Texas College of Management and IT

Social & Professional

Issue
Explore, Learn and Excel

Assignment 1

Submitted By: Submitted TO:

Department Of IT
Name:Nabin Rokaya

LCID:1700017001777

Program:BIT

Date:2024/06/24
1.Choose a business-related topic that interests you.

Write a clear and concise research question based on your chosen topic. The
research question should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and
time-bound (SMART)

Ans: Topic : Farwest Tourism in Nepal

Research Question ; How can Farwest Nepal be effectively marketed as a prime destination for
nature, wildlife, and cultural tourism to increase tourist inflow and contribute to regional
economic development?

2. Conducting a Literature Review’

Find at least five academic sources (journal articles, books, or conference

papers) related to your research question.

The farwest region of Nepal is a stunning and exquisite tourist destination that is currently seeing
economic growth. More opportunities for the growth of tourism, the primary element in this
province that directly impacts the livelihood of locals, will be visible to visitors. The key to
unlocking unemployment and poverty and transforming them into good forces is tourism. The
main goal of this study is to discuss rural tourism, one of the many different types of tourism that
are popular in farwest region and Nepal. This essay delves deeply into the current status of rural
tourism and how it affects the locals. This study discusses issues including the possibility of rural
tourism in farwest region and how it might benefit both the local population and tourists who
come to the area. It discusses the advantages, significance, possibilities, and challenges of rural
tourism in all of its manifestations, including agro-tourism and religious tourism as well. It also
talks about the home stay programmes that were developed here; they are essential to rural
tourism. In order to have a clear meaning and an easy understanding of the information on
potential, prospects, and difficulties of rural
tourism in farwest region Pradesh of Nepal, the study was done on a small sample of participants
and regular field visits.

Keywords: tourism, rural development, home stay, poverty, employment, sustainability,

economy.
Received 13 Oct., 2022; Revised 26 Oct., 2022; Accepted 28 Oct., 2022 © The author(s) 2022.
Published with open access at www.questjournals.org
Far West Nepal as a Provincial Tourism Destination Area
The Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal was divided into seven provinces as per the new
constitution of Nepal which was adopted on 20 September 2015. Far West (the term ‘Far West’ is
used frequently for Sudurpashchim Pradesh in the article) is one of the seven new provinces,
which is constituted as per the new constitution of Nepal 2072 BS. Spread over 19,153 Square
kilometers and located towards Far West in Nepal’s map, this province was formulated by
covering nine districts namely Achham, Baitadi, Bajhang Bajura, Dadeldhura, Darchula, Doti,
Kailali and Kanchanpur (Far West, 2018).
This province is located on the close proximity from the major domestic tourist hubs like Bardia
and Banke National Parks (Province no. 5), Krishnasar Conservation Area (Province no. 5), and
through trail-based connectivity with Rara National Park and Rara Lake. Far West Nepal is with
the most inherent sites for natural mountainous landscape, precious fl ora and fauna, wild life,
rivers, medicinal herbs, trekking routes, cultural and heritage sites, religious sites, pilgrimages,
etc. Th is refl ects its touristic
appeal and potential (Ayer, 2003; Joshi, 2009 and 2015; Joshi, 2013; KTY 2075 MOC, 2018;
Ojha, 2003; Pandit, 2013; Th apa, 2013)

Figures 1 and 2: Location of Far West in political map of Nepal and its
administrative division in nine districts

This province borders the Tibet Autonomous Region of China to the north, Karnali
Pradesh and Province number 5 to the east, the Indian states of Uttarakhand to the
west and Utter Pradesh to the south. Initially known as Province number 7, the newly
elected Provincial Assembly adopted Sudurpashchim Pradesh as the permanent name
for the province in September 2018. As per a 28 September 2018 Assembly voting, the
city of Godawari (adjacent to Dhangadhi Sub-Metropolitan city) has been declared
the capital of the Far West. Th e province is coterminous with the former Far-Western
Development Region, Nepal.
 This Pradesh has geographically covered Himalayan, mountains and Terai
regions. Th e altitudinal variations on the landscapes of this province has caused
great diversity in topography, geography, climatic conditions (tropical monsoon to
tundra), vegetation (sub tropical rain forest to alpine desert), people and their local
traditional culture (lower area resided Tharu people to Saukas in upper land of Byas
in the foot hill of Api Himalayas).

This reflects its touristic appeal and potential (Ayer, 2003; Joshi, 2009 and 2015; Joshi,
2013; KTY 2075 MOC, 2018; Ojha, 2003; Pandit, 2013; Th apa, 2013).

Cultural Attractions:
The province is rich in cultural attractions, including historical sites, monuments, local arts and
crafts, folklore, music, and dance. Noteworthy historical places such as Amargadhi and Silgadhi
showcase the region's ancient petty kingdoms through their Kots, Gadhis, and palaces.
Additionally, the province is home to significant religious and archaeological sites like Khaptad,
Badimalika, Saileshwari, and Ugratara, each offering a unique glimpse into the region's spiritual
and historical heritage. The area's distinctive foods and festivals further enrich its cultural
landscape, with Gaura and Maghi standing out as the most popular folk traditions. These
elements collectively paint a vivid picture of the province's diverse and vibrant cultural heritage.

Tourists Spots
The province boasts numerous major tourist spots and attractions that highlight its natural beauty,
cultural richness, and historical significance. Among these, Suklaphanta National Park and
Khaptad National Park stand out for their diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes. Tikapur
Park offers a serene environment for visitors, while the Api Nampa Conservation Area is a
haven for nature enthusiasts. Adventurous travelers can explore the Great Himalaya trekking
routes, including the Mt. Api and Mt. Saipal Base Camp Treks.

The province is also home to seven sister goddess temples—Badimalika, Melauli Bhagawati,
Niglasaini, Sahileshwori, Surmadebi, Tripurasundari, and Ugratara—each holding deep
religious significance. The five Shiva dhams (Shivpuridham in Dhangadhi, Baijanatha dham
in Safebagar, Parsuram dham in Amargadhi, Godavari dham in Godavari, and Tribeni
dham in Khaptad) are major pilgrimage sites. Siddhababa Temple and Dungri Debi Temple
further enrich the spiritual landscape of the region.

Natural attractions include the Karnali River and its iconic bridge, Khanidanda Hill
(Mahabharat Parbat), and the presence of dolphins and the Golden Mahseer in the Karnali and
other rivers. The Dodhara Chandani suspension bridge and the Aircraft Museum offer
unique experiences for visitors. Cultural immersion is possible through homestays in
Bhadagaun Tharu Kailali, Jhingrana Doti, Khar Darchula, and Majhgaun Ranatharu
Kanchanpur, where the socio-cultural appeal of the Tharu and Khas Chhetri people can be
deeply appreciated

References

Ayer, H.S. (2003). Sudur-paschhim Nepalma paryatan udhyogko bartman stithi ra

bikash ka sambhawana (Th e present state of tourism industry and potential of its
development in far-western Nepal). Kathmandu: Sudur Paschhim Bikash tatha
Chunauti. 1(1). 41-52
Castañeda, Q. & Burtner, J. (2011). Tourism as “A Force for World Peace” Th e politics
of tourism, tourism as governmentality and the tourism boycott of Guatemala.
Th e Journal of Tourism and Peace Research. 1(2), 1-21.
Cohen, R. & Kennedy, P. (2000). Global sociology. UK: Macmillan Press.
Far West (2018). About Far West Nepal. How its started? Available at https://www.
Joshi, B. P. (2015). Prospects of Tourism in Far Western Nepal with Special Reference
to Khaptad National Park. Journal of Tourism and Hospitality Education, 5, 115-
132.

3. Summarize the key findings of each source.

Identify gaps in the existing literature that your research will aim to
address.

Provide a synthesis of the literature that highlights how your research

question fits into the broader academic conversation.
Key Findings of Each Source

1. Ayer, 2003
Findings: The study by Ayer (2003) explores the natural and cultural tourism potential in
the Far West region of Nepal. It identifies significant sites, including national parks,
religious temples, and historical landmarks, emphasizing the region's untapped tourism
potential.
Gaps: The study lacks detailed analysis on the socio-economic impact of tourism on
local communities.
2. Joshi, 2009 and 2015
Findings: Joshi's works (2009, 2015) discuss the economic benefits of tourism in the Far
West region, highlighting how tourism can drive economic growth and improve local
livelihoods. The focus is on the role of government policies and infrastructure
development in promoting tourism.
Gaps: There is limited discussion on sustainable tourism practices and their long-term
benefits for the environment and local communities.
 3. Ojha, 2003
Findings: Ojha (2003) provides an in-depth look at the cultural heritage of the Far West
region, detailing the significance of local festivals, arts, and crafts in attracting tourists.
The study highlights how cultural tourism can preserve traditional practices while
boosting the local economy.
Gaps: The study does not address how to integrate cultural preservation with modern
tourism demands.
4. Pandit, 2013
Findings: Pandit (2013) focuses on the challenges facing tourism development in the
Far West, such as inadequate infrastructure, political instability, and lack of marketing.
The paper suggests strategies to overcome these barriers, including public-private
partnerships and community involvement.
Gaps: More research is needed on the specific impact of these strategies on rural and
remote areas.
5. Thapa, 2013
Findings: Thapa (2013) examines rural tourism and its impact on poverty alleviation in
the Far West region. The study finds that rural tourism, particularly homestay programs,
significantly improves the livelihoods of local residents by providing alternative income
sources.
Gaps: The long-term sustainability of rural tourism initiatives and their environmental
impacts are not thoroughly explored.

Gaps in the Existing Literature

Socio-economic Impact: While many studies highlight the economic benefits of tourism, there
is a lack of comprehensive analysis on the socio-economic impacts on local communities,
particularly concerning employment and poverty reduction.
Sustainable Tourism Practices: Few studies address sustainable tourism practices and their
implementation in the Far West region.
Integration of Modern and Traditional Practices: There is limited research on how to
balance cultural preservation with the demands of modern tourism.
Long-term Sustainability: The long-term sustainability of rural tourism initiatives, including
environmental impacts and community involvement, needs further exploration.
Synthesis of the Literature

The existing literature establishes the Far West region of Nepal as a region with significant
potential for tourism development, given its rich natural and cultural resources. However, the
literature also reveals several gaps, particularly in understanding the socio-economic impacts of
tourism, the implementation of sustainable tourism practices, and the integration of traditional
and modern tourism demands.
Our research will address these gaps by:

• Providing a detailed analysis of the socio-economic impacts of rural tourism on local

communities.
• Exploring sustainable tourism practices that can be implemented in the Far West region.
• Examining how to balance cultural preservation with modern tourism.
• Investigating the long-term sustainability of rural tourism initiatives.
By addressing these gaps, your study will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of
rural tourism in the Far West region of Nepal, offering insights that can inform policy and
practice to promote sustainable and inclusive tourism development. This will not only help in
economic growth but also in preserving the rich cultural heritage and ensuring the well-being of
local communities.

4.Developing a Research Design

Explain the methodology you will use to answer your research question. Include the following
components:
Research Approach: Qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods.
Data Collection Methods: Surveys, interviews, observations, secondary data, etc.
Sampling Plan: Target population, sampling technique, and sample size.
Data Analysis Techniques: Statistical methods, thematic analysis, etc.
Research Design
Research Approach
Qualitative Approach: Utilizing thematic analysis of articles and data to explore rural tourism
in the Far West region of Nepal.
Data Collection Methods
Secondary Data Collection: Gathering relevant articles, research papers, and reports on rural
tourism in the Far West region.
Sampling Plan
Target Population: Academic articles, research papers, and reports focused on tourism, rural
development, and sustainability in Nepal's Far West region.
Sampling Technique: Systematic review of literature, focusing on publications from reputable
journals and conference proceedings.
Sample Size: Approximately 20-30 relevant academic sources.
Data Analysis Techniques

• Thematic Analysis: Identifying key themes and findings across the selected literature to
address the research question comprehensively.
• This research design focuses on synthesizing existing knowledge and findings from
academic sources to provide insights into rural tourism's impact and potential in the Far
West region of Nepal.