area is noted as one of the best trekking areas in Nepal. The
destination is reached through jomsom- which is also surrounded by the beautiful cold
environment. The attractions in this place are the snowy mountains as well as the cultural
diversities in the people. The place is also famous for different types of apples and dried
apples.
Challenges

To attain the target of 2 million international tourists in 2020 is easier said than done.
There are numerous hurdles on the way. The road is bumpy, rough and challenging. Lack
of budget, resources and security and rampant corruption are some key issues to which
the government must pay due attention.
Nepal still does not have good air connectivity with major tourist source markets.
Currently, 28 international airlines from 14 countries are operating their flights to and
from Nepal. However, due to limited space available inside the Tribhuvan International
Airport (TIA), its further expansion is not possible. Thus, an additional slot is not
possible in the near future.

 TIA is unable to accommodate more planes and provide additional facilities due
to unavailability of more space. Besides, the airport has only earned bad names
for its poor services. Even domestic aviation service is not up to the mark.
 It was believed that Gautam Buddha Regional International Airport would start its
commercial services from Bhairahawa before 2020. The construction work is
going on at a snail’s pace.
 The story of Pokhara Regional International Airport is no better either. After
assessing the present situation, it seems that it may take much longer period to
complete the construction of the airport.
 These two airports can play a key role to attract more international tourists.
Lumbini, being the birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha, can attract many religious
tourists.
In the meantime, Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna region, a popular
trekking destination. A direct flight to Pokhara can encourage more tourists to
visit this beautiful city for trekking and other purposes.

Recommendations

In order to attract tourist, government should have preserved existing culture, arts and
movements and research in this field should be carried out to introduce new culture, best
arts etc. Sanitation and hygiene are the major problems facing by tourist here. In order to
improve these problems, there are some major steps to be taken by governments and
Tourism Board for the development of tourism in Pokhara, they are:

1. To keep city clean, to arrange a clean public toilet; to create various destination
interesting and pleasing way; and to preserve them.
2. There are few proper hotels/lodges and other accommodation facilities and also,
they are situated at the Lakeside area only. Due to these problems’ tourists don’t
like to go outside of the Lakeside area. So, concern people should give attention
to make international standard hotels and hotels outside of Lakeside area.
3. To increase the foreign currency and number of tourists’ arrivals, concerned
authority must give attention to lengthen their stay and provide good security for
tourists.
 4. To develop tourism, tourist information centers should be established in different
places of Pokhara valley so that tourists could easily get information about hotels,
travelling routes trekking etc.
5. To develop tourism in Pokhara political stability, concerned authority must
implement tourism awareness, proper education system and new tourism policies.
6. Newness is a source of pleasure to tourists so; government and tourism board
should identify new places and adventurous things like resort area, paragliding,
bungee jumping tourism for rapid development of tourism in Pokhara.
7. Only the single government cannot develop tourism alone so; the government
should coordinate local government municipality, NGOs/INGOs and private
sector for development of tourism sector in Pokhara.

Conclusions

Tourism has an important role to play in a uplifting the Nepalese economy. It is therefore,
essential to consider all the aspects of tourism development to present the country the
best place to travel explore and adventure. The environment and degradation hinder upon
the natural beauty. Though tourism was pointed out as one of the major foreign exchange
earnings, the priority given to tourism sector was only after “the VNY 1998” that the
realization of importance of tourism spreads nationwide for greater and more and co-
ordinate effort for tourism development. Therefore, the need for a planned tourism
development has been realized so that tourism development program could be
measurable and achievable. We have to focus on our target of bringing in two million
tourists in 2020. Nepal Tourism Board must consider safety and security as a important
factor for tourists. So, proper security should provide to them. And also try to find out
those tourists who are overstaying in Nepal illegally. Those routes which are not
mentioned in map, should be guided and direct properly. We have to give our 100% to
make feel to the tourist that visiting Nepal once is not enough.
Appendix
 https://therisingnepal.org.np/news/34393\
 http://old.tourism.gov.np/downloadfile/1Tourism-Vision-2020-Final2.pdf
 https://visitnepal2020.com/wpcontent/themes/visitnepaltwenty/assets/pdf/Tabloid
_VNY_Aug2019.pdf
 https://www.rabinsxp.com/travel-and-tourism/visit-nepal-2018-depth-analysis
tourism-year-2018/
 Green Peace Lincoln College

Itahari, Sunsari

An assignment of International Business Management in

“Overview of Visit Nepal 2020”

Submitted To:

Mr. Nabin Khanal

Course Facilitator

Submitted By:

Bimash Ghimire

BBA 5 th sem

Date: 29 Jan, 2020