Namche: The Sagarmatha region has witnessed the footfall of approximately 700 tourists in a single day, marking a significant influx of visitors. The Office of the Sagarmatha National Park at Namche reported that it recorded 694 tourists in the Khumbu region on Monday alone.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Ranger Bibek Shrestha from the Office highlighted that hotel occupancy was adequate despite the large number of visitors. Of these tourists, 608 were foreigners, while domestic tourists numbered 86. With the onset of the Spring Season, renowned Sagarmatha climber Temba Chhiri Sherpa noted an increase in tourist arrivals, making it challenging to find good accommodation due to the surge.
Amrit Magar, In-Charge of Tara Air at Lukla, mentioned that the frequency of flights to Lukla has increased with the clear weather. “We’ve added flights considering the improved weather so that more tourists could visit the district having the world’s highest peak,” he stated, emphasizing the high demand for hotel
reservations.
Karma Sherma, the Senior Vice Chairman of the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal, expressed that tourism entrepreneurs are pleased with the influx of tourists. The region is bustling after the impact of Covid-19, which had severely affected the tourism industry. The increase in tourist numbers in the Sagarmatha district translates to more job opportunities for locals, with hotels in Lukla and Namche reportedly packed, according to Sherpa.
Most tourists visit the Sagarmatha National Park, which contributes to increased revenue. The Park’s Office detailed the entry fees: Rs 1,500 for visitors from SAARC nations, Rs 3,000 for foreigners from other countries, and Rs 100 for Nepali visitors.