Nestled in the heart of the Karnali region, Rara, crowned as the best tourist destination, has become the focal point of attention with an impressive surge in tourist arrivals over the last four months. According to the latest statistics from the Rara National Park Office, a total of 4,611 tourists, including 4,490 domestic visitors and 26 foreigners from SAARC countries, explored the breathtaking beauty of Rara from July 1st to mid-October.
Jaihari Dhital, the information officer of the office, expressed enthusiasm over the notable increase in tourist footfall this year. He attributed the rise to a substantial influx of domestic tourists, particularly during the festive season of Dasain-Tihar.
The figures reveal that the revenue generated from this surge in tourism stands at an impressive Rs. 12 lakh over the four-month period. A stark contrast to the previous year, which saw 11,000 domestic tourists, 26 from SAARC countries, and 183 foreign tourists making their way to Rara.
Dhimal shed light on the fee structure for visitors, stating that domestic tourists are charged a nominal Rs. 100 per person, while tourists from SAARC countries contribute Rs. 1,500 per person, and other foreigners pay Rs. 3,000 per person. Notably, 75 percent of tourists opt for air travel, while the remaining 25 percent choose road transportation to reach the captivating destination of Rara.
Despite the increase in visitor numbers, Rara faces challenges in further boosting its tourism potential due to the limited accessibility. With only 25 percent of tourists choosing road travel, the lack of reliable roads and airways has become a bottleneck for the significant expansion of tourism in Rara.
As Rara continues to captivate the hearts of both domestic and international tourists, the surge in arrivals signifies a promising trend for the region’s tourism industry. The allure of Rara’s pristine landscapes and cultural richness promises a bright future for this hidden gem in Karnali.