Tourist Influx Rises in Chitwan Following Two-Day Weekend

Chitwan, May 5: Tourist destinations in Chitwan have seen a rise in visitor numbers following the government’s implementation of a two-day weekly holiday.

According to tourism entrepreneurs in Sauraha, tourist flow has increased significantly in recent weeks, especially after the introduction of the Saturday–Sunday weekend from April 6.

Sauraha has also emerged as a popular venue for seminars, weddings and reception events. Regional Hotel Association Vice-Chair Gunaraj Thapaliya said tourist arrivals have been steadily increasing, particularly on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

During weekends, domestic tourists outnumber international visitors, while on other days, foreign tourists make up around 70 percent of total arrivals. This is a notable rise compared to last year, when foreign tourists accounted for about 40 percent.

Tourism entrepreneurs say that improving road connectivity between Chitwan and major cities like Kathmandu and Bhairahawa could further boost tourist arrivals, as current road conditions remain below expectations.

Ramesh Silwal, proprietor of Hotel Vista Sauraha, said tourist numbers naturally increase during holidays. Similarly, Dipendra Khatiwada, Chair of the United Elephant Safari Operation Cooperatives Ltd, said visitors often have to wait for elephant rides during peak periods. The cooperative operates 25 elephants for safari rides in the mornings and evenings.

Khatiwada said tourist arrivals have increased compared to last year. Sauraha currently has 148 hotels with a capacity to accommodate around 7,200 guests. The area has attracted investment of over Rs 40 billion, generating direct employment for 6,400 people and indirect employment for more than 12,000.

However, tourism activity is expected to decline during the upcoming rainy season, which begins in about a month.

(RSS)