KATHMANDU, JANUARY 6
The Pokhara Tourism Council (PTC) has launched a QR-based digital storytelling system at 24 major tourist destinations across Pokhara, allowing visitors to access site-specific information by scanning QR codes.
The initiative, which began from Sarangkot, enables tourists to read and listen to short, curated stories about each destination in multiple languages. The content is available in up to 11 languages in text format-including Nepali, English, Hindi, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Russian and Spanish-while audio versions are currently provided in Nepali, English, Hindi, Chinese and French.
According to PTC, the project aims to make tourism interpretation more inclusive, accessible and environment-friendly, reducing dependence on printed materials while catering to international visitors.
The QR storytelling boards have been installed at prominent cultural, religious and natural sites such as Sarangkot, Rupa Lake, Kahun Dharahara, Harihar Gufa (Bhalam), Akala Devi Temple, Sita Cave, Kabi Shiromani Lekhnath Museum, Laxmi Narayan Narayansthan, Bhimsen Temple, Dharmashila Buddha Bihar and Jangchub Choeling Monastery, among others.
Each location features two QR codes-one providing information about the specific site and the other offering details on other must-visit destinations in Pokhara, PTC General Secretary Jivanraj Sapkota said.
PTC Chairperson Taranath Pahari said the initiative would significantly help tourists better understand Pokhara's heritage and attractions, strengthening the city's image as Nepal's tourism capital.
The project has been implemented with support from the Nepal Tourism Board, UNDP's Sustainable Tourism Project, and technical assistance from Sarang Digital, along with local stakeholders.
Founded in 2002, the Pokhara Tourism Council is an umbrella body of tourism-related organisations in the city and has been actively engaged in heritage conservation, lake protection and tourism advocacy. PTC said the QR initiative reflects its long-term vision of building a smart, sustainable and visitor-friendly tourism ecosystem in Pokhara.
