Ecotourism
cannot be separated from sustainable development. According to Swarbrooke (1998
p.56), “ecotourism can be a way to facilitate the sustainable development of
economies and societies in developing countries.” To make ecotourism successful
and to achieve sustainable development in Nepal, it very essential to consider
its major principles and carefully linking with different issues like environmental,
political, economic, social, and cultural dimensions that are also called sustainability
parameters. Nepalese ecotourism policy should focus that some percents of revenue
from tourism must be allocated for the purpose of conservation. But the policy
has not been working as successfully as envisioned. Sustainable ecotourism
should aim to increase local community involvement in the planning mechanism
that can support economic development, environmental conservation, social and
cultural awareness, capacity building, and effective policy implementation.
Ecotourism can be a supportive tool for sustainable development in the Nepalese
context, if ecotourism is diversified to link with other economic sectors such
as agriculture (farming tourism), promotion of indigenous arts and crafts,
cottage industries, and livestock herding.
Monday, July 1, 2013
Introduction of the Study
Tourism
is very beneficial industry in various ways if it is managed carefully. It is
implicit that properly managed tourism will support economic growth and uplift
the standard of lifestyle and also excel other forms of development in the host
communities. If we consider the history of tourism development, humans have
travelled since the beginning of time when ancient people used to move from one
place to another. The purposes of travel were trade, religious obligations,
economic benefits, war, migration, and many others. According to Theobald, in the Roman period,
wealthy aristocrats and high government officials also travelled for pleasure
(Theobald, 2005 p. 145). In this way, the origin of tourism is really very old.
Stronza estimates that the history of modern travel and tourism is about a century
old and that by now humans have to travel to most corners of the planet
(Stronza, 2008 p. 107) and even beyond the planet, known as space tourism.
Tourism has emerged as a gigantic industry which contributes an estimated 3
billion US dollars in annual revenue and about 10 percent of all employment
(Honey and Rome, 2000 p.55). Furthermore, due to the rapid process of
globalization and with the help of new technologies in different sectors, the
figures will definitely increase in the future. According to The International
Eco-tourism Society (TIES, 2002 p.89) and World Tourism Organization (WTO,
2004), by 2010 tourism will have increased to more than 1 billion international
arrivals per year and is projected to increase further to 1,6 billion by 2020
(Holden, 2008, TIES, 2005) (see Figure 1.1).
Conclusion
Ecotourism is very fast growing sector in the world tourism industry. Nepalese tourism
industry also cannot stand without embracing ecotourism. Although the history of ecotourism
in Nepal is not that much long, its importance in Nepalese tourism industry is inevitable
because it can be regarded as one of the best approaches to promote sustainable development
that can be helpful to alleviate poverty by developing local economy and society and also
conserving environment. Furthermore ecotourism in Nepal can be proved as boon for rural
development, social empowerment especially for marginalized groups. Ecotourism principles
basically focus to increase local community involvement in the planning mechanism that can
support economic development, environmental conservation, social and cultural awareness,
capacity building, and effective policy implementation. At the same time it is also necessary
to consider critically that ecotourism also creates many problems such as environmental and
cultural degradation and even economic imbalance (due to inflation and leakage) in local
scenario.
Nepal is unique land of abundance of tourism resources which can only be used properly
through ecotourism. Tourism has been the main foreign income sources of the country and it
also supports the economy of the country. So ecotourism can be a promising industry in
Nepal, if Nepalese government is committed to develop integrated and innovative ecotourism
policy and planning that must address all the existing problems and challenges for better
implementation. Nepal needs effective ecotourism because whole mass tourism of the country
has been creating various adverse impacts such as environmental and social pollutions,
deforestation, and other many and they can only be checked properly if there is ecotourism
practices with holistic planning and innovative leaderships of concerned authorities.
Furthermore ecotourism in Nepal always needs more scientific studies and researches and
evaluation of ecotourism practice and scientific eco-certifications and accreditation system to
the institutions and originations involving in the field. But it seems that Nepal still practises
traditional tourism in the name of ecotourism due to massive policy deficit and various
internal problems that prevent effective application of qualitative tourism which should
emphasize for the ethical encouragement of all stakeholders including tourists, locals, and
tour operators for the promotion of genuine ecotourism. And also there is no special strategy
for conservation and tourism development.
Thus besides various challenges and problems in the fields of ecotourism, it can be a great
opportunity for Nepal if all tourism resources are handled and utilized responsibly and it can
be phenomenal instrument to achieve real sustainable development of the country by
promoting different aspects and sectors – economy, environment, culture, and conservation
procedure.
industry also cannot stand without embracing ecotourism. Although the history of ecotourism
in Nepal is not that much long, its importance in Nepalese tourism industry is inevitable
because it can be regarded as one of the best approaches to promote sustainable development
that can be helpful to alleviate poverty by developing local economy and society and also
conserving environment. Furthermore ecotourism in Nepal can be proved as boon for rural
development, social empowerment especially for marginalized groups. Ecotourism principles
basically focus to increase local community involvement in the planning mechanism that can
support economic development, environmental conservation, social and cultural awareness,
capacity building, and effective policy implementation. At the same time it is also necessary
to consider critically that ecotourism also creates many problems such as environmental and
cultural degradation and even economic imbalance (due to inflation and leakage) in local
scenario.
Nepal is unique land of abundance of tourism resources which can only be used properly
through ecotourism. Tourism has been the main foreign income sources of the country and it
also supports the economy of the country. So ecotourism can be a promising industry in
Nepal, if Nepalese government is committed to develop integrated and innovative ecotourism
policy and planning that must address all the existing problems and challenges for better
implementation. Nepal needs effective ecotourism because whole mass tourism of the country
has been creating various adverse impacts such as environmental and social pollutions,
deforestation, and other many and they can only be checked properly if there is ecotourism
practices with holistic planning and innovative leaderships of concerned authorities.
Furthermore ecotourism in Nepal always needs more scientific studies and researches and
evaluation of ecotourism practice and scientific eco-certifications and accreditation system to
the institutions and originations involving in the field. But it seems that Nepal still practises
traditional tourism in the name of ecotourism due to massive policy deficit and various
internal problems that prevent effective application of qualitative tourism which should
emphasize for the ethical encouragement of all stakeholders including tourists, locals, and
tour operators for the promotion of genuine ecotourism. And also there is no special strategy
for conservation and tourism development.
Thus besides various challenges and problems in the fields of ecotourism, it can be a great
opportunity for Nepal if all tourism resources are handled and utilized responsibly and it can
be phenomenal instrument to achieve real sustainable development of the country by
promoting different aspects and sectors – economy, environment, culture, and conservation
procedure.
Further Research
Ecotourism, in many countries, is still a new concept. In the case of Nepal, ecotourism is in
its adolescent stage, which needs to be studied, investigated, and rigorously analyzed its
practices and overall impacts. Better research helps to get real understanding of important
information about the field. Ecotourism can only be made better in its theory into practice, if
scientific research has been done. However Nepal has lacked technical and skilled manpower
that restrains the genuine research activities in wider perspective (Carlsson, 2001). And also
the policy failed to lead such research in the country. To conduct the research, case studies of
various ecotourism sites should be prepared and qualitative and quantitative data should be
collected.
its adolescent stage, which needs to be studied, investigated, and rigorously analyzed its
practices and overall impacts. Better research helps to get real understanding of important
information about the field. Ecotourism can only be made better in its theory into practice, if
scientific research has been done. However Nepal has lacked technical and skilled manpower
that restrains the genuine research activities in wider perspective (Carlsson, 2001). And also
the policy failed to lead such research in the country. To conduct the research, case studies of
various ecotourism sites should be prepared and qualitative and quantitative data should be
collected.
Innovative Leadership
Without active and creative leadership, ecotourism is hard to practices in developing
countries likes Nepal where there are challenging situations. Government is the main leader
that has to design strategic policies to maximize local participation and genuine involvement
of all levels. Strategy also should focus on marketing and business aspects of ecotourism in
the destinations. It should also emphasize regular monitoring and feedback systems that can
help to evaluate the situation of ecotourism and also helps to promote the real spirit of
ecotourism development. Furthermore the government has a main role to establish peace,
safety, and security that are basic requirements for promoting ecotourism in the destinations.
However, unfortunately Nepal ecotourism policy fails to deliver on these aspects. So
ecotourism is remaining just a dream in many areas where there is maximum opportunities.
countries likes Nepal where there are challenging situations. Government is the main leader
that has to design strategic policies to maximize local participation and genuine involvement
of all levels. Strategy also should focus on marketing and business aspects of ecotourism in
the destinations. It should also emphasize regular monitoring and feedback systems that can
help to evaluate the situation of ecotourism and also helps to promote the real spirit of
ecotourism development. Furthermore the government has a main role to establish peace,
safety, and security that are basic requirements for promoting ecotourism in the destinations.
However, unfortunately Nepal ecotourism policy fails to deliver on these aspects. So
ecotourism is remaining just a dream in many areas where there is maximum opportunities.
Ecotourism Policy in Nepal
The tourism Ministry in Nepal is primarily responsible for tourism planning and policy and
other important tasks like licensing, regulations and overall monitoring. Another important
institution is Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) which also has a significant role in the
development of tourism in Nepal by conducting planning, research, and developing products
and marketing for sustainable tourism. The National Planning Commission (NPC) is also a
key institution which has significant influence in tourism policy formulation. The commission
has regarded tourism as a key sector for economic benefit and poverty alleviation in its five
yearly plans.
It is very implicit that tourism in Nepal is one of the main economic contributors of the
country. Therefore it should be managed scientifically through the formulation of effective
planning and policy to support sustainable development. Respecting this idea, the Eighth Five
Year Plan (1992-1997) had given main emphasis on tourism to boost the national economy
by maximizing foreign exchange earnings and the Ninth Five Year Plan (1997-2002) also
envisaged the policy and implementation strategy for establishing Nepal as a ‘premium
tourist destination of the world’ with introduction of ecotourism including the strategy of
developing village tourism, new trekking sites and other required tourism infrastructure
(NPC, 2003; MOPE, 2004). Furthermore the plan also gave stress to review of tourism
policies, related regulations, institutional arrangements and coordination, and overall
assessment of tourism impacts (ibid).
Also acknowledging the negative impacts of tourism, government of Nepal has also
developed a strategy to promote ecotourism and introduced a legislation of Environmental
Impact Assessment (EIA) in the industry. But the Ninth Plan states that tourism policy
development and implementation is not as easy as it is envisioned in the plan. Thus, Banskota
and et al. (1995) say that the tourism policy and institutional framework is not effective and
the consequence of this brings lack of coordination of supply and demand in which private
sectors of tourism generally aim to earn much more income than on the conservation side
(Banskota and et al, 1995). Lack of policy implementation, especially in the case of
ecotourism in Nepal, creates major problems in the whole industry as well as in other sectors.
other important tasks like licensing, regulations and overall monitoring. Another important
institution is Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) which also has a significant role in the
development of tourism in Nepal by conducting planning, research, and developing products
and marketing for sustainable tourism. The National Planning Commission (NPC) is also a
key institution which has significant influence in tourism policy formulation. The commission
has regarded tourism as a key sector for economic benefit and poverty alleviation in its five
yearly plans.
It is very implicit that tourism in Nepal is one of the main economic contributors of the
country. Therefore it should be managed scientifically through the formulation of effective
planning and policy to support sustainable development. Respecting this idea, the Eighth Five
Year Plan (1992-1997) had given main emphasis on tourism to boost the national economy
by maximizing foreign exchange earnings and the Ninth Five Year Plan (1997-2002) also
envisaged the policy and implementation strategy for establishing Nepal as a ‘premium
tourist destination of the world’ with introduction of ecotourism including the strategy of
developing village tourism, new trekking sites and other required tourism infrastructure
(NPC, 2003; MOPE, 2004). Furthermore the plan also gave stress to review of tourism
policies, related regulations, institutional arrangements and coordination, and overall
assessment of tourism impacts (ibid).
Also acknowledging the negative impacts of tourism, government of Nepal has also
developed a strategy to promote ecotourism and introduced a legislation of Environmental
Impact Assessment (EIA) in the industry. But the Ninth Plan states that tourism policy
development and implementation is not as easy as it is envisioned in the plan. Thus, Banskota
and et al. (1995) say that the tourism policy and institutional framework is not effective and
the consequence of this brings lack of coordination of supply and demand in which private
sectors of tourism generally aim to earn much more income than on the conservation side
(Banskota and et al, 1995). Lack of policy implementation, especially in the case of
ecotourism in Nepal, creates major problems in the whole industry as well as in other sectors.
Basantapur and Adjoining Areas
Basantapur and Adjoining Areas: Being very rich in cultural items and different ethnic
groups with 21 different languages and variety of religious and cultural events, the area is
also very rich with natural and biological diversity. The area is also famous for its
surrounding sites which have immense potential for ecotourism development.
6.3 Dhanusha Dham and Adjoining Areas: The areas lie in the eastern lowlands of the
country. The area is very popular and of religious significance because the place is believed to
be the birth place of Sita, wife of Lord Rama, according to Hindu mythology. And the area
also contains the very famous Janaki Temple, which is well-known as religious destination
for all Hindu people. Dhanusha Dham areas have maximum potential for both cultural and
village tourism which will promote Maithali culture and community (MOPE, 2004). Around
the area there are many potential ecotourism sites. These include the Dhanusha Forest and
the Ram Janaki temple and other many temples of various Hindu gods and goddess.
6.4 Tansen and Adjoining Areas: Tansen, a beautiful place, has many promising tourism
resources, and lies in the middle part of the country. There are various cultural and religious
events and festivals that make the place attractive as an ecotourism site. The area has potential
for ecotourism activities like boating, rafting, camping, rock climbing, bird watching, and
many more (MOPE, 2004).
6.5 Khaptad National Park and Adjoining Areas: This area is the far-western part of
Nepal. It is in a remote region having complex geo-physics and unique ecosystems with rich
flora and fauna. The place has religious and spiritual significance. Although the park has
minimal tourists’ facilities, the place is full of potential tourist activities such as camping,
village walks, cultural visits, rafting, bird watching, skiing, horse riding, trekking, historical
tours etc. Many sites around the park can be developed as ecotourism sites.
6.6 Chitwan and Adjoining Areas: Chitwan, most popular tourist destination, lies in the
central plain part of the country that is linked with all kinds of transport system. Owing to the
park the place has various opportunities for ecotourism development like village tourism,
nature tourism, canoeing, cultural tourism, wildlife watching, jungle safari, elephant ride etc.
Like other areas, it has also potential ecotourism sites around it.
groups with 21 different languages and variety of religious and cultural events, the area is
also very rich with natural and biological diversity. The area is also famous for its
surrounding sites which have immense potential for ecotourism development.
6.3 Dhanusha Dham and Adjoining Areas: The areas lie in the eastern lowlands of the
country. The area is very popular and of religious significance because the place is believed to
be the birth place of Sita, wife of Lord Rama, according to Hindu mythology. And the area
also contains the very famous Janaki Temple, which is well-known as religious destination
for all Hindu people. Dhanusha Dham areas have maximum potential for both cultural and
village tourism which will promote Maithali culture and community (MOPE, 2004). Around
the area there are many potential ecotourism sites. These include the Dhanusha Forest and
the Ram Janaki temple and other many temples of various Hindu gods and goddess.
6.4 Tansen and Adjoining Areas: Tansen, a beautiful place, has many promising tourism
resources, and lies in the middle part of the country. There are various cultural and religious
events and festivals that make the place attractive as an ecotourism site. The area has potential
for ecotourism activities like boating, rafting, camping, rock climbing, bird watching, and
many more (MOPE, 2004).
6.5 Khaptad National Park and Adjoining Areas: This area is the far-western part of
Nepal. It is in a remote region having complex geo-physics and unique ecosystems with rich
flora and fauna. The place has religious and spiritual significance. Although the park has
minimal tourists’ facilities, the place is full of potential tourist activities such as camping,
village walks, cultural visits, rafting, bird watching, skiing, horse riding, trekking, historical
tours etc. Many sites around the park can be developed as ecotourism sites.
6.6 Chitwan and Adjoining Areas: Chitwan, most popular tourist destination, lies in the
central plain part of the country that is linked with all kinds of transport system. Owing to the
park the place has various opportunities for ecotourism development like village tourism,
nature tourism, canoeing, cultural tourism, wildlife watching, jungle safari, elephant ride etc.
Like other areas, it has also potential ecotourism sites around it.
Antu Danda and Adjoining Areas
This area (1,703km2), lies in eastern part of Nepal,
has an abundant of spectacular natural, cultural and historical sites and also vast repository of
biodiversity due to geographical and climatic diversification (MOPE, 2004). The area has
also spellbinding scenic vista of Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu with sunrise and
sunset views. Therefore, concerned authorities should plan to develop the area as an
ecotourism destination that should not to suffer of any negative impacts for long time
(MOPE, 2004).
has an abundant of spectacular natural, cultural and historical sites and also vast repository of
biodiversity due to geographical and climatic diversification (MOPE, 2004). The area has
also spellbinding scenic vista of Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu with sunrise and
sunset views. Therefore, concerned authorities should plan to develop the area as an
ecotourism destination that should not to suffer of any negative impacts for long time
(MOPE, 2004).
Sunday, June 30, 2013
Some Potential Ecotourism Sites in Nepal
There are so many areas which can be developed as ecotourism destinations but due to lack of
strategic ecotourism policy and scientific research, political instability and feeble economic
and social integration, they are lagging behind. As Ninth Five Year Plan (1997- 2002)
recognized the importance and need of ecotourism, since then ecotourism has been influential
issue in Nepalese tourism industry. After realizing the negative impacts of conventional
tourism, Ministry of Tourism and Nepal Tourism Board also focused on the application
ecotourism in other regions apart from major touristic sites like Kathmandu Valley, Chitwan
National Park, Pokhara and other major trekking routes. In collaboration with various
international organizations especially with ADB, Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) conducted
research and feasibility study for the criteria of ecotourism practice in various potential sites
in the country. Some major of them are listed as potential sites which, it can be hoped, will be
developed very soon in the year to come by the government with efficient action plan.
According to report published by NTB and organizations working in ecotourism field, some
major sites have been highlighted as potential ecotourism in the paper bellow:
strategic ecotourism policy and scientific research, political instability and feeble economic
and social integration, they are lagging behind. As Ninth Five Year Plan (1997- 2002)
recognized the importance and need of ecotourism, since then ecotourism has been influential
issue in Nepalese tourism industry. After realizing the negative impacts of conventional
tourism, Ministry of Tourism and Nepal Tourism Board also focused on the application
ecotourism in other regions apart from major touristic sites like Kathmandu Valley, Chitwan
National Park, Pokhara and other major trekking routes. In collaboration with various
international organizations especially with ADB, Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) conducted
research and feasibility study for the criteria of ecotourism practice in various potential sites
in the country. Some major of them are listed as potential sites which, it can be hoped, will be
developed very soon in the year to come by the government with efficient action plan.
According to report published by NTB and organizations working in ecotourism field, some
major sites have been highlighted as potential ecotourism in the paper bellow:
Some Potential Ecotourism Sites in Nepal
There are so many areas which can be developed as ecotourism destinations but due to lack of
strategic ecotourism policy and scientific research, political instability and feeble economic
and social integration, they are lagging behind. As Ninth Five Year Plan (1997- 2002)
recognized the importance and need of ecotourism, since then ecotourism has been influential
issue in Nepalese tourism industry. After realizing the negative impacts of conventional
tourism, Ministry of Tourism and Nepal Tourism Board also focused on the application
ecotourism in other regions apart from major touristic sites like Kathmandu Valley, Chitwan
National Park, Pokhara and other major trekking routes. In collaboration with various
international organizations especially with ADB, Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) conducted
research and feasibility study for the criteria of ecotourism practice in various potential sites
in the country. Some major of them are listed as potential sites which, it can be hoped, will be
developed very soon in the year to come by the government with efficient action plan.
According to report published by NTB and organizations working in ecotourism field, some
major sites have been highlighted as potential ecotourism in the paper bellow:
strategic ecotourism policy and scientific research, political instability and feeble economic
and social integration, they are lagging behind. As Ninth Five Year Plan (1997- 2002)
recognized the importance and need of ecotourism, since then ecotourism has been influential
issue in Nepalese tourism industry. After realizing the negative impacts of conventional
tourism, Ministry of Tourism and Nepal Tourism Board also focused on the application
ecotourism in other regions apart from major touristic sites like Kathmandu Valley, Chitwan
National Park, Pokhara and other major trekking routes. In collaboration with various
international organizations especially with ADB, Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) conducted
research and feasibility study for the criteria of ecotourism practice in various potential sites
in the country. Some major of them are listed as potential sites which, it can be hoped, will be
developed very soon in the year to come by the government with efficient action plan.
According to report published by NTB and organizations working in ecotourism field, some
major sites have been highlighted as potential ecotourism in the paper bellow:
Some Potential Ecotourism Sites in Nepal
There are so many areas which can be developed as ecotourism destinations but due to lack of
strategic ecotourism policy and scientific research, political instability and feeble economic
and social integration, they are lagging behind. As Ninth Five Year Plan (1997- 2002)
recognized the importance and need of ecotourism, since then ecotourism has been influential
issue in Nepalese tourism industry. After realizing the negative impacts of conventional
tourism, Ministry of Tourism and Nepal Tourism Board also focused on the application
ecotourism in other regions apart from major touristic sites like Kathmandu Valley, Chitwan
National Park, Pokhara and other major trekking routes. In collaboration with various
international organizations especially with ADB, Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) conducted
research and feasibility study for the criteria of ecotourism practice in various potential sites
in the country. Some major of them are listed as potential sites which, it can be hoped, will be
developed very soon in the year to come by the government with efficient action plan.
According to report published by NTB and organizations working in ecotourism field, some
major sites have been highlighted as potential ecotourism in the paper bellow:
strategic ecotourism policy and scientific research, political instability and feeble economic
and social integration, they are lagging behind. As Ninth Five Year Plan (1997- 2002)
recognized the importance and need of ecotourism, since then ecotourism has been influential
issue in Nepalese tourism industry. After realizing the negative impacts of conventional
tourism, Ministry of Tourism and Nepal Tourism Board also focused on the application
ecotourism in other regions apart from major touristic sites like Kathmandu Valley, Chitwan
National Park, Pokhara and other major trekking routes. In collaboration with various
international organizations especially with ADB, Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) conducted
research and feasibility study for the criteria of ecotourism practice in various potential sites
in the country. Some major of them are listed as potential sites which, it can be hoped, will be
developed very soon in the year to come by the government with efficient action plan.
According to report published by NTB and organizations working in ecotourism field, some
major sites have been highlighted as potential ecotourism in the paper bellow:
Other Threats
Tourism is a process through which very remote communities of the
world are linked and exposed to a fast growing global economy. If the economy of the
communities is entirely depending on tourism it is a problem since it is a notoriously volatile
economic activity (Buchsbaum, 2004; Honey, 2009). Ecotourism is much more sensitive than
conventional tourism. In Nepal, all types of tourism is also seasonal, ever fluctuating, and
fund based which can anytime affect the tourism. Tourism of Nepal is massively affected by
internal political instability that causes lack of national political commitment for proper
tourism policy. Nepal also has been facing several political strikes which directly affect
Nepalese tourism. Nepal tourism was also badly dropped during Maoist civil war. And the
bad image still has not been repaired. Tourism is very sensitive industry which affected by
various natural and manmade factors such as security issues, natural disasters, terrorism,
political situations, and economic depression. Thus there are always threats to local
communities which are primarily depending on any kind of tourism.
world are linked and exposed to a fast growing global economy. If the economy of the
communities is entirely depending on tourism it is a problem since it is a notoriously volatile
economic activity (Buchsbaum, 2004; Honey, 2009). Ecotourism is much more sensitive than
conventional tourism. In Nepal, all types of tourism is also seasonal, ever fluctuating, and
fund based which can anytime affect the tourism. Tourism of Nepal is massively affected by
internal political instability that causes lack of national political commitment for proper
tourism policy. Nepal also has been facing several political strikes which directly affect
Nepalese tourism. Nepal tourism was also badly dropped during Maoist civil war. And the
bad image still has not been repaired. Tourism is very sensitive industry which affected by
various natural and manmade factors such as security issues, natural disasters, terrorism,
political situations, and economic depression. Thus there are always threats to local
communities which are primarily depending on any kind of tourism.
Marketing and Green Washing
Effective and sufficient marketing is the backbone of
any business and especially in the tourism industry. “The tourism industry has come to view
eco-travel as a marketing tool to attract the growing number of environmentally and socially
conscious travellers (Honey, 1999, quoted in Buchsbaum, 2004).” In recent years many
tourists prefer to support environmentally friendly tourism companies which accept the need
to practise eco-friendly business and attempt to conserve the environment. So Honey also
agrees in these ideas that in recent years, webs of community- based ecotourism projects have
become increasingly important tools for marketing small ecotourism businesses, which are
feasible in every aspect (Honey, 2009). Nepal has potential for many such small scale
ecotourism businesses that can truly help to enhance the overall status of local communities.
Family home-stays, local business, locally- based industry, indigenous products etc., are key
components of ecotourism industry, which can be viable sources of income of local
community. However, there is a lack of a proper marketing strategy to promote such
41
important components of ecotourism development and also they are unable to compete with
intruders from outside markets. Honey also has the similar ideas:
“Although ecotourism strives to empower and benefit local residents and rural communities,
community and rural projects tend to lack the knowledge, business skills, and resources
required to market their products, and thus often required outside support from either
government or intermediaries in order to be success” (Honey, 2009).
In addition, “exploitive ecotourism marketing” and “green washing” are also the major
problems in the Nepalese ecotourism industry. So ecotourism in Nepal is becoming more
capitalistic regardless of the core principles of ecotourism. Many companies involved in it
seem only superficially interested in its genuine practice. The tourists who truly desire to
promote ecotourism are easily misled by half - truths and exaggerations about ecotourism.
Thus in this case, Nepalese local ecotourism projects are always at risk.
any business and especially in the tourism industry. “The tourism industry has come to view
eco-travel as a marketing tool to attract the growing number of environmentally and socially
conscious travellers (Honey, 1999, quoted in Buchsbaum, 2004).” In recent years many
tourists prefer to support environmentally friendly tourism companies which accept the need
to practise eco-friendly business and attempt to conserve the environment. So Honey also
agrees in these ideas that in recent years, webs of community- based ecotourism projects have
become increasingly important tools for marketing small ecotourism businesses, which are
feasible in every aspect (Honey, 2009). Nepal has potential for many such small scale
ecotourism businesses that can truly help to enhance the overall status of local communities.
Family home-stays, local business, locally- based industry, indigenous products etc., are key
components of ecotourism industry, which can be viable sources of income of local
community. However, there is a lack of a proper marketing strategy to promote such
41
important components of ecotourism development and also they are unable to compete with
intruders from outside markets. Honey also has the similar ideas:
“Although ecotourism strives to empower and benefit local residents and rural communities,
community and rural projects tend to lack the knowledge, business skills, and resources
required to market their products, and thus often required outside support from either
government or intermediaries in order to be success” (Honey, 2009).
In addition, “exploitive ecotourism marketing” and “green washing” are also the major
problems in the Nepalese ecotourism industry. So ecotourism in Nepal is becoming more
capitalistic regardless of the core principles of ecotourism. Many companies involved in it
seem only superficially interested in its genuine practice. The tourists who truly desire to
promote ecotourism are easily misled by half - truths and exaggerations about ecotourism.
Thus in this case, Nepalese local ecotourism projects are always at risk.
Regional and Community Development
According to Honey (2009), “ecotourism
had become a significant economic activity, especially in developing countries, and was
being used as a tool for conservation and community development.” Ecotourism, in case of
Nepal, can be used as a tool for regional and community development which is very essential
for the sustainable development of the country where there has always been problem with
regional variation and discrimination. Proper practice of ecotourism can contribute to fill the
gap between different regions of the country and all people will experience development
equally. And dynamic promotion of ecotourism, rural community development can be easily
facilitated by encouraging local investment, enhancing agriculture and empowering socioeconomy
(MOPE, 2004). For example the impressive economic growth of Pokhara, the
development of Annapurna region and fast developing communities around the trekking and
protected areas are the precise examples of how ecotourism play a vital role for fast
community development. However there is always a risk for rapidly developing communities
on the basis of tourism since tourism is not year-round business – it is very seasonal and
susceptibly volatile in relation with national and international situations and scenarios. There
are many factors that determine sustainable tourism development such as security issues,
natural disasters, terrorism, political situations, and economic depression.
had become a significant economic activity, especially in developing countries, and was
being used as a tool for conservation and community development.” Ecotourism, in case of
Nepal, can be used as a tool for regional and community development which is very essential
for the sustainable development of the country where there has always been problem with
regional variation and discrimination. Proper practice of ecotourism can contribute to fill the
gap between different regions of the country and all people will experience development
equally. And dynamic promotion of ecotourism, rural community development can be easily
facilitated by encouraging local investment, enhancing agriculture and empowering socioeconomy
(MOPE, 2004). For example the impressive economic growth of Pokhara, the
development of Annapurna region and fast developing communities around the trekking and
protected areas are the precise examples of how ecotourism play a vital role for fast
community development. However there is always a risk for rapidly developing communities
on the basis of tourism since tourism is not year-round business – it is very seasonal and
susceptibly volatile in relation with national and international situations and scenarios. There
are many factors that determine sustainable tourism development such as security issues,
natural disasters, terrorism, political situations, and economic depression.
International Lending Agencies
There are many international lending agencies which have been supporting ecotourism in
Nepal for a long time. The major agencies are The World Bank, the Asian Development
Bank, and USAID which are lending big amounts for supporting various projects of tourism,
38
and especially ecotourism, in Nepal. Recently the Asian Development Bank has sponsored an
ecotourism project planned together with Nepal Tourism Board. The aim of the project is to
invest in conservation and development by restoring existing and building basic sustainable
infrastructure such as roads, bridges, eco-lodges, schools, hospitals, training centres airports,
parks etc. to promote the numbers of tourists and make their access to new destinations easier.
This has a clear focus of decentralization of tourist destination.
Besides aforementioned key actors of ecotourism, there are many other actors who are also
playing significant roles for supporting ecotourism projects in Nepal. They are Aqua Birds
Unlimited Camp (ABUC), Centre for Development Research (CCODER), Nepal River
Conservation Trust (NRCT), Kathmandu Environmental and Education Project (KEEP), and
Sagarmatha (Everest) Pollution Control Committee (SPCC). Furthermore the tourism
industry itself has formed into more than 20 different industry associations that contribute to
lead the industry into wider scale. There are other NGOs such as SNV-Nepal, DFID,
Mountain Institute and TRPAP that are actively working in promotion of ecotourism in the country.
And other very key institutions are Trekking Agents Association of Nepal (TAAN), Hotel
Association of Nepal (HAN) and Nepal Association of Rafting Agents (NARA). Finally,
tourists, local communities, and the media are also part of the list of key actors of ecotourism
because without their support ecotourism development cannot be done.
Nepal for a long time. The major agencies are The World Bank, the Asian Development
Bank, and USAID which are lending big amounts for supporting various projects of tourism,
38
and especially ecotourism, in Nepal. Recently the Asian Development Bank has sponsored an
ecotourism project planned together with Nepal Tourism Board. The aim of the project is to
invest in conservation and development by restoring existing and building basic sustainable
infrastructure such as roads, bridges, eco-lodges, schools, hospitals, training centres airports,
parks etc. to promote the numbers of tourists and make their access to new destinations easier.
This has a clear focus of decentralization of tourist destination.
Besides aforementioned key actors of ecotourism, there are many other actors who are also
playing significant roles for supporting ecotourism projects in Nepal. They are Aqua Birds
Unlimited Camp (ABUC), Centre for Development Research (CCODER), Nepal River
Conservation Trust (NRCT), Kathmandu Environmental and Education Project (KEEP), and
Sagarmatha (Everest) Pollution Control Committee (SPCC). Furthermore the tourism
industry itself has formed into more than 20 different industry associations that contribute to
lead the industry into wider scale. There are other NGOs such as SNV-Nepal, DFID,
Mountain Institute and TRPAP that are actively working in promotion of ecotourism in the country.
And other very key institutions are Trekking Agents Association of Nepal (TAAN), Hotel
Association of Nepal (HAN) and Nepal Association of Rafting Agents (NARA). Finally,
tourists, local communities, and the media are also part of the list of key actors of ecotourism
because without their support ecotourism development cannot be done.
INGOs, NGOs and Grass-roots organizations
Various INGOs and NGOS are also
key actors for promoting ecotourism in Nepal. Some of the most important international
organizations are the World Conservation Union (IUCN), United Nations Development
Programme (UNDP), the SNV Nepal, WWF Nepal, and International Centre for Integrated
Mountain Development (ICIMOD). These have been playing a pioneer role continuously in
the development of ecotourism through their various conservation and development activities
(Carlsson, 2001; Thapa, 2004). These organizations are also dedicated to enhance the quality
of tourism, which means improvement of tourism products, services and other infrastructure
and reducing negative impacts on Nepal’s natural, social cultural environments.
Besides above mentioned organizations, WWF- Nepal has also been supporting various
conservations programmes in Nepal during the last decades. Today WWF focuses on
integrated and developmental programmes that emphasize sustainable human development. It
also works to address the issues of pollution and environmental hazards. Although WWF
doesn’t have any particular ‘ecotourism projects’ in Nepal, it indirectly supports and benefits
ecotourism development.
key actors for promoting ecotourism in Nepal. Some of the most important international
organizations are the World Conservation Union (IUCN), United Nations Development
Programme (UNDP), the SNV Nepal, WWF Nepal, and International Centre for Integrated
Mountain Development (ICIMOD). These have been playing a pioneer role continuously in
the development of ecotourism through their various conservation and development activities
(Carlsson, 2001; Thapa, 2004). These organizations are also dedicated to enhance the quality
of tourism, which means improvement of tourism products, services and other infrastructure
and reducing negative impacts on Nepal’s natural, social cultural environments.
Besides above mentioned organizations, WWF- Nepal has also been supporting various
conservations programmes in Nepal during the last decades. Today WWF focuses on
integrated and developmental programmes that emphasize sustainable human development. It
also works to address the issues of pollution and environmental hazards. Although WWF
doesn’t have any particular ‘ecotourism projects’ in Nepal, it indirectly supports and benefits
ecotourism development.
King Mahendra Trust for Nature Conservation (KMTNC)
This is an important
national autonomous non- governmental and non- profit organization, although some projects
are either funded or integrated by the Nepalese government. The main objectives of KMTNC
are to assist the government of Nepal in promoting, conserving, enhancing, and managing
protected area management systems, to promote and conduct applied wildlife research in
parks, reserves, and conservation areas, and to raise funds to support conservation efforts in
Nepal (Carlsson, 2001; MOPE, 2004). The Trust’s activities are spread from the tropical
plains of Chitwan and Bardia in the low lands to the Annapurna and Manaslu regions of the
high Himalayas encompassing the Trans Himalaya region of upper Mustang and Manag.
Among these project activities, Carlsson says “ACAP might be considered as most important
and also most well- known conservation project in Nepal” (Carlsson, 2001). ACAP mainly
focuses on the three areas of namely community, tourism development, and conservation.
Some of the major achievements of the project, according to Carlsson, are the installation of
482 back boilers, 569 solar heaters, 40 space heaters, and 708 improved stoves at private
lodges and households with the aim of reducing the stress on forest resources (Carlsson,
2001). The project also supports various other fields such as education, cultural promotion,
infrastructure improvement and health.
national autonomous non- governmental and non- profit organization, although some projects
are either funded or integrated by the Nepalese government. The main objectives of KMTNC
are to assist the government of Nepal in promoting, conserving, enhancing, and managing
protected area management systems, to promote and conduct applied wildlife research in
parks, reserves, and conservation areas, and to raise funds to support conservation efforts in
Nepal (Carlsson, 2001; MOPE, 2004). The Trust’s activities are spread from the tropical
plains of Chitwan and Bardia in the low lands to the Annapurna and Manaslu regions of the
high Himalayas encompassing the Trans Himalaya region of upper Mustang and Manag.
Among these project activities, Carlsson says “ACAP might be considered as most important
and also most well- known conservation project in Nepal” (Carlsson, 2001). ACAP mainly
focuses on the three areas of namely community, tourism development, and conservation.
Some of the major achievements of the project, according to Carlsson, are the installation of
482 back boilers, 569 solar heaters, 40 space heaters, and 708 improved stoves at private
lodges and households with the aim of reducing the stress on forest resources (Carlsson,
2001). The project also supports various other fields such as education, cultural promotion,
infrastructure improvement and health.
Department of National Park and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC)
The
department is a governmental organization which is dedicated to conserving the country’s
major ecosystems, unique natural and cultural heritages. The department has now the
responsibility for 9 National Parks, 3 conservation areas, 3 wildlife reserves, one hunting
reserve, and 11 buffer zones. DNPWC also gives protection to the valuable and endangered
wildlife species and it also promoting scientific research for the preservation of wildlife
genetic diversity. One of the specific activities of the department is to regulate ecotourism to
improve the socio-economic condition of local people (MOPE, 2004). The department is
undertaking some guiding principles such as- i) Conservation of Biodiversity; ii) Promote
37
ecotourism to enhance the socio-economic condition of local community; iii) Scientific
management of National parks, Wildlife reserves, and Buffer zones around the protected area;
iv) Creating awareness to all stakeholders through capacity building process; v) Sustainable
development of infrastructures in the protected area (DNPWC, 2009).
department is a governmental organization which is dedicated to conserving the country’s
major ecosystems, unique natural and cultural heritages. The department has now the
responsibility for 9 National Parks, 3 conservation areas, 3 wildlife reserves, one hunting
reserve, and 11 buffer zones. DNPWC also gives protection to the valuable and endangered
wildlife species and it also promoting scientific research for the preservation of wildlife
genetic diversity. One of the specific activities of the department is to regulate ecotourism to
improve the socio-economic condition of local people (MOPE, 2004). The department is
undertaking some guiding principles such as- i) Conservation of Biodiversity; ii) Promote
37
ecotourism to enhance the socio-economic condition of local community; iii) Scientific
management of National parks, Wildlife reserves, and Buffer zones around the protected area;
iv) Creating awareness to all stakeholders through capacity building process; v) Sustainable
development of infrastructures in the protected area (DNPWC, 2009).
Tourism for Rural Poverty Alleviation Program (TRPAP)
The project is funded by
great international organizations such as UNDP, DFID, and SNV keeping major goal of
alleviating poverty in Nepal through sustainable tourism development policy. Project’s major
focus on basically disadvantageous and underprivileged men and women, lower castes, and
marginalized ethnic groups. The programme also emphasizes for maximum participation of
grassroots for decision making in policy making so that they can get maximum benefit. The
programme is always aiming to design such remarkable tourism model in various touristic
areas to promote sustainable development by enhancing local economy through promoting
various ecotourism activities such as tour guide, local products, home - stay, cottage industry
etc. the project has been successful in its objective in various tourism sites like Pokhara,
Chitwan National Park where local people are more active in their income generation.(
Bajracharaya, 2007)
great international organizations such as UNDP, DFID, and SNV keeping major goal of
alleviating poverty in Nepal through sustainable tourism development policy. Project’s major
focus on basically disadvantageous and underprivileged men and women, lower castes, and
marginalized ethnic groups. The programme also emphasizes for maximum participation of
grassroots for decision making in policy making so that they can get maximum benefit. The
programme is always aiming to design such remarkable tourism model in various touristic
areas to promote sustainable development by enhancing local economy through promoting
various ecotourism activities such as tour guide, local products, home - stay, cottage industry
etc. the project has been successful in its objective in various tourism sites like Pokhara,
Chitwan National Park where local people are more active in their income generation.(
Bajracharaya, 2007)
Ghalegaon – Sikles Ecotourism Project (GSEP)
It is also one of the successful
ecotourism projects of the country, established in 1992, designed by KMTNC and ACAP, and
funded by Asian Development Bank for tourism infrastructure development. The main aim of
the project is to contribute conservation of natural resources and local community
development through responsible tourism. The project has been doing various significant
tasks in the field of nature conservation such as foot trail construction, forest zoning, river
training, sustainable forest harvesting, promoting alternative energy device from solar, micro
hydro projects and fuel efficient ovens (Basnet, 2003).
The project also actively involves with other various activities like sustainable infrastructure
development, school education, community toilets and drinking water programmes, various
trainings related with tourism, vegetable production and leadership training. It also focuses on
capacity building of locals with maximum participation for promoting local cultures and
environmental preservation. According to MoCTCA (2002), the project also support for
various research works for identifying important and rare flora and fauna and non-timber
forest items, socio-economic survey, and biodiversity conservation research with for
utilization revenues collected from entry fee from the tourists.
ecotourism projects of the country, established in 1992, designed by KMTNC and ACAP, and
funded by Asian Development Bank for tourism infrastructure development. The main aim of
the project is to contribute conservation of natural resources and local community
development through responsible tourism. The project has been doing various significant
tasks in the field of nature conservation such as foot trail construction, forest zoning, river
training, sustainable forest harvesting, promoting alternative energy device from solar, micro
hydro projects and fuel efficient ovens (Basnet, 2003).
The project also actively involves with other various activities like sustainable infrastructure
development, school education, community toilets and drinking water programmes, various
trainings related with tourism, vegetable production and leadership training. It also focuses on
capacity building of locals with maximum participation for promoting local cultures and
environmental preservation. According to MoCTCA (2002), the project also support for
various research works for identifying important and rare flora and fauna and non-timber
forest items, socio-economic survey, and biodiversity conservation research with for
utilization revenues collected from entry fee from the tourists.
Tourism Trends of Nepal
Regarding the history of tourism in Nepal, it was pioneered by mountain tourism,
beginning in 1949, which is also the year Nepal opened for tourists (Uppadhaya, 2009).
The connections through direct flights to Nepal from different Asian and European
countries made Nepal a feasible destination for the tourists around the world. Currently,
the tourism industry in Nepal is growing very fast owing to the development of all
necessary infrastructures such as an international airport in Kathmandu, full-fledged
international level hotels, well- connected domestic air and road traffics and establishment
of public and private agencies in the field of travel and trekking. All these activities were
an instrumental force to the development of tourism in the country. The Nepalese
government also regards tourism development as an important support to the national
economy. Tourism contributes with 4 percent of GDP and 16 percent of total foreign
exchange earnings of the country and more it also gave direct and indirect employment to
257,000 people in 1998 (Economic Survey of Nepal from 2007 to 2008 ). The growth of
tourism has been fast in Nepal: in 1960 there were only 4017 tourists, while the number
reached 491,504 in 1999 and is expected to reach one million in 2011 ( Thapa, 2008 and
MoTCA, 2009). The following table reflects the current trends of tourist arrivals of the
country:
beginning in 1949, which is also the year Nepal opened for tourists (Uppadhaya, 2009).
The connections through direct flights to Nepal from different Asian and European
countries made Nepal a feasible destination for the tourists around the world. Currently,
the tourism industry in Nepal is growing very fast owing to the development of all
necessary infrastructures such as an international airport in Kathmandu, full-fledged
international level hotels, well- connected domestic air and road traffics and establishment
of public and private agencies in the field of travel and trekking. All these activities were
an instrumental force to the development of tourism in the country. The Nepalese
government also regards tourism development as an important support to the national
economy. Tourism contributes with 4 percent of GDP and 16 percent of total foreign
exchange earnings of the country and more it also gave direct and indirect employment to
257,000 people in 1998 (Economic Survey of Nepal from 2007 to 2008 ). The growth of
tourism has been fast in Nepal: in 1960 there were only 4017 tourists, while the number
reached 491,504 in 1999 and is expected to reach one million in 2011 ( Thapa, 2008 and
MoTCA, 2009). The following table reflects the current trends of tourist arrivals of the
country:
Ecotourism in Nepal
Eco-tourism in Nepal
Nepal, a small landlocked country, has an area of 147,181km2 (0.3% of Asia) and lies
between two giant nations- China in the north and India in the south, east and west. Nepal
has very typical topography which is occupied by 83% mountains and hills and 17% plain
or lowland (CBS, 2006), which is also known as Terai that is very fertile and feeds the
whole country. The plain also has some popular wildlife sanctuaries and culturally
significant places like the birth place of Lord Buddha.
The population of Nepal is about 27 million (CBS, 2006) that mainly derives from Indo-
Aryan and Mongol race (Thapa, 2005). The country, after being republic, has been
declared as secular in religion. However, still Hinduism and Buddhism are two key
religions which have great impact in the social and cultural fabric of the country.
Currently, for administrative purposes, the nation is divided into 5 development regions,
14 zones, 75 districts, but upcoming constitution may bring great change in this division.
Although Nepal is tiny in its size, it has vast diversity in its topography with great climatic
variations (from tropical to tundra), and diversified natural ecosystems, biological and
27
social settings. Since long ago, due to the fascinating majestic Himalayas, breath-taking
natural beauty and enchanting cultural heritage, Nepal has been a destination centre for
tourists from of all over the world.
Nepal’s protected areas are vast repositories of priceless biodiversity, which includes 863
species of birds, about 640 species of butterflies, 6500 species of flowering plants, 175
mammal species and other important plants species and herbs of medicinal use (DNPWC,
2009). Nepal’s protected areas, which include nine National Parks, three wildlife reserves,
three conservation areas and many buffer zones and hunting reserves are the prime sources
of tourist attraction in the country. The total area of the protected area occupies 28999km2,
19.70 percent and 50 percent visitors come to visit protected areas and it is also believed
that 60 percent tourists’ activities related with ecotourism (DNPWC, 2008). According to
the annual report of DNPWC 2007-2008, total of 265082 tourists visited in different
protected areas and the revenue collected was 1.6 million US dollar (DNPWC, 2009).
The aforementioned trend towards mass tourism in Nepal is starting to produce adverse
impacts in socio- cultural and environmental realm of the host destinations. Thus it is very
crucial time to take action against these impacts by promoting and practising ecotourism as
responsible tourism in the main tourism sites of the country. Realizing these sentiments,
Nepalese government and other tourism authorities have introduced various environmental
and ecotourism projects have been involving in the protected areas of the country. The
main motives of all projects are to preserve unique ecosystem with valuable and
endangered flora and fauna and cultural heritages that are regarded as main constituents of
ecotourism. The following paragraphs are the brief account of major protected areas of the
country:
Nepal, a small landlocked country, has an area of 147,181km2 (0.3% of Asia) and lies
between two giant nations- China in the north and India in the south, east and west. Nepal
has very typical topography which is occupied by 83% mountains and hills and 17% plain
or lowland (CBS, 2006), which is also known as Terai that is very fertile and feeds the
whole country. The plain also has some popular wildlife sanctuaries and culturally
significant places like the birth place of Lord Buddha.
The population of Nepal is about 27 million (CBS, 2006) that mainly derives from Indo-
Aryan and Mongol race (Thapa, 2005). The country, after being republic, has been
declared as secular in religion. However, still Hinduism and Buddhism are two key
religions which have great impact in the social and cultural fabric of the country.
Currently, for administrative purposes, the nation is divided into 5 development regions,
14 zones, 75 districts, but upcoming constitution may bring great change in this division.
Although Nepal is tiny in its size, it has vast diversity in its topography with great climatic
variations (from tropical to tundra), and diversified natural ecosystems, biological and
27
social settings. Since long ago, due to the fascinating majestic Himalayas, breath-taking
natural beauty and enchanting cultural heritage, Nepal has been a destination centre for
tourists from of all over the world.
Nepal’s protected areas are vast repositories of priceless biodiversity, which includes 863
species of birds, about 640 species of butterflies, 6500 species of flowering plants, 175
mammal species and other important plants species and herbs of medicinal use (DNPWC,
2009). Nepal’s protected areas, which include nine National Parks, three wildlife reserves,
three conservation areas and many buffer zones and hunting reserves are the prime sources
of tourist attraction in the country. The total area of the protected area occupies 28999km2,
19.70 percent and 50 percent visitors come to visit protected areas and it is also believed
that 60 percent tourists’ activities related with ecotourism (DNPWC, 2008). According to
the annual report of DNPWC 2007-2008, total of 265082 tourists visited in different
protected areas and the revenue collected was 1.6 million US dollar (DNPWC, 2009).
The aforementioned trend towards mass tourism in Nepal is starting to produce adverse
impacts in socio- cultural and environmental realm of the host destinations. Thus it is very
crucial time to take action against these impacts by promoting and practising ecotourism as
responsible tourism in the main tourism sites of the country. Realizing these sentiments,
Nepalese government and other tourism authorities have introduced various environmental
and ecotourism projects have been involving in the protected areas of the country. The
main motives of all projects are to preserve unique ecosystem with valuable and
endangered flora and fauna and cultural heritages that are regarded as main constituents of
ecotourism. The following paragraphs are the brief account of major protected areas of the
country:
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