Dhankuta, May 31: Tourism entrepreneurs in Dhankuta have welcomed the surge in visitor arrivals following the introduction of a two-day weekend, saying the policy has injected fresh momentum into the local tourism industry.
The increase in tourist numbers, coupled with longer stays, has generated renewed enthusiasm among tourism businesses. Compared to previous years, Dhankuta has witnessed a significant rise in domestic tourist arrivals this year.
Popular destinations including Bhedetar, Hile, Rajarani, Pakhribas and Sidhuwa have experienced a noticeable increase in tourist activity. According to Tumraj Limbu, president of the Hotel Association Bhedetar, tourist arrivals in Bhedetar have increased substantially compared to previous years.
Located about 17 kilometres from Dharan, Bhedetar is known for its cool climate during the summer season. Limbu said that while many visitors previously returned home the same day, most tourists now stay overnight, with only a few choosing to leave immediately.
“Earlier, when there was only a one-day holiday, tourists were in a hurry to return home the same day. Now, with a two-day weekend, they can stay comfortably and leave the following day,” he said. He added that many visitors now spend two days exploring nearby attractions such as Namaste Waterfall, Namje and Pathibhara Temple.
Hile, which used to remain relatively quiet even during peak tourism seasons, has also seen a surge in visitors. Hotels are reportedly fully booked during holidays, forcing some tourists to travel as far as Dhankuta Bazaar and Pakhribas to find accommodation.
Hotel entrepreneur Sushil Katuwal described the increase in tourist arrivals as remarkable. “Although this is the peak tourism season, we have never experienced this level of enthusiasm before. This year has been exceptionally good,” he said. He added that tourists seeking cooler weather and those travelling to witness rhododendron blooms are now extending their stays because of the additional holiday.
Similarly, Jeevan Rai said the two-day weekend has supported local tourism, although attractions such as Tinjure, Cholung Park and Pakhribas have also played a major role in drawing visitors. According to Rai, growing awareness of domestic tourism and the influence of social trends encouraging travel have motivated more people to explore destinations within Nepal, while the extended weekend has further strengthened the trend.
Tourism entrepreneurs noted that the sector, which suffered a major slowdown following the COVID-19 pandemic, has shown strong signs of recovery this year. Tourist activity has remained vibrant since late March and continued through late May. Khagendra Bista, president of the Hotel Association Dhankuta, said the rise in tourism has been visible not only in Bhedetar and Hile but also in Rajarani, Pakhribas, Sidhuwa and other destinations across the district.
However, he cautioned that it remains uncertain whether the current momentum can be sustained in the years ahead. Although no official statistics are available, Bista said there is little doubt that both tourist arrivals and tourism-related activities have increased significantly in Dhankuta this year. #Nepal
