The Koshi Province government is making significant strides in enhancing tourism infrastructure to drive economic growth, Chief Minister Hikmat Kumar Karki announced on Sunday. Speaking at the inauguration of the three-day ‘Eastern Travel Mart’ in Apganchhi, Itahari, CM Karki emphasized that tourism is a key pillar of economic prosperity, and his administration is committed to developing the necessary infrastructure to support it.
Government Prioritizing Tourism for Economic Growth
The Koshi Province government has identified tourism as a vital sector for economic progress. CM Karki reiterated that the province is implementing well-planned initiatives to boost infrastructure, attract more tourists, and promote lesser-known destinations. He also assured that collaboration with local governments would be strengthened to further identify and develop new tourist attractions.
“We are taking a structured approach to tourism development, ensuring that our initiatives contribute to long-term economic benefits. Working with local authorities will help us unlock the true potential of Koshi Province as a tourism hub,” CM Karki stated.
Eastern Travel Mart: A Step Towards Tourism Promotion
The ‘Eastern Travel Mart’ is an annual event aimed at showcasing Koshi Province’s tourism potential. Organized by the Nepal Tourism Board with financial backing from the Koshi Province government and Itahari Sub-Metropolis, the event is expected to attract both domestic and international visitors.
Mart organizing secretary Basudev Baral highlighted that this year’s event features foreign tourists from neighboring regions, including Bihar, West Bengal, Sikkim, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. “Visitors will be taken on guided tours to various attractions across the province, offering them a firsthand experience of our cultural and natural heritage,” Baral explained.
Expanding Tourism Beyond Traditional Hotspots
Koshi Province is home to diverse landscapes, ranging from lush forests to scenic hills, making it an ideal destination for eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and cultural exploration. With the province government’s renewed focus on infrastructure, more roads, hospitality services, and tourism-friendly amenities are being developed.
Industry experts believe that these efforts will help decentralize tourism, shifting focus from traditional hotspots like Kathmandu and Pokhara to emerging destinations in the eastern region.
Collaborative Efforts to Strengthen Tourism
The government’s commitment to working with local bodies, private investors, and tourism boards is expected to yield substantial results. Stakeholders are hopeful that improved facilities, increased marketing efforts, and better connectivity will lead to a rise in tourist arrivals, ultimately benefiting local communities and businesses.
Future Prospects and Continued Investments
As Nepal continues to rebuild its tourism sector post-pandemic, initiatives like the Eastern Travel Mart play a crucial role in promoting new destinations and attracting international visitors. The Koshi Province government has pledged to invest further in tourism-friendly policies, infrastructure development, and promotional campaigns to ensure sustained growth in the sector.
With ongoing efforts, Koshi Province is positioning itself as a major player in Nepal’s tourism industry, promising a bright future for the region’s economy and cultural heritage.
For more updates on tourism developments in Nepal, visit Nepal Monitor.
