SATV 11 April, Kathmandu: The Koshi Province Government has officially declared 2082 as Koshi Tourism Year amidst an inaugural ceremony. The event took place at RR Garden in Tehrathum district, the heart of the TMJ region in Gurans, and was presided over by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Urban Development, Prakash Man Singh. The declaration has sparked renewed enthusiasm among tourism workers across the province.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the tourism industry has struggled to regain its former momentum, with many entrepreneurs on the brink of bankruptcy or even forced to migrate. However, a new wave of energy and optimism is now evident among tourism stakeholders.
According to Rajan Dangal, President of the Hotel Entrepreneurs’ Association of Koshi Province, the region is poised for a new leap forward in tourism development. “Until now, only the private sector has been promoting and advertising tourism. But with the government now actively involved, there is a renewed sense of hope,” he said.
Tourism entrepreneur Basu Baral from Sunsari echoed this sentiment. “The tourism year has reignited enthusiasm among workers and shaken awake those of us who have been struggling since the pandemic and the earthquake. This initiative will inject new energy into the industry,” he said.
The provincial government launched the tourism year with the primary objective of laying the foundation for development, prosperity, and the promotion of tourism within Koshi Province. Chief Minister Hikmat Karki stated that tourism is a cornerstone of the province’s economy, and the year has been designated to promote tourism policies, highlight destinations, and improve infrastructure.
The government has begun identifying untapped tourism potential throughout the region. Plans are also in place to celebrate Koshi Province Visit Year in 2083, following the groundwork laid this year. Chief Minister Karki also revealed that a list of 82 tourist destinations has been prepared for 2082, all promoted under the slogan “Beautiful Koshi”.
In preparation for an influx of visitors, the Koshi Province Government, through the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Law, is arranging for tourist buses and vehicles entering from India to be issued special stickers at border checkpoints. These will clearly mark vehicles with pre-set arrival and departure dates, aiming to minimise unnecessary delays and inspections along travel routes.
“India remains our main tourist market, but Indian visitors often face lots of hassles. We are actively working to eliminate those issues,” said Tourism, Forest and Environment Minister Sada Nanda Mandal.
From the lowest point in the Arun Valley to the world's highest peaks, Koshi Province boasts a rich array of natural wonders. In fact, five of the world’s 10 tallest mountains lie within its borders. The province is also rich in biodiversity, environmental variety, geographical beauty, and vibrant cultural heritage.
“This year, we’re seeing momentum thanks to focused promotion, infrastructure development, and improved access especially for tourists from India. Koshi Province truly excels in natural, biological, environmental, geographical, and cultural tourism,” said Khagendra Bista, Chairperson of the Hotel Association Dhankuta.
