Pokhara: Pokhara is currently witnessing an influx of domestic as well as foreign tourists. The long Dashain-Tihar holidays, clear mountain view and favorable weather have seen an encouraging buzz in Pokhara’s hotels, restaurants and other tourism activities. This has encouraged tourism entrepreneurs, while sending a positive message to the tourism sector.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the tourism sector of Pokhara, which has been hit by various disasters, has now felt some relief. Laxman Subedi, President of the Hotel Association Pokhara, stated that especially during Tihar, domestic tourists as well as foreign tourists are coming in satisfactory numbers. Due to the long holidays and favorable weather, 90 percent of the lakeside hotels are currently occupied.
The arrival of domestic and some foreign tourists who have set off on trips to Annapurna trekking and to Mustang via Pokhara and nearby tourist destinations have added to the increased numbers. This is expected to have a positive impact on tourism not only in Pokhara but also in the entire Gandaki province.
President Subedi noted that there are about 1,200 tourist-level hotels in Pokhara, of which 700 are concentrated in the lakeside and damsite areas. Pokhara’s hotels have the capacity to accommodate about 40,000 guests per night.
Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) Pokhara President Krishna Acharya highlighted the countless beautiful trails in the Annapurna region, which have made this region an attractive destination for trekkers from all over the world. The arrival of domestic and foreign tourists is now encouraging. The TAAN has recently promoted the Annapurna North, also known as the Maurice Herzog Trail.
Furthermore, Restaurant and Bar Association Nepal (REBAN) Pokhara President Bishwaraj Poudel expressed happiness over seeing the encouraging arrival of tourists in Pokhara after a long time. The arrival of tourists during Tihar is better than during Dashain.
Meanwhile, Pokhara Tourism Council Senior Vice President Hari Bhujel cautioned that the arrival of tourism this season alone cannot sustain investment in the tourism sector. He emphasized that the government should have a long-term plan to attract tourism during all seasons. He advocated for a sustainable tourism strategy to keep the sector safe from natural disasters, political instability, and the pandemic.