KATHMANDU, MAY 25
More than 400 domestic and international tourists have visited Banke National Park (BNP) over the past 10 months.
According to Mandip Pangeni, Conservation Officer at BNP, a total of 430 visitors-both local and foreign-explored the park's wildlife and enjoyed homestay facilities operated within the park during this period.
Among these visitors, the highest number was recorded in December with 82 tourists, while the lowest was in July, with just 12.
Only 21 tourists were from SAARC countries. Chief and Senior Conservation Officer Birendra Prasad Kandel noted that while the park has achieved significant success in tiger conservation, more efforts are needed to promote and expand ecotourism.
He added that the park has developed a 200-kilometer forest trail, maintained grasslands, and created artificial water ponds to enhance the experience for both wildlife and visitors. Kandel emphasized the importance of effectively managing safari services, homestays, and nearby hotels to boost tourism.
According to the latest survey, the park is home to 25 adult tigers and hosts a wide range of endangered species. Of the 422 recorded wildlife species in BNP, 34 are mammals, 276 are birds, 24 are reptiles, nine are amphibians, and 55 are fish.
However, the park continues to face several challenges, including illegal poaching, human-wildlife conflict, forest fires, encroachment, the spread of invasive species, and rapid urbanization.
