Dr. Surya Bahadur Ghimire (PhD) Mountain Tourism Researcher

  Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ranks among Nepal’s top wildlife destinations. Situated in the subtropical lowlands of southern Nepal, this park boasts a diverse array of flora and fauna. Among the various ways to explore this rich wilderness, a jeep safari emerges as an exhilarating and comfortable method to witness the region’s astonishing biodiversity up close. Overview of Chitwan National Park Established in  1973 , Chitwan National Park spans  952.63 sq. km  and is Nepal’s first national park. It is renowned for its successful conservation efforts, particularly in protecting the  one-horned rhinoceros  and  Bengal tiger . The park consists of lush grasslands, dense forests, and numerous rivers and lakes, creating the perfect habitat for diverse wildlife. Why Choose a Jeep Safari in Chitwan? Jeep safaris provide a convenient and thrilling way to explore the vast expanse of the park. Unlike elephant rides, which can be li...

Nepal's tourism industry experienced a remarkable rebound in 2024, with international visitor arrivals reaching 1,147,567—a significant 13.1% increase compared to 2023. This figure represents 96% of pre-pandemic levels, marking a strong recovery for the sector. Growth by Regions: South Asia : Visitor arrivals from SAARC countries totalled 417,845, reflecting a 5.9% growth. Notably, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka recorded substantial increases of 33.9%, 42%, and 38.3%, respectively. However, arrivals from India, Nepal’s largest source market, saw a slight dip of 0.7%, totalling 317,772 visitors. China and East Asia : Chinese arrivals surged by an impressive 67.3% to 101,879. Other East Asian countries also contributed to the growth, with visitors from Thailand, Japan, and South Korea increasing by 19.7%, 38%, and 14%, respectively. Europe : European markets showed consistent growth, with total arrivals reaching 206,841—a 10.4% increase. The UK led with 57,554 visitors (up 8.9%)...

Abstract Mountain tourism plays a crucial role in driving economic, social, and cultural development in rural areas across the globe, especially in mountainous nations like Nepal. This paper analyzes the impact of mountain tourism on rural development in Nepal, emphasizing its connections to sustainable development goals. By employing a mixed-methods approach, the study investigates various case studies, statistical information, and qualitative feedback from key stakeholders. The results underscore both the potential benefits and obstacles in utilizing mountain tourism to promote rural development. It also offers recommendations for policy frameworks and community-based tourism models aimed at ensuring equitable growth and sustainability. Keywords Mountain tourism, rural development, sustainable tourism, Nepal, community-based tourism, socio-economic development. Introduction Nepal, home to eight of the world’s fourteen highest peaks, including Mount Everest, is globally recognized as ...

Introduction As often described, the third pole is the Hindu Kush and Himalayan (HKH) region, housing the most ice and snow after the polar regions. It covers eight nations— Nepal , India , China , Pakistan , and Afghanistan— and is the source of ten major river systems, including the Ganges, Indus, and Brahmaputra.  This vital region sustains the livelihoods of more than two billion people, either directly through glacial meltwater or indirectly through agriculture and hydropower. Yet the increasing speed at which snow and ice are melting brings an added risk to this delicate ecosystem and the communities that rely on it. The Current Situation The HKH region has experienced extreme heat waves over the past century. According to the International Center for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) , the region’s average temperature has risen about 1.5°C over the past century—nearly twice the global average. A study published in Nature in 2019 estimated that, even with significant ...

“Biodiversity is humanity's ally. We must move from plundering it to preserving it." Abstract The current biodiversity crisis is a serious threat to ecosystems as well as human survival and well-being, and it is mostly caused by human activity. In addition to discussing the pressing need for a paradigm shift from exploitation to conservation, this article examines the significance of biodiversity as a vital ally of humanity. The ecological, economic and cultural advantages of biodiversity are highlighted in this paper through a review of the literature. Additionally, a framework for sustainable management and policy interventions to protect biodiversity is proposed in the article.  Introduction Biodiversity, the variety of life on Earth, underpins ecosystem stability and supports essential services that sustain human life (Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, 2005). However, rapid industrialisation, deforestation, and pollution have accelerated the decline of biodiversity, comprom...

Carbon Emissions Globally: The Impact on the Mountain Tourism Sector in Nepal. Introduction Global carbon emissions have emerged as a pressing environmental challenge. Mainly arising from fossil fuel combustion, industrial processes, and deforestation, these emissions are accelerating climate change at an unprecedented pace. Mountainous areas around the globe, including the Himalayas, are especially susceptible to these transformations. Nepal renewed for its stunning mountains, is experiencing the effects of climate change firsthand. These consequences go beyond environmental damage and pose a significant threat to Nepal’s mountain tourism, which plays a crucial role in the national economy. This article examines global carbon emission patterns, their impacts on mountain tourism, and possible strategies to alleviate these effects in Nepal. Global Carbon Emission Trends In recent decades, carbon emissions have risen sharply. Key drivers include industrialisation, transportation, energy ...

Despite the overall global recovery in the industry, several critical issues significantly hinder the revival of international tourism in Nepal. Ongoing health concerns, particularly those associated with the residual risks of COVID-19, continue to undermine traveller confidence.  Furthermore, there needs to be more road networks in rural regions and limited air connectivity, obstruct access to major tourist destinations. Economic difficulties, including inflation and escalating travel expenses, add to the complexity of recovery efforts as visitors encounter increased costs for lodging and transportation. Additionally, the political stability and consistency of policies in Nepal are crucial for instilling confidence in tourists and facilitating a more effective recovery. Environmental challenges, including landslides and the effects of climate change on trekking paths, also present persistent threats.  To revitalise Nepal’s tourism sector, it will be essential to address these...