CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION
1.1. Introduction
The present world has been converted into a global village due to rapid technological
revolution in the field of communication and transportation. Market economy has now
stretched to tourism business calling for fine-tuning their conventional approach to suit the
changing environment in international tourism market. Every country of world is competing
to attract more tourists from the world .They are trying to prove themselves as the most
attractive tourist destination providing various competing tourist product (Shrestha, 1995:pp
77-78). The challenge of marketing goes beyond the success of business. It must also serve
the goals of society. It must act in order with broad public interest. Marketing shares in the
problems and goals of society and its contributions extended well beyond the formal
boundaries of the firm. Tourism being the fastest growing and most competitive industry in
the world it should be marketed just as any other product, in deed more so, because it is an
industry in which the customer still has an immense variety of choice. There are a number of
destinations competing with each other to get a bigger and bigger share of the market. Hence,
tourism marketing is regarded as a central point of whole tourism activities .Today all direct
and indirect promotional activities to sell destination are related to tourism marketing and it
effects all the operations.

Nepal is a small country between two big emerging economic powers, China and India. It is
one of the richest countries in terms of geographical and climatic variation thereby having
varieties of ethnicity, culture, biodiversity and social customs. The elevation of the country
ranges from 60 meters above sea level to the zenith point on earth, Mt. Everest at 8,848
meters, within the average width of 192 km, climatic condition ranges from sub tropical in the
south to arctic in the north. This wide variation has fostered an incredible variety of
ecosystem, the greatest mountain range on the earth, thick sub tropical jungles teeming with a
wealth of wild life, thundering rivers, forested hills and frozen valleys. Likewise, verities of
ethnic group found all over the country especially in local villages, have diverse social
structures and own social customs as well.
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There is a growing debate among Nepalese economists that there is no any other sector except
tourism which can serve as backbone of Nepalese economy. Some of them said that tourism is
the only remaining butter and bread of our national economy. It is one of the most thriving
industries in Nepal. Tourism is important not only from the side of earning foreign exchange
but it also enhances scope for various industrial branches, like hotels, motels, other types of
accommodation, restaurants and other food services, amusement and other leisure activities,
gift shops and large number of other enterprises such as fruit production and processing. So,
tourism has another advantage as compared to merchandise export. Nepal has immense
potential for tourism development; as it is full of places that attract tourists throughout the
world. For the natural lovers and hedonistic people, Nepal can provide many attractions, the
sight –seeing, jungle safari, trekking, white water rafting, sport fishing, bungee-jumping and
so on. The friendly behavior of the innocent ethnic people could be the major attraction of the
country. These reasons have lead Nepal a beautiful destination for international tourists.
Rural tourism is an important aspect of ecotourism that has developed in Nepal. It provides
visitors a chance to observe rural hamlets inhabited by different ethnic groups with exclusive
culture and visitors can stay in typical Nepali village, eat delicious local food enjoy warm
hospitality and comfortable accommodation provided by host family and get to their culture
and tradition. Among Nepal's unique style of ecotourism, the most famous is mountain
trekking. Recognized as a major part of the industry, trekking in the mountains involves
people walking either alone or accompanied with their colleague or accompanied by agents
support staff and staying in either local houses or tents. This type of tourism activity has
proven itself able to spread tourism benefits to area that are only accessible on foot.

Rural tourism as a phenomenon is with river, sun, environment, rural society and household.
It represents conservation, life style, experience, adventure and above as the nature and
adventure oriented benefit to the local people. The objectives of rural tourism include helping
tourists to plan a trip, choose a tour and minimize ecological impact. Rural tourism in which
the villagers are not left as creatures but are always graded as superior beings of their own
circumstances .Rural tourism, being the key strategy for economic growth leads village
economy by generating income, employment and industry. It can also solve unemployment
problem. If appropriate and relevant policies and measures are adopted with adequate

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resources, rural tourism could be a miracle to enhance economic condition of the poor and
under privileged locals.

Trekking around the Annapurna is one of the major tourists' attractions in Nepal. The unique
biodiversity, the scenic grandeur in combination with the multicultural and multi-ethnic
diversity make it the world's most popular trekking destination.

Ghalegaun (locally called Koiulenasa) is situated at an altitude of 2100m, lies to the

northwest of Khudi,a gateway to Annapurna trekking route. Gahalegaun is the first tourism
village in Lamjung district. It was once a domain of Ghale kings before 18th century. The
village has a total of 115 households. The Ghale/ Gurung is the major ethnic group residing in
this village. So the village named as Ghalegaun. One can embrace and feel very much tranquil
environment of benevolent behavior of Gurung community in Ghalegaun. The main attraction
of this village can mentioned as below:
 Traditional culture dance (GHANTU)
 KRISHNA CHARITRA
 Gurung Museum
 Community sheep farming
 Tea garden
 Uttarkanya Mandir
 Handicrafts (Doko, Namlo, Thunsi, Bhakari, Dalo, Ghum, Theki and
Shedho, Puji and Radi, Pakhi, Bhakku, Chakati made from sheep wool and
sacks, mat made from other non timber forest products)
 Traditional home stay
 View of Himalaya range (Manasulu (8163m), Annapurna II (7937m),
Ganesh, Machhepuchre (6693m),Dr.Harka Himal(7835m), Buddha Himal
(6672m), Lamjung Himal (6986m) etc.
 Bird-watching (more than 848 species)
 Talangyo Lake

This tourism village is unspoiled by modernity, pollution and urban bustle. It offers an
excellent gate way from city life for romantic sunrise and sunset, mountain-view and nature

3
view along with bird watching. Because of the above reason it has been recognized as unique
and good destination of SAARC region for tourists.

1.2. Statement of the Problem

Tourism is emerging as the most viable industry of Nepal which acts important role to
generate revenue and for the sustainable development of nation. Similarly it also helps to
change the attitude and behavior of people. But it has some negative impacts too, such as
people may forget their traditions, culture and copy the imported cultures and behaviors.

Natural attractions, cultural values and archaeological beauties are the main attractions to
tourist in Nepal. With possession of such numerous attractions, the potentiality of tourism is
very high in Nepal. However, the potentiality so far does not seem to have been exploited
properly. Although Nepal's tourism potential is vast but factors such as limited air access,
poor infrastructure and lack of appropriate marketing strategy have resulted in limited growth.
(Bhatta ,1997:p4)

The contribution of the tourism sector in the overall national development seems quite
significant. From economic standpoint, there is perhaps no other industry that can make its
impact on the economy of Nepal so quickly as tourism. It would be right to mention that the
number of tourists coming to Nepal is successively increasing year by year. But the foreign
exchange earnings from tourism are not satisfactory. (Satyal, 2000:p55)

Realizing the significant role of tourism in Nepal, the proper development of this sector is
indispensable. Despite various efforts made for its development, tourism has not been able to
develop as desired. (Shrestha ,1997 p.8)

Most of the studies on tourism in Nepal are conducted at macro level and the
recommendations are generalized in nature. But it requires some micro level studies in order
to diversify and to promote distributive justice in tourism sector. In fact, rural tourism is that
profession which can provide equal justice among the people of community thereby raising
their economy leading towards stability. Nepal is considerably entangled with many social,
cultural and environmental problems and its position in terms of various economic and social
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indicators is very deplorable. Only the mere economic growth or opportunities of income
generating activities irrespective of simultaneous improvement in major social indicators like
gender discrimination, violence against women, discrimination and negative attitude toward
many so called scheduled castes, infant morality rate, women mortality rate, malnutrition ,
safe motherhood ,availability of health facilities in time do not shed healthy picture of society.
We therefore need to develop our country from remote deprived rural to comparatively urban
and accessible areas with multidimensional approaches so as to address the above problems of
the country as a whole. As no other remarkable efforts had been made to over come the
poverty, rural tourism focusing towards pro-poor, pro-women could be the most important
future in raising economic condition .The importance of tourism in rural development and in
raising the life standard of rural people can be understood from the linkages between rural
tourism and its effect in a grass root level of a community.

Thus the main purpose of this study is to explore the socio- economic impact of rural tourism
market on local people of Ghalegaun. .In this perspective, a series of questions may be raised
such as;
1. How is the rural tourism market effect on economic status of local people of Ghalegaun?
2. What are the environmental impacts of rural tourism in study area?
3. What are the social impacts of rural tourism in the study area?
4. What are the problems of rural tourism on focused area?
5. When will the flow of tourist meet the expectation of the local people?

Hence, this research is based on micro level with a case study of Ghalegaun tourism village,
which might be a small effort to put forward a brick in investigating the issues regarding rural
tourism and its promotion at macro level. Thus the study is proposed for the improvement and
identifying the problems of rural tourism and its socio- economic impact on local people.

1.3. Objectives of the Study

The general objective of this study is to access the economic impact of current status of
tourism market in Ghalegaun and to identify the factors that can contribute in the
development of its tourism.

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The specific objectives of this study are as follows;
i) To explore the trend of tourists arrival at Ghalegaun
ii) To examine economic impacts of tourism market in the study area.
iii) To identify the problems and prospects of rural tourism in Ghalegaun.
Based on the findings of the study all attempt will be made to put forward some
recommendations for the better improvement of tourism at Ghalegaun and its periphery.

1.4. Significance of the study

Tourism is still an emerging discipline and hence any academic or research work ought to
enrich the existing stock of knowledge on the subject .In fact, tourism is inter disciplinary by
nature. Thus any amount of knowledge may still leave much quarter for further studies.

The significance of the study lies in identifying and highlighting the socio- economic impact
of rural tourism in study area. It basically aims at to examining the aspects of tourism market
in Ghalegaun. The suggestions from the respondents incorporate here in would provide
guidelines for future course of action to be followed by policy maker, local people and any
other who wants to know about it.

1.5. Limitations of the Study

a) This is completely an academic work as the researcher is a student who has no previous
research experience .Thus this could have many short comings.
b) The study is chosen because of researcher’s own interest and relevance.
c) It may not be applicable to all tourism villages in Nepal because of its geographical
situation and the unique features of Gurung community.
d) The study fully depends on the field visit, inspection as well as interviews, responses of
stake holders (i.e. tourists and local people of the study area)
e) The study has been conducted within the given time constraints and financial limitations.

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1.6. Organization of the study
This study has been organized in to seven chapters.
The present chapter provides details to background of study, statement of problems, research
objectives, importance or significance of study, limitations of the study and organization of
the study
Chapter II deals with the review of literature which incorporates conceptual as well as
review of previous study.
Review have been presented under three chapters, where;
Chapter III examines the general description of rural tourism market in Nepal .This
chapter basically aims at analyzing the status of rural tourism in Nepalese perspective.
Chapter IV describes the rural tourism market in Ghalegaun.
Chapter V is devoted to the research methodology where are discussed about the
research design, nature and sources of data, data collection techniques and analysis procedure,
statistical tools used in the study.
Chapter VI is the core of the study, as a delineated discussion is made about the
tourism pattern, its trend, their expenditure and impact and empirical findings are reported.
Chapter VII presents the conclusion and recommendations for sustainable development
of tourism in Ghalegaun

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 CHAPTER- 2
REVIEW OF LITERATURE

2.1 Conceptual Review of Tourism, Rural Tourism and Tourism Market

Traveling is as old as mankind .In nomadic times people traveled and migrated for food and
shelter due to natural compulsion (Tiwari, 1994:1). There is no doubt that the term tourism is
the more developed form of ancient traveling but the objective of traveling has changed over
time. Development of tourism can be related with human psychology. The word new
originated due to human desire .So this desire encouraged traveling.

Prior to the advent of the industrial revolution travel was primarily related to the trade. It was
principally traders, in the early historical periods, who blazed the trail by establishing natural
trade routes and communications, which later extended throughout the region and finally to
other continents .Thus it was trade that first motivated travel in the real sense (Tiwari, 1994:1)
Later the advent of modern means of transport and communication has uplifted tourism by
facilitating and encouraging traveling.

The word 'Tourism' is derived from French word 'Tourisme ' which was originated in the 19th
century .There is no universally accepted definition of tourism till now .Various authors and
concerned organizations defined it in different ways .

Tourism means the business activities connected with providing accommodation ,service and
entertainment for people who are visiting a place for pleasure of recreation (Oxford Learner's
Dictionary ,7th edition ,P:1624) .A tourist is a person who travels for the reasons of leisure ,
business and family matter . A holidaymaker a conference delegate and traveling business
persons are all tourists (The World Book Encyclopedia, 1997:311)

Australian economist Herman Van Schullar gave the first definition of tourism in 1910 AD.
He defined tourism as” the total of operation mainly of economic nature which directly relates
to the entry, stay and movement of foreigners in side and outside of a certain country, city or
region “(Ghimire, 2002:13)
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United Nations Conference on Tourism and International Travel held in Rome in 1963 has
defined that “Tourism was to be conceived of as a fundamental and desirable human activity
desiring the praise and support of all people and governments. Tourism makes use of
resources which may not be used other wise in particular of employed in developing countries
with few or no alternative sources of employment .Beaches ,moors, snowfields are examples
of the economic well being of the areas except through the medium of tourism .It is a highly
complex phenomenon which involves the activities and interest not only of large transport
undertaking ,owners of tourist sight and attraction of various tourist services at the destination
but also of central and local government(Neupane ,2005,p:14)

The word “Tourism" has several meaning. Webster's New International Dictionary defined as
traveling for recreation .Travel may be regarded touristy if it meets with three essential
conditions that must be a) temporary b)voluntary c) not have remunerated employment as it
is given ( Satayal 1999;p:6)

In the Sanskrit literature, there are three terms for tourism derived from the root "ANTA"
which means going or leaving home for some other place. They had three different types of
tourism known as
Paryanta: going out for pleasure and knowledge
Desanta: going out for the country primarily for economic gain
Tirthanta: going out to places of religious importance (Kunwar 1997:p3)

Swiss professor Walter Hanziker and Kurt Krapt in 1942 defined as " Tourism is the totality
of the relationship and phenomenon a rising from the travel and stay of strangers provided the
stay does not imply establishment of a permanent residence and is not connected with a
remunerated activity " (Bhatia ,1994,p: 38)

The Tourism Society in Britain defined tourism as "the temporary short term movement of
people to destinations outside the places where they normally live and work and their
activities during the stay at there destination, it includes movement for all purposes as well as
day visits or excursions " (Bhatia 1994,p: 38)

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Now tourism is a composite phenomenon and it embraces incidence of mobile population of
travelers who are strangers to the places they visit and where they repress a distinct element
from the resident and working population. Tourism represents a particular use of leisure and
form of recreation but does not include all uses of leisure or all forms of recreation. It consists
much of travels but not all forms of travel .Tourism is therefore, distinguished in particularly
from the related concepts of leisure and recreation on the one hand and from travel and
migration on other hand.

Surendra Bhakta Pradhanga defines village tourism as “a grass root level of tourism
designated at its own Nepali village style , mobilized by Nepali people themselves ; their skill
and resources displayed as village life style and environment ,involved by groups of village
tourists ,assigned by Nepali adults authorized positively within its balance of social and
environmental functions and strengthened the village and village economy "

B.M. Dahal published an article in Sunday Dispatch (1997:june22-29 ) on the topic "Village
Tourism" mentioning that "Village tourism is coming up as new concept for the promotion
and development of tourism industry in Nepal and it can give an appropriate momentum to
the tourism sector . This concept is more relevant in the context of a country like Nepal,
which is made up of pristine village and diverse ethnic groups with typical and unique culture
and traditional life style.”

Anil Aryal (2002) in his project report mentioned that "Village tourism means any forms of
tourism that has a village or rural area as destination. The involvement of local community
and the minimization of negative, social, cultural and economic impact should be included.
The village tourism stresses the necessity of the linkage of tourism with the community
economy using local resources and stimulating local products and employment. Village
tourism is understood as tourism to local villages providing home stay and cultural shows and
local people get immediate benefits from tourism (Gharti, 2004p:23)
Tourism is a service as well as customer oriented business. We need certain marketing
strategies to achieve benefits from it. Market is defined as the meeting point between buyers
and sellers’ .It is the most convenient place for the buyers and sellers’ .It is the time or place

10
when and where the ownership of product is transferred .In this way, market is used to
describe the buyers and potential buyers of each products. As the tourism is tangible and there
is not transfer of ownership; it only promise to provide services

Marketing is delivery of a standard of living to society and it starts with the identification of
customers needs and ends with the satisfaction of these needs. According to Krippender J.
“Tourism market means, systematic and coordinated execution of business policy by tourist
under taking whether private of state owned at local regional or international level to achieve
the optimal satisfaction of the needs of identifiable consumers groups and in doing so to
achieve as appropriate return". Thus, tourism market is the process of identifying and
anticipating consumer demands or desires and developing and providing tourism products
and services to fulfill these demands and satisfying both consumer and the organization’s
objectives .

2.2 Scope of Tourism Market

Tourism is the fundamental and desirable human activities worthy of commendation and
encouragement of all the people and all the governments’ .So, it is term as one of the most
laudable human activities .Besides generating economic activities, it involves international
goodwill and understanding. While developing many industries, tourism creates friendship
and expands understanding amongst the nations. Tourism is a medium through which we can
exchange knowledge and create understanding among the people of the world (Satyal,
2000:p.13)
According to Chhetri (2000:p.46) the scope of tourism are as follows
1) Hydrosphere (It consist those attractions which are related to different forms of water like
snow or thermal water. Apart from this it also includes lakes, ponds, river and so on which are
concerned with water.)
2) Lithosphere (It includes the attractions which are found in surface like mountains, cave etc)
3) Astrosphere (It consist monuments, ruins etc. The activities related to culture, religion and
festival belongs to this category.)
According to Acharya (1994:p.118-119) the scope of tourism market can mentioned as below
→Development of industry
→Employment generation
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→Exchange of culture
→Increase in knowledge

2.3. Requirements for Tourism Market Development

One of the most important and crucial part of tourism is the tourism product .It is the product,
which motivates tourists to visit and see certain things in certain destination. The attractions
are those elements in the tourist product which determine the choice of tourist to visit one
destination rather than another interest and tastes of tourists vary. They might choose from a
wide range of attraction available at various destinations all over the world (Bhatia
.1997:p.39) According to Maske ,One World Travel, tourism market is specially depended
upon the availability of sources ,food , recreation, attraction ,beautiful nature ,accommodation
facilities ,communication etc.
Tourism does not exist in isolation. It consist three basic components; transportation, location,
accommodation ( Sinha ,1999:p.34)
Nepal Tourism Board forwards three elements required for tourism market:
a) Tourism patrimony(i.e. inheritance ,heritage)
b) Infrastructure
c) Superstructure
Besides this hospitality, friendliness, human warm security, belonging are also required.
(Palikhe, 2004:p28)

2.4 Challenges on Tourism Market Development

Many hand ships have been faced by tourism sector in Nepal. The most requirements for
tourism development and the specifically uttered privation in Nepal are transportation,
accommodation (lodges, hotels) and communication facilities. Although the development of
tourism, as a major source of foreign exchange earning and employment generation its
expansion and development is not satisfactory.
According to Nepal Tourism Board, the challenges of tourism market as follows;
a) Limited accessibility and drawing power of destinations.
b) Dispersion and poor quality attractions and senates.
c) Conflict among internal communities.
d) Bureaucratic over regulation.
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 e) difficulty in identifying markets .etc
According to Shrestha (1997:p.262) the considerable challenges of tourism market in context
on Nepal are as follows;

2.4.1 Infrastructure
The proper development of tourism in Nepal is concerned with provision of physical
infrastructure. The bad road condition ,poor quality of transport ,lack of rest places in
highways ,lack of adequate accommodation are the great challenges for tourism market .Air
accessibility is also hurled in Nepal (Sthapit 1996:p.31). We need to take concrete steps to
boost the arrival of tourist.

2.4.2 Political Situation and Stability of Government

Political uncertainties also have adverse effect on tourism market .Even the condition is
improving in following days, it is not favorable because of instability of government.

2.4.3 Cut Throat Competition

Because of unhealthy competition between the travel agents, the hoteliers and the tour
operators the cut throat competition is arising. Due to liberalization policy of the government
the mushrooming of service providing agencies could not be checked which also create the
situation of cut throat competition. From the next side, it is also noted that the number of
trekking agents in past few year is increasing in geometric progression. This creates the cut
throat competition among the trekking professionals and it virtually affects the service.

2.4.4. Environmental Pollution

Every one needs peace and clean environment. Unplanned and unregulated tourism activities
may pollute nature, culture and social environment. The ever deteriorating condition of air
pollution and environmental degradation are certainly a source of anxiety to all. Because of
the condition the foreign tourist who would like to travel to Nepal cancelled their plan as they
would not like their health and hygiene to be in jeopardy.

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2.4.5 Lack of Enough Budgeting
The budget separated for the development of tourism is insufficient. It is one of the great
challenges to manage budget to reform the tourism business. Government should manage
enough budgets to the tourism industry for proper marketing and to increase competent
capacity.

2.4.6 Promotion Strategy

Nepal's tourism has been overly depending on traditional markets. Market promotion is
mostly based on word of mouth. Most of the foreign tourist visit Nepal on their own interest.
Nepal has no coherent overseas marketing. The Department of Tourism has very limited
promotional budget and sort of expert staff. Most of the promotional activities are done by the
private sector. It shows that Nepal has not been able to make adequate effort to promote
tourism market. Due to the lack of proper strategy to implement for the promotion of tourism,
it is not being able to attain the targeted level of foreign tourist

2.4. 7 Lack of Trained Manpower

Here is lack of professionally trained manpower to operate the tourism business, in Nepal.
The shortage of competent manpower has serious impediment for the development of tourism
sector.

2.5 Reviews of Previous Studies

Tourism is regarded as an important industry to all economies regardless of their level of
economic development. It is an export industry and helps to correct any adverse trade
balances in as economy.

Nepal is probably one of the most fascinating and beautiful countries in the world. The
spectacular scenery of the world's highest mountains in notched only by the spiritual and
artistic achievements of its population. Being the birth place of Lord Buddha, Nepal attracts
those who are interest in its rich culture and tradition. But also those who want to hike
through the country, appreciating its varied people and many unique customs (Burger,
1979:12).

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In his Ph.D. thesis entitled The Economic Impact of Tourism in Nepal. An Input Output
Analysis (1978) Viet Burger concludes two major groups were identified, pleasure tourists
and trekking tourists. Trekking tourism offers for more scope for regional development than
pleasure tourism, because these people's intent is to visit regions outside of Kathmandu and
the standard required to meet their demand are lower and area easier to provide with local
resources. Trekking tourism offers more scope, especially for a few selected regions, and
policies designed to better integrate it into local economies will widen trekking tourism's
economic impact. Burger suggests that we should give emphasize on those tourist who stay
for short time in general longer staying tourists spends less per day than tourists staying only a
short time. Perhaps the most widely used argument favoring expansion of tourism is that it
earns foreign exchange and thus supports the balance of payments.

Rudra Prasad Upadhyaya (2003) in his Ph.D. dissertation entitled "Tourism as a Leading
Sector in Economic Development of Nepal" has highlighted the importance of tourism in
economic development for the promotion and development of tourism sector in Nepal,
Upadhyaya's suggestions are as under:
 Various dimensions of tourism need to be highlighted from time to time.
 For rapid and sustainable expansion of tourism sector quantity and quality of tourism
infrastructure need to be constantly monitored.
 Nepal should be able to attract tourists from diverse income groups by catering their
respective needs and presenting Nepal as the destination for all types of tourists.
 Government must define develop strategy to promote rural tourism to enhance
employments and to reduce widespread poverty and regional inequality.
 Film shooting must be encouraged as it is in practice in Switzerland, Thailand and
Maldives, which will be helpful in promoting Nepal's tourism globally.
 We have to open and develop new trekking routes that can contribute to the employment of
rural economy, help to increase living standard of people in remote area and the income
obtained remain in the local community.
 Legal framework must be made to facilitate the growth of tourism sector of the economy.
This study concluded that if tourism sector is given proper attention, it has the potential to
promote overall economic development of the Nepal. This sector has an edge over commodity
sector like agriculture and industry.
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Kunwar (1997) in his book Tourism and Development Science and Industry Interface states
that there is no doubt that travel opportunities can enhance the quality of human experience in
spiritual as well as material ways, as withes the sections headings used in a well-known book
on tourism. Here it is shown the important characteristics of travel.
 Travel is recuperation and regeneration.
 Travel is compensation and social integration.
 Travel is escape.
 Travel is communication.
 Travel is broadens the mind.
 Travel is freedom and self-determination.
 Travel is self-realization.
 Travel is happiness.

In this book, he has provided very important insights of tourism management of Himalayan
region. In order to develop sustainable tourism in the Nepal Himalayan region, the areas
should be developed under the theme of four management prospective first and foremost; the
camp site of trekking route should be properly managed in the development contexts. This is
known as comp site management. After the managements of camp, these areas along the
trekking trail should also be properly managed. If this would be properly managed the whole
trekking areas can be properly protected. To protect the area is to prefect its nature and
cluster. This is called protecting management. Thirdly, if visitors could be topologically
categorized and be sent to the proper places, this policy will be further enhanced to preserve
both culture and ecology on one side and to keep balance environment on the other side. This
is known as visitor's management. The fourth one is known as research management tries to
give his view about ecotourism as, "For tourism to and in natural areas, recently a new
concept, ecotourism is introduced the use of this concept is not unambiguous. In the past few
years, many definition of ecotourism have been introduced. The definition varies from a
description of nature tourism to a broader definition where by not only the activities of the
tourist are involved but also elements such as the conservation of eco-system and sustainable
development". He also adds "Ecotourism seems to be a catch word that means many things to
many people. To some it means ecologically sound tourism to others; it is synonymous with
nature tourism. Ecotourism is both these things but it must go a step further. It must be a force
16
for sustaining nature resources. Ecotourism is nature travel that advances conservation and
sustainable development effort".

Ananda Ghimire (2002) in his book Travel and tourism has given more information related
to the tourism. Tourism is related to traveling and is naturally a human character. Man needs
change and travel provides the change. During primitive period travel was there but tourism
was not there. The primary motive of their travel was trade and commerce or pilgrimage or to
explore. The basic concept of tourism 'Pleasure to Leisure' was not there. When people
learned to travel for pleasure, the concept of tourism was started. Learning to differentiate
between work and Leisure create tourism. So tourism is related to the movement of people
from one place to another for the purpose leisure.

He used different techniques to calculate the economic impact of tourism. Mainly he has
explained about multiplier effect and input-output analysis. Ghimire further describes about
tourism as it is a compound of different elements. It doesn't exist in isolation. To understand
tourism is necessary to know about the various components which together make tourism.
Tourism is made of 4A's as follows:
(i) Attraction
(ii) Accessibility
(iii) Accommodation
(iv) Amenities

Ecotourism and nature based tourism have become mainstream in recent years and are widely
acknowledged to be a valuable part of the general product mix. Encompassing soft adventure,
culture, activity wildlife, village and rural tourism, ecotourism is based on the outdoors,
usually in remote and unspoiled natural or cultural surroundings. This interest has come about
largely because, over the past two decades, an awareness of the environment in which we live,
a concern for the fragility of the plant and an appreciation of tradition cultures has spread
from the concern of a few to a pre occupation amongst many educated travelers (National
Ecotourism Strategy, 2002, p.16).
Chauhan, Yashwanta Sing (2004) in his book 'Ecotourism in Nepal' has mentioned that in
the area of tourist concentration, deforestation due to increasing fuel needs, pollution of

17
streams and haphazard waste of disposal are becoming evident in he developed towns. The
tourists flow is quite high and will increase further in the future. It sees necessary that some
remedial and improvement measures be taken before the environment becomes further
polluted, and natural resources are over exploited,
Major findings of the book are:
 In Nepal there is no other source of foreign earnings than the tourism, it contributes 25
percent in its total GDP.
 Maximum number of tourists are coming from India and lowest from Australia, so we can
say that the maximum tourist are coming from developing countries and lowest from
western developed countries. So due to this Nepal is earning less foreign exchange.
 Maximum number of tourists arrives in the month of October because the climate is very
pleasant in this month.

Chauhan interviewed with 800 tourists, tourist guides and officers of tourism in the month
October. From this experience he concluded that:
 The 80 percent tourists said Nepal is a beautiful place for tourism and 20 percent said it is
all right. So for these 20 percent Nepal government has to develop more tourist places and
facilities to attract them with the help of remote-sensing.
 60 percent tourists said that the facilities are not adequate. They complained about the
cleanliness in hotels, about waiters, traffic and transportation.
 80 percent tourists said that they are aware about the concept of ecotourism.
 80 percent tourists said that people of Nepal are friendly with them but 20 percent
complained about their hostile behavior.
 50 percent tourists told that tourist departments and the tourist guides have friendly
behaviors with them, also provide proper details and information about the tourist places
but 50 percent complained about their hostile behavior.
 40 percent tourists gave positive results for not breaking the branches of trees or plucking
flowers but 60 percent gave negative result which is dangerous for ecology.
 25 percent tourists gave positive results about not teasing the animals but 75 percent gave
negative result which is very harmful for faunal diversity of Nepal.
 80 percent tourists know about the air and water pollution acts but practically found that
these tourists are not obeying these acts properly. 20 percent do not know about these acts.
18
So, above results are positive towards the ecotourism in Nepal but still we observed many
problems associated with tourism and environment.
He has enumerated following recommendations for promoting ecotourism in Nepal. They are.
 Trekking permits should be given on the basis of carrying capacities of the area.
 Tracks and trails at higher altitude should be properly regulated as to geology and
structure.
 Suitable places for toilet facilities should be provide along the main tracks and halting
places.
 Proper arrangement for litter dumping and waste disposal should be made.
 Group leaders of trekking parties, Sirdars and local people should be fully educated about
environmental matter and hygiene.
 Alternate energy resources (Solar, biogas and hydropower) should be provided to protect
and preserve the remaining forests. The use of efficient stoves should be promoted to
reduce firewood consumption.
 The trial or road sides be planted with soil bindings trees to check soil erosion.
 Tourist Education programme (TED) should be enforced in the mountain areas so as to
protect the area from further determination.

Dhungana, Sujita (2006) in her Master dissertation of Tourism in Nepal. A Study on

Ecotourism in Tansen derived the following major conclusions.
 Tansen has very high potentiality of developing tourism and ecotourism.
 Even though this place has got such a high potentiality, no significant tourist activities are
carried out in Tansen. There is high need of recreational activities to attract the high
numbers of tourist.
 Physical facilities like accommodation, transportation, food and beverage, are at
satisfactory level. All these facilities need improvements.
 There is lack proper coordination among the hotel operators, tour operators and local
government bodies for the development of tourism business in Tansen.
Besides these conclusions she recommends as following:
 More extra activities are necessary to encourage tourist to stay longer. So systematic
paragliding spot development is necessary.
19
 Due to hilly region landslide occurs frequently here in the highway of Tansen so to
encourage tourist to visit Tansen an airport is of utmost need.
 There are various potential trekking and hiking routes. So these be developed as favorite
trekking and hiking route.
 There are very few websites related to Tansen and tourist destinations of Tansen. So
internet promotion of tourist destinations of Tansen is recommended as it is very effective
way of promotion.
 There need proper coordination among local government bodies, hotel operator and tour
operator for the promotional activities and development of ecotourism/tourism of Tansen.

Dhakal, 2002 in his dissertation of M.A. Ghandruk is a model village of eco-tourism in the
world. It has received international awards for ecotourism. Here the ecotourism signifies
traveling relatively undisturbed and uncontaminated natural areas with specific object of
studying, admiring and enjoying the scenery and its wild plants and animals as well as any
existing cultural area in which the conservation of ecosystem and protecting of biodiversity is
aimed at. The desired types of tourist visited the protected area and the organization and the
organization and legislation of the tourism development support sustainable tourism
development. Nowadays, the popular slogans of ecotourism define as environmentally and
socially responsible tourism. This minimizes degradation of natural environment, cultural and
socio-economic conditions and provides economic benefit to local people through
employment and services.

Poudel Gharti, Bishwow Randhir, 2004, in his master thesis Village Tourism in Nepal: A
Case Study of Bandipur has described about the sustainability and the impacts of tourism in
Bandipur. At the time of conducting this thesis, the income generation from tourism is not
satisfactory. Neither the distribution of income nor the employments generated from tourism
is encouraging. So, it is necessary to make active participation of all local respondents in this
sector, it will be better in the from of 'community based village tourism' like in Sirubari. If
majority of local residents work in this sector being aware of tourism industry and its benefits,
they can certainly increase tourist revenue and its equal distribution. It will also help local
people to drive tourism activities in a sustainable way. The development of tourism has
negative as well as positive impacts upon the society but locals should minimize the negative

20
impacts and maximize the positive impacts. Thus, the Bandipur has wide and bright prospect
of tourism development, which shall be actualized to increase the income of local people.

Dhakal, Gagan Sharma (1998) in his master thesis Ecotourism in Nepal: A Case study of
pokhara Valley. Kaski District, Nepal describes the positive impact of tourism as, increasing
the tourist arrivals have had several physical and socioeconomic impact in popular tourist
areas as pokhara. Vegetation degradation, pollution, changes in socio-cultural values. Are
negative impact caused by tourism. Healthy and varied natural and socio-cultural environment
are the basic resources of tourism. To develop ecotourism, he recommends the following
points.
 Attempts should be made to conserve the natural and cultural entity.
 Hotels development activities should be checked and monitored.
 The tourist traders, guides and local people must be learned about moral values and
conservation education.
 Revenue, which collected from different touristy places, should be spent in maintenance of
those areas.

Sapkota. K.R. (2004) in his M.A. Thesis entitled Ecotourism as a Means of Poverty
Alleviation in Nepal tries to analyze the ecotourism as a strong means of poverty alleviation in
Nepal. In his research, he concludes that there is considerable ecotourism potential in Nepal
with respect to protected areas and heritage sites and that ecotourism significantly contributes
to poverty alleviation in our context.
 A lot of visitors are attracted of Nepal because of its bio-diversity. This makes the country
a destination of endless opportunities for nature loving tourists.
 In Nepal, tourism is a perennial source of foreign currency earnings and a means of
survival for thousands of people directly or indirectly dependent of this industry.
 In a country like Nepal where there has been little infrastructure development. Particularly
in the remote rural areas, ecotourism has helped to spread income and enrich the local
economy.
The study recommends the following points for enhancing ecotourism
 Conservation of resources and maintenance of natural environment must be clear priorities
for ecotourism.
21
 Further efforts are needed to reduce visitor concentration in Kathmandu and divert visitors
outside the valley.
 While Nepal is famous as a trekking and mountaineering tourism destination it could be
promoted as a major pilgrimage destination as well.

Tourism Master Plan formulated by Ministry of Commerce and Industry (1972) has focused
the potentiality of sightseeing and trekking as well as combination of both. This plan provides
and comprehensive policy suggestion for the tourism sector. It was the first detail document
for tourism in Nepal. Tourism master plan had provided guideline for tourism development in
Nepal. The plan shows the potentiality of sightseeing tourism, trekking tourism, recreational
tourism as well as internal pilgrims in the country.

Upadhyay, (2006) in his article entitled "Don’t ask for the dopes but close the holes" posted
on 'Vision of ECOSS' has given some data of tourism donation and its effectiveness. In the
article, he speaks that sound governance is an imperative for overall human development and
in its absence poverty alleviation, let alone elimination is impossible. Therefore, the
establishment of legitimate, accountable, honest people, centered, truly democratic,
meritocratic, capable, stable, effective and efficient governing mechanism is the most
fundamental necessity for poorly resources based and land locked country like Nepal. In
Nepal, in his article, resources don't seem to be major constraint for the promotion of
sustainable tourism. There were 16 major donors who had invested around US$330,005,975
or NRS. 20,345,388.375 in preservation of environment in Nepal fro, 1996 to 2001. IUCN
had within the frameworks of this period allocated US$500,000 for national conservation
programs which was to be carried out on nationwide basis. ICIMOD seems to have projects
like mountains natural management at Kavre for which US$ 318360 had been allocated to
landslide mitigation. On nationwide basis UNDP seems to have specific focus upon
environment reservation programs as well. It had a budget of US$ 3,600,000 earmarked for
bio-diversity conservation in Nepal. USAID has allocated US$2,555.205 in the from
environmental grants. WWF had allocated US$ 39130 for ACAP, US$ 83,478 for Sagarmatha
pollution control and US$ 886,875 for Kanchanjanga conservation. The main concern of the
day is that the people should be made as to where such huge investments have gone.
Unfortunately, even after the down of democracy, people are not entrusted with right to

22
information especially n such sensitive issues pertaining to the accountability and
transparency of foreign investment. This is correct time that our government has to overcome
more open in their attitude, think about happiness and welfare of all Nepalese people and
country as a whole sincere visit outside the valley. In order to reduce visitor's concentration in
limited site the village hinterland should be linked with the main trekking routes wherever
possible. This can help to better spread tourism benefits.

Bajracharya, (2006) in his article entitled "Inter cultural influences and Tourism" has
highlighted the role of tourism in economic development for the country like Nepal. Poor in
resources; tourism has become an important sector for foreign exchange earning as well as
major employment generator. It is estimated that tourism sector employs over 200,000 people
directly and indirectly.

At present, the sector is contributing roughly 24 percent of the total foreign exchange of the
country (4 percent of GDP). It also contributes 100 million US dollar tax revenue to the
government treasury. But the earning form tourists are highly dependent on the problems
besetting the host country also, however, for a country like Nepal which doesn't have
abundant resources. The tourism sector is expected to continue to play dominant role but not
without negative impacts.

Upadhyay, Rudra (2004: 16) in his paper entitled Tourism and Regional Development
presented on NTTR opines that regional imbalance can be removed through various measures
related to tourism. He further states that tourism has tremendous growth potential as it
stimulates the growth of overall economy. Tourism offers an opportunity for foreign exchange
at a low social cast. It can help in solving chronic economic problems like unemployment,
regional disparity and poverty in less developed countries. The economically backward region
may have resources like scenic beauty and cultural heritage that can be mobilized as an
attraction to the tourists. Both the developed and developing countries have been already
realized tourism development could be a proper means of reducing the regional imbalances of
the country. Balanced regional development through development of tourist industry is no
doubt a means of sustainable and regional development of each.

23
Subas Niroula Director, NTB, in his vision paper entitled Tourism Development in Nepal:
Our challenges and Strategies presented in NTB have highlighted various aspects of tourism.
This paper is divided into two parts. In the first part he has mentioned about tourism
development in Nepal and in the second part he has attempted to present existing challenges
and future strategies to be undertaken by Nepal.

In above paper Mr. Niroula has opined that tourism is the fastest growing largest industry
worldwide. It creates demand for multiple goods and services having a strong multiplier
effect. Roughly, the contribution of tourism is 4 percent of GDP. It covers 11 percents of total
foreign exchange earnings. More than 4 lakhs people of Nepal are directly employed in
tourism. Presenting about global trends, he mentions that tourism accounts for 10 percents of
the world GDP. It provides job to over 230 million people worldwide. Tourism and travel
business will generate US$ 1 million pull in 2007. Emerging concepts like pro-poor,
community based, participatory and sustainable tourism in Nepal's product strength.
Tourism industry has so many challenges:
 The terrain is a bottleneck and limited accessibility of air transportation.
 Lack of awareness and understanding among people and even policy level.
 Creating the inventory of qualified human resources.
 Inadequate funds for constant vigorous marketing and adherence to traditional
marketing.
 Poor implementation of plant and programmes by the government.
 Challenges related to public private partnership (PPP).
 Regional and global challenges.

To overcome these challenges, Subash Niraula has prescribed some strategic options. Product
development strategy, marketed and promotional strategy service development strategy,
resources generation and mobilization strategy and some of the strategy that the government
should follow for the betterment of tourism sector.

Rabi Jung Pandey, National Program Manager for UNDP/TRPAP, in his paper entitled
"Rural Tourism Development Phenomenon and Marketing Concepts" has given insight
concepts about the development phenomenon and marketing concepts of rural tourism. In first
24
part of his paper he has emphasized the understanding of tourism's role in economic
development. According to him, while on planning, in developing countries like in Nepal, for
tourism development, the planners are usually seen to focus on and try to have comparative
study on tourism and economic development predominantly on two major themes: (i) the
economic cost benefit of tourism and (ii) the measurement of tourism's economic impact. He
has termed rural tourism as an idiosyncratic concept. Rural tourism is a complex multifaceted
activity that includes farm-based holidays but also comprises special interest nature holidays
and ecotourism, walking, climbing and riding holidays, adventure, sport and health tourism,
hunting and angling, education al travel, arts and heritage tourism, and in some areas, cultural
and ethnic tourism. He has linked rural tourism with the development of community. As rural
tourism is a major from of community based tourism, which usually seeks to promote
initiatives of local communities or individuals that are the important components of pro-poor
tourism and have generated the most useful lessons on pro-poor strategies.

The poor are more vulnerable to the main negative impacts, such as conflicts with other
livelihood strategies through loss of natural resources, and vulnerability due to local inflation.
To make the tourism activities more pro-poor, certain principles need to be adhered:
 Poor people must participate in tourism decisions if their livelihood priorities are to be
reflected in the why tourism is developed.
 A holistic approach need to be followed to uplift the livelihoods of the poor-that concerns
the recognition of economic, social, environmental, and short - term and long-term needs.
 Requite some more analysis of the distribution of both benefits and costs.
 The pace or scale of development may need to be adapted; appropriate strategies and
positive impacts will take time to develop; situation are widely divergent.
 Commercial viability needs to be sought.
 Leaning from experience is essential.

On the second part of the paper, Mr. Pandey focuses on the marketing of rural tourism. He
terms marketing and selling two different terminologies. Role of government and private
sector's on marketing and promotional activities have also been mentioned in detail.

25
Upadhyay in his paper entitled, A case study of rural tourism in Sirubari, Bandipur and
Ghalegaun: has rendered the profound findings of rural tourism regarding case studies of
Sirubari, Bandipur and Ghalegaun.

Rural tourism has been recognized as an important tool for poverty alleviation. Although it
has been encouraged by incorporating rural tourism in government's plan as policy, its
progress is rather moving at a glacial pace. Since the Ninth Plan (1997-2002) till the Interim
plan (2008-2010). Rural Tourism has been given utmost importance. Owing to rural based
structure, Nepal has many destinations where community based rural tourism cam be
promoted. Sirubari, Ghalegaun and Bandipur are at the forefront of rural tourism model. The
success stories of these three are now being replicated in other destinations too. He compares
the tourism of Nepal as oil which plays the most vital role in every aspects of the economy.
Some strategic recommendations put forward by Dr. Upadhyay are listed as under:
 Conduct an extensive survey in all 5 development regions of Nepal to speculate and
identify the potential of rural tourism.
 Convert Tara Gaun Development Board as Nationa Rural Tourism Development
Committee;
Establish Rural Tourism Development Bank to provide soft micro loans to expand and
standardize the tourist services.

Nabin Pokharel in his paper Tourism as a Socio-economic Force has defined the tourism as a
complex combination of various tangible and intangible components. Analysis of socio-
economic importance and future prospects of tourism needs careful study of various impacts
of tourism on people's life and global tourism trend. Tourism creates significant opportunities
of economic and employment and serves as an effective means to save culture, traditions and
environment. It helps promote awareness, education and understanding among the people of
society. Though challenges and threats upon culture, traditions, environment and economic
resources can arise because of tourism, a careful planning and operations of tourism activities
can mitigate these negative impacts. The rich biodiversity and traditions and culture of Nepal
are very promising factors for uplifting socio-economic status of the country. Moreover,
analysis of different parameters measuring the contribution of tourism in national economy,
either in GDP or foreign exchange earnings, or others, needs a careful study as the parameters

26
and present general understanding about them is very inconsistent and unclear. Nevertheless,
tourism ranks a respectable position in the analysis of presently available parameters.

There Year Interim Plan (2008-2010), prepared by National Planning Commission aims to
average 5.5 percent economic growth, lower incidence of poverty by 7 percent from 24
percent, increase per capita income by 3.3 percent on annual average and set a target of
limiting inflation to 5.6 percent during the plan period. The interim plan aims to spend
Rs.587.7 billion.
Tourism policies under three year interim plan (2008-2010) are:
 By introducing new tourism area and tourism product, employment opportunities and
economic activities will be promoted.
 Information of physical and non-physical cultural heritage will be collected throughout
the country.
 Airport in remote areas will be constructed; expanded and reformed.
 Construction of an international airport will be initiated. As per necessity, new airport in
regional and local areas will be developed and constructed.
 Existing literature, art, language, music and other cultural heritage will be preserved and
promoted.
 By increasing the volume of local people participation in tourism industry, poverty will
be minimized.
 Specific identification of Nepal will be preserved by promoting cultural, archaeological
and religious assets.

Upadhyay, R.P., in his research report A Study of Rural Tourism in Nepal: Measures to
Minimize The Negative Impact MoCTCA implied the rural tourism as the tourism showcasing
rural life, art, culture, and heritage at rural locations, thereby benefiting the local community
economically and socially as well as enabling interaction between the tourists and the locals
for a more enriching tourism experience. The different models of rural tourism in Sirubari,
Ghandruk, Bandipur, TRPAP, Ghalegaon are described thoroughly.
Tourism for Rural Poverty Alleviation Programme (TRPAP) is the only pilot programme
initiated in a large scale as to achieve sustainable tourism development in extremely rural
areas of the country and to help alleviate poverty in those regions. The fact still remains that
27
TRPAP was initiated during the country's most difficult time in terms of tourism. Although it
was said that the project was initiated to alleviate poverty by instituting tourism in the far and
remote areas of the nation, it, however, could not reach its target due to the countries most
difficult political and its adverse impact on the country's tourism.

Any kind of tourism ultimately brings some negative impact in economic, socio- cultural and
environmental sectors. The promotion of positive impact while simultaneously minimizing
the negative ones should be a prime objective of tourism development in the country.
Undoubtedly, tourism has brought immense positive effects to change the economic status of
people, help develop many remote areas in terms of socio-economic perspective. Still, there is
urgent need to think of negative consequences and design the measures to minimize its
magnitude. Otherwise, the tourism attractions of the country gradually ahead towards peril.
Community based tourism can be effective in many cases where is a need for creating
effective ownership feelings for tourism resources. For any type rural tourism, either that is
community based tourism like Sirubari village tourism or general type like Ghandurk, there
must be a serious effort to judge the negative impact caused by tourism development. To
gauge the magnitude of negative impact and help take further corrective measures, sets of
indicators have been suggested. The periodic survey of indicators can help manage tourism
development in a sustainable manner.

Marianne Heredge (2005) in his research article Tourism Development and Local
Communities: A Case of Mountain Tourism in Nepal Suggested that, the goal of tourism in
Nepal should be to improve the living standards of the people. In practice, the benefits from
tourism are concentrated in the hands of a few people, typically based in Katmandu. Small
scale alternative forms of tourism could be developed to help spread the economic benefits of
tourism to local communities too. She concludes that, relying on tourism along to generate
growth is problematic; expectations are disappointed when it is found not to be the answer to
poverty and when the negative impact of tourism is seen to outweigh the benefits. Earnings
fluctuate when there is global recession seasonality and political disturbances make tourism
very unreliable. In particular the political problems in Nepal during the past decade have been
tourist numbers in 2005 drop to one tenth of those who came in 1999, a peak year for visitors
to Nepal. Political stability and peace is required before tourists will come back to Nepal in

28
the numbers seen in the late 1990s. The number of people visiting Nepal has been increasing
form just over 6,ooo arrivals in 1962, to a peck of just under 500,000 arrivals in 1999.
However arrivals fell to 361,000 in 2001 (WTO, 2003:134) and by 2005 were being quoted at
around 50,000. Escalating political unrest in Nepal has deterred many tourists from visiting.
In particular, during the spring of 2005 and perhaps again in the spring of 2006, the state of
emergency and escalating violence, strikes and tensions means that visitors are avoiding the
risk of coming to Nepal income earned from tourism should always be seen as a
supplementary way to earn income. Many people leave agriculture to seek employment in
tourism, causing problems when the growing season coincides with the perk season for
tourism. However, tourism can form a valuable supplement to agriculture and contribute to
economic diversification. There are often comparative advantages in terms of climate,
mountains, ecotourism and cultural heritage sites that can be useful in developing tourism. By
diversifying the tourism product of offer and by involving local communities so that they are
in control rather than outsiders from abroad to Katmandu, a variety of small- scale tourism
services could be developed. This could serve to attract tourists who might otherwise not visit
and the income earned would benefit local people.

Ram Hari Dahal in his article Tourism Development Plans in Nepal focuses tourism as a
means of eliminating poverty and enhancing social welfare. He states that tourism is playing a
vital role in strengthening the national economy of Nepal. Tourism has attested itself as one of
the major sources of national income of the country. Tourism is the only viable sector in
Nepal that currently can help eliminate poverty and thereby can make great contribution
towards the social well being of our increasing number of unemployed educated youths of this
country. Tourism is one of the most important foreign exchange earning sectors. Though there
are lots of problems to expedite the growth of tourism. For tourism development in Nepal,
government accorded priority to tourism in every plan though all targets were not achieved.

Upadhyay (2008) in his report 'A Case Study Of Rural Tourism in Nepal' incorporates some
points of TRPAP carried out in different rural areas. "Pro-poor Rural Tourism Initiatives and
Its Sustainability in Nepal, 2007" the research highlights published by TRPAP is found useful
for analysis. It encompasses highlights and abstracts of 21 research studies done within the
TRPAP regions throughout the country, most of which belong to the academic works by the

29
Masters' and Ph.D. students, those consisting students of different departments of Tribhuvan
University and others as well.

Household Socioeconomic Surveys in TRPAP Areas performed and published by TRPAP in

partnerships with NTB; Tourism Resource Mapping Profile of Chitwan, 2006; Rural Tourism
Guide Book: and TRPAP Annual Report of 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006, including the
other contemporary reports are reviewed consequently.

A TRPAP publication entitled "Nepal's Experience Implementing Sustainable Tourism

Development Models" concludes; The Chitwan Chepang Hills Trail is an easy four to seven
days trek in the middle hills designed to complement the popular wildlife safari experience in
Chitwan National Park and extend visitor stay from Sauraha. Features including the culture
of the nomadic Chepang people, forest based hunters and gatherers, home stays and
gatherers, home stays and cultural performances are available. It further averts: community
participation is central to TRPAP's approach, and is used as a tool for alleviating poverty
engaging local bodies, strengthening environmental conservation empowering disadvantaged
groups and women, and social mobilization.

TRAPA's publication, "Pro-poor Rural tourism initiatives and Its Sustainability in Nepal, The
Research Highlights" includes one specific research on "Development and promotion of Agro
tourism Industry in Chitwan District, with special reference to TRPAP Area". It illustrates,
Agro tourism can bring about some rays of hope in lives of the rural people by diverting the
tourists to those areas, where there is range of agricultural activities, services and amenities
provided by the farmers and rural people in order to generate extra income for their business.

Similarly, a German Nationals' thesis entitled "Tourism as an Instrument to Alleviate Poverty

in Nepal: A Case of TRPAP" concludes Tourism projects, with the goal of maintaining
sustainability and alleviating poverty can only be achieved successfully if in the
implementation, all the demands are fulfilled. The researcher (Ms. Angela Bergner,
University of Pad born and Germany) also suggests that education measures are essential to
minimize sociocultural effects and into strengthen awareness for the community. Tourists also

30
need to be taught in adequate behavior towards local cultural traditions, so that negative
socio cultural effects can be avoided from both sides.

However, the Project Completion Report of TRPAP (2007) states, "Chitwan was popular for
wildlife and jungle safaris is in the national park, so TRPAP sought to develop a trek and
cultural circuit in the eastern hills to appeal the tourists from Sauraha and lengthen their
stay" . If further illustrates, "The Chitwan Chepang Hills trail is the model of ethnic
inclusiveness, although the Chepang Community was the highlight, over ethnic groups were
also involved."

2.6. Research Gap

There exists a gap between the current research and the previous researches which are
selected for the review. All of the selected previous researches have been conducted in
general or the previous studies were focused on the overall aspects of rural tourism as well as
of other area except Ghalegaun. It means no case study has been yet conducted on this topic
with such a concrete analysis. But the purpose of present research is to explore the economic
impact of rural tourism market in case of Ghalegaun which might be a milestone for the
development of tourism in Ghalegaun.
Hence, the present study tries to fulfill the prevailing research gap.

31
 CHAPTER-3
RURAL TOURISM MARKET IN NEPAL
3.1 General Background
Villages are the actual façade of Nepal which represent the existence of the country in the
world map. Since they preserve their culture, life style, values, institutions and traditions, they
are the real face of our country. However, the youths from nearby villages are attracted to the
urban lifestyle. The number of people living in 3915 Village Development Committees
(VDCs) exceeds 86 percent of the total population in the country. Farming is the major
economic activity of the people living in village and non farm activities are very rare. The
ultimate result is mass poverty, hunger, disease and deprivation. This has led to translated into
greater dissatisfaction, causing hill to terai and rural to urban migration, foreign employment
and so on. These problems have greater implication in the national economy in both the short
and long run. The escape from these miseries is no doubt the development of non farm
economic activities in the rural areas including rural tourism. (Poudyal; 2065)

In the context of Nepal the concept of rural tourism is quite new concept. The major
constrains that appear in the development of rural and mountain tourism in Nepal has been the
lack of basic infrastructure and poor quality and management of its supply components. At the
same time, the urban areas are becoming extremely polluted and congested and are lacking a
peaceful and pleasant environment. In such a situation rural community are attracted to the
tourism industry as an alternative income sources.

Rural tourism is a relatively new concept as well as must be an integral part of the whole
tourism scenario and also to be looked upon as supplementing the whole effort, which is of
interest not only to those in the tourism industry but also to the professionals, policy makers
and local communities as a potentially uncreative mechanism for conserving the natural
resource base. The objective of rural tourism despite often ambiguous is to attract tourists to
natural areas and use to revenues for local conservation and economic activities.

Government of Nepal proposed eleven model tourist villages to be spread out among the
various geographical divisions of the country. Only a few tourist village have come up

32
including Sirubari at Syangja district, Ghalegaun at Lamjung district, which have been
practicing as community based rural tourism like Sirubari as taken to households as sampled
since 20 Baishakh 2058 B.S. and also. Khasur, Siurung, Raginass, Ghanpokhara, Bhujung,
Pasgaun, Village are being practice as model tourist village at Lamjung district. Likewise
Thulo Persel and Kartic Deuraligaun in Kavre, Ghandruk, Siklesh, Dhumpus in Kaski, Parbat,
Chitwan, Mustang, Manang, Dang, Pyuthan, Ilam and Taplejung.

Nevertheless, Nepal Tourism Board has adopted a policy of expanding rural tourism all over
the state, and plans to develop rural tourism as an industry for poverty alleviation. Likewise,
Nepal Village Resort Private Limited has been devoting to improve rural base tourism since
1997.

3.2 Definition of Rural Tourism

Rural tourism is a complex multifaceted activity. It is not just farm based tourism. It includes
farm based holidays, eco tourism, walking, climbing and tiding, adventure, sports, health
tourism, hunting, fishing, educational travel, are and heritage tourism and ethnic tourism.
(Kunwar; 1997)

Farm based tourism may not reduce productivity on many farms. Additional tourism earnings
may be invested to increase agricultural productivity. Therefore, farm surpluses could
continue to grow, leading to falling prices and quota restrictions, and further round of farm
problems. In this evolving situation, two myths have grown up about the role of rural tourism.
One is that rural tourism is farm based or agro tourism. The second is that diversification into
tourism will 'save' the farming community. But a farm based rural tourism development seems
to requite effective co-operative marketing and development efforts. (Upadhyay; 2008)

Some definitions given by different persons or institutions are outlined as;

(a) Initiative that are owned by one or more defined communities, or run as joint venture
partnerships with the private sector with equitable community participation, as a means of
using the natural resources in a sustainable way to improve their standard of living in an
economically viable way;

33
(b) Community based tourism is understood to be tourism initiatives that are owned by one or
more communities, or run as a joint venture with the private sector with equitable
community participation, as a means of using natural resources in a sustainable manner to
improve their living standard in an economic and viable way. (Source: Department of
Tourism, Botswana- http;//www.botswana- tourism.gov.bw)
(c) Community-based tourism is a form of tourism where the local community has a
substantial control over and involvement in its development and management; and a major
proportion of the benefits remain within the community. (Source; Worldwide Fund For
Nature, WWF- http;//www.wfn.nl)
(d) Community based tourism is also called 'village tourism' or 'homestays' According to
REST, community based tourism is tourism that takes environmental, social and cultural
sustainability into account. It is managed and owned by the community, with the purpose
of enabling visitors to increase their awareness and learn about the community and local
ways of life. (Source; Responsible Ecological social Tours- http;//www.rest.or.th)
(e) Led by local citizens, community based tourism groups enable visitors to explore the
country's history culture, national traditions and ecology, whilst assuring them that their
impact is socially and environmentally responsible. (Source: Kyrgyz Community based
Tourism Association (KCBTA), Community based Tourism Guidebook-
http;//;www.cbtkyrgyzstan.kg)
(f) A form of tourism in which a significant number of local people has substantial control
over and involvement in its tourism development and management. The major proportion
of the benefits remains within the local economy. (Nicole Hausler,
http;//www.mascontour.info)

Tourism, in fact, in rural area is rural tourism. It is a common thought of tourist going and
coming to rural areas for relaxation in village which helps developing the rural economy.
Thus rural tourism has the special meaning and significance. Rural tourism starts from
"village stay concept". Rural tourism is in favor of village stay tourism that explores the
unknown things, endangered species, before never inexperienced adventures and never
imagined products hidden in and around the rural areas. There are generally four attributes viz
differentiation, uniqueness, specialty and peculiarity in rural tourism. In brief rural tourism is
a prudent way to integrate national and local level development. (Upandhyay;2008)

34
3.3 Concept of Rural Tourism
Rural tourism is both need based and right based concept. More particularly it is need based
approach because rural area needs to have more jobs created and revenue to be generated.
However, most of the author has concluded that Rural Tourism is need based. However, to
our opinion, it is also right based. Development of tourism calls for even distribution of
income from tourism. Moreover, the possessors of the richness of our culture and nature is
with the village and they should have right to claim for development of rural tourism for their
sustainable development. The rural community needs to have developed the alternative more
productive non-farming activities to switch off the excess labor force from less productive
farming sector. Agriculture sector has less multiplier effect with weak backward economic
linkage and this sector has very marginal impact to other sectors bearing high multiplier effect
and productivity. But due to our geographical feature, our natural resources and cultural
heritage can pore to have comparative advantage in tourism sector.

The concept of rural tourism was started by club Mediterranean, with the view that people
who live and work in cities need holidays in totally different surroundings. The club
Mediterranean started its first 'Vocation Village' on the Spanish Island of Majorca in 1990
(Kunwar, 1997). Similarly, the best example of planned and programmed rural tourism
development in Nepal can be seen in Bandipur, Dhampus, Ghundruk, Ghalegaun, Nangi,
Bvriddim, and Sirubari villages as a new agenda in travel and trade tourism industry.
(Upadhyay; 2005)

Rural Tourism helps to create employment and income for the community through tourist
catering services such as trekking, guiding, touring, expedition and entertaining and so on.
Besides, rural tourism can generate indirectly other non-farm economic activities such as
micro business enterprises, local arts and handicrafts, food processing enterprises, teashops,
and other niche marketing in the community.

In recent years, the rise of the Free Independent Travelers (FITs) seeking a non-resort based
or rural holiday, has now added a new dimension in the travel and tourism industry. This
trend towards holidays in the rural areas has considerable potential as a tool for economic

35
generation in such areas. This is the major reason why many countries which have rural
remits have began to develop an interest in rural tourism development. (Pandey; 2008)

The rapid environment crisis in urban area mostly in Kathmandu has been further widening
the scope of tourism outside the urban areas. The stress and strain of modern urban life have
turned a number of holiday's makers to countryside visitors for peace and rest. Charms of
agriculture and farming, culture evolve with harmonious relationship with nature attracts
visitors to farms. Buying and ownership of second home in rural of increased income, more
leisure time and the wish to escape from the pressure of urban life have made Agro-tourism
popular these days. Nepal should therefore develop its tourist destinations in the potential
rural areas to move our tourism from where it is now to where it could be. In this direction
rural tourism is the only preferable option for market out tourism industry the true sense and
to out maximum advantage. Hopefully the idea will be looked upon favorably by the planners,
policy makers and decision makers in the field.

Agro-tourism is new concept for Nepal. It is expanding sector around the world. It is an
economic activity that occurs when people link travel with products, services and experiences
of the agriculture and food system. The concept of agro tourism is a direct expansion of
ecotourism, which encourages visitors to experience agricultural life at first hand. Agro
tourism is gathering strong support from small communities as rural people have realized the
benefits and sustainable development brought about by similar forms of nature travel. Visitors
have the opportunity to work in the fields alongside real farmers and wade knee deep in the
sea with fisherman hauling in their nets. Agro tourism is the specific rural tourism focusing an
agricultural diversity. Variety of produces like mushroom, hone-production, different organic
farming practices for vegetables production. Fishing, hunting, medical plant cultivation,
agriculture related fair and festivals, boating, swimming, horse rifling, bird watching, cook
fighting, visiting different nurseries, herbal farming, botanical garden, ploughing with pair of
bullock, Lakhe Nanch, Bag Jatra, different culture and society, different Hat Bazaars, rivers
sports and stream basins and hostility and amicable welcome that attracts both internal
domestic and international foreign visitors. Lane, Bernard in this book "What is Rural
Tourism, has presented a list of contracting features between urban tourism and rural tourism
as under:

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 Table 1: Difference between Urban and Rural Tourism
S.N. Urban Tourism Rural Tourism
1. Little open space Much open space
2. Settlement over 10,000 Settlement under 10,000
3. Densely populated Sparsely Populated
4. Built environment Natural environment
5. Many indoor activities Many outdoor activities
6. Infrastructure intensive Infrastructure weak
7. Strong entertainment based Strong individual activity base
8. Large establishment Small establishment
9. Nationally and internationally owned Locally owned business
firms
10. Much full time involvement in Tourism. Much part time involvement
11. No farm/forestry involvement Some farm/forestry involvement
12. Workers may live for from work place Workers often close to the work place
13. Rarely influenced by seasonal factors Often influenced by seasonal factors
14. Many guests Few guests
15. Guest relationship anonymous Guest relationship personal
16. Professional management Amateur management
17. Many modern buildings Many older buildings
18. General in appeal Special in appeal
19. Broad marketing operation Niche Marketing
Source; Bernard Lane; 1993:15 Cited Upadhyay, 2008: 43-333.

Thus rural as a concept is connected with low population densities, open space, with small
scale settlements, generally of less than 10,000 in habitats, farming, forestry and natural areas
dominate land use. Societies tend towards traditionalism, the influence of the past is often
strong, and government policies lean towards conservation rather than radical change,
Now, we can argue that rural tourism in its purest from should be located in rural areas,
functionally rural world's special features of small-scale enterprise, open space contact with
nature, heritage, traditional societies, traditional practices. Local foods, daal, vegetables, team
37
rural is scale - both in terms of buildings and settlements and usually small scale, traditional in
character, growing slowly and organically and connected with local families. It will often be
very largely controlled locally and developed for the long term welfare and happiness of tea
real; of many different kinds, represent the complex pattern of rural environment, economy,
history and location.

In the Ninth-Plan the following policies and strategies have been incorporated for the
development of rural tourism:
 Tourism activities will be promoted in the village that can benefit to the rural people
directly as well as indirectly. Resource rich village for tourist attraction will be
developed into tourist centers. One village in each of the 14 zones will be developed as a
model village this plan period.
 Private sectors and local agencies will be involved and encouraged in the sector so that
more revenue can be generated.
 Investment of the public and private sector will be gradually increased to create basic
infrastructure solely on the basis of per planning and zoning of few feasible tourist
spots.
 Temples, monasteries, buildings national sites of historical religious and cultural
significance will be preserved, well develop and utilized as tourist spots. They will be
registered as national heritage, participation of general and local for this conservation.
 Local VDC and municipalities will preserve the tourist area of cultural, natural,
historical and religious heritage.
 Non-government organization that work for upliftment of ethnic groups by utilizing
their ethnic cultural heritage will be encouraged to design and implement various
projects than can generate income for the ethnic groups by utilizing their ethnic culture
heritage.
 Government of Nepal, Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation has declared Sirubari
Village, Syangja as a first model tourist village in 1998.

3.4 Objectives of Rural Tourism

 To achieve maximum human welfare and happiness through sustainable socio-
economic development of rural areas.
38
 To reduce growing poverty, inequality and regional imbalance.
 To establish and sustain the cottage and small scale industries based on local resources.
 To establish and develop the micro-business enterprises, local arts and crafts, food
processing enterprises, tea shops, and others in the community.
 To learn positive things from visitors.
 To preserve the social and cultural heritage of the rural community.
 To generate employment and income for the villagers.
 To impress the visitors from our customs, traditions, human values and guest friendly
behaviors.
 To revitalize demolishing local art and crafts.
(Source: Upadhyay, 2008)
The policies and strategies and objectives out lined in the Ninth Plan clearly indicate that the
government is quite serious in developing the rural tourism. This is, in fact, a positive sign.
However it has to be seen how these will be translated into action. Progress in the earlier
plans of Nepal there exist a wide gap between government’s plan and achievements.

3.5. Importance of Rural Tourism

In order to prevail peace in the country the economic status of all the people should
satisfactory level. In fact, we can conclude that peace is not the result of only negotiation
made amid political parties or other groups but is the result of economic growth. The fruit of
development should reach to all the people, still more specifically to the under privileged rural
people who constitute an important part of the nation. There could be many processes or
techniques that help rural people increase their economy but rural tourism is that only single
industry which raises the economy of villagers in fast pace and in every stratum of the society
directly and indirectly.
Basically the word rural reflects the remote undeveloped village and the poor and under
privileged people residing in. Therefore, the rural tourism should be in favor of least
developed stratum of the community as well. As in food chain of an ecosystem, every element
of the economic chain should be equally developed so as to develop the community as a
whole. In Sirubari, 40 Gurung house owners are affluent who are rendering the facilities of
home stays to tourists and are getting more benefits solely. But on the other hand, Sarki -
Kami - the so-called lower caste in community who are already destitute are getting no
39
benefits from such type of rural tourism either. A man can't be considered as healthy if he has
got a small problem in his any body part. Similarly, if one of the most important parts, the
Dalit community, is not getting reimbursement from the tourism, the whole community won't
be uniform and might create more chasm between haves and haves-not. So, the benefits of
rural tourism should reach to every element of the society.

Some can regard the tourism of Dhampus and Ghandurk as rural tourism. Actually these are
not examples of rural tourism but are lodge based tourism, in these villages tourists stay in
hotels/lodges rather than home stays. This means lodge/hotel owners will get benefits but
other rural people who don't run such hotel/lodges won't be benefited. This kind of tourism
would never be able to alleviate the poverty out of the community. But, in case of Ghalegaun
home stays are available instead of hotels/lodges. Every house owners who are providing the
services of home stays could earn and other people not currently running home stays are
involved in other activities like farming, cultural/traditional programs, tour guides, porters etc
are also getting benefits directly or indirectly to some extent. The Dalit communities of
Ghalegaun are not involved in the tourism business. There is an urgent need to involve them
too in this business as soon as possible.

We always tell that we are poor because we are landlocked and the country is very small. In
this globe, there are so many countries smaller than Nepal and lacking natural resources, now
becoming rich in economy. The opulence of a country doesn't depend upon the availability of
natural resources but on the attitude of the people living in. We have diverse cultures,
customs, family values and support geographical structures and bio-diversity which could
make us one of the opulent countries in the world if these are managed properly. For example,
Maldives, a small island country, has a per capita income of US$ 2410 which become
possible through rural tourism. But in our case, it is only US$ 470. Almost all villages of
Nepal are potential for rural tourism which could play a crucial role in increasing the per
capita income of Nepalese people as in Maldives.

Rural tourism is one of the important features of the Ninth Plan (1997-2002). It has been
emphasized on the development of a Model Village in each development region. The Tenth
Plan (2002-2007) has given continuity to the concept of Rural Tourism with its declared

40
policy of poverty alleviation. Recent Three Years Interim Plan (2007-2010) has also spelt out
various rural development programmes and policies to be completed within the time frame. In
tune with committed policies of Government of Nepal different INGO's such as UNDP, DFID
and SNV/N have come forward with financial and technical support. In this regard a unique
and pilot programme called Tourism Alleviation Programme (TRPAP) was jointly organized
by the Nepalese Government together with above mentioned INGO's with the objective of
addressing poverty alleviation through pro-poor sustainable tourism in Nepal. TRPAP was an
important pilot program, which began in September 2001 and ended by June 2007. It covered
48 VDC's of 6 districts. TRPAP spent over 70 millions US$ in its project of five and half
years 2001 to 2007 (Upadhyay, 2008). Though such a huge amount has been spent no
remarkable significant changes have been seen in the field of rural tourism.

There is no doubt about the significance of rural tourism in the development of a nation. Rural
tourism is the top industry in the economic development of rural people in a quick manner so
why priorities should be given on it and fundamental requirement for the development or rural
tourism should be mentioned in constituency of Nepal and should be implemented
accordingly. Major requirements are;
 Safety and security for travelers.
 Fundamental physical infrastructures like linking road, communication lighting system
etc.
 to facilitate and design the implementation of the tourism project
 marketing within or beyond the nation
 Environment conservation programs.
The flow of tourists to the rural areas has enabled many small enterprises to flourish their
business. And it has demonstrated the multiplier effects, which is so important in economic
development of Nepal. (Pandey; 2008)

There is a need for linking tourism with local community development. It is necessary to have
special attentions to link tourism with the community development and making it more pro-
poor and pro-women. (Upadhyay; 2008)

The following table elucidates the contribution that rural tourism can make in a community:

41
Table 2: Contribution of Tourism to achieving the Millennium Development Goals
(MDGs)
Goals Contribution to Tourism
1. Eradicate (a) Tourism stimulates economic growth both at the national and
extreme poverty local levels and promotes the growth of the local agricultural,
and hunger industrial and service sectors.
(b) Tourism provides a wide range of employment opportunities
easily accessibly by the poor. Tourism business and tourists
purchase goods and services directly from the poor or enterprises
employing the poor. This creates opportunities for micro, small
and medium sized enterprises in which the poor can participate.
(c) International and domestic tourism spreads development to
poor regions and remote rural areas of a country that may not
have benefited from the types of economic development.
2. Achieve (a) The construction of roads and tracks to remote areas for
universal primary tourists also improves access for school-age children and for
education teachers.
(b) Tourism can help local resource mobilization, part of which
can be spent on improvement of education facilities.
(c) Tourism helps to make the buildings of school. The grants
and other things education materials.
3. Promote gander (a) The tourism industry employs a high proportion of women
equality and and creates micro enterprise opportunities for them. It promote
empower women women's mobility and provides opportunities for social
networking.
4. Reduce Child (a) The construction roads and tracks to remote areas for tourist
mortality also improve access to health services.
5. Improve (a) Revenues accruing to national and local governments
Material health through taxes on the tourism industry can be used to improve
health services and nutrition for young children and their
mothers.

42
6. Combat (a) Tourism raises awareness about HIV/AIDS issues and
HIV/AIDS, support HIV/AIDS. Prevention campaigns.
malaria and other (b) Tourism aggravates the spread of HIV/AIDS (negative
discuses effect).
7. Ensure (a) Tourism can generate financial resources for conservation of
environment the natural environment.
sustainability (b) Tourism raises awareness about environment conservation
and promotes waste management, recycling and bio-diversity
conservation.
(c) Uncontrolled tourism may generate negative externalities as
a result of pollution, congestion and depletion of natural
resources (negative effect).
8. Develop a (a) Tourism contributes to the socio-economic development of
global partnership least developed countries, landlocked countries and island
for development developing countries through foreign exchange earnings and the
creation of job opportunities.
(b) Tourism stimulates the development of the transport
infrastructure, which facilities access to and from the least
developed countries, landlocked countries and island developing
countries.
(c) Tourism stimulates internal and external trade and
strengthens supply chains.
(d) Tourism promotes the interaction of isolated economies with
regional and global flows of trade and investment.
(e) Tourism reduces the burden on government budget through
implementation of public private initiatives.
(f) Tourism creates decent and production work for youth.
(g) Tourism provides opportunities for bilateral, multilateral and
sub regional cooperation among countries;
(h) Informative technologies play an important role in
integrating tourism enterprises into global tourism markets.

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Sources: United Nations ESCAP, Transport and Tourism Division, Transport Policy and
Tourism Section: Cited Upadyay, A case study of rural tourism in Nepal. June 2008:22-25

3.6 Rural Tourism in out side World

Rural Tourism is getting momentum in many developing as well as developed countries.
There is a very high tendency among the urban people to visit to rural areas to get away from
the hectic and feverish life and to be in solitude. The visit of rural areas for the purpose of
learning rural life, culture, social, agro-farming enterprise, crop-harvesting, reaping, to
explore the new things and knowing many things about rural areas what are the olden things
use by one forefathers is also increasing. But the rural tourism in developing countries is
planned to create opportunities of income generation for rural poor people. Many Asian
countries like Malaysia, Thailand Vietnam, Laos, India and African countries are practicing
rural tourism particularly focusing on community based tourism. Sikkim, a small state of
India, is concentrating on tourism development and has emphasized on the community based
rural tourism. The main emphases of Sikkim rural tourism are:

The rural life participating in cultural festivals.

Local music and dance.
Traditional games and sports.
Listening to folk tales and stories.
Ethnic cuisine.
Milking cows, making butter, cheese, curd. etc.
Cardamom weeding and harvesting.
Paddy cultivation and harvesting.
Rice Planting and harvesting.
To make woolen products like Bhakhu, Radi, Pakhi, cap, scarf, shawls, muffler
etc. from nettle fiber and wool of angora rabbits.
To make arts and crafts of woods and bamboo.
Educational and research purposes.

Its major areas of rural tourism as Dzongu, Kewzing and Yuksom.

44
Likewise, a small place Kalimpong named as Samthar in Dargeling district, West Bengal,
India has been emphasizing on integrated approach for multidimensional development of a
rural community through tourism. There is concept awake and Shine for integrated rural
tourism in Gairgaun and Kabi for empowerment and earning modules of local people. They
are modules for local development, which includes:

Empowerment module:
Development of infrastructure for village tours - primarily for homestays.
Development of a pre school model, for rural areas, to empower children and adults to
be proficient in spoken English, in order to build foundation for future employment in
tourism.
Provide bright children scholarship to pursue formal education after pre schooling.
Enhance existing skills and teach new earning skill through vocational modules to
create viable handicrafts and village products.
Earning Modules:
Home- stays
Village tours
Sales of handicrafts from vocational modules, and other village products.

Various types of vocational training are being given to the local people so that they can get
employment in the local level, and tourism activities are considered vital element to create
demand for the manpower of such skills. The vocational training given as a means of earning
sources are:

Carpenters
Masons
Tile layers
Water supply and sanitation fitters
Electricians
Handicrafts persons for production based on bamboo, thatch and paddy
waste.
Cooks and housekeepers for home stay operations.

45
This model resembles various features of TRPAP, which also had emphasized on the
multidimensional addresses of rural.

3.7 Potentialities of Developing Rural Tourism

Tourism of today’s is one of the most flourishing economic activities. World tourism was
expected to grow by 5.4 percent per annum generating US $ 181242 thousand of economic
activities in 2007. Nepal is one of the few tourism destinations with higher potentialities in the
world. So far as the prospects of the sending tourists into the village community is concerned;
security reasons can come as a barrier in immediate future. However, the country has enough
potentialities which mainly come from the bio-diversity and cultural diversity in the rural
community. Despite her small in size, mother- nature is so kind giving so many type of flora
and fauna which are the major strengths of the rural community to attract visitors from
outside. Besides, every village has unique scene and scenery from where one caste and ethnic
group to another group which can lure the visitors for the repeated visit into the community.
The rural people are the means of entertainment. Rural folk songs sung by rural women
having mellifluous voice and traditional dances performed by different groups of the
community can easily entice the tourists. Besides, trekking, visiting cultural monuments, sight
seeking, walk around, camping in jungle, study of flora and fauna, art and crafts,. Swimming
and canoeing, honey hunting, local games and sports, watching birds, ethnic culture and other
products total can be developed in the communities in the villages.

3.8 Management of Rural tourism

Tourism is a goose that lays golden eggs. The golden eggs are reward earned from tourism
promotion. Rural tourism as a phenomenon is concerned with river, sun, environment, rural
society and household. It represents conservation, life style, experience, adventure and
oriented benefit to the local people.

The objectives of rural tourism include helping tourists to plan a trip, choose a tour and
minimize ecological impact. A village tourist should be considered as a responsible traveler.
Rural tourism guidelines are generally targeted at village tourists who generally would go to

46
natural areas, parks and protected areas. Basically, a rural tourism plan is focused on the
target. Group of tourists intending to participate in programs provide local benefits.

3.8.1 Opening and Promotion of New Entry Point

Rural tourism management plan needs some additional entry points, local people's benefits
and so evenly distribute tourist flow. Most of the villages are still out of the reach of the
benefits of tourism. Tourist activities must be dispersed, mainly in villages so as to get
benefits by each individual of the community.

3.8.2 Villages Tourism Zoning

Tourism zoning system is an integral of the tourism plan rural tourism zoning regulations
must ensure the preparation of sympathetic local land use things, village and other types of
tourism development areas. Reference must be made to zoning principles, zoning regulations
and deliberate development standards like building style, density and height. Industrialization
is to be controlled near tourism development areas. It would not compatible to tourism.
Zoning helps maintain control of environment pollution and degradation.

Regarding site planning, architectural and landscaping designs are determined with common
practice. All proposed tourism development projects have to meet tourist standards as per the
zoning regulation. Besides, tourist facilities and services are required to meet quality
standards with standards with regard to health, safety and sanitation.
'No regulation, no management' is the prime principle of tourism zoning in relation to a rural
tourism plan. In a developing country like Nepal, villages can be used as "Rural tourism
zoning areas" for fishing gathering, lodging, sporting etc. The government should carefully
implement zoning regulations in tourism sites.

3.8.3 Tourism Information Technology

A rural tourism management plan requires a tourism information technology. It relates with
marketing, monitoring, demand and behavioral pattern of tourists. For an effective rural
tourism management system, information on marketing development and monitoring are very
important. The information system can be better monitored if it is computer based. The
system requires information about tourist arrivals. Purpose of visit, nationality,

47
accommodation (supply, type, location, occupancy rates) tourist expenditure Pattern,
attractions, facilities, visitation rates etc. In addition information on tourist attitudes is
required to be obtained from surveys and recorded information system.
The system can be used for monitoring and evaluating the program implementation and
effectiveness. The same data can be used for data analysis on marketing studies. It is the
transfer of information technology system needed for a rural tourism management plan.

3.8.3 Park Recreation

Park recreation has environment, economic and social importance within the discipline of
geography. Research on leisure, recreation and rural tourism has not been grounded in a
particular paradigm and the tourist who would like to enjoy experiencing with the diversity of
nature.

3.9 Some Models of Rural Tourism in Nepal

There is not a particular model of rural tourism in Nepal, nor have any activities in tourism
sector been defined to strictly comprise the essence of rural tourism. The tourism activities
which are based in rural setting, whether tangible or intangible or intangible, can in a broad
sense be regarded as rural tourism. Owing to village based structures. Nepal owns many
destinations where community based rural tourism can be promoted. Some villages in the
forefront where rural tourism has been taken into practice since last few years are Sirubari,
Ghalegaun and Bandipur.

3.9.1 Sirubari Model

Community based rural tourism in Sirubari, Panchamul VDC of Syangja district, Gandaki
zone under Western Development Region of Nepal, started in April 1997. Sirubari is
predominantly a Gurung village with rich Gurung heritage and tradition. The village
settlement is still unspoiled, set in the hills at 1700m above sea level. The climate is ideal at
any time especially during September to June with warm days and cold nights. Sirubari can be
reached by a short drive from Pokhara, the major tourist center of the Annapurna region
followed by 4 hours trek. The trail to the village is well maintained

48
Community based rural tourism (CRBT) in Sirubari is a proactive initiative in tourism
managed from the supply side. Although it is too early to assess the Sirubari experience, the
concept and the process and its economic, environmental, and social implications are of
interest in looking at sustainable tourism in the rural mountains, thus, community based rural
tourism in Sirubari is a micro planning approach. Sirubari is located of about 1700 meters.
One can see the high ranges of Himalayas like Annapurna, Machhapuchchhre, and Dhaulagiri
from the highest point. The village has a rich Gurung heritage. Most of the Gurung
households rely on best time to visit the village as monsoon rains make the trek rather
difficult and also long.

More than 40 local houses have been upgraded with needed tourist facilities for
accommodation of tourists visiting there. Different package incorporating accommodation,
foods, cultural programme, the community can get more then NRs 1100 per day per tourist for
rendering the services. When the community derives information regarding the arrival of
tourist, they get ready to welcome them with garlands and abir, red powder on forehead. They
escort the guest up to the welcome gate. The visitor is offered local wine and food. The
community does not permit to run private hotel, lodge and restaurant. It has won PATA Gold
Award in 2001.

3.9.2 Ghandruk Rural Tourism Model

Ghandruk rural tourism model from Sirbari model here ids based on the representation of the
Gurung residing here. Visitors specially heading towards Annapurna Base Camp and punhill,
the point for having panoramic view along with Rhododendron blooming, pause here for
accommodation and food. They come here as a trekker or mountaineer and make their stay
over here mainly for a night whereas tourist in Sirubari comes with the objective of
experiencing home stays and socio-cultural status of the villages. Ghandruk has more than 30
lodges and a tourist here can opt for any lodge wherever they like according to their will.
Tourists are not circulated in every household as in Sirubari village. Rural tourism in
Ghahdruk started in the decade of 1960 when tourists passed through this village and asked
for accommodation while passing through this village. The Ghandruk model encourages to
conserve local environment and this has already bagged many accolades including UNEP
Global 500.

49
3.9.3. Bandipur Model
Bandipur lies in midway on Prithvi Highway between Kathmandu and Pokhara on a ridge
above the highway town of Dumre and it offers a picturesque of Newar town retaining its
countries old attraction hitherto. It is described as the natural view tower, providing a
spectacular panorama of the entire Annapurna range plus the peaks of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu
and Langtang to the Marshyangdi Valley which is below 500m. Originally Bandipur was a
simple Magar village where later Newar from Bhaktapur came and settle there for trading
purpose as this was a prime location for India- Tibet trade route. Bandipur model comprises a
beautiful amalgam of all possibilities of tourism development, catering to tourists through
well-developed resort to home stay facilities. Bandipur model serves the need of generating
higher income from quality accommodation to sophisticated tourists for traditional Newari
home stay. This model comprises of developing natural and cultural heritage as an essential
component of tourism development and maximizing the possibilities of promoting it in
western tourist generating countries too. Bandipur Eco- Cultural Tourism project here is being
developed as a new unique tourist destination as part of European Commission/Asia Urbs-
funded partnership with two European partner cities municipatilities of Hydra, Greece and
Comne di Riomaggiore, Italy.

3.9.4 Ghalegaun Model

Ghalegaun Rural Tourism Management Committee was established in the year 2001 and has
been working to sensitize the value of rural tourism among local people. Now local people
have become more aware about tourism and tourists come here with the sole objective of
having home stays and to be informed about socio-cultural status of the local people. The
detailed information is given in the next following chapters but brief description is also given
here.

When an organized group of tourists reach Ghalegaun, the villagers descend down and
welcome them with garlands, 'tika' and traditional Gurung musical bands. Music and dance as
well as traditional farewell songs are sung while departing tourist from the village. Ghalegaun
Village Tourism Committee distributes the guests among the Gurung/Ghale households
having the facility of home stay. Total 80 numbers of guest can be accommodated at a time in
Ghalegaun.

50
A wide range of Himalayas can be viewed from Ghalegaun, Buddha Himal, Himchuli and
Manaslu to the north east, Mt. Lamjung and Annapurna II to the and Mt. Fishtail and
Annapurna South to the northwest. Mist over the Marshyangdi, Khudi and Midiam rivers
compels the visitor as if they are living in a heaven. Blossomed rhododendron along the way
sounds of birds chirping and wild insects and rivers joining together give the ethereal
experience to the visitors. Honey hunting is another deserving facts that attract the from seven
seas abroad. Gurungs of Ghalegaun are known to be expecting in 'Honey Hunting'. Nowhere
in Nepal or for matter in the world is this sort of activity found expert here in Ghalegaun.
They climb down the scariest cliff with the help of rope made in the form of ladder and
collect honey from the wild bee hives. This is very interesting and plucking tasks that can't be
performed by every people. They use special smokes during hunting and worship god before
hunting in order to make the conditions more favorable.

Another important feature of Ghalegaun for tourists is Gurung shows that are performed by
varieties of groups in a community. Gurung Ghatu dance by Gurung belles, Krishna Charitra
Dance, Lama Dance, Ghyabre Dance, Jhyaure Dance, Sorathi Dance etc fascinate the visitors.

3.9.5 TRPAP Model

This model has utilized the experiences and lessons learned from ACAP region and Sirubari
along with other tourism practices in the country. It has emphasized on the very possible
selling points of the community, with one village one product concept, to bring maximum
benefits from tourism, simultaneously helping mitigate pervasive poverty within the
community. Its main focus was on the sustainable development of tourism emphasizing
sustainability incorporating four major concepts in its programme pro-poor, pro-women, pro-
environment. TRPAP was run as a pilot project in six different districts incorporating 48
VDCs of the country. Addressees on the issues like gender equity, inclusiveness, the poor and
marginalized section of a community was its strategy in the conduction of its various
activities. TRPAP, as a model, tied to hit the depth and width of the tentacles of poverty with
array of instruments like from soft infrastructure development, human resource development,
microfinance, relevant policy improvement to marketing of its nascent products. In fact,
TRAPAP's effort was made in throes of national and international crises bringing much

51
difficulty to Nepalese tourism. But it has very effectively shown us how to form rural
institutional mechanism and link it to upper level.
No single model can be replicated in another place as the appropriateness of any kind of
model depends upon the place, situation and the socio-cultural status of the village. The
selection of model also depends on the objectives of tourism development in particular areas.

3.10 Impact of Rural Tourism Market

The main purpose of rural tourism is to bring positive economic, socio-cultural and
environmental impact in the community. As community starts tourism activities and visitors
start coming to the destination, there will certainty be change in the inter-linkages between
environmental resource and the community. The needs more fuel, more space and more jobs
pressure than before in order to run tourism business in the community. As the time, pattern
of using natural resources, skill and responsibility of the community people change, there will
certainly be change, whenever be the magnitude, in the priorities of the community. This
change ultimately manifest in the changes in the economic, cultural, and environmental
conditional condition. We have to accept the fact that other kinds of development activities,
where tourism is not an element, would have brought certain changes in these dimensions
with the aim of maximizing positive impact. Simultaneously taking care to minimize the
negative ones, the notion of rural tourism is conceived. The community should constantly go
on looking into the impacts which tourism activities are bringing. For this, the community
should set up an effective monitoring and evaluation mechanism to see if they are in the right
track. We discuss below the positive and negative changes that tourism can bring.
3.10.1 Economic Impact
There will be increased level of economic activities in the community. The participating
people directly get income from his/her business activities while the others involve in the
economic activities to supply necessary goods and serviced needed to producer the tourists
goods and services. Besides, there will be higher level of expenditure from the people who are
getting either direct or indirect benefits. Thus, there will be direct and indirect effects of
tourism in the community. Increase in the level of income, creation of jobs, foreign exchange
earnings, additional income and tax for community and the country, repercussion in other
sectors of economy with backward linkages, diversification of economy and up gradation in
the quality of labor force are some of the examples of consequences of tourism activities.

52
There will be higher level of economic activities, which overall affect the community as a
whole. This can unnecessarily increase the price of land, building materials and affect all
those who are not involved in the tourism activities. Channeling the resources for the
satisfaction and low retention, dependence on tourism are some of the major negative impacts
that tourism can cause in any community.

3.10.1.1 Economic Benefits of Rural Tourism

 Creates job and increases family and community income.
 Brings more money particularly foreign currency in the economy.
 Helps to diversify and stabilize the rural economy.
 Provide the opportunities for existing business and service
 Helps to develop local craft and trade.
 Provide broader business base for the community and creates an opportunity for
attracting other business and small industries.
(Source: Upadhyay, 2008: 35th Anniversary Souvenir of ATPMP 44)

3.10.1.2 Economic Cost of Rural Tourism

 Creates demands on public goods.
 Involve risk for the operators and community.
 May only give part time employment.
 May increase cost of living for community residents because of interaction property
goods and services.
3.10.2. Socio-Cultural Impact
Tourism can have major impact upon way of life, cultural and values of community. People
start being influenced by the outsiders and they are incited to orientate themselves to
maximize economic benefits with changes in their behavior. Moreover, women have better
access for economic activities than before. So, there can be changes in the role of gender,
which can a source of imbalance relationship between husband and wife and among family
members. All the household in the community may not be benefiting part in the tourism
activities, and all may not be benefiting equally. So, gossip, and degradation in the social way
of life may appear, the participation of people in social function, festivals may be changing.
For this, a social relationship among the people in the tourism, and between tourism
53
participators and local villages should be clearly judged. Sometimes, social conflict among
participators between of income among the participators can be a cause of tension among
themselves. Others villagers may feel bring disturbed even when they are not getting any
direct benefit from tourism. But community may feel very positive impact of rural tourism.
Women and deprived class may be getting access to express them selves and join the main
stream of socio-economic life. This is one of the prime factors what rural tourism is advocated
for presentation of culture, artifacts, are history, heritage and the fundamental base of rural
tourism. It thus encourages people to conserve their socio-cultural treasurers resulting in
renovated more cultural monuments, presentation of folk lore's, art and history. The
interaction of local people with tourists brings better understanding about the value of
community sanitation and personal hygiene; urge for better education and social etiquette.
These all bring a better life style and its upliftment.

3.10.2.1 Social Benefits of Rural Tourism

 Helps to build a community infrastructure.
 Provides the opportunities for cultural change.
 Promotes a community team spirit particularly through the development of cultural and
entertainment activities.
 Creates conditions of safeguarding enhancing local cultural identities.
(Source: Upadhyay, 2008:35th Anniversary Souvenir of NATHM:45)

3.10.2.2 Social Cost of Rural Tourism

 Rural tourism may cause the introduction of conflicting ideas and styles into the
community.
 It may cause the increase in crime, theft, prostitution and drug abuse.
 Overcrowding and congestion.
 Break on privacy in household and in the sharing of import community resources with
tourism.
 Institutional community and family jealousies, as all may not share the benefit equally.
(Source: Upadhyay, 2008:35th Anniversary Souvenir of NATHM:45

54
3.10.3 Environmental Impact
This is a very serious issue that rural tourism can bring. As rural tourism emphasizes on the
harmony of nature and people, it can inculcate and suggest the ecological awareness into
people. It helps conserve and maintain ecological balances, minimize pollution, and keeping
the place clean and attractive. Rural tourism encourages to make use of better technology to
lessen pressure on resources base. Many rare endangered species of flora and fauna can be
conserved and people that the environment as their perennial source of income, and they can
take any sign of degradation in a as a threat to their own livelihood.

But from the present condition of tourism in the country, it is seen that rural tourism can be a
vital cause for environmental degradation. The high demand for energy for tourism business
needs more firewood and destruction of forests can result in. Many species of flora and fauna
are disturbed in their habitat and they can be poached. Pollution can be a major factor to
damage the image of the place an cause many disease. Air, water and noise pollution can go
on increasing. Garbage, rubbish, trash in the footpath, trail and other places are the main
problem of greater magnitude. (UPadhyay, June 2008)

3.10.3.1 Environmental Benefits of Rural Tourism

 Creates environmental awareness and emphasis on harmonious relationship between
nature and people.
 Emphasis on the use of alternative sources of energy and decrease and lessen pressure
on forest resources.
 Resource generation for the conservation of flora and fauna.
 Promotion of sanitation and hygienic condition of people in community. (Upadhyay,
June 2008)

3.10.3.2 Environmental Cost of Rural Tourism

 Degradation of roads and trails through overuse.
 Poaching of wildlife, and piracy of species.
 Increase in pollution, garbage, rubbish and littering.
 Deforestation and increasing landslides and danger of flora, fauna and wild animals and
distribution of environment cycle process. (Upadhyay, June 2008)
55
 CHAPTER 4
RURAL TOURISM MARKET IN GHALEGAUN
This chapter aims at describing the location of the Gahlegaun, it’s natural as well as man
made attractions and the routes to the place.

4.1 General Introduction of Gahalegaun

Ghalegaun is a small village inhabited by Gurung /Gahale community that lies in the world
famous tourism region, Annapurna region. Ghalegaun is gaining popularity in terms of rural
tourism as it is culturally and naturally rich destination for visitors and may appeal them
easily. Tourist can spend their leisure time either by directly involving in the activities
performed by local community or staying at their home. Ghalegaun is located in the
Uttarkanya VDC of Lamjung district incorporating ward no.1, 2 and 3. Gahlegaun once a
domain of Gale Kings before 18th century, currently consist of 115 households of Gurungs
and Ghales .It is loctated at an altitude of 2100 m and at the distance of about 10 kilometers in
the north – west direction from Besishahar , the district headquarter. It is easily accessible
from Besishahar after four hours walk on foot or within one and half hour's travel by vehicles.

4.2 Features of Ghalegaun

When an organized group of tourists reached Ghalegaun, the villagers descend down the
village and welcome tourist with garlands, tika and traditional Gurung musical bands. While
music and dances are performed and traditional farewell songs are sung when guests depart.
Ghalegaun Rural Tourism Committee distributes the guests among the households having the
facility of homestay. At present, 40 households are providing such facility .Thus a total of 80
guests can be accommodated at a time in Ghalegaun. If more than 80 guests come together,
the Gahlegaun Tourism Sub-Committee will manage accommodation.

Guests are presented with Gurung cultural shows at the community hall .Gurung Ghatu dance
by Gurung belles,Krishna Charitra ,Lama Dance ,Ghabre Dance ,Jhyaure Dance ,Sorathi
Dance etc fascinates the audience .The next day in early morning tourist visit to a view tower
towards east of the village rewards with spectacular sunrise that paints its colour on Lamjung
Himal and its range .The same vantage point offer sunset view and effect on Buddha Himal ,
56
Himalchuli and Manasulu . While resting on the benches kept in the garden surrounding view
tower, the whiff of meals from Ghalegaun kitchen and fresh air from the Himalayas tantalizes
our sense .On the lap of Lamjung Himal ,those green alpine pasture land harbor pristine
"Dudhpokhari" where many people even from surrounding district visit during Janaipurnima
and take a holy dip into the lake amid a local fanfare . It is believed that after having the holy
bath in this lake, all of those sins that have done in our materialistic world would be ward off.
While leaving the villagers organize a farewell offering Tika and Garlands with some pleas to
revisit the village next time .Thus you leave the village but your mind and soul carry all the
sights, scenes and sweet and friendly voices of innocent villagers. After some nights stay in
Gahlegaun one can continue his itinerary for the entire 'Gurung Heritage Trails’. Passing other
typical villages like Ghanpokhara ,Bhujung ,Pasgaun ,Pakhrikot, Thumshiikot ,Nangidhar and
finally ending at Pokhara. Throughout the trail one can enjoy the view of Annapurna range,
community–run home-stays and Gurung cultural shows .This route is signified with natural
beauties Gurung culture and bio- diversity. All aforesaid villages are situated at the
differences of 4-5 hours of walk and are growing as model village of rural tourism
(R.P.Upadhya, Reading in rural tourism p321)

4.3. Main Attractions of Gahlegaun

The main attractions of Gahlegaun are its geographical location and socio – cultural condition
of Gurung community .The incredible view of the Himalayan ranges in the northern part and
mountain ranges in the southern part, temples/gumba, tea garden, honey hunting, local
organic food farming is the unique features of Ghalegaun.
The attractions of Ghalegaun can be categorized as follows:

4.3.1. Man made attractions

4.3.1.1. Play ground
In between the view tower and Gahlegaun is sandwiched a nature made play ground. It is like
a stadium made by nature with enough space for audience on the slopes of Gahlegaun and
View Tower. In every Nepali New Year a national level football match is organized in this
playground which helps to foster the international tourism of this area. One can go with bat,
stump and ball or volleyball of football if he or she loves sports .One can win a match in a
magnificent backdrop of Lamjung ,Himalchuli and Manaslu Himals.
57
4.3.1.2. Community Hall
A community hall having the capacity of 200 seats has been constructed in Ghalegaun where
meeting , seminars ,training and cultural programs are run .Even if this hall is not well
equipped it could be more indelible for tourist than any other well equipped hall in cities or
urban area .

4.3.1.3. Community Sheep Farming

Community sheep farming in Ghalegaun that started only with Rs 250,000 has now a capital
of more than two million rupees. The farm sells wool, meat, milk, ghee, and fertilizer. From
the income of the sheep farm three shepherds and a teacher is paid Rs. 2000 each per month
.The farm has altogether 500 sheep. Blanket made from wool, waist coat, hand bags made
from betel fibers, scarves, shawls, towels made from fur of Angora rabbit are the major
handicrafts that a tourist can take home with them as a relic memento.

4.3.1.4. Uttarkanya Temple

It is very near to Ghalegaun . The name of the VDC is derived from the name of this temple
which reflects the importance and fame of this temple in this locality. Seven wells are found
in the territory of this temple .In Maghesakaranti Mela people from different parts of the
district come here in order to take holy bath in these seven wells and thereby worship the god
for prosperity.

4.3.1.5. Round House (Gol Ghar )

Goalghar is one of the main attractions of Ghalegaun which is found nowhere else within the
country. Structurally and architecturally, it is quite unique and has a significant scientific
justification .In the past people used to sleep nearby the chulo to get warm in the cold places.
If they sleep round the Chulo the heat radiation emitted from the fire would be equally
transmitted in all directions and all the members sleeping around would get equal amount of
warmth .The inner walls of the Gol Gahr are coated with mud which acts as insulator thereby
preventing the loss of heat from the inner wall and maintains the room warmer for a long
period of time. But nowadays these old fashioned and unique pieces of houses are in the verge
of extinction due to encroachment of modern technology.

58
4.3.1.6. Gurung Museum
The museum has a collection of a wide variety of traditional artifacts used by Gurung's of
Gahlegaun. It includes utensils, agro-tools, traditional costumes etc .One can get insight
knowledge and information regarding Gurung lifestyles.

4.3.1.7. View Tower

There is a man made view tower in the east of the village which rewards with spectacular
sunrise that paints its color on Lamjung Himal and its range .The same vantage point offer
sunset view and effect on Buddha ,Himchuli and Manslu range . While resting on the
benches kept in the garden surrounding view tower, the whiff of meal from Gahlegaun
kitchen and fresh air from the Himalayas tantalizes our sense.

4.3.1.8. Tea Garden

Ward no 1,2 and 3 of Uttarkanya VDC have planted separately in the same and are managing
by themselves .This plantation is technically supported by ACAP .Guests are rendered with
green tea plantation has increased the beauties of the Ghalegaun .Villagers are planning to
widen the area of tea garden in near future

4.3.2. Natural Attractions

4.3.2.1. Mountain Views
The view from Ghlegaun ranges from Buddha Himal, Himalchuli and Manaslu to the north –
east, Mt Lamjung and Annapurna II to the north and Mt Machepuchre and Annapurna South
to the northwest .Different ranges of hills and green mountains can also be viewed from
Gahlegaun towards south .The immovable aesthetic values of these mountains view can
fascinate any visitor and may compel every visitor to forget all of his /her blues and force him
/ her thinking as if he/she is living in heaven.

59
4.3.2.2. Natural Bee Hives for Honey Hunting
Ghalegaun is famous for honey hunting within the country and abroad too. There is dangerous
cliff, THAMRO nearby Ghalegaun where wild bees make honey in their wild hives in a
scariest cliff which is generally impossible to take out .This honey hunting from the nests of
wild bees built on steep cliffs is an old –age tradition .Local honey hunters show their
exceptional skills by hanging themselves from cliff as high as 300 meters using bamboo
ladders and hemp ropes, while harvesting the honeycombs. To hunt this honey from such cliff
is a mettle task which is performed by only experienced, qualified and brave local people.
Everyone is thrilled to watch honey hunters at work.

4.3.2.3. Talangyo Lake

Talangyo Lake is half hours walk from Ghalegaun towards north which is famous for its one
fact that is still unsolved mystery .Even if the lake is in the mid of forest no leaf is found
within the lake as birds take out the leaves as soon as it falls within it . So, the lake always
looks neat and clean .It brings mental composure while traveling around it. A detailed
scientific research should be carried in order to find out the mystery of this lake as soon as
possible so as to attract more tourists in the upcoming days.

4.3.2.4. Botanical Garden

Ghalegaun is a good botanical garden where we can found different medicinal plants like
Chiratio, Neermasi ,Jatamasi, Panchaule etc. Timur is commonly available which is also
used as medicine. Thus, Gahlegaun is a potential place for medicinal plant farming .If this can
happen so, the villagers could earn extra income through selling medicinal plants either to
visitors. Except medicinal plant we can found different plants.

4.3.3. Cultural Attractions

Before unification of modern Nepal, she was divided in to Baise Choubase state .At that time
there was existence of Ghale state. Routinely king was selected after certain period on the
basis of good runner for that state, it was the traditional culture.

Gurungs are culturally rich having their own language .They have their own rites and rituals
that are performed since the birth of a child to the death. Traditional customs are still followed

60
during birth, death, marriage and at other important times in a person's life. They love singing
and dancing in every feasts and festivals .The dulcet and mellifluous sound of the local people
can attract every people involving in the cultural shows. Age-old cultural dances like the
Jhyaure, Serkha, Ghatu, Ghyabring, Krishna Charitra ,Tamaro Choori ,Pachchhyun,and
Jhakri dance are performed on the various occasion accompanied by different musical
instrument with the dancers in traditional dress .

4.4. Lodging and Fooding

There are facilities of warm rooms heated by solar power, clean toilet, shower and public
bathroom place with hot water. It is really unique and fun having food by sitting on locally
made mattress .Vegetables, maize, grains are locally grown and are produced organically.
Those guests stay separately in different houses there is uniformity in the hospitality whether
it is food or other services which is a specialty of Gahlegaun .

Gahalegaun produces sufficient seasonal green vegetables and crops have enough cattle
rearing to provide for the demands of tourists. One can choose dishes and drinks from the
menu with price fixed by Ghalegaun Rural Tourism Sub-committee .The test of wholesome,
organic green vegetables, tea, Gundruk, Chhyang with local chickens, boiled local eggs,
omelet etc is just magical. All the products of Gahlegaun itself linger in the tongue for a long
time. The suppertime conservation with Gurung /Ghale females with mild and mellifluous
voice and males with good sense of humor mesmerizes anyone. ( Upadhya ,Reading in
Rural Tourism,2008,pp321-324)
Experience of Gahlegaun
 There are four Mother's Groups in different wards. The Mother Groups in the
village are very active in terms of environmental conservation of village, operation
and maintenance of the roads and trails, hospitality, cultural program and income
generation programs.
 Out of forty home stays only seven are hygienically good with proper bathroom
facilities and sleeping room ambience. Home stay has been set up but due to lack
of demand during conflict period most of the accommodations remains unused,
neglected and in dilapidated condition.

61
  Landscaping and creation of Botanical Park around view tower area and nearby
mounds can intensify the beauty and charm of Ghalegaun .
4.5. Gurung Heritage Trail
The existence of Gurung Heritage Trail (GHT) came into forth with the concept of
developing different villages of Lamjung district by optimum utilization of available local
resources in order to ameliorate the livelihood of rural people to the visitors by conserving
their culture and tradition and by promoting the potential tourist area in a broad horizon
within or beyond the nation .Visitors can have district link with the local people thereby
understanding their traditions ,customs and way of livings .This will help local inhabitant
create more job opportunity in local level by direct economic or other supportive means.

In order to develop rural tourism in different villages of Lamjung district through

improvement of trails that extends from Besishahar-Ghalegaun- Gahnpokhara-Bhujung-
Pasgaun-Begnsa Kaski, one year short-term ,five years mid –term and ten years long term
plans are going to be developed on behalf of Lamjung Development Committee with the
support of Nepal Tourism Board (NTB).

Objectives of GHT
1. Development of plans with the participation of people on the basis of identifying the
local resources ,
2. To aware the local people in order to incorporate alternative sources for minimizing
the environmental, natural and cultural demolishment.
3. To conserve and promote the culture, traditions and natural resources of local people.
4. Feasibility study of rural tourism and economic development of local people.
5. To develop a long term plan by identifying the needs of local people from their active
participation

The northern part of the Lamjung district is predominantly inhabited by Gurung community
.Almost all inhabitants of upper Lamjung villages like Ghalegaun,Gahnpokhara ,Bhujung
(one village one VDC) ,Pasgaun ,Pakhurikot are Gurungs. These villages have high
potentialities of rural tourism development.

62
4.6. Routes to access Ghalegaun
Ghalegaun can be accessed by three routes as mentioned here underneath
Route no.one
Besishahar-Baglungpani- Kapoorgaun –Kandelo – Ghalegaun
One who adopts this route to access into Ghlegaun can view range of Himalayas in the
northern part. Blossoming Rhododendron and other mind attractive wild plants as well can
straight forwardly fascinate the visitors .One can take facilities of tea , lunch on the way as
villages like Baglungpani ,Kapoorgaun ,Kandelo etc are actively present on the services of
visitors forever . Area around the Area around Jana Joti Secondary School of Baglungpani
and historically important place, the Sulikot region can be developed as picnic spots. The
southern mountain range can be clearly seen up to far distance. So, if view tower is
constructed in this place, visitors may be fascinated by the different ranges of mountains and
hills all around.

Route no two
Besishahar –Khudi –Simpani-Bhalmchaur –Ghlegaun
Khudi is a small village market placed six and half kilometer from Besishahar , main point of
Annapurna Circuit and is joined by motor able road . The main attractions of this route are
the beautiful colorable Rhododendron and different species of bird. After crossing the upslope
of Bhlamchaur, Lama gaun (inhabited by lamas) can be reached and thereafter followed by
Sundarital .

Route no. three

Besishahar –Khudibazar-Roplephant(Ghanpokhara Besi) -Kafaldada –Bhache -Nayun-
Gahlegaun
Roplephant is easily accessible by van from Khudibazar or with 30 minutes walk .This route
is followed by Khudi Hydro-electric Project within the installation capacity of four
megawatts. Batase Gufa ,Deedivai Jharana ,Phenpro Jharana ,Thanpro Honey cliff and
Sheelajeet ,a black material comes out of the carbonate rock used as medicine in cleansing
stomach and healing in fracturing etc are the major attractions of this route . Agro and
medicinal plant nursery is also observed along this route
63
 Fig .1

Route to Ghalegaun N
Nayu

Ghalegaun (2100m)

Kapurgaun
Bhache
Baglungpani(1600m) Bhalamchaur

Roplephat

Besishahar(820m)
Khudi(790m)

Map is not to scale

64
 CHAPTER 5
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
The purpose of this chapter is to outline the framework for the research objectives set in
Chapter -1.

5.1 Research Design

This study is based on field study as well as case study research design.

5.2 Population and Sample

Among eleven model rural tourism villages like Bandipur, Ghandruk, Sirubari and so on the
researcher has selected Ghalegaun as study area due to his own interest.
Total numbers of visitors during the field survey were 203.Among this 179 were domestic and
remaining 24 were foreign tourist. Among the population, 15 each from domestic and foreign
tourist were taken as sample. In the same way, among forty home-stay owners only 15 were
taken as sample and among the whole population on Uttarkanya VDC only 20 local people
were taken as sample.
In this research, the researcher has followed the simple random sampling method to collect
information from local people and purposive sampling method has been followed to collect
information from tourist and home stays and others .In total 65 respondents have been
selected as the sample units .

5.3. Selection of the Study Area

Ghalegaun is a pleasant hill tourist destination. It lies in the western part of the Lamjung
district in the height of 2100 meters from sea level. It is the remarkable region for rural
tourism. It is one of the model tourism villages in South Asia. It is very rich in natural beauty
and cultural heritage. Views of Himalayan range, sightseeing, tea garden, bird watching,
traditional gurung culture and traditional home stays are the main attractions of this area. It
can easily access able on foot in four hours walk from Besishahar, headquarter of Lamjung
district.

65
5.4. Sources and Techniques of Data Collection
The present study is strictly based on the primary data with support of secondary data.

5.4.1. Primary Data

This study is basically based on primary data .The primary data are collected through the field
study and responses of the tourists. Local people, home-stay owner, and local government
bodies are also regarded as the main sources of information .For the purpose of primary data
collection, field survey was conducted from 25th April 2009 to 10thMay 2009 .In order to
collect the required and relevant primary data from the sample units following tools are used

5.4.1.1 Questionnaire Method

Especially primary data was collected using structure questionnaire. The main sets of
questionnaire were developed on each for the three sets of population; tourists, home-stays
owners and local peoples with the motive of collecting information regarding impact of
tourism ,perception of local people about development of rural tourism market in Ghalegaun
.The questionnaire to them are whether closed and opened or scaled .Questionnaires have
been kept in appendix .

5.4.1.2 Participatory Observation Method

Participatory observation method was also used to capture necessary information observed
during field survey .It was meant to record, supporting information not covered by the
questionnaire method.

5.4.2 Secondary Data

Besides primary data, secondary data have also been used to make this research much relevant
and comparative and for understanding the economic, social and cultural impact of tourism in
the study area.

The following are the main sources of secondary data collection.

 NTB, information service section.
 ACAP ,unit office Besishahar ,Lamjung (check point)
 National daily news papers (Kantipur ,Annapurna Post,Gorkhapatra etc).

66
  Local news papers.
 Web sites
 Lamjung Chambers of Commerce and Industry
 Ghalegaun Festival Main Committee –May(6-8), 2009
Besides these other books and reports contributed by different scholars are also used as
secondary sources of data collection.

5.5 Data Processing and Analysis Procedure

The responses were categorized, tabulated, processed and analyzed so as to meet the objective
of the study .The primary data was processed and computed by descriptive analysis.
Secondary data was tabulated with annual rate of percentage charge. The periodic growth was
computed using growth rate.
Following procedure were adopted to analyze the available data and information in this study
to attach the specified objectives.
a) Growth of tourist influx was assessed on the basis of past trends, simple percentage and
computation of statistical trends.
b) On the basis of survey, analysis and conclusion suitable recommendations have been
made in order to provide solution to the various problems.

5.6 Statistical Tools Used

The systematic analysis has been done by using both quantitative technique and descriptive
technique .To analyze the quantitative data simple statistical tools such as percentage
,average weighted mean etc have been used .Besides these tables ,charts ,bar diagrams ,pie
charts are also used for the presentation of the findings . The study is mainly descriptive and
the analysis of the result is described logically.

67
 CHAPTER -6
DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
In this chapter, data collected from different sources are presented and these data are
analyzed for the fulfillment of the objectives of research. It contains various types of data
such as tourist arrival in Ghalegaun since 2001 through secondary source and other through
field visit. The analysis is mainly based on responses given by 20 local peoples, 30 tourist and
15 home stay owners through questionnaires.

6.1 Annual Tourist Arrival in Ghalegaun (2001-2008)

Gahlegaun is a pleasant hill destination for tourist. It is famous for its natural beauty, spell
bounding landscape covered by green forest. The number of international as well as domestic
tourists is increasing day by day in Gahlegaun .
The volume of tourist traffic in Gahlegaun during 2001 AD to 2008AD is presented in the
table below.
Table 3: Annual Tourist Arrival in Ghalegaun (2001-2008)
Year Domestic Growth International Growth Grand Growth
Tourist Rate % Tourist Rate % Total Rate %
2001 62 18 - 80
2002 75 20.97 22 22.22 97 21.25
2003 130 73.33 55 150 185 90.72
2004 225 73.08 70 27.27 295 59.46
2005 304 35.11 90 28.57 394 33.56
2006 508 67.11 107 18.89 615 56.09
2007 855 68.31 135 25.23 989 60.81
2008* 1496 74.97 169 25.18 1665 68.35
(Source: Upadhya 2008 and *Ghalegaun Tourism Management Committee)
Above table reflects a gradual increase in term of number .This table makes clear that tourist
arrival in 2002 was increased by 20.97% in comparison to arrival of 2001 and the growth rate
was very high in the year 2003 and 2004, but there was less growth rate in 2005 due to the
security problem in country. However the number of tourist visited Ghalegaun has been

68
increasing. After 2006 the growth rates of tourist arrival come in form. It shows that there is
good potentiality of development of tourism market in Ghlegaun.
Fig .2: Annual Tourist Arrival in Ghalegaun

1600
1400
1200
Domestic
1000 Tourist
800
600 International
Tourist
400
200
0
2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008
In order to examine the average tourist arrival in Ghalegaun during 2001to 2008 following
procedure is applied

X = ∑X /N Where, X = Average tourist arrival

∑X= Sum of annual tourist arrival
N = No. of year
Now
X = 4320/8 = 540
Hence, the average tourist trafficking in Ghalegaun is 540.
There is increasing number of tourists every year, though the growth rate has been erratic. It
clearly indicates that it has high potentiality for the future growth.

6.2Present Scenarios of Tourism in Ghlegaun

6.2.1 Distribution of Tourist by Nationality
The field visit was conducted in May, 2009. The total number of visitors during the field
visit was found to be 203. The distribution pattern of tourist by nationality is shown in table
below.
Table 4 : Distribution of Tourist by Nationality
SN Countries No. of Tourist Percentage
A Domestic 179 88.17

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 B International
1 India 5 2.46
2 USA 2 0.99
3 France 3 1.48
4 UK 5 2.46
5 Japan 2 0.99
6 German 4 1.97
7 Australia 3 1.48
Total 203 100
Source: Field visit, 2009 and Ghalegaun Tourism Management Committee
Above table shows the tourist arrival in Ghalegaun from different countries during the field
visit. It shows that comparison to domestic tourist the percentage arrival of foreign tourist is
really less. Among the international tourist Indian and the tourist from UK occupies top
generating market, having 2.46% of total tourist arrival followed by German tourist, which
covers 1.97%.
30 tourist respondents are selected for the study out of total 65respondent. Among this 15 are
domestic and remaining 15 are foreign tourist. Among 15 international tourist 20% were from
India, 6.7% from USA, 6.7% from France, 26.6 %from UK 6.7% from Japan, 13.3% from
German and remaining 20% from Auatralia.
Fig. 3.Distribution of Tourist by Nationality

200 179

150

100

50
5 2 3 5 2 4 3
0

Source: Field Visit, 2009

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6.2.2 Distribution of Tourist by Age
In this part researcher wanted to know the distribution of tourist respondent by age during the
field visit. For the purpose the questionnaire provided to tourists is strictly followed.

Table 5: Distribution of Tourist by Age

Age group Number of Tourist Percentage
Below 20 years 9 30
21- 40 years 18 60
Above 40 3 10
Total 30 100
Source: Field visit, 2009
The above table shows that 30 percent of the respondents are below 20 years while 60 percent
are within the age group of 21 to 40 years and 10 percent of respondents are above 40 years .
Fig 4: Distribution of Tourist by Age

15% Below 20 years

21- 40 years
50%
30% Above 40

Total

5%

Source: Field Visit, 2009

6.2.3 Distribution of Tourist by Purpose of Visit
The arrival of tourist by purpose can be tabulated as below, according to the responses given
by them.
Table 6: Distribution of Tourist by Purpose of Visit
Purpose Number of Tourists Percentage
Sight –seeing 26 86.7
Study or research 3 10
Official work 1 3.3
Total 30 100

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 Source: Field Visit, 2009
Above table shows that the high percentage of tourist i.e. 86.7 percent of tourist visit
Ghalegaun for the purpose of sight seeing. It means most of the domestic as well as
international tourist visit Ghalegaun to enjoy the views. Similarly 10 percent of tourist visit
for the purpose of study or research and remaining 3.3 percent of tourist arrive here to
perform official duties.
Fig 5: Distribution of Tourist by Purpose of Visit
Number of Tourists

Sight –seeing

43% Study or research

50%
Official work
Total

2% 5%

6.2.4 Distribution of Tourist by Occupation

The sample consists of tourist of different occupations. The table presented below express the
occupational differences of tourist arrived.
Table 7: Distribution of Tourist by occupation
Occupation of Tourist Number of Tourist Percentage
Student 14 46.7
Professional 7 23.3
Business 4 13.3
Others (social worker ) 5 16.7
Total 30 100
Source: Field Visit, 2009
The above table shows that 46.7 percent of respondent were students, 23.3 percent were
professionals,13.3 percent were business persons and remaining were from other occupations
like social work and so on.

72
 Fig 6: Distribution of Tourist by Occupation
Number of Tourist
Student

Professional

23% Business
50%
12%
Others(social
7% worker,……)
8%
Total

6.2.5 Distribution of Tourist by Sex

The table presented below expresses the sex wise distribution of visitors
Table 8 Distribution of Tourist by Sex
Sex of Visitors No. of Visitors Percentage
Male 27 90
Female 3 10
Total 30 100
Source: Field Visit, 2009
It is clear from the above table that out of the total 30 respondents 90 percent were male and
remaining 10 percent were female.
Figure 7: Distribution of Tourist by Sex

30 27
25

20
Male
15
Female
10

5 3

0
No. of Visitors

Source: Field Visit, 2009

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6.2.6 Length of Stay of Tourist
The length of stay is a crucial factor in tourism development. In order to develop tourism
industry it is necessary to increase the no of tourist ass well as their length of stay. The length
of stay depends on time, money and desire of tourist.
The length of stay of tourist visiting Ghalegaun is presented below
Table 9: Length of Stay
Duration No. of Tourist Percentage
Day Excursion 2 6.7
Two days/one night 19 63.3
Three days/two night 5 16.7
Four days /three night 4 13.3
Five days /four night - -
Total 30 100
Source: Field Visit, 2009
Above table depicts that most of the tourist (i.e 63.3%) stay there for two days and one night
while another 16.7 percent stayed for three days and two nights. Similarly 13.3 percent of
tourist stayed for four days and three nights .
Length of stay of tourist in Ghalegaun is shown below in Bar diagram
Figure 8: Length of Stay of Tourist
No. of Tourist

Day Excursion
13% 7%
Two days/one
night
17%
63% Three days/two
night
Four days /three
night

6.2.7 Expenditure Pattern of Tourist

The main theme of the study is obtained from the expenditure pattern of tourist .It deeply
influence the economy of the study area. It will be beneficial to encourage tourists to spend
more during their short stay rather than to make their stay long . The distribution of
expenditure is shown in table below.

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 Table10: Expenditure Pattern of Tourist
Amount in Lodging Percentage Fooding Percentage Other Percentage
US$ Expenditure Expenditure
Below 10 30 100 21 70 18 60
11-20 - - 7 23.3 12 40
21& above - - 2 6.7 - -
Total 30 100 30 100 30 100
Source: Field Visit, 2009
In Ghalegaun 'Home stay ' facility is available. Each household having the facility of home
stay has two single beds. If large numbers of tourists come together, the Ghalegaun Tourism
Management Committee manages for all.
From the above table it can conclude that 100 percent of tourists spend below 10 US$ on
lodging while 70 percent of tourist spend below 10 US$, 23.3 percent of tourists spend 11to
20 US$ and 6.7 percent of tourists spend more than 21US$ on fooding. Similarly 60 percent
of the tourists spend below 10 US$ and 40 percent of tourists spend between 11to 20 US$ for
other items like local handicrafts and other.

6.2.8 Most Appreciated Features of Ghalegaun According to Tourists

The trafficking of tourist depends on the special features possess by the place. The
appreciated features of Ghalegaun according to the visitors are shown below in the table
Table11. Most Appreciated Features of Ghalegaun
Features No. of Tourists Percentage
Natural Scenic Beauty 7 23.3
Culture 5 16.7
Accommodation 2 6.7
Homely Environment 3 10
All of the above 13 43.3
Total 30 100
Source: Field Visit, 2009
Above table revels that most of the respondents i.e. 43.3 percent of tourists replied all of the
features attracted them. Similarly 23.3 percent liked the natural scenic beauty of Ghalegaun ,

75
16.7 percent of tourist like cultural and traditions like GHANTU, 10 percent like homely
environment only and 6.7 percent of tourists like accommodation facilities any.
Figure 9: Most Appreciated Features of Ghalegaun
No. of Tourists
Natural Scenic
Beauty

Culture

43% 23% Accommodation

17% Homely
Environment
10% 7%
All of the above

6.2.9 Existing Infrastructure Facilities in Ghalegaun According to Visitors

Facilities and services are the major components to attract tourist. In context of Ghalegaun , it
is rich and possess all the major facilities and services to develop it as rural tourism market .
The responses of tourist on existing infrastructure facilities of Ghalegaun are shown in the
table below.
Table 12: Existing Infrastructure Facilities According to Visitors
Facilities Excellent % Good % Don't % Bad % Very %
Know Bad
Communication - - 25 83.3 4 13.4 1 3.3 - -
Transportation - - 10 33.3 20 66.7 - - - -
Electricity - - 7 23.3 21 70 2 6.7 - -
Drinking Water 11 36.7 13 43.3 6 20 - - - -
supply
Security - - 24 80 6 20 - - - -
Management
Cleanness of 8 26.7 18 60 4 13.3 - - - -
Accommodation
Behavior of Local 20 66.7 10 33.3 - - - - - -
Peoples
Environmental 12 40 15 50 3 10 - - - -
Sanitation
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Health Service - - 2 6.7 26 86.6 2 6.7 - -
View Tower 6 20 17 56.7 7 23.3 - - - -
Tourist Guide - - 16 53.3 14 46.7 - - - -
Home Stay 19 63.3 11 36.7 - - - - - -
Source : Field Visit ,2009
Note
Excellent = When a particular facility is abundant.
Good = When a particular facility is adequate.
Don't Know = When a respondent don't have any idea about a particular facility.
Bad = When a particular facility is in short supply.
Very Bad = When a particular facility is scarce.
The above table shows that the visitors were satisfied with overall facilities available at
Ghalegaun, more over they were satisfied with the behavior of local people followed by home
stay.
However for electricity and health service 6.7 percent of tourist replied bad and suggested to
upgrade for the betterment of the tourism.
6.2.10 Futuristic Pattern of Tourism Development in Ghalegaun According to Tourist
During the field visit the responses of tourist for the futuristic pattern of tourism development
in Ghalegaun were taken, which are shown in table below.
Table 13: Futuristic Pattern of Tourism Development in Ghalegaun According to Tourists
SN Future Pattern Absolutely % Desired % Not %
Desired Desired
1 To benefit rich and upper class - - - - 30 100
only
2 To benefit poor and lower class - - 7 23.3 23 76.7
only
3 To benefit all 28 93.3 2 6.7 - -
4 To benefit those who are 1 3.3 5 16.7 24 80
professional
5 To benefit those who can invest - - 2 6.7 28 93.3
Source: Field Visit, 2009

77
Above table shows that the entire respondent were against the kind of tourism development
which benefit rich and upper class only. Similarly 93.3 percent of them were also not favoring
the betterment of those people who can invest. 93.3 percent of the respondents favored or
have chosen to benefit all segments of villagers having emphasis upon the poor and lower
class community.
6.2.11 Tourism Market in Ghalegaun by Nature or Activities and on the Basis of
Spending
In this part, researcher wanted to know the Ghalegaun's tourism market by nature or activities
of tourist and according to their spending capacity. For this regard, the responses from 15
home stay owners were taken, which are tabulated below.
Table 14 –A: Tourism Categories by Nature or Activities
Statement Responses Percentage
Pleasure Tourism 2 13.4
Adventure Tourism - -
Cultural Tourism 3 20
Natural Tourism 5 33.3
Mix of above 5 33.3
Total 15 100
Source: Field Visit, 2009
Above table shows that mix type tourism and natural tourism have more potentialities in
context of Ghalegaun i.e. 33.3 percent of the respondents have given their opinion to these
aspects separately.
Table 14 –B: Type of Tourist on the Basis of Spending
Statement Responses Percentage
High Spending 2 13.3
Medium Spending 5 33.3
Low Spending 8 53.4
Total 15 100
Source: Field Visit, 2009
Among 15 respondents, maximum 53.4 percent observed that Ghalegaun's tourism market is
regarding low spending and 33.3 of them observed medium and 13.3 percent of the

78
respondent gave responses regarding high spending tourists. It shows that it needed to attract
tourist having high spending capacity and should produce more touristic product.
6.2.12 Strength and Weaknesses of Tourism Market in Ghalegaun
Prospects of tourism in Ghalegaun is determined by different physical and cultural factors ,
like wise weakness is also determined by various factors.
The tables given below show the strength and weaknesses of tourism market of Ghalegaun . It
is based on the responses given by home stay owners.
Table 15 –A: Strength of Tourism Market of Ghalegaun
Statement Responses Percentage
Uniqueness 3 20
Mass appeal 1 6.7
Easy access 1 6.7
Beautiful location 8 53.3
Sense of achievement 2 13.3
Low price - -
Total 15 100
Source: Field Visit, 2009
Above table shows the strength of tourism market of Ghalegaun. According to the
respondents the most strengthened factor is beautiful location, which has given 53.3 percent
of responses followed by 20 percent uniqueness and 13.3 to sense of achievement and
6.7percent to mass appeal and easy access each. There is no response on low price.
Table 15 –B : Weaknesses of Tourism Market in Ghalegaun
Statements Responses Percentage
Poor preservation 1 6.7
No mass appeal - -
No repeated value - -
Lack of 3 20
competitiveness
Limited products 8 53.3
Poor presentation 3 20
Total 15 100
Source: Field Visit, 2009
79
Above table indicates the weaknesses of the tourism market of Ghalegaun .Among 15, 53.3
percent of respondents said limited tourism product is the most considerable weakness
followed by 20 percent to lack of competitiveness and poor presentation and 6.7 percent to
poor preservation of tourism places . It shows that there are not any responses regarding to no
mass appeal and no repeated values. There is sought to lack of man appeal and no repeated
values are the weaknesses of tourism market of Ghalegaun.
6.2.13 Perception Towards the Futuristic Pattern of Tourism Development in Ghalegaun
According to Key Informant
Local people have high expectation from the tourism. Responses of local peoples for the
futuristic pattern of tourism development in presented below.
Table 16: Futuristic Pattern of Tourism Development in Ghalegaun According to Local
People
SN Future Pattern Absolutely % Desired % Not %
Desired Desired
1 To benefit rich and upper class - - - - 20 100
2 To benefit poor and lower class - - 10 50 10 50
3 To benefit all 18 90 2 10 - -
4 To benefit only those who are - - 7 35 13 65
professional
5 To benefit only those who can invest - - 1 5 19 95
Source : Field Visit ,2009
The above table shows that all the locals are much concerned about the futuristic way of
tourism development in Ghalegaun. They want a fair distribution of tourism income among
them. So 90 percent of then have chosen to benefit all segment of village .Similarly 95
percent of them were not favoring the betterment of those people who can invest.

6.2.14 Impact of Tourism Development According to the Local People

During the field visit, the respondents were asked about the changes that occurred along with
the increased number of visitors. The view regarding the changes in the village can be
presented as below.
Table 17: Impact of Tourism Development According to Local Peoples
SN Description Positive Negative No Change

80
 Number % Number % Number %
1 Employment opportunity 15 75 - - 5 25
2 Business or market expansion 12 60 - - 8 40
opportunity
3 Development of cottage industry 9 45 - - 11 55
4 Conservation and promotion of natural 10 50 - - 10 50
and cultural assets
5 Development of infrastructure 18 90 - - 2 10
6 Environmental pollution - - 5 25 15 75
7 Price of local products 19 95 - - 1 5
8 Social awareness 20 100 - - - -
9 Tradition ,religion and cultural aspects - - 10 50 10 50
Source: Field Visit, 2009
The above table shows that local peoples have accepted the overall impact of tourism as
positive. 75 percent of the total respondent agreed that employment opportunity has been
increased. Similarly 100 percent of the respondents have given the positive answer for the
improvement of social awareness. In contrary of this 75 percent of the respondents expressed
their view against environmental degradation.
6.2.15 Responses of Local People Regarding Current Infrastructure Facilities Available
in Ghalegaun .
The responses of local people towards the infrastructure facilities available in the Ghalegaun
are tabulated below.
Table 18: Local People's Responses Regarding Existing Infrastructure Available in Ghalegaun
SN Facilities Excellent % Good % Don't % Bad % Very %
Bad
Know
1 Water Supply 7 35 8 40 5 25 - - - -
2 Communication - - 5 25 15 75 - - - -
3 Electricity - - 7 35 8 40 5 25 - -
4 Transportation - - 9 45 11 55 - - - -
5 Environmental sanitation 4 20 10 50 6 30 - - - -
6 View tower 2 10 11 55 7 35 - - - -
7 Security management - - 12 60 8 40 - - - -

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8 Health service - - 3 15 3 15 10 50 4 20

9 Behavior of local people 12 60 8 40 - - - - - -

10 Tourist guide - - 3 15 11 55 6 30 - -
11 Accommodation 1 5 16 80 3 15 - - - -
cleanness
Source : Field Visit ,2009

Note
Excellent = When a particular facility is abundant.
Good = When a particular facility is adequate.
Don't Know = When a respondent don't have any idea about a particular facility.
Bad = When a particular facility is in short supply.
Very Bad = When a particular facility is scarce.
The above table shows that the infrastructure facilities that are consider as bad by the key
informants are electricity ,health service and tourist guide. However they are agreed with
other facilities.
6.2.16 Prime Attractions of Ghalegaun According to Local People.
On the course of field visit, local peoples were asked about the prime attractions of Ghalegaun
that can appeal the tourists.
The responses are tabulated below.
Table 19: Prime Attractions of Ghaleagaun
SN Description No. of respondents Percentage
1 Local cultural programme 2 10
2 View of Himalayan range 4 20
3 Natural beauty 8 40
4 Traditional Gurung museum 2 10
5 Handicrafts 1 5
6 Hospitality of local people 3 15
20 100
Total
Source: Field Visit, 2009

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Above Table shows that natural scenic beauty is one of the valuable ornament of Ghalegaun .
Most of the respondents (40%) gave their view on this feature followed by 20 percent of view
of Himalayan range , 15 percent hospitality of local people ,10 percent respondents gave their
view towards local culture.
6.3 Present Situation of Home stay in Ghalegaun
Ghalegaun is selected as a model village in SAARC countries in 2064 B.S. At the beginning,
only twenty houses were selected as home stay, now it increased to forty. The primary
purpose of such home stay is to provide insight knowledge and completely different feelings
in countryside environment with village people.
6.4 Around Ghalegaun
There are so many noticeable places to see around Ghalegaun which represents the present
status of Ghalegaun. The citable places are tabulated below.
Table 20: Seeing Around Ghalegaun
Places Time taken from Ghalegaun
Community based sheep farming One day
Play ground Two minutes
Ghybre Ghar (traditional home)
Gol Ghar (Round house)
Uttarkanya Temple (made before 100years) Five minutes
Ponjyu Village( Earliest settlement of Gurungs)
Community Building ( for traditional cultural shows)
Samba Chhyoling Gumba Fifteen minutes
View Tower ( for panoramic view) Six minutes
Talangyo Lake (mysterious lake ) Thirty minutes
Tea farming Ten minutes
Didi Baini Jharana One hour and forty five minutes
Gurung Museum
Hojelo pro (honey hunting) Ten minutes

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 CHAPTER -7
FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Tourism industry is growing vigorously with the development of transportation and

communications. As the curious and learning nature of men has found visiting a means of
satisfaction by roaming the places of world, tourism industry is established. Now, tourism has
been adopted as easy sector for economic earning. Tourism sector has an important role by
means of major source of foreign exchange earnings.
This study is focused on examination of economic impact of tourism .On the basis of
collected information the following facts are obtained.

7.1 Findings
The major findings of this study are as follows
 The numbers of tourist were smoothly increasing from 2001 to 2008.
 1665 tourist visited Ghalegaun during the year 2008 which represents 68.35 percent
increase than 2007.
 The average arrival of tourist is 540.
 Forty home stays are running now.
 During the field visit period the total arrival of tourist was 203, among this 88.17%
i.e.179 were domestic tourists and remaining 11.83 % i.e. were international tourists.
 During field visit the high percentage i.e. 60 %of tourists were between 21 to 40 age
group.
 During field visit 86.7 percent of tourist were come for sight seeing and most of them
i.e. 46.7% were students.
 During field visit it was found that 90% of tourists were male.
 About 63.3% of tourists stay in Ghlegaun for two days and one night.
 During field visit 100% of tourist paid below 10US$ for lodging and 70 % of tourist
paid this amount for fooding too i.e. average expenditure per tourist to be within 10to
20 US$ per day.
 During field visit 23.3 % of tourist appreciated natural scenic beauty.

84
 Visitors were satisfied with the overall situation of infrastructure available in study
area more over they were satisfied with the behavior of local people i.e. 66.7%of
tourist were highly positive to the behavior of local people.
 Visitors were much concerned about futuristic way of tourism development pattern in
Ghalegaun. They want a fair distribution of tourism income i.e.93.3% of the
respondents (tourists) have chosen to benefit all.
 During field visit, 53.4% of home stay owner who were taken as respondent said that
most of the tourist who visit Ghaleagaun have less spending capacity and generally
the natural lovers visit Ghalegaun .
 The most strengthen aspect of Ghalegaun is beautiful location and the most weak
aspect is limited touristic products. Natural beauty is the rime attraction of Ghlegaun.

7.2 Conclusions
Tourism has been so emphasized in Nepal that it is regarded as a means of achieving
economic development. Nepal has accorded a high priority for tourism development due
to its natural and cultural attributes. Rural tourism is one of the important alternative
sources of economic prosperity. So, tourism industry shall be developed in such a way
that the national development and distribution of income shall be satisfactory in order to
avoid the future conflict among the different stratums of the Nepalese society.
The major objective of this study is examining the economic impact of rural tourism
market and its prospects in Ghalegaun.
Because of natural beauty, close proximity with Himalayas and recreational potentialities,
Ghalegaun will develop into an important destination for natural lovers in coming days.
It seems from the study that government's publicity activity to attract foreign tourist is not
satisfactory for the development of rural tourism in Ghalegaun. It can be concluded that
destination promotion should be initiated by government but product service should
managed by private sector. What ever the good possibilities are over there the rural
tourism of Ghalegaun has not remained untouched by the various problems.
From this study the researcher come to following conclusion:
1. Ghalegaun has very high potentiality of developing rural tourism. Main features of
Ghalegaun are spell bounding mountain view, local traditions and culture ,Gurung

85
Museum ,Goal Ghar , Uttarkanya Mandir , natural bee hives for honey hunting ,Didibaini
Jharana, Talangyon Tal , panoramic view, etc.
2. Tourist trafficking in Ghalegaun is in increasing trend.
3. In the perception of tourist, the local people of Ghalegaun is very amicable and
harmonious.
4. Natural beauty, unpolluted environment, diverse species of flora and fauna helps to
promote as a unique rural tourism destination.
5. The most discernible attractions of Ghalegaun are natural beauty and cultural shows
performed by local people.
6. Ghalegaun is cheap destination for tourist.
7. Out of all households only forty households are used as home stay for tourist as
paying guest.
8. Even though it has high potentiality to develop as rural tourism market, no significant
tourist activities have been carried out in Ghalegaun.
9. Local people agree that there is positive impact of tourism in economic field.
10. Warm welcome of local people with garlands and tika fascinate every visitors.
11. Traditional folk songs, unique Gurung cultural dance and traditional music appeal
everyone.
12. Increase in employment opportunity, income generation by selling various local
products.
13. Because of lack of skilled, qualified and trained manpower, the service rendering to
tourists are not in their best quality.
14. As the arrival of tourist is increasing day by day the economic standard of local's is
raising smoothly.

Cost of Tourism in the Economy

i. Pollution problem.
ii. Quality vs. quantity of tourism
iii. Short stay of tourist.
iv. Government lags in the investment on tourism promotion.

86
There are so many places having touristy importance nearby Ghalegaun, which are
waiting for urgent promotional activities. The existing bodies took their activities to some
extent but not sufficient. For the good result support of multi hands are require. Even, it
has been selected as the model tourist village within SAARC region, there are still so
many activities to be carried out in order to intensify the flow of tourist in Ghalegaun.

7.3 Recommendations
From the experience gained through the study, for the sustainable growth of rural tourism
in Ghalegaun following suggestions are recommended.
 Policies and programme related to tourism should be developed. Taking into
account of their implementation, strict follow up must be taken to ensure the
smooth operation of the policies.
 The Gurung Museum should be developed as a center for leaning cultural aspects
of Gouring community as whole.
 Government should annually allocate certain budget for the development of
tourism in Ghalegaun.
 Health facilities should be improved.
 The number of homestays should be increased with maintaining the
accommodation facilities.
 More numbers of foreign tourist should be attracted by promotion so, the foreign
exchange earnings could be increased.
 Duration of tourist stay must be increased by finding places having touristy
importance nearby Ghalegaun.
 Tourist should provide entertainment and recreational facilities to increase their
length of stay.
 The guide facility should be improved by hiring trained people.
 Security condition should be improved.
 Market strategy largely should be focused on two fronts: One in the foreign market
and another in the domestic market. The publicity and marketing strategies
adopted by the government has not been found effective. Therefore, there is an
urgent need of redesign its marketing strategies.

87
 Enough maps and signals showing the trail and directions should be kept
throughout the trekking trail.
 To make Ghlalegaun as a famous tourist destination, there is imperative need of
tourist information center.
 The open lawns on the way to Ghanpokhara should turn into a beautiful park
which really aids the beauty of Ghalegaun.
 It need to strong commitment of locals of Ghalegaun to preserve the natural as
well as cultural aspect which will be the milestone for the sustainable development
of rural tourism in Ghlalegaun.
 It should organize special events every year in a fixed date and publicize it locally
as well as internationally throughout websites and other medium of
communication.
 All kinds of strikes should be closed and political stability should be needed for
the development of foreign as well as domestic tourism.
 Revive the charm of local cultural festivals; especially the young generation
should aware of ancient festivals and rituals.
 It need to infuse tourism awareness in society to ensure a positive interaction
between visitors and locals as also to encourage tourism entrepreneurship.
 Some promotional measures of incentives i.e. family concession, group concession
etc can also be profitably introduced for further boosting the tourist traffic inflow.
 Cultural heritage is one of the important foundation of the tourism in Ghalegaun .
So restoration of cultural heritage is necessary. This includes protection and
renovation of Uttarkanya Mandir , seven pounds around this Mandir and other.
 The alternative access to Ghalegaun is to be developed.
 Up gradation of transportation facilities must be on top priority. The motor road
from Besishahar to Ghalegaun should widen.
 Modern communication facilities like e-mail, internet, fax should be easily
accessible.
 Street light should be installed which will have positive effect for the
beautification of the Ghalegaun.

88
 For the promotion of place various promotional activities like; producing
documentary, conducting national and international tourism seminars, printing
brochures, booklets,stickers ,posters etc should be held.
 Registration of tourist visited in Ghalegaun should be conducted properly.
 In some of the households, cattle sheds are very near to home stays which makes
the atmosphere unhygienic, so it should built far from home stays.
 Most of the households use firewood and LP gas for cooking and heating homes.
So, uses of renewal sources of energy like bio-gas, solar and electricity should be
adopted to conserve the green environment.
 The religious importance of Dudhpokhari should be promoted nationally as well as
internationally so as to increase the trafficking of tourist in Ghalegaun and
surroundings.
 Proposed GHT should be authenticated for the further development and promotion
of rural tourism in Ghalegaun and nearby it.
 Besides traditional handicrafts,training should be rendered to villagers for making
diversified handicrafts using locally available raw materials.
 Landscaping and Botanical Park around view tower and other near by mounds can
be made to intensify the beauty and charm of Ghalegaun.
 Last but not least, it is needed to market the products and motivate the entire
community to collaborate with marketing agencies for cashing on tourism
potentials and economic growth of villagers.

89
 REFERENCES

Books
Agrawal , Govinda Ram (2002), Dynamics of Business Environment in Nepal,M.K
Publishers, Kathamandu.
Agrawal , Govinda Ram (1999), Marketing in Nepal, Educational Enterprises ,Kathmandu
Amatya, Kalpana (1979), Holiday and Trekking in Nepal, Nest Wings Publication, New
Delhi.
Bhatia, A.K (2002), Tourism Development, Principles and Practices, Second Revised
Edition, Sterling Publishers Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi.
Burger,viet(1978), An Economic Impact of Tourism in Nepal , Oxford Press,London.
Chauhan,Yashwant Sing(2004), Ecotourism in Nepal, Kalinga Publication ,New Delhi.
Ghimire,Ananda (2002),Travel and Tourism : An Introduction, Ekata Books Distributors
Pvt. Ltd.,Kathmandu.
Haney, Marthe, ed.(2002),Ecotourism and Certification, Island Press, Washington.
Joshi, P.R.(2003) ,Research Methodology, Buddha Academic Publishers and Distributors,
Kathmandu.
K.C. Fatta(2000),Introduction to Marketing, Sukunda Pustak Bhawan , Kathmandu.
Kotler, Philip (1995), Marketing Management, Prentice-Hall of India Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi.
Peter, M. (1969), International Tourism: The Economics and Development of The
International Tourist Trade, Lindin, Hutchinson.
Pradhanga, S.B.(2002), Village Tourism In Chitwan, Adroit Publishers, New Delhi.
Satayal, Y.R. (2000), Tourism Monograph of Nepal, Adroit publishers, New Delhi.
Sing, R.D (1999), Tourism Marketing, Principles, Policies and Strategies, Kanisha Publishers
& Distributors, New Delhi.
Upadhaya , Rudra Prasad (2008), Reading in Rural Tourism, Sun Light Publication,
Kathmandu.
Wolff, H.K and Pant P.R.(1975),Social Science Research and Thesis Writing , Buddha
Academic Enterprises Pvt. Ltd., Kathmandu.

90
News/ Journals/ Reports/ Articles
Adhikari, R.B. (2000), Economic Development of Tourism Sector of Nepal, Nepal Rastra
Bank News, Annual Published, Kathmandu.
Cleverdon, Report (1961), The Economic and Social Impact of International Tourism
Developing Countries,London.
Ghimire, Ananda,(2006), Tourism Service Product Production Process, The Nepalese
Management Review ,Vol-13 no.1,July,2006, Published by Central Department of
Management ,TU,Kirtipur.
Gurung ,Dr.Harka,(1978) ,Tourism Trend In Nepal, Nepal Industrial Digest, NIDC,Vol.1,
Kathmandu.
Gurung , Tak Raj (2004), Tourism in Nepal: Opportunities and Challenges, Banijay Sansar
,Issue- 11
Heredge, Marianne(2005) ,Tourism Development and Local Communities: A Case Study of
Mountain Tourism in Nepal, The Economic Journal of Nepal, Vol.28,no.4, Oct-Dec,2005,
CEDECON, Kirtipur, Kathmandu.
MoT(2008), Nepal Tourism Statistics, Annual Report, Government of Nepal ,Ministry of
Tourism.
Mof (2008), Economic Survey, Government of Nepal, Ministry of Finance.
Niraula, Subash (2007), Tourism Development in Nepal: Our Challenge and Strategies,
AReport to NTB, Kathmandu.
NTB (2004), National Eco-tourism Strategy and Marketing Programme of Nepal.
Souvenir,(2005), published by Village Tourism Promotion Forum-Nepal,pp1-39.
Timilsina ,Jagat (2002),Service in the Nepalese Economy With Reference to Tourism
Market, Banijaya Sansar ,May 2002,Issue-10.
Upadhaya, R.P. (2006), Village Tourism in Nepal, (Kantipur Daily, 13thMay, 2006).
Upadhaya, R.P (2006), Tourism and Regional Development, NTTR,Kathmandu.
Upadhaya R.P (2006),A Study of Rural Tourism : Measures to Minimize the Negative
Impacts, A report to MoCTCA, Kathmandu.
Uperity, H.K.(2006), Rural Tourism: An Opportunity to Emission Trades,( An Article
Published in Himalayan Times Daily)
World Tourism Organization (2000), Tourism Market Trends South Asia.

91
Dissertations and Research Documents
Aryal, B.R. (2002), The Problems and Prospects of Tourism Development, Unpublished
Master Thesis, Faculty of Humanities and Social Science, Central Department of Economics,
TU, Kathmandu.
Aryal, Dipak(2005), Economic Impact of Tourism in Nepal, TU, Kathmandu.
Basnet, Anjita(2005), Role of Tourism in Economic Development of Nepal, TU, Kathmandu.
Burger,Viet,(1978), The Economic Impact of Tourism in Nepal: An Input-Output Analysis,
Cornel University, Ph.D. Dissertation.
Dhakal, Gagan Sharma(1998), Ecotourism in Nepal: A Case Study of Pokhara Valley, Kaski
District , Nepal, Unpublished Master Thesis Department of Economics, TU, Kirtipur.
Dhital, B.R.(1999), Impact of Tourism Industry in Nepalese Economy, Unpublished Master
Level Thesis, Department of Public Administration, Kathmandu.
Dhungana. Sujita(2006) , Tourism in Nepal: A study on Ecotourism in Tansen, Unpublished
Master Thesis, Department of Economics, University Campus, Kirtipur.
Ghimire , Balkrishna (2000) , Role of Tourism in Economic Development of Nepal,
Unpublished Master Level Thesis, TU, Kathmandu.
Gurung, Den Bahadur (2003), Socio-Economic and Environmental Assessment of Tourism
in Dhampus VDCof Annapurna Region, Unpublished Master level Thesis, TU, Kathmandu.
Nepal, Shaila Raj(2004), Tourism and it's Economic Impacs: A Case Study of Nagarkot,
Unpublished MA Thesis, Central Department of Economics, TU ,Kirtipur
Neupane ,Ram Prasad(2005) , Economic Impact of Tourism Industry in Nepal, An
Unpublished Master Level Thesis ,Department of Economics,TU, Kirtipur.
Palikhe, Amin(2004), Problems and Prospects of Tourism Market in Pokhara, Unpublished
Master Level Thesis ,Prithvi Narayan Campus ,Faculty of Management, TU, Pokhara.
Pant, Hari Datt(2006), Impact of Tourism in Nepalese Economy, Unpublished MA Thesis
,TU, Kathmandu.
Poudel Gharti, B.R.(2004), Village Tourism in Nepal: A Case Study of Bandipur Village,
Unpublished Master Thesis, Department of Rural Development , University Campus,
Kirtipur,Kathmandu.
Sapkota, Kesab Raj (2004), Ecotourism as a Means of Poverty Alleviation in Nepal,
Unpublished Master Thesis, Department of Rural Development, Kirtipur, Kathmandu.

92
Shrestha, Netra Kumar (2008), Rural Tourism in Nepal: A Case Study of Ghalegaon,
Unpublished Master Level Thesis, Central Department of Economics, TU, kirtipur.
Tripatahi, Tanka Prasad (2003), The Impact of Tourism on Rural Family System: A Case
Study of Ghandruk VDC, Kaski, TU, Kirtipur.
Upadhya, Rudra Prasad (2003), A Study of Tourism as a Heading Sector for Economic
Development of Nepal, Unpublished Ph.D. Dissertation of Economics, Lacknow University
,India.

TRPAP Publications
Tourism Marketing Strategy for Nepal (2005 to2020),2004.
Waste Management Guidelines For the Rural Tourism Areas of Nepal,2006
Gender, HIV and AIDS and Women's Health Orientation for Pro-Women Rural Tourism
Development Training Manual, 2006.

Websites
www.ntnc.org.np
www.lamjungchamber.org.np
www.ghalegaun.com
www.welcomenepal.com
www.villagetourisminnepal.htm
www.worldtourism.org
www.bandipurtourism.com
www.nepalmagic.com
www.mot.gov.np
www.mof.gov.np
www.nepaltrek.com/village_tourism.php

93
 APPENDIX-A
ECONOMIC IMPACT OF RURAL TOURISM MARKET IN NEPAL:
A CASE STUDY OF GHALEGAUN TOURISM VILLAGE LAMJUNG

Questionnaires for Visitors

Dear visitor,
As an academic researcher, I would like to request you to provide your valuable time to fill
up this checklist which I have been prepared for seeking your opinion on different aspects of
rural tourism in Ghalegaun for of the partial fulfillment of dissertation to be submitted for
Master of Business Studies (MBS) at CDM, TU,Kirtipur .The main theme of this research is
to explore the economic impact of tourism in Ghalegaun .
The success of this project depends to a large extent on your kind co-operation.

With Regards

Pushpa Sagar Baral

Researcher

Details of visitor
Name: Age:
Nationality: Occupation:
Sex:

1. How did you come to know about Ghalegaun as a tourist destination through?
i) Newspaper ( ) ii) Friends ( )iii) website ( )

2. What is the purpose of your visit to Ghalegaun?

i) Sight seeing ( ) ii)Study or Research ( ) iii) Official work ( )
iv) Other ( )

3. Is it your first visit to Ghalegaun?

4. Through which route of travel you come here?

i) Besi-Baglungpani-Ghale ( ) ii) Besi-Khudi-Bhalamchaur-Ghale ( ) iii Besi-
Khudi-Nayun-Ghale ( )

5. What mode of transportation did you use to reach Ghalegaun?

i) On foot ( ) ii) Jeep ( ) iii) Other if any ……………

6. What are the most appreciate features did you find in Ghalegaun?
94
 i) Natural Scenic Beauty ( ) ii) Culture ( ) iii)Accommodation Facilities( )
iv) Homely environment ( ) v) All of the above ( )

7. How much do you expect to spend here in Ghalegaun?

a) Lodging US$...............pre day c) Local handicraft items US$........
b) Fooding US$.............per day d) Other items……………………

8. What do you think about the pricing of bedding of and fooding of Ghalegaun?
i) Expensive ( ) ii) Cheap ( ) iii) Moderate ( )

9. How many days will you stay in Ghalegaun?

a) 2 days/ 1 night ( ) b) 3days / 2 night ( ) c) 4 days/ 3 night ( )
d) More……..

10. If you are a frequent visitor which is the best season to visit Ghalegauen?
i) Spring ( ) ii) Summer ( ) iii) Autumn ( ) iv) Winter ( )

11. How do you evaluate the existing infrastructure facilities here in Ghalegaun? (Give
number properly )
Excellent=1 Good=2 don't know=3
Bad = 4 very bad-5
i) Communication ( )
ii) Transportation ( )
iii) Electricity ( )
iv) Drinking water supply ( )
v) Security management ( )
vi) Cleanness of accommodation ( )
vii) Behavior of local people ( )
viii) Environmental Sanitation ( )
ix) Health Service ( )
x) Home stay ( )
xi)View Tower ( )
xii) Facility of tourist guide ( )

12. What made you more satisfied during the visit?

i) Natural beauty ( ) ii) Peaceful environment ( ) iii)Homely Environment ( ) iv)
Culture and Tradition v) All of above ( )

13. How did you find the perception of tourists among the local people?
i) Positive ( ) ii) Negative ( ) iii) Not any ( )

14. Will you refer to visit Ghalegaun to acquaintances of others?

i) Yes ( ) ii) No ( )

15How the tourism should be developed in Ghalegaun? Please write the proper number
(1= absolutely desired 2= desired 3= not desired)
95
a) To benefit rich and upper class only. ( )
b) To benefit poor and lower class only. ( )
c) To benefit all. ( )
d) To benefit only those who are professional. ( )
e) To benefit only those who can invest ( )

16. Special Remarks,

(Please mention your consolidation views, in brief, how rural tourism market in Ghalegaun
can be developed to the maximum.)
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………

Thanks for your co-operation

96
 APPENDIX-B
ECONOMIC IMPACT OF RURAL TOURISM MARKET INNEPAL:
A CASE STUDY OF GHALEGAUN TOURISM VILLAGE LAMJUNG

Questionnaires for Home -stay owner

Dear Sir or Madam,

I would like inform you that this research is conducted for the fulfillment of dissertation to be
submitted for Master of Business Studies at CDM, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur,
Kathmandu. Your valuable time to fill up this checklist which I have been prepared for
seeking your opinion on different aspect of rural tourism in Ghalegaun .The main theme of
this research is to explore the economic impact of tourism in Ghalegaun.
The success of this project depends on a large extent of your kind co-operation.

With Regards

Pushpa Sagar Baral

Researcher

Details of Home stay owner

Name of the home stay owner: ……………………… Year of estd.:
Age: Sex:
Address: Uttarkanya VDC, Lamjung

1. How did you establish your home- stay?

a) Self finance ( ) b) loan ( )
c) Others ………….
2. How much money have you invested? (In NRS)

3. How many beds are available in your home stay?

4. How many tourists stay in your home stay annually in average?

5. What do you fill about the number of tourists in this area?

a) Sufficient ( ) b) Insufficient ( )
c) Don't know ( )

6. How long do tourists stay in your home stay?

97
 a)Day excursion ( ) b) Two days/one night ( ) c) Three day /two night ( ) d)
Four days/ three nights e) Five days / four nights and more ( )

7. How much do you charge for room and beds?

a) Double bed room US$…………… b) Sing bed room US$. ………..

8. How much a tourist normally spends per day on average except room charge?

9. Do you find repeated visitors in Ghalegaun?

10. What is your opinion about the satisfaction of tourist after visiting this place?
a) Fully satisfied ( ) b) satisfied ( )
c) Satisfied ( ) d) don't know ( )

11. Which type of cooking fuel is used in your home stay?

a) Electricity ( ) b) L.P. Gas ( )
c Fire wood ( ) d) Solar ( )
e) Kerosene ( )

12. Are there any changes in your economic status due to tourism? If yes what?

13. What are the major problems of tourism in Ghalegaun?

a) ……………………………………………………………………
b)……………………………………………………………………
c) ……………………………………………………………………
d)……………………………………………………………………
e)……………………………………………………………………
f)……………………………………………………………………
14. How are you feeling about the people and culture of Ghalegaun?
a) Very good ( ) b) Good ( ) c) Average ( )
d) Bad ( ) e) Very bad ( )

15. What are the future prospects of rural tourism in Ghalegaun?

a) Excellent ( ) b) Good ( ) c) Don't know ( )

16. As a home stay owner, what is your opinion on present business?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………

98
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………
17. How do you evaluate the existing infrastructure facilities here in Ghalegaun?(give number
properly )
Excellent=1 Good=2 don't know=3
Bad = 4 very bad-5
i) Communication ( )
ii) Transportation ( )
iii) Electricity ( )
iv) Drinking water supply ( )
v) Security management ( )
vi) Cleanness of accommodation ( )
vii) Behavior of local people ( )
viii) Environmental Sanitation ( )
ix) Health Service ( )
x) Home stay ( )
xi) View Tower ( )
xii) Facility of tourist guide ( )
18. What are the strengths and weaknesses of rural tourism market in Ghalegaun ?
Strengths Weaknesses
a) Uniqueness () a) Poor preservation ()
b) Beautiful location () b) Lack of competitiveness ( )
c) Mass appeal () c) No mass appeal ()
d) Easy access () d) Limited products ()
e) Sense of achievement () e) No repeat value ()
f) Low price () f) Poor presentation ()
g) Other….. g) Other …….
19. How do you take Ghalegaun as the rural tourism market? Please tick the relevant answer.
By Nature On the basis of spending
a) Pleasure Tourism ( ) a) High Spending tourist ( )
b) Adventure Tourism ( ) b) Medium Spending ( )
c) Cultural Tourism ( ) c) Low Spending tourist ( )
d) Natural Tourism ( ) d) Mix of above ( )
e) Mix of above ( )
20. What are your suggestions for the development of rural tourism in Ghalegaun?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………….

Thanks for your warm co –operation

99
 APPENDIX –C

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!$= s] ko{6g ahf/sf] lj:tf/af6 ;f+Rr}g} 3n]ufpFsf :yflgosf] cfly{s :t/ yk dfly
p7fpg ;+ej b]Vg'x'G5 <
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102
oxfFsf] ;xof]u / ;b\efjsf nflu cfefl/ 5' .

103