KATHMANDU, JULY 19

The Bardiya National Park (BNP), a popular tourist destination in the far-western Tarai, has recorded a rise in tourist arrivals.

BNP is home to rich biodiversity, attracting visitors interested in seeing tigers, gharials, and various bird species.

Conservation officer at BNP, Purushottam Wagle, informed that the increased arrival of tourists has encouraged tourism enterprises, which suffered greatly during COVID-19 and are now gradually recovering. The rise in tourist arrivals has also contributed to increased revenue.

In the fiscal year 2079/80, BNP was visited by a total of 24,324 tourists, generating revenue of Rs 22 million. The number rose to 26,131 in the fiscal year 2080/81, boosting revenue to Rs 28.4 million.

In response to the increase in tourist footfall, BNP has emphasized better service delivery and tourism infrastructure. Jungle trails have been set up for walks and drives in the park, Wagle added.

Additionally, initiatives have been launched to increase the number of hotels and homestays to ensure sufficient amenities. Both domestic and foreign tourists visit BNP.

Tourism entrepreneur Ramaji Thapa informed that the influx of new visitors has uplifted the local community. Park visitors love Tharu culture, including their cuisine and festivals.

'Foreign tourists are mesmerized by the biodiversity here,' he said, adding that if safari vehicles do not work in BNP, the park rescues tourists immediately.

In the BNP area, there are over 30 tourist hotels and homestays, according to tourist guide Anuram Chaudhari. He also noted that foreign tourists prefer walking to vehicle safaris in the park.