Far-West Nepal's Tourism Potential Hindered by Budget Allocation
Summary
Sudurpaschim’s tourism potential is being undermined by budget spending that is heavily tilted toward temples, religious structures, and scattered infrastructure instead of destination development and service expansion. Stakeholders say the province needs investment aligned with its tourism master plan to create lasting jobs, longer visitor stays, and a stronger local economy.
Key Points
- A report on Sudurpaschim Province says tourism policies and plans are not matching how the budget is actually being spent.
- Most tourism-sector spending last year went to religious structures and infrastructure, including temples, dharamshalas, and boundary walls.
- Experts and stakeholders argue that tourism should focus more on destination management, homestays, services, marketing, and community-based development.
- Officials say the province’s natural, religious, and cultural assets could generate sustainable employment if investment followed the tourism master plan.
