KATHMANDU: Gandaki province has outlined the tourism sector as its primary focus in the budget for the fiscal year 2081/82, as presented on Saturday. The province aims to implement promotional initiatives to showcase key tourist destinations and enhance visitor numbers, both domestic and international. These efforts will be undertaken in partnership with the private sector to leverage collaborative opportunities.
In conjunction with tourism entrepreneurs, the province intends to design various tourism packages aimed at enticing travelers. Furthermore, a "home first and abroad later" campaign will be launched to encourage domestic tourism. Moreover, there are provisions for the development of 11 tourist destinations in collaboration with Pokhara, the tourism hub, and neighboring local levels, indicating a holistic approach to tourism development.
Significant allocations have been designated for the preservation, enhancement, and upgrading of prominent trekking routes such as Annapurna, Manaslu, and Machhapuchhre. This initiative, dubbed "Preservation of Trekking Routes - Promotion of Tourism," underscores the province's commitment to maintaining its natural assets while simultaneously bolstering its tourism sector.
Religious tourism is also a focal point, with resources allocated for the promotion of major pilgrimage sites within the province, including Gajendramoksha Dham, Muktinath, and Manakamana. Additionally, efforts will be directed towards infrastructure development and capacity building for homestays, aiming to integrate rural tourism with production and employment opportunities.
Furthermore, initiatives are planned to promote tourism through cycling, with budgets allocated for the construction of lake-to-lake cycling routes in Jomsom, Bandipur, and Pokhara. Additionally, provisions have been made for training programs to cultivate human resources related to mountain climbing, demonstrating a comprehensive approach towards tourism development. Additionally, recognition and support will be extended to individuals within the province who engage in mountain climbing activities.
.jpg)
