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Hariyo Ban Program

A Study on Promoting community Managed Ecotourism in Chal & Tal 31 May, 2013 Hariyo Ban Program

A Study on Promoting

in Chal & Tal Hariyo Ban Program

A Study on Promoting community Managed Ecotourism in Chal & Tal

Published by WWF Nepal, Hariyo Ban Program This publication is also available in www.wwfnepal.org/publications

PO Box: 7660 Baluwatar, Kathmandu, Nepal T: +977 1 4434820, F: +977 1 4438458 [email protected] www.wwfnepal.org/hariyobanprogram

Authors This report was prepared by the Nepal Economic Forum, Krishna Galli, Lalitpur. The assessment team comprised: Sujeev Shakya, Prachanda Man Shrestha, Dr. Tej Bahadur Thapa, Sudip Bhaju, Shristi Singh, Raju Tuladhar.

Photo credits Cover photo: © Nepal Economic Forum

Disclaimer This report is made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents are the responsibility of Nepal Economic Forum (NEF) and do not necessarily reflect the views of WWF, USAID or the United States Government.

Publication Services Editing: Katherine Saunders Design and Layout: Big Stone Medium

Hariyo Ban Program publication number: Report 020 Contents List of Abbreviations...... i Executive Summary...... ii

Section 1: Rapid Assessment and Site Selection 1. Background...... 1 2. Objectives...... 3 3. Scope of Work...... 4 4. Methodology...... 5 5. Tourism Industry of Nepal...... 8 6. Eco-tourism in Nepal...... 13 7. Community Based Ecotourism...... 22 8. Literature Review ...... 25 9. Rapid Assessment of Existing Eco Tourism Destinations...... 33 10. Summary of Findings...... 56 11. District Profiling and Selection...... 59 12. Pre-Feasibility Assessment...... 64 13. Final Sites Assessment...... 69 14. Tourism Management and Development Plans...... 74

Annexure 1: Total Budget for Establishing the Community Based Eco-tourism Sites in CHAL and TAL..... 76 Annexure 2: Ecotourism Initiatives in Nepal...... 77 Annexure 3: Shortlisted 37 Community Based Tourism Sites...... 80 Annexure 4: Questionnaire used for Pre-feasibility of Sites through Field Visits...... 81 Rapid Assessment: Existing Community Managed Eco-tourism Destinations...... 82 Rapid Assessment: Questionnaire For Discussions With Community...... 84 Feasibility: New Community Managed Eco-tourism Destinations or Clusters...... 85 Questionnaire for Travel & Tour Operators...... 87 Key Informant Interviews ...... 88 User Group Questionnaire...... 89 Women Group Questionnaire...... 90 Annexure 5: Scoring for Parameters...... 91 Annexure 6: Tourism Potential in Far Western Region of Nepal...... 92 Annexure 7: List of Religious Sites in Panchase Lekh...... 93 Annexure 8: List of respondents...... 94 Annexure 9: Workshop Participants...... 100

SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL List of Abbreviations

ACA Annapurna Conservation Area ACAP Annapurna Conservation Area Program AoA Article of Association BCF Baghmara Community Forest BCFUG Baghmara Community Forest User Group BDT Bangladesh Taka CAGR Compounded Annual Growth Rate CARE Cooperative for Assistance and Relief Everywhere CBET Community Based Ecotourism CBT Community Based Tourism CHAL Chitwan Annapurna Landscape CITES Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora CNP Chitwan National Park DNPWC Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation FECOFUN Federation of Community Forestry Users in Nepal FIT Free Independent Traveler GDP Gross Domestic Product GEF Global Environment Facility GoN Government of Nepal GTDMC Ghalegaon Tourism Development and Management Committee KCAP Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project KCF Kumrose Community Forest KMTNC King Mahendra Trust for Natural Conservation MCAP Manaslu Conservation Area Program MoCTCA Ministry of Culture Tourism and Civil Aviation NCRTC Nepal Conservation research and Training Center NEF Nepal Economic Forum NRB Nepal Rastra Bank NTB Nepal Tourism Board NTNC National Trust for Nature Conservation NVR Nepal Village Resort OGT Organized Group Trekkers PATA Pacific Asia Travel Association SVTDMC Sirubari Village Tourism Development and Management Committee TAL Terai Arc Landscape TCU Tiger Conservation Unit TDMC Tourism Development and Management Committee UNDP United Nations Development Program USAID United States Agency for International Development WWF World Wildlife Fund

i Even though the country boasts of unique biodiversity, and numerous other specialties, we have really not been able to package them to derive benefits from tourism.

ii SECTION 1

Executive Summary

01/ Executive Summary

1.1. Overview The tourism industry of Nepal is to package it in a way that derives ben- port from the government. The tour- focused on two major motivations: efits from tourism. One of the major ism industry is viewed as a sector that namely the Himalayas and the rich reasons for this has been the low ben- has significant backward linkages and cultural heritage of the Kathmandu efit margins compared to the high risk helps to improve the livelihood of the Valley. Because of this narrow focus, of developing such tourism packages. poor; however, this has not yet mate- tourism has been centered primarily Even though the tourism industry is rialized significantly in the context of in Kathmandu and the cities, such as one of the major contributors to GDP, Nepal, as major tourism benefits are Pokhara and Chitwan. Even though it has time and again been affected by retained by tourism entrepreneurs at Nepal boasts of unique biodiversity the political turmoil of the country the center. One of the major reasons across the nation, it has not been able and a lack of commitment and sup- for this is the lack of capital, techni-

iii cal, and human resources within rural approaches that include agriculture, ism activities, a third case study of the communities. Even though Nepal saw forestry and tourism. This five-year Sirubari village in Syangja district was an annual flow of 7.5 million visi- program currently being implemented also documented in the report. tors during the last fiscal year (2011– in the Chitwan Annapurna Landscape 2012), only 40 percent were directly (CHAL) and the Terai Arc Landscape Baghmara Community Forest was engaged in tourism related activities. (TAL), and funded by United States a dense forest famous as a hunting Agency for International Develop- ground for tigers. However, it has Nepal has emerged as a destination ment (USAID), is the foundation of faced deforestation over the past 20 for budget travelers, attracting tourists President Obama’s Global Climate years. To undo this damage, a refor- from neighboring India and China. Change Initiative in Nepal. estation project started in the 1980s. With the rapid growth in the economy In 1995, the BCF was also opened of these two countries, many people The CHAL and TAL areas are rich in for tourism to bring in an additional have more disposable income and biodiversity and natural and cultural source of revenue to the user group are taking more holidays. Nepal is resources. Because of this they are ideal members. The reforestation efforts well placed to attract residents of sec- tourist destinations. However, these have been fruitful and the forest has ond tier Indian and Chinese cities to areas face climate change, rapid popu- come back to its original dense form. develop its current tourism market. lation growth, unsustainable land use, Tourism figures have also increased Similarly, Nepal’s domestic tourism has and rampant poverty, all of which over the years. The tourism initiative been developing along with changes in have led to internal as well as exter- has definitely brought about positive the lifestyle of many Nepalis. A more nal migration by locals seeking bet- changes to the community in terms of cosmopolitan younger generation, ter sources of livelihood. The goal of overarching infrastructure, improved coupled with a burgeoning middle this assignment under the Hariyo Ban sanitation, and trainings. However, it class with disposable income and a Program is to learn lessons from suc- has not directly provided a means of growing number of nuclear families, cessful community ecotourism pilots, livelihood to the community. This is has increased the demand for domestic identify two sites in CHAL and two because of an inefficient management tourism opportunities. sites in TAL with the potential to pro- committee stalled by politicization. mote community based ecotourism, Since most of Nepal’s tourist attrac- and to produce site-specific ecotour- Ghalegaon in Lamjung is another tions are nature and culture based, it ism plans based on economic feasibil- form of CBET wherein members of is well suited for ecotourism. Ecotour- ity, social acceptability, environmental the community conduct homestays in ism is defined as “responsible travel sustainability, and the capability of their village residences. Due to their to natural areas that conserves the the sites to provide alternative liveli- dependence on subsistence agricul- environment and improves the well- hood options to local communities. ture, the locals relied heavily on remit- being of local people.” It is based on tances. In order to provide an alternate the principles of uniting conserva- The study has explored how we means of livelihood, they started pro- tion, communities, and sustainable can increase the local community’s viding homestay facilities. While the travel. Also, to ensure that the benefits involvement in the tourism activities villagers conducting homestays have of tourism reach the local commu- under CBET through small inter- directly benefitted, the homestay pro- nity, Community Based Ecotourism ventions and partnerships. As the gram has failed to incorporate Dalits (CBET) is a great model for country tourism sites in the TAL and CHAL and marginalized groups. Nonethe- like Nepal. CBET is a complete tour- landscapes are isolated from the main less, Ghalegaon was more successful ism initiative driven by the commu- tourism market they will require in providing a means of livelihood to nity wherein the local community external support in the initial years to the community than the Baghmara improves its capacity to use social be sustainable. initiative. capital through collective action and enhances its levels of participation in In order to gain insight from exist- While CBET activities have been suc- the development process. ing CBET activities in Nepal, a rapid cessful overall, much can be learned assessment of two existing community from their mistakes. Indeed, it was In line with this concept of community based ecotourism destinations, namely imperative to document the problems based ecotourism is the Hariyo Ban the Baghmara Community Forest that led to the downfall of the project. (Green Forest) Program. It attempts (BCF) in Chitwan (CHAL/TAL) and Sirubari was the first village to start to achieve its objectives of biodiver- Ghalegaon village in Lamjung district homestays in 1997. In addition to sity conservation and climate change (CHAL), has been made. In addition having the first mover advantage, the mitigation and adaptation through to investigating successful ecotour- initiative was successful because of its

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Executive Summary

Table 2: Potential districts strong leadership, community participation, and proactive marketing at the CHAL Region TAL Region national level by a private company. Clusters Individual Districts Clusters Individual Districts However, the Sirubari village locals were associated with the Gurkha -Syangja -Gorkha Kailali -Makwanpur

Army and when they became eligible -Palpa -Kanchanpur for resident status in the United King- dom, most opted for it and migrated to the United Kingdom. The contract with the private company was termi- • Trainings provided must be lucra- parameter and 1 the least important. nated which hampered the marketing tive with market linkages for the Since the objective of this assignment efforts. This reduced the number of products made after such trainings. was to conserve biodiversity, increase households running homestays. There livelihood options, and promote gen- was no new investment because only • Local produce such as snacks and der and social inclusion, this parameter marginalized groups with no invest- drinks should be promoted, and the was given the highest weight. Factors ment money were left behind. The import of packaged items should be that facilitate the development of a quality of service started dropping and reduced to retain as much tourism tourism destination, such as the geo- other similar products started coming income within the community as logical attractiveness, flora and fauna, up, giving rise to competition. This possible. and cultural heritage were deemed pri- ultimately led to the failure of the first mary facilitators. This set was assigned homestay model in Nepal. • A separate fund for the poor and a weight of 3. The next set of param- marginalized groups should be cre- eters included accessibility to and From the three pilot site studies, we ated from which they can take loans within the district and infrastructural learned that the following criteria at minimal interest to be able to adequacy. Although important for the are necessary to ensure a successful engage in tourism activities. development of a tourism site, these are CBET site: regarded as secondary facilitators, which • Competent management is needed Based on the findings of the pilot site is why these were assigned a weight of 2. to keep the community motivated. study, a set of parameters was devel- The last parameter was the willingness oped to gauge and compare all 19 dis- and ability of the people to engage in • Committee representation of mar- tricts in the CHAL region and 14 in tourism activities. Migratory pressure in ginalized community groups must the TAL that would form the basis of the regions was also assessed under this be ensured to provide inclusivity, the preliminary site selection for field parameter. This parameter was assigned and also governing agencies and visits. The parameters were divided a weight of 1. All of these parameters active NGOs in that area should be into four major components, namely were assessed through desk review and represented to ensure a more trans- the program’s objective, primary interviews with related personnel as parent working system. facilitators, secondary facilitators, and field visits to all places was not feasible. people, as shown in the table below. Keeping in mind the scores from the • Marketing activities need to be All of the aforementioned parameters aforementioned parameters, and the competitive, and ways to distin- were rated on scale of 1 to 4. The four level of existing tourism activities, guish products must be explored. sets of parameters were weighted from 1 the following districts were identified to 4, with 4 being the most important as having the most potential for the Hariyo Ban ecotourism project. Refer Table 1: Components and Parameters for District Selection to table 2. Secondary Objective Primary Facilitators People Facilitators Once the 32 districts were nar- Biodiversity Geological Attractiveness Accessibility Demography rowed down to 6, the next step was Livelihood Flora & Fauna Infrastructural Migration to identify potential sites within the Adequacy Pressures districts and also any districts that Gender & Social Inclusion Cultural Heritage were overlooked through the initial

Existing Tourism short listing. For this, key informant Destinations interviews, meetings, and discussions Scope for Clustering with relevant stakeholders were seen as vital part of the study as there was 4 3 2 1 little or no publicly available informa-

v tion about community based tourism Table 3: List of sites where field visits were conducted in the selected districts. An exhaustive S.N Site District Region list of 37 sites in the aforementioned and other districts was prepared after 1 Barpak Gorkha CHAL

which this list was discussed with the 2 Tanahusur, Dhor Phirdhi, Merlungkot Tanahu CHAL Hariyo Ban team. The main objective of these discussions was to use the 3 Panchase Lekh Kaski/Syangja/Parbat CHAL expertise of the team members to iden- 4 Syange, Mipra and Chhappa gaon, Dod and Rhendu Lamjung CHAL tify the sites with most potential and arrive at a number that would meet 5 Jalbire Chitwan TAL the project’s financial and time constraints. Thereafter, the following list 6 Amaltari, Baghkhor Nawalparasi TAL

was finalized to conduct field visits. 7 Madi Chitwan TAL

All of these sites were again evaluated 8 Shukhla Phanta Wildlife Reserve Kanchanpur TAL on the basis of the extensive param- 9 Ghoda Ghodi Lake Kailali TAL eters listed in table 4.

Based on the above parameters, the Table 4: Parameters for Pre-feasibility Assesment of Sites Visited following table provides a list of the Human Capacity Infrastructural Socio Economic overall ranking of the sites in the TAL Attraction Inventory Potentialities Assessment Adequacy Analysis and CHAL region. table 5 provides a Geological Accessibility Demographics Electricity Source of Income list of the overall ranking of the sites Attractions in the TAL and CHAL region. Biodiversity Market Demand Activeness Sanitation Standard of Living (Groups and Committees) Compared to Tanahusur and Bar- Cultural Heritage Competitiveness Willingness Schools pak, both Panchase and Syange have Historical and Existing Tourism Capability Medical more potential in creating an ecotour- Religious Relevance Facilities ism product with the use of existing attractions. Panchase provides a com- Potential Activities Migratory Pressure plete package of attractions ranging 5 4 3 2 1 from its diversity, both in terms of flora and fauna, to its scenic mountain view. Its cultural and historical Table 5: Overall ranking based on all parameters. heritage is also strong because of the closely knit Gurung community resid- Rank Sites in TAL Scoring Rank Sites in CHAL Scoring ing there. Syange, meanwhile, was 1 Panchase 49.73 1 Madi 45.88 selected because it can be developed as 2 Syange 46.47 2 Amaltari 47.53 an adventure sports destination with activities that have not been devel- 3 Tanahusur/ 41.03 3 Shuklaphanta / 45 oped in other parts of the country. It Merlungkot Ghoda Ghodi Lake can benefit from a first mover advan- 4 Barpak 38.4 4 Jalbire 37.87 tage. And, as mentioned above, since Syange falls on the Annapurna circuit, trekkers can also serve as another mar- tele. Therefore, in order to ensure that community to see its biodiversity as an ket, thereby ensuring sustainability. the proposed sites are viable options, it asset in attracting tourism rather than was decided to select only one of the a liability. Therefore, it would promote Madi in Chitwan and Amaltari in two and develop Shuklaphanta Wild- conservation and the purpose of study. Nawalparasi were ranked the highest life Reserve and Ghoda Ghodi Lake as in the CHAL region. Both of these a cluster for development of CBET in Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve is as sites are located on the periphery of Far-western region of Nepal. Since the rich in biodiversity as other national the Chitwan National Park and thus wildlife-human conflict in Madi was parks in the country; however, it has will develop similar kinds of tourism extremely high, it was decided to go not been able to attract tourists as it products and cater to the same clien- ahead with Madi as it would help the is located in the Far-western region.

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Executive Summary

Meanwhile Ghoda Ghodi Lake is a the tourism services will also improve sen due to its proximity to Chitwan destination in Kailali that will attract after which it will stand as an attrac- National Park and also because of bird watchers as it has right topogra- tive tourist destination for domestic the high human-wildlife conflict in phy for it. Combined, the two desti- and international tourists. the area. Consequently, communities nations provide a complete package in the area do not see wildlife as an from bird watching, animal sighting, Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve and asset, but as a threat to their current homestays, and more. Ghoda Ghodi Lake face environmen- way of life. The community so far has tal and conservation threats due to the been unable to benefit from tourism So far, the report helped identify dependence of the community on fod- activities taking place in the district. the four potential CBET sites, two der, fuel wood, grazing, and other such Despite Chitwan being one of the each in the TAL and CHAL regions, illegal activities that have hampered famous tourist centers, this develop- through initial short listing and field conservation activities. Also, there is ment has not spilled over to Madi, visits. Section II outlines the Tour- human-wildlife conflict in the villages and it continues to remain untouched ism Management and Development close to the reserve. Both areas are fac- by development taking place through Plan (TMDP), which can be used as ing deforestation, forest degradation, tourism. The entire valley has poor a guiding tool to commence CBET in and encroachment. Therefore, there is infrastructure with no electricity lines, the proposed sites (available online). immense need to prevent further loss health posts or communications lines, of forest and commence conservation and most villages run mainly on solar Overview of the activities. The community based eco- energy. Developing Simara as a CBET Potential CBET Sites tourism model is seen as a medium to destination will therefore help divert enable conservation as well as a tool benefits from tourism to communities Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, for improving the quality of life of the that will assist in changing the atti- Kanchanpur – Ghoda Ghodi Lake, local people through tourism earnings. tudes of local communities towards Kailali Therefore a tourism cluster approach biodiversity and wildlife conservation Tourism development in the Far- is suggested with Shuklaphanta Wild- and also help transfer the benefits of western region has not been signifi- life Reserve as the primary destination tourism to the lower strata of society cant mainly due to its distance from and Ghoda Ghodi Lake as the second- to facilitate social inclusion. the capital; it is time consuming and ary destination. costly to get there. The lack of tour- Due to its proximity to Chitwan ism infrastructure such as hotels, res- The activities provided at the two sites National Park, wildlife sighting is taurants, information centers, and will include jungle safari in jeeps or on very high. Madi has numerous natu- transport facilities has further slowed elephants and jungle camping inside ral, historical, religious, and cultural its development as a tourist destina- the Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, attractions. It has diverse flora and tion. There is also lack of marketing and homestays in the village close to fauna, beautiful waterfalls, picnic and promotional activities being con- the reserve. Bird watching and boating spots, views of the sunrise over the ducted. Even though there is great in the Ghoda Ghodi Lake will provide Someshwar Hills, historical and reli- potential for developing the Far- west a unique experience to visitors. Other gious sites such as the Someshwar as a tourist center, it has not been able activities include visiting monuments, Kalika temple, and a vibrant Bote to use its assets to its advantage. This heritage sites, border villages, temples, and Tharu culture. project is intended to break this bar- and other sites of historical importance. rier and bring Shuklaphanta Wild- Short hikes to nearby areas and a local The strategy that will be adopted in life Reserve in Kanchanpur, which market for handicrafts and souvenirs developing tourism in Madi is primar- is famous for swamp deer (locally can also be introduced in the village. ily to promote nature based tourism. known as barhasingha), and Ghoda In order to make it more saleable, a However, to make it more saleable, a Ghodi Lake in Kailali, which is a wet- unique mix of biodiversity, culture, and combination of nature based experi- land spread over an area of 8.25 square adventure positioning will help provide ences alongside the cultural experi- kilometers, together and promote it as a different set of products offering the ence of homestays will be offered. a tourism cluster and “the gem of the branding theme “travel to the Far West” For this strategy to take off, market- Far Western region.” In the beginning or “ecotourism the Nepali way.” ing activities need to be undertaken the tourism potential of the region directly by tour operators in Kath- lies in being able to tap tourists from Madi, Chitwan mandu. Madi needs to supplement the bordering Indian cities because The next potential site chosen for the the current offerings of Sauraha and of its proximity and affordability. CBET project was the Simara Valley Chitwan, benefitting from the tourist With tourism gaining momentum, in Madi. The Simara village was cho- inflow to the district.

vii Mipra and Chhappa Gaon, Syange The villages are gifted with many nat- a gateway to the Panchase Lekh and Syange, and its adjoining areas located ural attractions, and are therefore suit- connected to Pokhara partly by metal- in Lamjung district (CHAL Land- able for nature based tourism. Nature lic and partly by earthen motorable scape), was chosen as another site based tourism is aimed at comple- road. Apart from the cultural heritage, because of its potential as an ecotourism menting the existing activities (trek- the village is blessed with many natural destination. Field visits to the villages king, canyoning, kayaking) to include attractions. Its strategic location offers of Mipra and Chappagaon located local community participation in the a 180o view of the Great Himalayan approximately three kilometers uphill overall tourism development. The Range. The upper Panchase Lekh is from Syange identified them as an activities that will be offered at these covered by dense mixed forest. unparalleled and unique destination villages will range from adventure where “adventure meets culture” is the activities such as canyoning (which The village offers a diverse range of key tourism product. Here adventure involves abseiling, sliding, jumping, activities and attractions that can be sports in the form of water canyoning, swimming, and climbing down water- quickly expanded or developed. The coupled with culture, can be explored falls through steep canyon walls to activities offered have broader appeal as a tourism product. deep pools) to homestays and cultural to multiple target markets and there- shows. Village walks with breathtak- fore offer great potential for immedi- Along with its rich Gurung cultural ing views of the sunrise and sunset, ate expansion. The first attraction is heritage, the village offers several nat- camping in the village, and observing homestays in Bhadaure, which could ural attractions and activities. About and participating in honey hunting include cultural shows, village walks, two kilometers uphill from Mipra is will also be included. views of the sunrise and sunset, and the Ghareli Tuppa from where one engagement in the daily chores of can view the Manaslu, Himchuli Positioning Mipra and Chhappa as the community. Tourists can hike on Himal, and other Himalayan moun- nature based tourism destinations would stone paths all the way to Panchase tain ranges. A 30-minute walk to be casting them as regular ecotourist vil- Lekh. Hikers will be able view the Chhappadanda (a hill) offers one of lages. Linking the villages’ natural and Himalayan mountain ranges and the most spectacular views from the cultural attractions with other activities can experience the diverse flora all district. The Syange waterfalls and (canyoning, trekking, kayaking) will the way to the Panchase forest. On the Rhendu waterfalls are other natu- create a unique destination that can reaching the top, hikers get a chance ral attractions. be differentiated from similar destina- to visit temples, religious sites, and tions. A slogan such as “adventure meets Panchase Lake. Bird watching is Mipra and Chhappa fall outside the culture” or “not just adventure” will be another potential activity in the Pan- ACAP region and, apart from a limited used to market the destination. chase region. The village has also des- budget from the Village Development ignated certain areas within the vil- Committee do not get special funds Bhadaure Tamagi, Panchase Lekh lage for camping, an activity that has for development. This has resulted in Panchase Lekh lies in the mid-hill the potential to be developed. tourism being completely ignored at region of Nepal constituting the the village level. However, the villages boundary of Gandaki and Dhau- Due to the diverse range of attrac- are located very close to Syange, which lagiri zones of the Western Develop- tions in Panchase and Bhadaure, is already an established night stop- ment Region. Panchase which literally there are two benefits for the tourism over among Annapurna Circuit trek- means five seats is the meeting place model. Firstly the number of activi- kers, Manaslu Circuit trekkers, and of five peaks. The Panchase region is ties are increased, which prolongs extreme adventure seekers (canyoning rich in biodiversity, cultural and reli- visitor stay, and secondly a wider and kayaking). The major setback gious sites, and natural beauty. This market segment can be targeted. for tourism development in this vil- region is an important mid-mountain The village offers a diverse range of lage is the lack of dining and lodg- ecological zone, less addressed in the activities and attractions that can be ing facilities, investment in tourist country’s protected area system, and quickly expanded or developed. The sites, and dissemination of infor- is the only corridor linkage of Low- activities offered have broad appeal mation. For tourism development, land (Chitwan–Nawalparasi) and the to multiple target markets and there- homestays pose the best choice for Annapurna Himalaya range. Bhad- fore offer great potential for immedi- a viable product because they would aure (Ward 1 and 2) is a small village ate expansion. represent the most authentic cul- in Tamagi VDC of Kaski District. The tural experience and the benefits village is located 35 kilometers from Analyzing the activities offered in would be funneled directly to the Pokhara and lies on the fringes of the Panchase, the market will cater to rural population. Panchase Protected Forest Area. It is mostly special interest groups. Spe-

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cial interest tours related to wildlife, Marketing & Promotion can set the region apart from other biodiversity, bird watching, and more For an upcoming and previously similar ecotourism destinations, mak- are gaining popularity in Nepal. Since untouched destination, it is essential ing it a social cause venture. Panchase region is host to several spe- to market and brand it in the right cies of orchids and flowering plants, way from the start. Therefore, market- Management this niche segment is a potential tar- ing activities will be mainly conducted The management of CBET in these get group if promoted effectively. Pil- through agents. However, these agents destinations should be given to the grims are also a highly lucrative group should be brought to the sites so that local communities. A tourism man- as Panchase Lekh is home to sacred they are convinced of the salability of agement development committee religious sites. Hikers and short trek- these tourism destinations. Working (TMDC) needs to be established kers who are interested in activities closely with the Nepal Tourism Board to handle tourism activities. This that involve low physical exertion but is also an important aspect of promo- TMDC will be a key element in the a rewarding view and experience, are tion. Conducting annual and one-off tourism development of the village, another target segment. Lastly, domes- events could appeal to visitors. Promo- and will consist of members of the tic travelers will also be targeted. tional materials such as brochures and local village group, the buffer zone CDs will be developed and designed user committee, and park and reserve Infrastructures to promote the destination, its attrac- officials. Women and marginalized The current state of attractions at tions, culture, and heritage. These can groups must be represented in the the four potential sites is rough and be widely used for trade fairs, sales TMDC. Its main roles and responsi- certain infrastructure developments missions, and seminars. A website will bilities will be to manage and estab- need to be made in order to com- also be developed with destination and lish rules for CBET. The TMDC will mence tourism activities. The most contact details. Nonetheless, with a also be responsible for managing the fundamental issue affecting tour- modest investment and the right com- community fund and the allocation ism is the lack of accommodation in bination of marketing channels, a great of benefits across the community. these villages. Therefore, homestays deal of branding can be achieved. The establishment of a TMDC will need to be developed along with help manage tourism, act as a con- toilet and shower facilities. Villagers Target market tact point and coordinating center for are willing to invest in constructing Assessing the range of activities the Hariyo Ban team, and will be the rooms either within their own resi- offered in these destinations, the mar- key interface between the village and dences or separate units. Fixed routes ket can be catered to special interest stakeholders at the national level. and sites need to be developed in the groups. Special interest tours of wild- forest areas where tourists will be life, biodiversity, and bird watching Model taken. This needs to be done keep- are gaining popularity in Nepal. Since For effective tourism development, ing in mind the safety and security these destinations are host to diverse the CBET model in these destinations of the visitors while posing a mini- species of flora and fauna, and provide requires a public private community mum threat to the area’s biodiversity. adventure alongside a rich cultural partnership (PPCP) that makes the Trails leading to the main attrac- experience, they provide a complete tourism development inclusive and par- tion in these destinations need to be range of tourism products. The rise ticipatory for all stakeholders involved. improved so that they are accessible. in domestic tourism will also con- The CBET model with a PPCP Campsites at the various destinations tribute to the tourism efforts. These approach here is aimed at the inclusion need to be upgraded so that they destinations will compete with other and collaboration of the community are safe and secure. A proper visitor wildlife and nature based tourism sites with other stakeholders (government, information center needs to be estab- and destinations with only homestays donor, and private players), enabling lished so that tourists can get infor- because they provide the dual experi- joint ownership of the project by the mation and guidelines on visiting the ence of both in one place. Excursion community and other stake holders. park areas. Cultural museums, souve- groups can also be organized to edu- Partnership between the stakeholders nir shops, and handicraft stores will cate students on the importance of ensures capacity building of the com- also be established. In addition to wildlife and biodiversity conservation. munity and makes the project more infrastructural development, train- As the community is directly involved inclusive and collaborative. The role of ings and orientation programs for the in tourism efforts, the benefits also are various players will be as follows: community on CBET and its com- directly experienced by the commu- ponents, capacity building programs, nity, which may lead to development Financing Arrangements business skills, and conflict resolu- and contribute to conservation goals. For the development of two pilot sites tion will be provided. This is the unique selling point that in CHAL and TAL a total budget of

ix USD 0.26 million will be required. Government needs to establish necessary Donor partners can initiate programs necessary assistance to Approximately 74 percent of the bud- regulatory framework to support the establish- connect rural agriculture, forestry, wildlife conservation, rural get is apportioned for the development and promotion of CBET, provide financial indigenous crafts to the formal sector activities of tourism. assistance for infrastructure at the local level and Sharing of costs and technical expertise will also help ment of the tourism infrastructure. record keeping and market linkages. increase the efficiency of the project. The summary of financial assessment is given in the table 6. Private Sector can bring in the commercial Community under this partnership can engage and dynamism, the ability to raise finances in an envi- contribute in numerous ways for tourism development. There From table 6 it is evident that the ronment of budgetary restrictions, innovation and are opportunities to work together for the development of new investments made in community efficiencies, harnessed through the introduction livelihood opportunities through boosting entrepreneurship; of private sector investors who contribute their contribute in the conservation of the natural resources and based ecotourism can help achieve own capital, skills and experience. develop a fund from the tourism earnings to invest in educa- the goals and objectives of the Hariyo tion and other pubic goods. Ban Program. Also, the internal rate of return for all the projects taken at very conservative figures stands above Table 6: Summary of Financial assessment.

20 percent, indicating high profitabil- Shuklaphanta- Mipra and ity. Projects like this can make inter- S.No. Details Ghodhaghodi Madi-Chitwan Bhadaure Chappagaon- Cluster Tamagi-Panchase Syange ventions sustainable as the communities are enabled over a period of time. 1. Total Investment 101 34 57 67 (in USD ‘000) The households engaged directly in homestay activities can have an addi- 2. Percentage of Total 39% 13% 22% 26% tional yearly income of USD 1,800– Budget (%) 2,000. Also the distribution of rev-

enue for community welfare makes 3. Investment in 19.09 11.30 35.00 36.00 it more equitable as households that Home-stay are not directly engaged in homestay (in USD ‘000) activities will be part of a larger devel- 4. NPV of Investment 31.12 28.68 80.44 78.61 opment focused on the establishment in Home-stay (in USD ‘000) of social goods like healthcare, sanitation, and education. Also, the avail- 5. Internal Rate of 23% 30% 30% 29% Return ability of a revolving fund provides the often capital-starved community 6. Annual Income 1,950 1,800 1,906 1,870 with relief. The fund can be used to of Home-stay encourage more households to engage Operators in homestays or other ventures. Tour- (in USD) 7. Yearly fund for 1,674 1,493 3,930 3,834 ism has significant backward linkages Community and other diffused benefits. Busi- Development (in USD) ness ventures and establishments will 8. Yearly fund for 1,674 1,493 3,930 3,834 arise as a consequence of emerging Conservation demand for procurement and services Activity (in USD)

by visitors. People can engage in veg- 9. Revolving 19.09 11.30 35.00 36.00 etable farming, poultry farming, ani- Fund with the Community mal husbandry, and small cottage and (in USD’000) handicraft industries. Communities will also be encouraged to showcase their traditional crafts and cultural are able to generate their own conser- a whole. Generation of employment activities, contributing to the growth vation fund that can be used to com- and income opportunities will help of economic activities. These busi- mence their own programs focused on foster entrepreneurship and increase ness ventures will generate a positive environmental and biodiversity con- household income. Employment will spillover effect on the local popula- servation. be direct as well as indirect. Direct tion and create employment. This employment through tourism will be will motivate people to adopt conser- Impact in businesses that sell goods and servation practices as they see benefits The project aims to bring about tan- vices directly to tourists, such as tour arising from them. Also, through the gible benefits through CBET to the operators and lodges. As a conse- project, members of the community community and the environment as quence, indirect employment is gen-

x SECTION 1

Executive Summary

erated for local residents, whose new on forest resources. The project will be implemented. Remedial measures income enhances their purchasing also help empower women, as com- such as introducing alternative sources power, which in turn stimulates the munity based tourism is centered on of energy, reforestation programs, and local economy. The purpose of devel- women’s participation in effective other such codes of conduct need to oping CBET in these villages is to management of homestay facilities. be developed. Climate change can use the locally available resources and lead to increased landslides, changes transfer benefits directly or indirectly Control Measures in water quality and availability, and to the community it operates in. The Increased tourism activities may lead loss of biodiversity. Many adaptation project will bring opportunities to to deforestation, general loss of bio- strategies can be found in the local develop and improve infrastructure diversity, increased poaching, soil community traditions and cultures, and lead to the adoption of better san- erosion and landslides, solid waste such as the use and design of water itation practices. There is also a long problems, and surface water pollu- mills, but these need to be documented term benefit from capacity-building tion. In order to mitigate the nega- and adapted to suit today’s needs. activities through training programs. tive impacts of tourism, strict codes Therefore, awareness programs at the Tourism revenue will support con- of conduct need to be implemented grassroots level must be enforced. The servation activities and promote use and monitored. Excessive use of trails impacts of climate change should also of locally produced goods and ser- should be restricted, biodiversity of be incorporated in the development vices. Greater awareness regarding the area should be protected, and a plan in order to reap the maximum conservation will reduce dependency proper waste disposal system should benefits of the CBET initiative.

xi Exploration and identification of the four ecotourism pilot sites was based on their economic feasibility, social acceptability, environmental sustainability, and the capability of the sites to provide alternative livelihood options to local communities. SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Section 01/ Rapid Assessment and Site Selection

1. Background

Climate change is a major In order to mitigate these threats to The program is closely aligned with threat to nations globally, and Nepal biodiversity, the Hariyo Ban (Green the Government of Nepal’s Three is no exception. In addition, a grow- Forest) Program has been launched Year Plan, Nepal Biodiversity Strat- ing population and increased tour- to conserve the country’s biodiversity egy, and the National Adaptation ism activities have led to greater and mitigate climate change through Plan of Action. The World Wildlife dependency on the country’s natu- improved agriculture, forestry, and Fund, the Cooperative for Assistance ral resources. Over the years, these tourism. This five-year program, and Relief Everywhere (CARE), the resources are being depleted. With funded by the United States Agency National Trust for Nature Conser- Nepal hosting some of the most spec- for International Development vation, and the Federation of Com- tacular natural areas and biodiversity (USAID), is also the foundation of munity Forestry Users in Nepal are in the world, these challenges threaten President Obama’s Global Climate executing the Hariyo Ban Program, not only the country, but the planet. Change Initiative in Nepal. with the Government of Nepal as a

1 key partner. Partnerships with other generation, governance, and gender a small part of the tourism revenue NGOs, academic institutions, and and social inclusion. earned by private entrepreneurs actu- private sectors will also be under- ally percolates to the community level taken through the duration of the This program is being implemented in the form of porter services, guide project. within the Chitwan Annapurna Land- fees, food, and lodging. A large por- scape (CHAL) and the Terai Arc Land- tion of tourism revenue is retained in The overall goal of the Hariyo Ban Pro- scape (TAL). The CHAL and TAL Kathmandu. Furthermore, locals who gram is to reduce the adverse impacts areas are rich in biodiversity and natu- manage to save a little money usually of climate change and the threats to ral and cultural resources due to which migrate to Kathmandu and invest their biodiversity in Nepal. Its three objec- they are ideal tourist destinations. savings there. tives are to:’ However, these areas are threatened by anthropogenic pressures such as rapid The goal of this assignment was to learn 1. Reduce threats to biodiversity in population growth, unsustainable land lessons from successful community targeted landscapes; use, poverty, and the influence of West- ecotourism pilots, to identify two sites ern cultures, which have led the local in CHAL and two sites in TAL with 2. Build the structures, capacity, and community to migrate to urban areas the potential to promote community operations necessary for effective or other countries for better sources of based ecotourism and to produce site- sustainable landscape manage- livelihood. Despite the possibility of specific ecotourism plans. Exploration ment, with a focus on reducing ecotourism providing a viable income and identification of the four ecotour- emissions from deforestation and alternative to rural communities, other ism pilot sites was based on their eco- forest degradation (REDD+) read- than a few pilot ecotourism projects, nomic feasibility, social acceptability, iness; and local communities are yet to benefit environmental sustainability, and the from the tourism potential provided capability of the sites to provide alter- 3. Increase the ability of targeted by these natural and cultural resources. native livelihood options to local com- human and ecological communi- Most of the tourism activities and tour- munities. Another important compo- ties to adapt to the adverse impacts ism related business are run and oper- nent of the project was to develop ways of climate change. ated by private entrepreneurs located to contribute to the economic benefit in Kathmandu. The tourism prod- of the local economy and to empower The program also has three important ucts and packages are marketed and local communities to manage commu- cross-cutting components: income sold from the capital. Therefore, only nity based ecotourism.

2 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Section Rapid Assessment & Site Selection 01/ 2. Objectives

The objectives of the study were to: i. Promote improved land and sus- v. Explore and identify new high tainable resource management potential community based eco- practices; tourism sites along with products and attractions within these sites ii. Contribute to the local economy based on economic feasibility, by enabling communities to man- social acceptability, and environ- age ecotourism; mental sustainability in CHAL iii. Identify ways to increase commu- and TAL; nity and climate resilience to climate and anthropogenic pressures; vi. Prepare site specific ecotourism and management plans for newly iv. Rapidly assess successful commu- identified sites; and nity managed ecotourism destinations in CHAL and TAL, and eval- vii. Strike a balance between natural uate the environmental, economic resource conservation and diversi- sustainability, gender, social inclu- fication of livelihood options with sion, benefit sharing, and gover- specific consideration given to gen- nance issues; der and social inclusion.

3 Section Rapid Assessment & Site Selection 01/ 3. Scope of Work

The report is based on the following nity capabilities in managing eco- activities that were conducted in order tourism. to meet the objectives of the assignment. iv. We identified current and poten- i. We conducted rapid assessments tial climate and anthropogenic on successfully community man- impacts on community based aged ecotourism destinations in ecotourism and suggested ways to each landscape. increase community and ecosystem reliance and adaptive capacity. ii. We explored and identified two Exploration and high potential ecotourism sites v. We conducted community each in CHAL and TAL, keep- consultations to map out the identification of the ing in mind economic feasibility, willingness of communities to social acceptability, and environ- initiate community based eco- four ecotourism pilot mental sustainability. tourism and to inform them of its consequences. sites was based on their iii. We determined potential tourism products and attractions for vi. We prepared site-specific par- economic feasibility, the community based ecotour- ticipatory community based eco- ism destinations along with other tourism development and man- social acceptability, livelihood options and commu- agement plans for both sites.

4 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Section Rapid Assessment & Site Selection 01/ 4. Methodology

ACAP checkpoint at Bhulbule, Lamjung

5 In order to complete the activities Table 7: Components and Parameters for District Selection described above, the study adopted the following research methodology. Objective Primary Facilitators Secondary People Facilitators 4.1. Desk Review Nepal Economic Forum (NEF) Biodiversity Geological Attractiveness Accessibility Demography analyzed and reviewed relevant literature classified under the follow- Livelihood Flora & Fauna Infrastructural Migration Pres- ing broad categories to map out Adequacy sures internationally acceptable, locally contextualized projects. Gender & Social Cultural Heritage Inclusion Existing ecotourism projects in Nepal: Sustainable ecotourism Existing Tourism Destinations endeavors in Nepal were reviewed in order to understand the land and Scope for Clustering natural resource issues, and to gain firsthand knowledge on how to over- 4 3 2 1 come them. Reviewing such projects helped establish a framework for the CHAL and TAL projects. cessful ecotourism activities, a third tive in documenting the pitfalls that case study of the Sirubari Village in led to the downfall of the project. International best practices: Nepal Syangja District (CHAL) was also Economic Forum analyzed relevant documented in the report. Based on the information collected literature and information for com- through the rapid assessment, key munity based tourism (CBT) proj- However, due to time constraints, success factors and challenges were ects in neighboring countries such the third case study was based only documented. Lessons learned from as India and Bhutan and in similar on a desk review. Sirubari Village this assessment helped in the success- developing countries in Africa to was once a popular tourist destina- ful development of our project and in benchmark and learn from inter- tion attracting a significant number mitigating challenges faced. national best practices. Each of the of tourists, but tourist arrival has CBT examples provided key learning significantly decreased. The rapid 4.3. District Profiling and Selection regarding the operations, manage- assessment of Sirubari was impera- In order to shortlist the districts where ment, and promotion of such ecotourism sites. Table 8: Parameters and criteria for destination review

Legal and institutional provisions: Attraction Potentialities Human Capacity Infrastructural Socio Economic In order to understand the legal Inventory Assessment Adequacy Analysis structures within which the projects will be operating, NEF reviewed all Geological Attrac- Accessibility Demographics Electricity Source of Income acts and policies governing the tour- tions ism sector as well those ensuring environmental protection and biodi- Biodiversity Market Demand Activeness Sanitation Standard of Living versity preservation. (Groups and Committees) 4.2. Rapid Assessment NEF conducted field visits to carry Cultural Heritage Competitiveness Willingness Schools out rapid assessment of two existing community based ecotourism Historical and Reli- Existing Tourism Capability Medical Facilities destinations, namely the Baghmara gious Relevance Community Forest in Chitwan (CHAL/TAL) and Ghalegaon Vil- Potential Activities Migratory Pressure lage in Lamjung District (CHAL). In addition to investigating suc- 5 4 3 2 1

6 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

field visits would be conducted, the the district was given a weight of 1. to help narrow the sites to four, two following three methodologies were The last parameter was important in in TAL and two in CHAL, where adopted to get an all-round perspec- determining whether the district had ecotourism projects will be launched. tive of all stakeholders. adequate human resources to conduct In order to determine the feasibility the ecotourism product. (social, cultural, economic, and envi- Assigning Parameters ronmental) of the proposed eight NEF evaluated the potential districts Interview with Key Stakeholders sites, each was weighed against the in the CHAL and TAL region against In order to identify specific sites in the other based on the following list of various parameters that facilitated potential districts identified through parameters table 8. identification of the districts for which the aforementioned method, key field visits were conducted. All of the stakeholders of the tourism industry As was done to shortlist the districts, districts were first gauged against each were interviewed because there was an the eight potential sites were also other based on the four broad param- absence of documented data regard- ranked on the basis of the afore- eters which were as table 7. ing the potential in these districts. mentioned parameters. Out of the five broad parameters, the attraction It must be noted that these param- Discussions with the Hariyo Ban Team inventory in the sites was given the eters were set keeping in mind that Key informant interviews coupled maximum weight of 5, the reason information would be gathered from with the district ranking based on the being that it would form the core of a desk review and not field visits. As aforementioned parameters provided a tourism product. Thereafter, the can be seen from the table, the four us with an exhaustive list of 36 poten- potentialities—that is the potential broad parameters were given a weight tial sites in 14 districts of CHAL and of the site to create activities and based on their importance to the TAL where field visits could be made. thus create demand for such prod- study. Whether or not the potential However, in order to finalize and also ucts—were given a weightage of 4. sites met the objectives of the study narrow down the number of sites to a The demographics of such sites and was given the maximum weight of 4. feasible figure, due to resource as well the ability and willingness to conduct Thereafter, the primary facilitators or as time constraints, discussions with tourism activities were given a weight attractions that would enable devel- the Hariyo Ban team were conducted of 3. Infrastructural adequacy regard- opment of an ecotourism product to get their input on the site selec- ing electricity, sanitation, education, were given a weight of 3. The second- tion. Once the districts were approved and medical facilities was given a ary facilitators such as accessibility based on these discussions, field visits weight of 2 and the socioeconomic and infrastructural adequacy, which were conducted to these sites. state of the community was given a would aid in the development of the weight of 1. On the basis of the over- ecotourism product, were given a 4.4. Destination Review all ranking of all parameters, the four weight of 2. Lastly, the demographic The field visits were conducted to sites were selected to be developed as profiles and migratory pressure in prepare a pre-feasibility assessment ecotourism destinations.

7 Section Rapid Assessment & 01/ Site Selection 5. Tourism Industry of Nepal

The tourism industry is growing very rapidly and Nepal has tremendous potential for tourism development because of its unique natural and cultural heritage.

Old Trekking route en route Annapurna circuit, Syange, Lamjung 8 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

5.1. Overview The natural scenery, high mountains, 5.61 billon during the same period of tourism by selecting one district and cultural heritage of Nepal have last year. Appreciation of the US in each ecological belt and develop- made it a well-known destination on dollar against the Nepali rupee and ment region as a tourism hub. In each the world tourism map with a distinct increased hotel tariffs have been cited of the tourism hubs potential tourist image of its own. Nepal is one of the for the growth in foreign exchange places will be identified and developed richest countries in the world in terms earnings from the tourism sector. as tourist satellite sites and new tour- of biodiversity. It has been a popular ism products will be promoted. The holiday destination for tourists from The government has recognized the aim is to extend tourism activities in South Asia and the world ever since tourism industry as a priority sector remote and rural areas by attracting it opened its borders in the early and is keen on reviving the image of investment from the private sector to 1950s. The tourism industry is grow- Nepal as a tourist destination. The create facilities while at the same time ing rapidly and Nepal has tremendous Nepal Tourism Policy 2008 was for- emphasizing human resource devel- potential for tourism development. mulated with the aim of increasing opment. The districts that have been Home to eight of the fourteen highest national productivity, income, and selected as hubs are shown in table 9. mountains in the world, Nepal is the foreign currency earnings; creating ultimate destination for mountain- employment opportunities; improv- Vision 2020 aims to develop tourism eers, rock climbers, and people seeking regional imbalances; and project- as a broad based sector by using it ing outdoor adventure. The religious ing the image of Nepal more assertively as a means for socioeconomic devel- Hindu and Buddhist heritage sites of in the international arena through opment of Nepal. This will be done Nepal are also strong attractions. the development and diversification by organizing international tourism of the travel and tourism industries. campaigns encouraging the coordi- The travel and tourism industry is one The Ministry of Culture, Tourism and nation and involvement of govern- of the biggest foreign currency earn- Civil Aviation (MoCTCA), in col- ment agencies, non-government ers in Nepal. The industry made a laboration with concerned industry agencies, and other stakeholders to direct contribution of NPR 53.5 bil- entrepreneurs and the Nepal Tourism engage local communities in tourism lion, about 4 percent of the total gross Board (NTB), has issued the Nepal benefits. Further, Vision 2020 aims domestic product (GDP), in 2011. Tourism Vision 2020. Under this to expand and extend tourism prod- The direct contribution is forecasted vision, targets, objectives, and strate- ucts and services in new and potential to rise by 4.7 percent during 2012. gies have been set to attract two mil- areas of Nepal by enhancing commu- lion tourists in the year 2020. nity capacity to participate in tour- The tourism industry generates mas- ism activities. Also special empha- sive employment opportunities for The strategy of Vision 2020 is to sis on sustainable tourism shall be people and helps in the promotion improve the livelihoods of the rural made by minimizing environmental and conservation of the environ- population and spread the benefits impacts and maximizing local own- ment as well as art and culture. The travel and tourism industry generated Table 9: Districts with tourism hubs in Nepal 412,500 jobs directly in 2011, or 3.3 percent of total employment. This SN Development Region Mountain Hills Terai was forecasted to grow by 3.7 percent in 2012 to 428,000 jobs, which 1 Eastern Solukhumbu Ilam Sunsari would contribute 3.4 percent to total employment in Nepal. Investment in 2 Central Rasuwa Kathmandu / Chitwan the travel and tourism sector in 2011 Kavre / was NPR 12 billion, which is 4.9 per- Sindhupalchowk cent of total budget investment. The figure is expected to rise by 5.4 per- 3 Western Manang Kaski Kapilvastu / cent in 2012. Rupandehi

According to Nepal Rastra Bank, 4 Mid-Western Mugu Pyuthan Bardia tourism income rose by 29.8 percent to NPR 7.28 billion in the first three 5 Far-Western Bajhang Doti Kanchanpur months of the fiscal year 2011/2012. Tourism receipts amounted to NPR Source: Ministry of Culture Tourism and Civil Aviation, Nepal “Tourism Vision 2020”

9 ership, employment opportunities, Figure 1: Total Arrival of Tourist (2002 – 2011) community initiatives, self-reliance, and economic benefits.

5.2. Tourist Arrivals Despite past political turmoil and the end of a decade-long civil war, tourism development in Nepal has been positive in terms of total visitor arrival. In 2011, visitor arrivals increased by 22.1 percent to 736,215 from 2010, an increase of 133,348 tourists. In 2011 the highest numbers of tourist arrivals were recorded from India (20.3 percent), China (8.4 percent), Sri Lanka (8.4 percent), the United States (5.8 percent) and the United Kingdom (5.3 percent). However, the growth in Source: Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Nepal Tourism Statistics 2011 the number of visitors from China, Sri Lanka, and India were highest. Arriv- percent respectively in 2011. Similarly tors, which is a significant increase als from China grew by 33.5 percent, there was a sharp rise in rafting related of 22.1 percent. The NTY 2011 sent Sri Lanka by 31.5 percent, and India visits from 2010 which stood at 19.8 a positive message that Nepal has by 23.7 percent. percent. However in 2011, visitors become peaceful and stable after a for holiday/pleasure and pilgrimage long political conflict and that tourism 5.2.1. Seasonality declined by 52.1 percent and 37.1 is an economic vehicle for transforma- September to November is considered percent respectively. The decline can tion and development of the nation. the most favorable season for travelling be attributed to a large number of visi- The Government of Nepal inaugu- to Nepal. During these months the tors not specifying the actual purpose rated Visit Lumbini Year 2012 with weather is pleasant, visibility is high, of their visit at entry points. Overall, the aim of targeting 500,000 tourists and the countryside is lush and green the length of stay increased from 12.67 to Lumbini. Furthermore, the gov- following the monsoon season. From days in 2010 to 13.12 days in 2011. ernment declared 2012 as the Nepal February until April, the tail end of the Refer figure 3. Investment Year, which sent a posi- dry season, is the second most favor- tive message to the global community. able period for travelling. December 5.3. Positive Growth Factors The following points summarize the and January are not recommended The successful completion of Nepal factors that have been influential in because these are the winter months Tourism Year 2011 saw 735,932 visi- increasing tourism in the country. and many tourist destinations are covered with snow and temperatures are below zero. Late May and early Figure 2: Tourist Seasonality June are generally too hot and dusty for comfort, and the monsoon from mid-June to September obscures the mountains in clouds and turns trails and roads to soggy mud paths laden with landslides. During the monsoon season, flying is often the only way to reach mountainous destinations, and weather conditions frequently disrupt flights. Refer to figure 2. Tourist arrivals according to season Tourist 5.2.2. Purpose of Visit In comparison to 2010, visitors arriving for trekking and mountaineering increased by 23.1 percent and 19 Source: Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Nepal Tourism Statistics 2011

10 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Global Identity: Growing aware- ment of the industry. The Govern- Technology Transfer Act, Industrial ness about Nepal among the global ment of Nepal has made the tourism Enterprises Act, Company Act and audience and emerging markets as a industry a priority sector and has Labor Act to ensure a hassle-free pro- place for attractive natural charm and widely acknowledged that tourism is cess for prospective investors. rural experiences is the key driver to growing as an inevitable component of Nepal’s tourist attraction. In recent Nepal’s economic future and its effects Growing Domestic Tourism: In the years Nepal has been able to carve percolate through different dimen- past few years Nepal has seen a huge out its place as a budget tourist des- sions of society. The government has growth in domestic tourism. There has tination to the global community. introduced a tourism policy, long- been a tremendous change in people’s Famous for mountaineering, trek- term/mid-term/short-term plans, and lifestyles. A more cosmopolitan, savvy king, and its pilgrimage sites, Nepal Vision 2020 with the objective of eas- young generation, a burgeoning mid- is coming up as a leisure destination ing the rules and regulations for the dle class with disposable income, and supported by its rich cultural heritage smooth flow of tourism activities in a growing number of nuclear families and diversity. With the rise in migra- the country. There is a rising focus on have been the factors in this change. tion, the total number of flights oper- infrastructure, particularly modern- Travelling, eating out, and weekend ating in the country has increased, ization of airports and development of vacationing have gained popularity. thereby presenting Nepal as a budget new tourist destinations. The Ministry The domestic tourism segment is also tourist destination to new markets. of Culture, Tourism and Civil Avia- now looked upon seriously by hote- tion and the Nepal Tourism Board are liers, as evidenced by the large num- Famous for mountaineering/trekking working closely with stakeholders in ber of packages that are designed for and pilgrimage, Nepal is coming up promoting the 1,700-kilometer Great domestic travelers. as a leisure destination supported by Himalayan Trail, which begins near its rich cultural heritage and diversity. Kanchenjunga and ends in Humla on 5.4. Negative Factors With the rise in migration level the the Tibetan border. Though Nepal is bestowed with abun- total number of flights operating in dant geological natural beauty and the country has increased which has With the conclusion of the Nepal diverse biodiversity, the country has not enhanced Nepal as a budget tourist Tourism Year 2011, the government been able to able to use these resources destination in new markets. launched Visit Lumbini Year 2012 to its advantage. Key factors hindering and Nepal Investment Year 2012. A the growth of tourism include: Government Initiatives: Until a few high level committee was formed to decades ago, the Nepalese government oversee promotion and development Infrastructural Hindrances: The was uninterested in promoting tour- of Lumbini in the International tour- poor tourism infrastructure of Nepal ism. In fact the industry did not find a ism market. The government targeted is the main hindrance to further place in the government’s fund alloca- 500,000 tourists to visit Lumbini dur- growth of the tourism sector. Nepal tion. However, things have changed. ing the Visit Lumbini Year 2012. For is a landlocked country and major The government seems to have real- the Investment Year 2012, the govern- accessibility is by air. There are very ized the importance of tourism and ment amended a dozen industrial laws few direct flights to Nepal and most is willing to spend on the develop- including the Foreign Investment and travelers from Europe and strategic destinations have to switch flights to reach Nepal, which is a hassle. To add Figure 3: Tourist Purpose of Visit in 2011 to this, the country has only one international airport in Kathmandu operating less than 24 hours daily with inadequate infrastructure to handle more than one flight at a time.

Other infrastructural deficiencies include the inadequacy of rooms, limited modes of transport, poor road conditions, inaccessibility to drinking water, poor sanitation, and the unavailability of hygienic food in tourist destinations, all of which pose problems to the image of local tour- Source: Nepal Tourism Board

11 ism. Furthermore, key infrastructure the rural areas where conservation of ment in tourism is low, yet it is cru- such as dams and roads have been con- cultural heritage and local develop- cial for the improvement of necessary structed without proper planning and ment activities are practiced. Besides infrastructure. Also, even though the without taking into consideration how having a lack of tourism etiquette, the government has shown interest in the the development of such infrastructure community and other stakeholders of tourism sector, it is at a nascent stage negatively affects the tourism industry. the tourism industry have not been of investment. The state budget of the For example, the Annapurna trekking focused on how to develop, manage, country has grown, however the bud- route has virtually been destroyed by and promote tourism sites. This has get allocated for tourism is relatively the construction of a road connecting led to the deterioration of many pris- low in comparison to competitive Lamjung to Manang. tine sites. Often destinations are pro- countries in the region. For example in moted and marketed as astounding, 2011, the total investment of Bangla- Tourism Education: In Nepal, train- building certain expectations among desh in travel and tourism amounted ing in tourism has not developed at tourists. But in reality the marketing to USD 4.3 billion, compared to a the same pace as the tourism sector and promotion may be very mislead- figure of USD 136 million in Nepal. itself. This could have a negative effect ing, causing unfortunate dissatisfac- Another reason for low investment in on the sustainability of the tourism tion. One such example is the Tikapur the tourism sector is the lack of tax industry. The sector’s biggest problem Botanical Garden. Such dissatisfac- benefits and incentives offered by the is the lack of people trained in human tion may erode the image of Nepal as government to entrepreneurs. resources. Since the majority of the a tourist destination. tourism industry is based in rural set- Taking note of the opportunities in tings, people involved and employed Investments: Political instability and and challenges to the tourism indus- in the industry have not received any delay in drafting the new constitution try, it is clear that although there are formal training in the etiquette of has created poor market confidence hindrances to growth, ample opportu- tourism, leading to poor service qual- among domestic and foreign investor nities are available despite the prevail- ity. The gap is particularly evident in groups in the tourism sector. Invest- ing circumstances.

12 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Section Rapid Assessment & Site Selection 01/ 6. Eco-tourism in Nepal

Eco-tourism represents a small segment of nature- tourism, which is understood as travel to relatively undisturbed or uncontaminated natural areas.

Millet Field at Mipra and Chhappagaon, Lamjung 13 6.1. Overview

Ecotourism is defined as “respon- Therefore, in addition to evaluat- resources make Nepal a well-suited sible travel to natural areas that ing environmental and cultural fac- destination for tourism development. conserves the environment and tors, an integral part of ecotourism improves the well-being of local is the promotion of recycling, energy With the rapid increase of tourism in people,” (TIES, 1990). According efficiency, conservation of flora and Nepal, and without its proper man- to the World Wildlife Fund, eco- fauna, and the creation of economic agement, environmental degradation tourism represents a small segment opportunities for local communities. has become a huge threat as it could of nature-tourism, which is under- For these reasons, ecotourism often destroy the fragile ecosystem of the stood as travel to relatively undis- appeals to advocates of environmen- country and the very resource that turbed or uncontaminated natural tal and social responsibility. supports it. Increased dependency on areas. The central idea of ecotourism firewood, the main fuel for cooking is based on combining environmen- 6.2. Nepali Context and heating in the Himalayan region, tal protection with the need to sus- has led to deforestation, which has in tain the livelihoods of local commu- Tourists are drawn to Nepal’s natu- turn led to additional environmental nities, therefore tackling both social ral beauty, terrain, rich wildlife, and problems such as erosion and land- and environmental issues. unique cultural heritage. Tourism slides from tourism trails and roads. activities are packaged showcasing In addition, garbage left behind by It is based on the principle of unit- these attractions, ranging from visits to trekkers has had an adverse impact on ing conservation, communities, and model tourist villages, homestays, and the region. All this is due to low lev- sustainable travel. This means that explorations of flora and fauna to trek- els of awareness about proper tourism individuals involved in ecotourism king, hiking, mountaineering, and reli- management in rural Nepal. These are activities should follow the follow- gious and cultural visits. These many pertinent issues that need to be kept ing principles:

• Minimize negative impacts to nature and culture • Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect • Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts • Provide direct financial benefits for conservation • Provide financial benefits and empowerment for local people • Raise sensitivity to host countries’ political, environmental, and social climate

Ecotourism has become increasingly popular over the last decade, both with conservation and development organizations looking for a means of generating an income from protected areas, and with tourists from the richer countries looking for new experiences. Most significantly, ecotourism is seen as an opportunity for local people living in tourism destinations to gain positive benefits from tourism development and the conservation of forests and protected areas.

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View from Mipra, Lamjung under control to minimize the detri- in Nepal due to its contribution to the the economy. The Tenth Plan on the mental impacts of tourism activities. country in terms of GDP and employ- other hand is focused on the review of When talking about saturation of a ment generation, the need to engage in tourism policies, the net contribution particular destination, one can go sustainable tourism practices has been to the economy from tourism, and about it in two different ways. The first viewed as a crucial issue. As a result the institutional performance. is the aesthetic capacity, which takes government has identified the need for into account the number of tourists developing ecotourism in Nepal. Eco- Based on past experiences, ecotourism a particular destination can cater to. tourism in Nepal therefore needs to development in Nepal can be viewed The second is ecological capacity, or move towards being an integrated pro- from two perspectives. The first one the capacity of a destination within gram that benefits many people with pertains to projects conceived and which there is no adverse impact on a reduced negative impact on local developed as ecotourism projects, such the biodiversity and environment. resources. The development of eco- as the Ghalegaon - Sikles Ecotourism Saturation in terms of ecological tourism therefore becomes even more Project, and initiatives that consist of capacity might take place before aes- important for a country like Nepal. strong ecotourism components, such thetic capacity, and when this occurs, as those in most protected areas. Then the region is adversely impacted. This Promotion of ecotourism through there are initiatives that do not men- is where ecotourism comes into play the development of model tourist vil- tion explicitly an association with eco- as it addresses the issues with regard lages, development of new trekking tourism but since they embrace the to climate and biodiversity protection. areas, maintenance of environmental principles of ecotourism they too are quality conducive to tourism, and considered as a contribution to the Keeping in mind the damages to the conservation is an integral part of development of ecotourism. There- environment mentioned above, tour- the country’s Ninth Plan, Policy and fore, the discussion on ecotourism ism stakeholders and conservationists Implementation Strategies. According in Nepal that follows is viewed from are showing increasing concerns about to this Ninth Plan, tourism was to be these two perspectives. the conservation of their ecosystem. developed as a mechanism to enhance Since tourism has always been looked employment, improve standards of A plethora of definitions of ecotour- at as one of the drivers of the economy living, alleviate poverty and develop ism have been worked out by prac-

15 titioners and academics. However, nity development, and raising aware- tion also results in a great diversity of what invariably remains as the essence ness about sustainable tourism. birds. Other specialist attractions such of each definition is that ecotourism as butterflies and orchids are yet to be is “travel to natural areas with the With its natural landscapes and cul- explored. Nepal presents an excellent motive of education leading to envi- tural heritage, Nepal has a compara- example of a destination where eco- ronmental conservation and local eco- tive advantage in terms of ecotourism tourism overlaps with adventure and nomic benefits.” By this definition, development. Trekkers in Nepal are nature tourism, so that these are often except for tourism in urban areas such inevitably attracted to the landscape indistinguishable. as the Kathmandu and Pokhara val- and biodiversity, and nature tourists leys, tourism in Nepal mostly involves to wandering through the mountains. Besides the major trekking routes in traveling to natural and less developed All major trekking circuits provide the Annapurna, Khumbu, and Lang- areas for adventure and to experience trekkers with a large range of altitudes tang areas, protected areas have a varying sociocultural and environ- along the way, which provide cultural major role in ecotourism. With more mental settings. Therefore, the type diversity in ethnic, tribal, and social than 18 percent of the country’s land of tourism that is being practiced in groups, as well as varied biodiversity. being covered by protected areas, and Nepal makes it nature tourism but not Nepal boasts astounding fauna with more than 50 percent of tourists to exactly ecotourism since it does not large mammals particularly in the Nepal visiting at least one of these always involve conservation, commu- Terai region. The altitudinal varia- areas, the protected area networks play an important role in ecotourism development. Ecotourism development is visualized as a development tool—not just in promoting tourism growth but also in reducing poverty particularly in the rural areas. In Nepal, though poverty is widespread and pervasive, it is even more acute in the mountain areas. Economic pursuits in those areas are limited to agriculture, livestock, and trans- boundary trade. All these activities suffer from low productivity and are subsistence oriented. Ecotourism is expected to engage them in the higher productivity areas by linking to the commercial process and marketing chain beyond borders.

6.3. Government Interventions With the setting up of the National Planning Commission in March 1957, the first tourism development plan of 1956 to 1961 was also drafted. One of the goals of this plan was the development of a “travel profession” (denoting tourism) to utilize the great natural wealth that the country is blessed with. The government soon realized that ecotourism could easily put Nepal on the map and could be instrumental in providing a source of revenue to the country. With this in mind, the Tourist Development View from Mipra, Lamjung

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Board, the Department of Tourism, and the Hotel and Tourism Training Center were established.

The government’s initiatives did prove to be successful in increasing tourism in Nepal. Initially tourism activities were concentrated only within the Kathmandu Valley, but they eventu- ally spread toward the popular trekking destinations of Annapurna, Ever- est, and Langtang. These destinations were popular among organized group trekkers (OGTs) as well as free and independent travelers (FITs); however, it was essentially the influx of FITs that led to the development of teahouses and lodges in these popular trekking routes. With this the impact tourism as a source of income and for environmental protection: of tourism on the country changed as employment intensified the pressures it saw a seven-fold increase in tourists on the country’s rich biodiversity. • Local government bodies and pri- from 6,000 in 1962 to over 460,000 in Dependency on firewood in the vil- vate entrepreneurs will be mobi- 1998 and subsequently to 730,000 in lages and the pressure of increasing lized to maintain environmental 2011. Sustainable ecotourism started population leading to encroachment quality conducive to tourism. They gaining ground only after the estab- on forest areas was intensifying the will coordinate with concerned lishment of the King Mahendra Trust level of deforestation in major tourist government agency to monitor for Nature Conservation (KMTNC) destinations. The Annapurna Con- tourism activities. in 1982, a non-profit making, non- servation Area Project (ACAP) was • A multiple co-ordination mecha- governmental institution with a mis- therefore started in 1986 by KMTNC nism involving the central govern- sion of promoting, managing, and to address this issue. The ACAP also ment, local governments, social orga- conserving nature in all its diversity adopted the protected area manage- nizations and the private sector will in Nepal. The KMTNC therefore ment policy, which has proved that be developed for the conservation of started working toward ensuring a conservation and development can be environment in sensitive areas. balance between human needs and mutually beneficial in terms of meet- • Tourism will be developed as one of environmental conservation to guar- ing both environmental objectives the key sectors enhancing employ- antee long-term sustainability, while and the local needs of the population. ment and as a key sector for eco- also seeking maximum community The ultimate goal of KMTNC was for nomic development. The expansion engagement. Conservation activities ACAP to be managed by local people of tourism to villages will contrib- were also regulated with the enact- with minimal intervention from the ute more to the economic development of the National Parks and Wild- government and other institutions. ment.” (Ninth Plan of His Majesty’s life Conservation Act in 1973. Government 1997-2002, 64.) As Nepal’s tourism depends on the The KMTNC adopted the protected natural environment, the tourism 6.4. Ecotourism area management policy in 1986, industry stakeholders are conscious Initiatives in Nepal wherein local people are made respon- about the conservation of ecosystems. sible for conservation instead of relo- The country’s Ninth Plan, Policy and As stated previously, Nepal has engaged cating them for the sake of biodiver- Implementation Strategies include in ecotourism initiatives in the past. sity. The increasing influx of tourists promotion of ecotourism. Nepal’s Some of the significant initiatives are and the increased dependency on Ninth Plan has the following points listed below.

17 Ecotourism Initiatives in Nepal

Project Name Fact Sheet Details

Chitwan National Area: 932 sq. km - The dramatic decline of the rhino population and the extent of poaching prompted the Park government to institute the Gaida Gasti – a rhino reconnaissance patrol of 130 armed District: Chitwan men and a network of guard posts all over Chitwan. To prevent the extinction of rhinos the Mammals: 43 species Chitwan National Park was gazetted in December 1970 Birds: 543 species - Translocation of one horned rhinoceros due to their increase in numbers and creation of a viable wild population and preservation of Royal Bengal Tiger. Fish and crocodiles: 113 species - Because of the occurrence of many endangered plant species such as the tree fern, screw pine and several rare orchids and endangered mammals such as tiger, rhino, wild elephant, gaur, striped hyena, sloth bear and Gangetic dolphin , it was declared a World Heritage Site in 1983 Sagarmatha Area: 1148 sq km - This park was gazetted in 1976 and declared as World Heritage Site in 1979. National Park - It is one of the rarest cases in the world, as the park lies above 3000 meters. 3% of the District: Solukhumbu land is covered in forest, 69% is barren and 28% is forest. Birds: 118 species - This park can be divided into four climate zones because of the rising altitude which Mammals and flora: few rare species include a forested lower zone, a zone of alpine scrub, the upper alpine zone which found includes upper limit of vegetation growth, and the Arctic zone where no plants can grow. - Besides Mt. Everest, there are other attractions like its unique flora and fauna, museums, and some of the world’s famous trekking routes

Langtang National Area: 1710 sq km - Represents the Central Himalayan ecosystem. Park District: - Due to its wide altitudinal variation, the park host diverse flora and fauna from upper tropical forests to alpine shrubs and perennial snow. Mammals: 32 species - Langtang, Helambu and Gosainkunda Lake form the major trekking routes Birds: 246 species - Tourist arrival in the park hasn’t been able to reach its peak as the destination has not Endemic Plant Species: 15 been marketed properly

Annapurna Conser- Area: 7629 sq km - It is the first and largest conservation area in Nepal, established in 1986 by the KMTNC. vation Area Program 1,226 species of flowering plants, - The main goal of the project is t transform traditional subsistence activities into a system (ACAP) of sound resource management, conservation thereby uplifting the standard of living of Mammals: 102 species the local people. Birds: 474 species - It draws more than 60% of the country’s total trekkers. Reptiles: 39 species - The ACA is divided into 7 unit conservation offices which focus on various aspects Amphibians: 22 species depending on the area such as tourism management, agriculture development or heritage tourism. - It is involved in multifarious areas of activities such as development of local institutions, tree plantation, heritage conservation, forest conservation, community development, literacy enhancement etc Ghalegaon Sikles District: Kaski -The KMTNC/ACAP established this project in 1992 as a model trekking route between Ecotourism Project Ghalegaon and Sikles in Western Nepal. - The project involved foot trail construction, forest zoning and establishing proper camping facilities for trekkers. - The project includes activities such as plantations, establishment of micro-hydro projects, river flood prevention and sustainable harvest of forest products from defined zones for the local communities. - The community development component includes tour-guide) training, hotel management training, vegetable production training, leadership training and exposure tours. The project is also involved in trail development and maintenance, bridge construction and repairs, school education support, community toilets and drinking water schemes - This area attracts fewer trekkers than other Annapurna regions and therefore there is less pressure on the natural and social environment Upper Mustang Area: 2567 sq km - The project was a community based conservation project implemented by NTNC and Biodiversity Conser- ended in 2006. District: Mustang vation Project - The main threats to Upper mustang were excessive livestock rearing, increased demand for firewood due to increased tourism, over-exploitation of native medicinal plants, weak- ening of organizations and the authority of local institutions, and impact of inadequately planned commercial activities. - The objective of the project was institutional capacity building, developing biodiversity database for community based planning, management and monitoring system, and demonstration of replicable income generating activities based on nature and heritage based tourism and pasture and livestock management. - The major funding source for this project was through Global Environment Facility (GEF) and UNDP.

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Manaslu Conserva- Area: 1663 sq km - The MCA was declared in 1998, whereby the management was handed over to NTNC by tion Area Project the GoN. The management mandate for NTNC expires in 2018. District: Lamjung - The area was neglected in terms of infrastructure development and basic services such Plants: 2,000 species as access to water, electricity, health services and education. Threat to biodiversity due to Mammals: 33 species dependence of local people on natural resource also existed. Birds: 110 species reptiles: 3 species - The objective was to improve the capacity of the local communities to benefit from tourism in an environmentally benign manner for sustainable development. All the aforementioned Butterflies: 11 species 11 types of forest neglects areas are looked into by MCAP. - Like in the ACAP, the main backbone of the project is conservation education. Extensive programs are held to ensure active participation and support of the local communities. Kanchenjunga Area: 2035 sq km - KCAP was initiated in 1998 by DNPWC with technical and financial support from WWF Conservation Area Nepal. District: Taplejung Project - The project has been implementing its programs in partnership with community-based organizations, namely Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Management Council and other user committees which it helped establish. The KCAP was handed over for community management in 2006. - The KCAP also applies the integrated conservation and development project, emphasizing on strengthening the capacity of local communities to improve their livelihood while maintaining the biological diversity of the area. - The major impact of tourism in the KCA area is solid waste left behind, with cleaning efforts starting only in 1998 when 3000 kg of rubbish was collected and disposed off. Currently local Mothers’ Groups and village residents run regular clean up campaigns. Makalu Barun Area: 1500 sq km - It was established in 1992 as an eastern extension of Sagarmatha National Park. National Park District: Solukhumbu, Sankhuwasabha - The physical setting is unique, within 40 km; the altitude varies from 400 meter to almost 8500 meter at the confluence of the Arun River with Mt. Manaslu. Mammals: 88 species Birds: 421 species - The park had not been able to attract as many tourists due to prolonged rainy seasons and difficult terrain. Fish: 78 species Reptiles: 43 species - However in 1999, with the declaration of the buffer zone, the management approach has Amphibians: 16 species been adopted to promote ecotourism through renovation of the cultural heritage and Butterflies: 315 species conservation of forests and natural reserves - The park is home of the last remaining pristine forests and alpine meadows, therefore it has been designated as a Strict Nature Reserve, the first in Nepal. Bardia National Park Area: 968 sq km - Originally a hunting reserve, Bardia became a conservation area in 1976 and then attained National Park status in 1988. District: Bardia - About 70% of the park is covered with forest, with the balance a mixture of grassland, Mammals: 53 species savannah and riverine forest. Reptiles: 25 species - Species conservation has been satisfactory and a number of mammals such as tigers, Birds: 400 species elephants, deer etc have increased. Reintroduction of endangered rhinos has been conducted since 1986, which has drastically increased the number of rhinos in the park. Fish: 121 species - The diverse flora and fauna and the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous culture of the buffer zone communities. Tourist arrival has been increasing in the park. Rara National Park Area: 106 sq km - The park was gazetted in 1976 and is the smallest park in Nepal District: Mugu and Karnali - It was established to protect Rara Lake which is an important area for staging migratory birds. Mammal: 51 species - The flora and fauna of the region is endemic to the Humla Jumla region, which is also fully Birds: 212 species protected Flora: 1074 species - The park can be reached either after a 2.5 days trek from Jumla or from Surkhet after 10 days trek. The Park area hosts only a small number of visitors each year because of its remoteness. Shey Phoksundo Area: 3555 sq km - It is the largest and only trans- Himalayan national park in Nepal. National Park District: Dolpa, Mugu - This area was set aside to protect one of the last wild habitats of endangered species such as the snow leopard, wild yak, Tibetan antelope, and wild ass. Birds: 200 species - Despite the natural attractions, flora and fauna and interesting culture, tourism has not Reptiles: 6 species developed in an impressive manner in this area. Butterflies: 29 species

19 Khaptad National Area: 225 sq km - The area was gazetted in 1984; the area of the buffer zone is 216 km. Park District: Doti, Bajhang, Bajura and - The park has cultural importance due to the presence of Shiva shrine at higher triveni, the Accham ashram of Khaptad Swami and a temple of Khaptad Mai. Birds: 217 species, - Khaptad is of importance to conservation of nature due to its wide variety and high quality of forests which comprise of subtropical, lower and upper temperate and subalpine types. Mammals: 18 species - Conservation challenges are related to Illegal grass cutting , over grazing, felling of trees Flowering plants: 567 and other destruction Butterflies: 5 species

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Area: 175 sq km - The park was gazetted in 1976 and was established mainly to preserve the habitat for the Reserve last remnant population of wild water buffalo in Nepal. District: Sunsari, Saptari, Udayapur - The reserve has been recognized as a wetland site in 1987; the park is also famous for Plants: 514 species bird watching. Mammals: 31 species - The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Camp is located inside the reserve to solely cater to the bird Birds: 485 species watchers - Elephant safari, jungle walk, bird watching and boating are some of the tourism products offered to visitors.

Shivapuri National Area: 144 sq km - Earlier established as a watershed and wildlife reserve, the park was established in 1976. park District: Kathmandu, Nuwakot, - It has a high diversity of forest types (Sal, Terai hardwood, mixed hardwood, chir pine and Sindhupalchowk oak), which occupy 39 percent of the land. Mammals: 19 species - It is a popular park due to its close proximity to Kathmandu and also due to the 13 trekking routes inside the park itself Birds: 9 species - It is one of the more popular national parks in terms of tourist influx. Butterflies: 150 species Parsa Wildlife Area: 499 sq km - The reserve was gazetted in 1987, and is located adjacent to the Chitwan National Park Reserve - The reserve is dominated by the Churia hills, where sal and chir pine are abundant, and District: Parsa, Makwanpur, Bara the bhavar region with its sal forest and mixed sal forest. Flora: 919 species - The area also suffers from scarcity of water resulting in poor habitat conditions for wildlife. Birds: 300species approx - Together with the Indian Tiger Reserve Valmiki National Park, the coherent protected area of 2,075 sq km represents the Tiger Conservation Unit (TCU) Chitwan-Parsa- Valmiki, which covers a 3,549sq km Dhorpatan Hunting Area: 1325 sq km - It is the only hunting reserve in Nepal, gazetted in 1987 and is open to both Nepali and Reserve foreign nationals. District: Myagdi, Baglung, Rukum - Main animals to be hunt in this area is blue sheep and other games animals such as Leopard, Ghoral, Serow, Himalayan Thar, Himalayan black bear, Barking deer, Wild Boar, Rhesus Macaque, Langur(Monkey), and mouse hare. - The hunting license is issued by the department of National Parks and wildlife Conserva- tion. - There are some endangered animals in the reserve which include Musk Deer, Wolf, Red Panda, Cheer Pheasant and Danphe Shuklaphanta Area: 305 sq. km. - The reserve was initially managed as a hunting reserve and was later turned into a Wildlife Reserve wildlife reserve in 1976 to protect swamp deer. District: Kanchanpur - Of the 46 species of mammals found, 18 are protected under the CITES such as the Mammals: 46 Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, Sloth Bear, Swamp Deer, Asian Elephant and Hispid Hare. Birds: 423 species - One-horned Rhinoceros were trans-located from Chitwan National Park to establish a Fish: 27 species third viable population in the country.

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6.5 Efforts Made by Various Institutions While taking stock of the ecotourism awareness among the general public of posal. Under the new garbage manage- initiatives in Nepal, it must be noted the state of the rivers and the efforts ment system, expedition teams have that various institutions have also required for keeping them clean. to deposit from USD 2,000 to 5,000 been established in order to promote (depending on the height of the peaks) conservation activities in Nepal. The The Kathmandu Environmental and as a garbage deposit and the amount following organizations are examples Education Project organizes differ- is refunded to the team only when it of such initiatives. ent courses for trekking, rafting, and presents a certificate from the Com- tourism professionals; provides infor- mittee (Dahal, 2003). The Nepal River Conservation Trust mation to mountaineers and trekkers; has been campaigning for river con- and organizes clean-up campaigns. The work of various NGOs and pri- servation in Nepal. NRCT in associa- vate sector organizations like Aqua tion with the Nepal Tourism Board has The Sagarmatha Pollution Control Birds Unlimited Camp and the Cen- been organizing Bagmati and Bho- Committee has been effective in ter for Community Development and tekoshi river festivals annually to create addressing the problems of waste dis- Research are also praiseworthy.

21 Section Rapid Assessment & 01/ Site Selection 7. Community Based Ecotourism

Naya Katthan, Shuklaphanta, Kanchanpur

Providing a more micro perspective CBET can be thought of as a com- CBET is: on one of the prevalent forms of tour- plete initiative driven by the com- • A tool for conservation: It helps ism activities, the following section munity, wherein the local commu- minimize negative impacts on the explains community based ecotour- nity improves its capacity to use natural and sociocultural environ- ism. In response to the increasing social capital through collective ment. It should also support the criticism of “ecotourism” and the action and enhances its levels of par- protection of natural areas by gen- negative impacts of mass tourism, ticipation in the development pro- erating economic benefits for the the community based ecotourism cess. This form of tourism is largely community, be organized for small (CBET) approach was developed. based on the issues, problems, and groups, and involve not only nature This approach is different from other needs of the local community. As but also indigenous cultures. Com- types of tourism as it focuses on the such, CBET has been critical in ini- munity-based ecotourism also pro- community and its sustainable devel- tiating and engaging the participa- motes local species conservation. opment through conserving natural tion of marginalized sectors for local habitats and indigenous and cultural development. The uniqueness of it • An alternative source of liveli- systems, transferring all the benefits to lies in the collective efforts of group hood: It serves not only as a tool the local economy. According to the decision making, partnering with for conservation but also as a tool WWF definition, CBET is “a form of stakeholders, and solution design- for improving the quality of life by tourism in which a significant number ing driven by community involve- providing alternative income and of local people has substantial control ment. This process empowers and employment for local communities. over, and has involvement in the com- increases the self-reliance of the munity’s tourism development and local communities as CBET pro- • A method for participatory devel- management. The major proportion vides alternatives for income gen- opment: This is the main thrust of the benefits remains within the local eration by showcasing indigenous of CBET. It creates a process economy” (WWF International, 2001). culture and hospitality. whereby locals are encouraged to

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act as informed participants of the development process. It brings the community together to discuss and work together in solving community problems. This serves as the ultimate goal of the community development approach and its participatory vision of empowering the local people—particularly the poor, vulnerable, and marginalized— and expanding their opportunities.

• An exchange of information and culture: CBET provides the opportunity for the exchange of knowledge and culture between tourists and the community and helps to provide supplementary income for individual members of the community. It also helps in increasing local and visitor awareness of conservation by containing education and interpreta- tion as part of the tourist offer.

“Community based tourism occurs when decisions about tourism activity and development are driven by the host community. It usually involves some form of cultural exchange where tourists meet with local communities and witness aspects of their lifestyle. Many such remote ethnic communities may be vulnerable to outside influences and decisions about the way tourists are hosted must be owned Rana Tharu Traditional dress by the community for successful and sustainable tourism” (SNV, 2003). in remote areas, CBET is an attrac- maximum use of indigenous knowl- tive option globally. The success of edge and experiences in developing Community-based tourism initiatives this form of ecotourism is built on the management strategies. aim to increase local people’s involve- notion that the benefits will result in ment in tourism. They are mainly small conservation of biodiversity while also The success of community develop- scale (campsites, guesthouses, craft mar- leading to increased benefits for local ment through CBET has been widely kets, local excursions), but can include communities, as it is largely based on researched. Research has shown that partnerships with the private sector. their needs and problems. Therefore, if rural communities are given access Many suffer from being too isolated each community is allowed to develop to resources, they are more likely to from the tourism market and are unsus- a management strategy that meets its engage in direct actions to protect tainable without external support. own particular needs and conditions, or improve the environment than enabling more flexibility. other groups. Environmental conservation among rural communities 7.1. The Success of CBET CBET is also founded on the idea is however impossible if the virtue that this approach enhances recogni- of job creation or benefits to them Due to the rationale behind linking tion of and respect for cultural differ- is not considered. The benefits could conservation with livelihoods where ences on the local and regional levels be in the form of improved incomes, economic alternatives are few, such as and among nations. It strives to make improved facilities (communal or

23 personal), better nutrition, and bet- engaging in proactive approaches to vation outcomes for protected areas. ter living standards. community development to improve their standard of living and the pro- • The cultural value of commu- Further research has also shown that cess of community development nity development stems from the communities that get most of their through CBET. It has the potential emphasis placed on local traditions resources from the environment near to enhance political, socio-cultural, and values. Therefore, in socio- them tend to be more responsive to socioeconomic, and environmental cultural terms, CBET has increased the source of the resource. Because benefits for rural communities. households’ awareness of the value of this, CBET is going a long way in of their traditional culture. More- species conservation and economic • Politically, it encourages autonomy, over, social cohesion, harmony, and empowerment around the world. sovereignty, decision-making, local cooperation promoted by CBET These need to be embraced in Nepal participation, and community con- enhance self-reliance, pride, and to check the high rate of environmen- trol over the initiation and direction hope for the future. tal degradation and promote sustain- of development projects. able development. • Lastly, community development • In economic terms, community encourages conservation, environ- For CBET to be successful it must development cultivates sustainable mental education, and the sustain- take into consideration the promo- and rewarding employment that is able use of natural resources. It tion of sustainable development by made available to all members of a provides an opportunity for com- establishing a durable productive base community. Economic benefits are munity members with different that allows local inhabitants to enjoy distributed widely and equitably, circumstances to participate in the in cash or kind and the social dimen- while remaining in the hands of project due to the nature and range sions of environmental conservation locals rather than those of outside of ecotourism activities, such as and development. individuals or corporations. At the guiding, hosting tourists (home- community level, public and social stays), and producing handicrafts. infrastructures have been built, Usually these projects offer women 7.2. Benefits of CBET whereas at the household level they an opportunity to be actively have gained direct income from involved and gain direct benefits Conceptually, the potential gains of guide activities and homestays. without leaving their household such an approach are significant with This additional source of income responsibilities. the ultimate goal being to benefit has enabled households to improve and empower the local communities. their livelihoods and also invest in In short, CBET strives to merge It is argued that even those commu- education. Those households not the sustainability and conservation nity members who are not directly directly involved in CBET also see essential to ecotourism with the involved in tourism enterprises trickle-down benefits and access to benefits, control, involvement, and should see some form of benefit as community funds. CBET has ulti- welfare that underpin community well. Therefore, communities are now mately resulted in enhanced conser- development.

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Section Rapid Assessment & Site Selection 01/ 8. Literature Review

The Nepal Tourism Policy was formulated in 2065 BS, and aims at providing the benefits of tourism activities to the local communities through emphasis of rural tourism, community based tourism and home stays

Alldanda, Panchase, Kaski 25 8. Literature Review - llays significant focus on the public- ing formation, objectives, powers and The Nepal Economic Forum analyzed private-people partnership approach duties of the NTB, the Rules list the and reviewed relevant literature under in order to achieve targeted growth micro issues regarding the function of the following heads. in the tourism sector; and the chief executive officer, the service - led to the formation of the Tourism fees to be charged by the board, and 8.1. International Best Coordination Committee and the other administrative issues. The broad Practices Crisis Management Committee. objectives of the board are to: - Introduce Nepal as a fascinating In order to document key learn- Nepal Tourism Vision 2020 tourist destination ing from the best practices of com- Marking the conclusion of the Nepal - Develop, expand, and promote the munity based ecotourism initiatives Tourism Year 2011, the Tourism tourism business, assuring the pro- internationally, relevant literature was Vision 2020 was launched with the tection of the country’s natural and reviewed. The following table pro- following goals to be set by the year cultural heritage vides a snapshot of ecotourism desti- 2020: - Increase employment opportunities nations. In order to ensure relevance, - Increase the annual international through the expansion of tourism we researched developing countries arrivals to 2 million activities with similar attractions to Nepal. - Expand economic opportunities - Assist in establishing institutions Refer to table 10. and increase jobs in tourism sector necessary for tourism development. to 1 million 8.2. Legal and Analyzing the policies governing the Institutional Provisions The objectives of Vision 2020 are to: tourism sector, the underlying objec- - Improve the livelihoods of the tives are to: In order to understand the legal struc- people and enhance inclusiveness - Develop tourism infrastructure tures within which the projects will be of women and other deprived com- - Increase tourism activities operating, the report reviewed all acts munities - Create employment in the rural and policies governing the tourism - Bring tourism into the mainstream areas and sector as well those ensuring environ- sectors in Nepal’s socioeconomic - Share the benefits of tourism at the mental protection and bio diversity development grassroots level preservation. The following table lists - Find new potential areas for tour- the acts and policies reviewed. ism and enhance the capacity of the These acts and policies more or less community to engage in tourism cover the same objectives and goals 8.2.1. Tourism Related Acts activities with regard to the tourism sector, The following section provides a brief - Promote the image of Nepal in the which has led to a duplication of overview of the acts governing the international market responsibilities. However, all the poli- tourism sector and analyzes their limi- - Improve aviation Table 11 Tourism, Environmental Protec- tations or shortcomings. safety, extend air con- tion and Biodiversity Related Acts in Nepal nectivity, and improve Environmental Nepal Tourism Policy, 2065 BS airports Tourism Related Acts Protection and Bio The Nepal Tourism Policy was formu- - Attract investment in Diversity Preservation lated in 2065 BS, and aims to pro- the tourism sector Nepal Tourism Policy 2065 National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1973 vide the benefits of tourism activi- Tourism Act 2035 Buffer Zone Management ties to local communities through Nepal Tourism Board Regulation 1996 (2052 BS) Act and Rules and Buffer Zone Management emphasis on rural tourism, commu- Directive 1999 (2056 BS) nity based tourism, and homestays. The Nepal Tourism Nepal Tourism Board Act, 2053 Conservation Area Manage- The policy Board is an autono- ment Regulations 1996 (2053) and Conservation Area - aims to achieve its objectives mous body that aims Government Management through identification of tourist to promote Nepal as Regulations 2000 (2057) spots, development of infrastruc- a quality tourist desti- Nepal Tourism Board Rules, Forest Act 1993 ture, and enhancement of tourist nation in the interna- 2053 Tourism Vision 2020 Environment Protection Act services; tional arena. The Nepal 1996 and Environment Protec- - is closely integrated with the pov- Tourism Board Act and tion Regulation erty alleviation policy and economic Rules govern the body. Local Self Governance Act and social development, as it aims Whereas the Act lists 1999 (2055 BS) and Local Self Governance Regulation 1999 to increase employment levels; the macro issues regard- (2056)

26 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL - The key learning from this example is with learning this example from The key management and leader effective to regards is a trek, as a carbon neutral Labeling the trek curiosity startegygood marketing as it arouses this carbon “HOW” regarding amongst tourists This maks it an is maintained. footprint neutral and also eco tourists, destination for attractive serves the dual purpose of conserving the and managing waste. environment Learnings Analyzing all the various forms of ecotourism of ecotourism forms all the various Analyzing facilities seen that the home stay activities it was the best means of enabling run in villages are Since the inclusion and empowerment. women in home stays of the houses engaging women engaged directly are the ones running it, they are provided are they Also, activities. in the tourism these activities, through with monetary benefits which the spending of which is at their discretion them with a sense of empowerment as provides well. ship.Sanjayan Kumar an officer at the Indian an officer Kumar ship.Sanjayan the management as over took Office Forest tourism over he took When in 2006. warden in their around drove tourists unregulated; was discarded They wanted. they whenever vehicles along the trails. plastic bottles especially waste, the sanctuary. around grazed 500 cattle Around resorted they as a result rife, was Unemployment stealing activities such as poaching, illegal to etc. timber smuggling kills, from he opened lodging facilities over, he took When of the sanctuary visitors in the centre where trails Adventure or look at wildlife. could stay the He restricted trekking. opened up for were the sanctuary entering 30 of vehicles to number a day. Learnings Learnings - - - through hosting, translation, and transportation and translation, serviceshosting, through the visitors for areas, such as protected conservation measures habitats. and natural indigenous forests the main participants in this project ees in the shops in 2009-10 INR 1.25cr from increased have • Revenues Of the revenue and 2.45cr in 2011-12. in 2010-11 1.86cr to as salary disbursed 85 lakhs were in 2010-11, generated 90 lakhs wes tribal population, whereas the employed to of the sanctuary. and upkeep maintenance used for tion helped the community in growing houses have • Green it trans of having instead vegetables fresh their own which is expensive. ported else where from Community Benefits Community • Provides important economic benefits to the community important economic benefits • Provides long termidentity conservation of cultural • promotes other and goodwill towards an understanding • creates who are groups and women’s women empower • helps to Community Benefits Community Community Benefits Community houses in Spiti solar houses and 50 green • 80 passive 3.5 tons solar house reduces Each passive and Lahaul. consump of CO2 per household and 60% fuel wood • Employment for over 234 tribals benefitting 260 families 260 234 tribals benefitting over for • Employment as guides and employ packages, the ecotourism through - - a Table 10 International Best Practices of Community Based Ecotourism Initiatives Table - In dia C ountry , - K e ny C ountry , amil Nadu - In dia C ountry , P radesh - H imachal , D istrict s i n Naromoru y homesta village rekki n g C ircuit T yn C ultural - T D istrict , T iger R eserve arambikulam exchange, sightseeing etc, givng tourists a unique Kenyan experience a unique Kenyan givng tourists sightseeing etc, exchange, or learn milk cows a specific element of the water, obtain till land, sow, collect firewood, livestock, for culture community’s and weaving clean ups and handicrafts environmental to small construction projects from farming. and commercial practices tourism responsible and ecologically socially to C ommu n it y based 3. Details • Cooperates with communites to improve their economy and protect their local environment. and protect their economy improve to with communites • Cooperates language discussions, meals, shared through absorb the local village culture to tourists Allows • harvest grass them to allowing of the community by life day to in day be involved to tourists Allows • and is based on the needs of community sustainabilityranging project • It is a community focused unsustainable to alternative as a viable supportecotourism to villagers responsible • Encourages realted areas in different trainings receive They their work in operation. for is remunerated • Community 2. H imala Details • The valley lies in the heart of the Himalayas and offers rich traditions of the Trans Himalayan Bud Himalayan Trans rich of the traditions and offers lies in the heart of the Himalayas The valley • Details 1. P 1. along the Chandra, passes, and Kuzum the Rohtang Starts Manali, across from dhist communites. the way. throughout with majestic view Spiti and Pin rivers, the Spitian experience to tourists the highest villages in world, and it allows are The villages here • along the way old, and home stays years a 1000 over ancient monasteries through culture conserva various and used for is maintained with the villagers A conservation fund in collaboration • The aim this fund. to being ploughed back with all further in the region, revenues tion based initiatives conservation and sustainability. through economic development achieve is to the local community. from are and service providers All beneficiaries, employees • Garbage generated houses. green cooking and heating, Use of Solar in housing, trek. neutral • Carbon be disposed of properly to back is brough during the trek from plastic mineral generated waste reduce to systems refilling water UV filtered The villages have • bottles water • Protected Areas with peninsular flora and Fauna. Rich Habitat and Abundant wildlife Abundant and Rich Habitat Fauna. and with peninsular flora Areas • Protected with indigenous and tribal people living here protection total due to interferences habitat • Minimum ecosystem part being an integral of the prevailing and participatory forest management of Joint the system • Follows combating and works towards Force Protection Tiger a part of the Social population is therefore Tribal that cause conflist crops cultivating from populations has switched offences.Tribal and wildlife forest pepper. ginger, coffee, with animals such as bananas to has initiated committees economic development the reserve’s through employed people are Tirbal • packages All the eco tourism local tribal communities. to livelihood give to packages eco tourism many called Forest under the umbrella Committees Eco Development the different running through are nature packages, night stay include trekking, THe packages Parambikulam. Agency, Development packages. education, jungle camps and day

27 Learnings Even if the tourism initiatives are totally private private totally are initiatives if the tourism Even to benefits create to it has still been able owned, of employment creation the community through opportunities with the community and linkages A clear increase as is the case in this example. of the community illustrates in the income levels aspect the cultural It also helps sustain this point. programs. cultural of the village through where Baghmara; from This is a clear contrast do in the area of hotels number the increasing the locals, to employment on providing not focus externally. employ choosing to that a portionSince the model ensures of the to the community people goes directly profits spend it as per their to the discretion who have by seen is clearly will, the monetary benefit also being used profits This in addition to them. at a benefits provides social infrastructure, for because the Only level. as micro as well macro tourism initiative evident, does the are benefits effect. poaching activities come to of stopping must the learning is that the benefits Therefore, so that the community be useful and motivating, hampering people dont resortenvironemt to activities. Learnings If ecotourism is to be taken seriously then seriously be taken is to If ecotourism weighed against to be need economic benefits and a choice needs degradation, environmental be made betweento or eco- mass tourism Here tourism. preserved and well limited friendly, of the biodiversity preservation in this example, importantis equally revenues as generating to in order Therefore, activity. the tourism from numbers the tourist keeping revenues generate model can be used. volume high value-low low, that the potential be ensured it must However, significant have destinations must ecotourist command a high value. to attractions Learnings - - n da wa y - R overnight trip including all meals would cost USD 75. Of trip cost USD 75. overnight including all meals would to community develop 40% will be put back the profits, erated a total income of Nu 961,060 for the community income of Nu 961,060 for a total erated earning earning less nothing and 50% were 23% were than Nu 3000 and conservation education, (Research ment projects and community development and ecotourism cultural to and 60% will go directly enterprise development) local people in the villages. local develop institutions in artifactsworks with training to to and also works with other stakeholders people skills; and other products. to sell souveniours find markets thus of livelihood, source of an alternative presence of the area. preserving the biodiversity This is used to pay wages, food and material costs, and costs, and material food wages, pay This is used to kept will be profit of the remaining a percentage taxes; going with the rest and depreciation, reinvestment for the community to This fund will be held by a fund. into a for One community is saving decide. be used as they to hand grind corn or have currently grinding mill (they a mill). to a long distance travel which is another source produce, selling the agricultural of income. as possible of the produce and as much communities, and themselves from the communities by is sourced their neighbours. Community Benefits Community • On an average day trips cost USD 35 and one would day • On an average • increased income per household to US$ 101, when US$ 101, income per household to • increased of the community practices of long forgotten • Revival The center Center: Enterprise• Community Development in the significantly, reduced activities have • Poaching Community Benefits Community • 2006-2009, 3 years since its start, has gen the project • 2006-2009, 3 years the community. to goes directly • 60% of the payment while merchant community acts as a grain The entire • the local into money puts more • Every have drink you Community Benefits Community - - - , C ou n tr nz e , K i n igi & M usa abigoma , y - E htiopia - N y D istrict , illage V y’I wacu n - B huta C ountry , j ect ourism P ro j ect i n I b P ro a n d E cotourism , C ou n tr - L alibella , istrict D i n E thiopia , tukul lodge a n d y T orphu C ommu n it y C ultural n da wa 2800 meters with basalt cliffs and sightings of Gelada baboons and birds of prey soaring on the of prey and sightings of Gelada baboons birds with basalt cliffs 2800 meters community sites. four runs through The trek the west. the south to from Staggering views thermals. ings of endangered and vulnerable species like the golden langur and rufous-necked hornbill. the golden langur and rufous-necked species like and vulnerable ings of endangered communities. the community of additional incomes for has helped in the generation Tourism opment organization. for the whole community. a fund going into with the profits members, In 6-8. from being limited per site of tourists and number faces of cliff protection planning, enous tree and something that resource fauna as a and see flora to encouraged are addition local communities should be protected. joint benefit. for work together of US$ 114,975, which validates the commercial viability of the project. viability the commercial of project. which validates of US$ 114,975, products. and handicraft and sale of vegetables programmes, Details This project was initiated by Edwin Sabuhoro, through huge investments from his company Rwanda Rwanda his company from huge investments through Edwin Sabuhoro, by initiated was This project each) of poachers (of 40 families 7 groups and divided US$ 2000 to offered He initially Eco-Tours. and had food had harvested more, not poaching any were the park, and in 9 months 5 groups around him to This proved of potatoes. with him 200kgs and shared food, season’s the next plant for seeds to all they get food, poverty work and curb down in their community, to that the village has a potential, begin, guidance and monitoring. hand to need is a little visit villages to gorilla to and the willingness of these tourists the booming mountain tourism, Given destination as an ecotourism created Village was the Iby’Iwacu lifestyles, the traditional experience Park Volcano the National around communities the cost met by Also, . experience tourist diversify to for to compensate resortedto poaching and killing wildlife get, they they higher than benefits were alternative to provide The purposewas tourism directly. from not benefiting were as they the losses, and also to decrease so that poaching activities would the community members to means of livelihood of living. the standard uplift as follows: are the community members involving attractions The tourist T rekki n g Details • The trek is set in the dramatic and stunning rural landscapes of northern is set in the dramatic The trek Ethiopia at an altitude of • the community and run with support owned by the local devel are from The community sites tourism • • The Nabji-Korphu pilot project is winter-based. It has a low altitude trekking route with six resident with six resident route altitude trekking It has a low is winter-based. pilot project The Nabji-Korphu • indig solar heaters, eco-toilets, parthaving is a fundamental • Ecotourism with the site of the project, to confidence Given on management and running training of a business. The community receive • R Nab j i K Details • Contributed US$ 149,240 as royalty to the government. The royalty exceeded the cost of the project the cost of project exceeded The royalty the government. to as royalty US$ 149,240 • Contributed cultural errands, fees, porter services,campsite provding local guides, from The community benefits • and sight the Monpa ethnic group, villages, mountain • Sightseeing activities include mall Bhutanese

28 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL - - Despite most destinations in Nepal claiming to most destinations in Nepal claiming to Despite a do not follow they destinations, be ecoutourism or use renew management system waste proper able sources of energy. This example provides provides This example of energy. sources able can be waste how a crucial learning regarding propelry managed. the com by Although the lodge is co owned other activities which players, munity and private set up by are the tourists, to made available are the and run owned by fully but players the private within entrepreneurship This fosters communities. the community. Learnings - - - ber of the community. Also, 30 runactivities their own Also, ber of the community. canoeing etc. riding, such as horse and such social infrastructures. health centres schools, scholarships school programmes, It also includes after- proj of micro-enterprise development and a number lemon growing 20 farmers One of them involves ects. tea rooibos to the flavourant sell as a natural to grass industry. than just sightseeing, can do a lot more that visitors can Visitors help a community in need. and actually corn, stamping brewing spend their time making bricks, their also share may They beer or catching crayfish. of expertise with the commu in their area knowledge as can learn tourists as well from In this manner, nity. the community. teach the BUlungula Lodge. Lodge. the BUlungula • The incubator project has led to development of development has led to project The incubator • The best partAfrica is the fact of this type• in of tourism • The community people get 40% of the profits made by made The community people get 40% of the profits • 25 mem to employment • In addition, the lodge provides Community Benefits Community - A frica - S outh C ountry ape , n C - E aster D istrict , V illage odge i n N q ile ulu n gula L ment projects. Projects fall within four key portfolios, identified through consultation with community consultation through identified portfolios, key within four fall Projects ment projects. education, health and nutrition, portfolios are The four issues. as prioritymembers development livelihood. basic services, and sustainable children, and other local and traditional musical instruments musical and other local traditional children, lessons and see how and attend could offer you a teacher, are visit local schools and if you uses, in schools taught are children lux safari tents accomodating approximately 30 beds. The lodge is co- owned by private players and players private by The lodge is co- owned 30 beds. accomodating approximately tents lux safari community people in a 60:40 ratio. tour and herbalist tour, woman power fishing, canoeing, riding, Other activities include horse lunch. massages. material, school arts tin and milk cartons like is used for and crafts Waste is re-used. water All grey used, and are glass bottles returnable only cookers, hotbox make used to are papsak wine inners to is taken plastic, mostly waste, The small amount of remaining is burnt. waste paper and cardboard the Mthatha dump site. Details - Accomodation in local grass-thatched mud houses made of ancient architecture from the king’s style. the king’s from houses made of ancient architecture mud in local grass-thatched Accomodation - a community member guided by walk, - Community guide and cultural a local historical Visit the kings house and guided by - and the youths men, women, all community typescategories; dances by of traditional - 8 different medicine and their traditional shrubs, grass trees, hear about the different to healers Visit traditional - a local diner with people on dishes and have - Prepare of local banana beer a taste and have process a local banana brewery Attend - ex-poachers from methods and stories - Exposition of hunting techniques, lessons and engagement making experience, - Batwa pottery activities. more and many matches with tourists, - Local football B • Bulungula lodge is situated in one of the most remotest beaches in South Africa. It has 10 huts and It has 10 Africa. beaches in South in one of the most remotest • Bulungula lodge is situated for arrangements their own make to the guest have whereas for, and dinner is provided • Breakfast compost toilets. and waterless only includes solar power credentials long list of green • Bulungula’s brilliant to incubate develop rural which aims organisation is a non-profit The Bulungula Incubator •

29 - This example adapted the most efficient model the most efficient adapted This example manages the operations, player private where the owners. and the community people are an from the sanctuaryThis was can benefit also benefiting but management system efficient dividend on the basis providing However it. from a sense of ownership of land ceded provides are of the sanctuary the benefits and ensure the community. by enjoyed importance is brought linkages of market Also, equal THe three this example. about through to training adequate providing components are machinery providing skills, the required build carry to and and other materials out the task, the necessary sell the to market providing lastly illustrates of bee keeping The example product. point. the aforementioned The Amani Nature Reserve is a good example of is a good example Reserve Amani Nature The near destinations can be developed clusters how tend We in tourism. involved already that are famous few where districts entirely, ignore to such places close to however spots exist, tourist spots can also be combined with the tourist it is rich in provided clusters form one to existing activities can uplift and eco tourism biodiversity Addition of living the community. the standard ally, the advantage of forming clusters is that clusters of forming the advantage ally, destinations will attract tourist the established tourist the new to which can be directed tourists spots in the cluster. Learnings The donation model of including tourists or The donation model of including tourists partiesin can be replicated other interested provide destinations in Nepal to the ecotourism the project of funding for source a continuous a halt. comes to destinations once the project be provided can opt to who donate The tourists of the on the progress updates with regular made contributions. in which they project Learnings provided dividends to over 200 families. The lodge 200 families. over dividends to provided of rent. income in the form provides supply. and water roads improved tuition fees, bees and harvest honey, for care to on how educated by refinery (also donated at our honey which is refined and sold at profit. repackaged USAID towards community development projects. projects. community development towards obtained. 60% of guiding fees guides and retain tour in the villages. is also promoted tourism cultural 31 employed in the cultural show. 8 game scouts are scouts are 8 game show. in the cultural 31 employed Area. in the Conservation employed health supplies, primary water schools, and nursery operations. dips and ranch cattle schemes, and white black buck, water giraffe, been introduced, threefold. by Number of elephants has increased rhino. • The sanctuary gave employment to 17 staff and staff 17 to employment The sanctuary gave • paid made classrooms, social infrastructure, • Improved were community members support USAID, With from • • 20% of tourism revenues of the reserve is directed is directed of the reserve revenues • 20% of tourism as been trained local villages have individuals from • 18 and sells local handicrafts, A shop at the reserve • Community Benefits Community • Provides employment to 50 people at the lodge and to employment • Provides support established 499 households, profits Tourism • species have wildlife area, the Conservation Through • Community Benefits Community - a a nz n ia y - T y - a y -K e ny y - K e ny , C ou n tr , - K wale D istrict y, a n ctuar , C ou n tr - L aikipia , D istrict A rea , n a n d C o servatio odge NGOs. It has 150 elephants and other animals such as impala, bushbuck, sable, warthog, leopard, warthog, leopard, sable, elephants and other animals such as impala, bushbuck, It has 150 NGOs. and butterflies. birds of the sanctuary and shareholders now are These families km sanctuary. the 36 square establish to as one share. of land is taken Each acre dividends. receive runThe sanctuary but community owned was run the sanctuary. to trained were manager and staff KWS. by 2 staff. stationaryand hired makes products able use of forest resources and ecotourism activities to benefit local people. benefit activities to and ecotourism resources use of forest able Ngwesi Lodge was built in 1995 with financial and technical help from Kenya Wildlife Conservancy Conservancy Wildlife Kenya technical help from with financial and in 1995 built Lodge was Ngwesi solar system with open air showers, cottages, The lodge has 6 thatched roof NGO. and a Kenyan owned and community It is the first a spring. from heating and electricty water water through for managed lodge in Kenya. for trustA community owned is responsible area. ranch 20% of the total which covered biodiversity management. the wildlife fund a teacher’s troughs, water of salarybuilding conservatino scouts, include payment to Projects in other social infrastructures. primary build school, and invest salary, a stop over for tourists visiting Zanzibar and the Safari circuit in Northen Tanzania, which are famous famous which are Tanzania, in Northen circuit visiting Zanzibar and the Safari tourists for over a stop Africa. spots in tourist 1991-2002. from assistance guesthouses. 2 visitor are There local villages. to this reserve fromt extend Nine trails guidebooks. sustain promoting people, and 28 villages with 135,000 reserves goverment 15 village reserves, 10 • Started in 1995, the sanctuary was set up with help from KWS, Eden wildlife Trust, environmental environmental Trust, Eden wildlife KWS, the sanctuary set up with help from • Startedwas in 1995, ceded their farmlands 200 families and property on crops over elephant raids damage, by • Prompted a funding, USAID With manage the sanctuary. to formed A community conservation association was • Another project rent. monthly which he pays for a lodge in the sanctuary, has built investor A private • • The community people are only allwoed to collect dead wood from the reserve. Hunting is forbidden. the reserve. from collect dead wood to allwoed only The community people are • nj e E lepha n t S M waluga Details Ngwesi L • The 8700 ha Ngwesi group ranch combines livestock rearing with wildlife base ecotourism. The base ecotourism. with wildlife rearing combines livestock ranch group The 8700 ha Ngwesi • show. and cultural a rhino sanctuary, drives, game activities include walking, Visitor • sanctuary conserve as a wildlife to established was Area Conservation the Ngwesi • In 1996, support to like within the conservation area. would they a cause or project funds to can donate Tourist • , C ou n tr n s , M ou n tai U sambara - E ast D istrict , R eserve A ma n i Nature Details • Falls in one of the 25 global diversity hotspots and has over 2000 plant species. It was developed as developed It was 2000 plant species. hotspots and has over in one of the 25 global diversity • Falls providing of Finland with the Government Fund Conservation Reserve Amani Nature the by • Financed maps and and sighns, leaflets with trail hiking and driving routes Trail, Walking Include: • Facilities for Mountains, supportsmanagement in the East Usambara WWF project community based forest A •

30 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

cies primarily focus on the develop- and lodges, rafting camping sites, currently function under a situation ment of tourism circles in the central and other such businesses of constraint, where they have been Chitwan-Annapurna region, neglect- - Has provision for licensed hunting delegated responsibilities but lack ing the Far Western and Eastern in protected areas property rights and decision mak- regions. - Entails community involvement in ing power. This has significant and conservation and allows the pro- potentially negative implications for Tourism Act tected areas to spend 30 to 50 per- the future of the program. Despite While Vision 2020 and the Tourism cent of the revenue they generate for this, it was seen that buffer zone Policy cover areas regarding tourism community development in coordi- forests earn a significant amount development and infrastructure build- nation with the local government through entry fees compared to coming, the Tourism Act sets out rules and munity forests. regulations for the operation of any Buffer Zone Management Rules and tourism enterprise. The Act covers: Directives Conservation Area Management - Trekking and travel agencies The management rules outline the Regulations 2000 - Tourist-standard hotels, lodges, res- framework within which the buffer - The Conversation Area Manage- taurants, resorts, and bars zones will be established and managed. ment Regulations 2000 governs the - Mountaineering and expeditions - It grants the protected area manager systems and processes for the estab- - Tour guides the ability to establish the network lishment of conservation areas. - Other tourism enterprises of buffer zone user groups, buffer - It can designate the management of zone user committees, and the buf- conservation areas to either govern- As is the case in other sectors, limita- fer zone management committee as ment or non-government agencies. tions of the act have been observed. the apex body. - As per the regulations, each Vil- Although the act specifically states the - It also mandates the preparation of lage Development Committee must provisions for establishing and run- a five-year management plan that form a conservation area man- ning a business, due to the lack of a includes activities for tourism devel- agement committee to conduct mechanism for inspection, these pro- opment, soil and environmental community development related visions are not implemented and there conservation, and preservation of construction, protect the natural is no penalty if they are not followed. cultural and historical heritage. environment, and implement the Therefore, a stricter inspection team - The regulations regarding use of the management plan. must be formed in order to better fund are fairly restrictive. The vari- - The management committee also regulate the tourism industry. ous heads must be allocated the fol- needs to prepare a management plan lowing percentage of the funds: to implement ecotourism develop- 8.2.2. Environment Protection o Conservation program: 30 percent ment and conservation of natural and Biodiversity Preservation o Community development pro- and cultural heritage. Acts gram: 30 percent In order to provide a complete analysis o Income generation and skill Forest Act 1993 of the legal framework within which development program: 20 percent - As per the Forest Act, the govern- the ecotourism projects will operate, o Conservation education program: ment can demarcate any part of the acts related to environmental protec- 10 percent national forest that has environmen- tion and biodiversity preservation o Administration: 10 percent tal, scientific, or cultural significance were also reviewed. The summaries of as a protected forest. these acts are provided below. Research conducted by the quar- - The Act has categorized the number terly publication Ecology and Soci- of non-timber forest products. It has National Parks and Wildlife ety evaluating forest management in set a ban on the collection of pan- Conservation Act 1973 (4th Nepal showed that buffer zone users chaunle and kutki and also banned Amendment, 1993) have to deal with strict controls on the export of eight non-timber for- - Allows the Government of Nepal the harvest and export of forest prod- est products. to establish protected areas such as ucts. According to the publication, - The Government of Nepal is given national parks, wildlife reserves, hunt- users do not have the power to mod- power to conduct the following ing reserves, conservation areas, and ify these terms. Downward account- activities. This Act allows power buffer zones in any part of the coun- ability is limited, and communities to the government and concerned try through a gazette notification for do not have a high degree of effec- authorities for the following activi- conservation of flora and fauna tive control over forest-management ties which provide a strong base for - Allows for establishment of hotels policies. Thus local communities ecotourism and all forms of tourism

31 in Nepal: Community Forest Guidelines - Increasing biodiversity o Conservation of forest and forest The guidelines for the formation of - Restoring degraded forest land resources a community forest are spelled out - Increasing supply of forest products o Conservation of wetlands in the Forest Act, 1993, and the For- - Empowering women, the poor, and o Conservation of national forests est Rules, 1995. The Master Plan marginalized groups o Handing over forest as commu- for the Forestry Sector, 1988, states - Promoting income generation and nity forest that decentralization of forests will community development activities o Conservation and sustainable use be brought about by the community - Improving livelihoods of non-timber forest products forest and it will have priority among o Declaration and conservation of other forest management strate- Local Self Governance Act 1999 and special areas as protected forest gies. As per the Forest Rules, 1995, a Regulation 1999 national forest shall be determined a The main objective of the act and reg- The act provides limited capacity to community forest by the district for- ulation is to decentralize power from modify some rules, limiting the power est officer, taking into account the dis- the central authority to the district of the user groups. Recent amend- tance between the forest and a village level authorities. ments have attempted to place further and also the wishes and management - It gives power and responsibilities restrictions on the harvest and sale of capacity of the local users. to the Village Development Com- forest products and distribution of the - Hence, for a community group to mittee (VDC), municipality, and resulting income, and have met with formally become a forest user group District Development Committee stiff resistance from the Federation of requires it to be registered at the (DDC), and empowers them to Community Forest Users in Nepal. District Forest Office. plan and implement the periodic - They are an autonomous body and annual plans. Environment Protection Act 1996, guided mainly by two documents. - The Act authorizes the DDCs to and Regulation 1997 The Constitution and the Opera- formulate district level policies on The Environment Protection Act and tional Plan prepared and approved tourism, tourism related develop- Regulation is complimented by vari- by the User Group Assembly. ment, and climate change concerns. ous other acts discussed above. The - The active role of the Community - The Act has also made a provision for implementing agency is the Ministry Forest User Groups has reduced the the DDC to conduct an impact assess- of Population and Environment. The role of the government forestry offi- ment of a project paying attention to Act outlines procedures for environ- cials to mere extension service pro- its social, economic, service and facil- mental assessment of developmental viders and advisors. ity, and environmental impact. projects. The two basic tools used for - The forest user groups distribute the assessment are the initial environ- the costs and benefits of manage- The act however has a few limita- mental examination and environmen- ment among themselves. They are tions with regards to ambiguity. The tal impact assessment. entitled to sell or distribute forest roles and responsibilities of the DDC, products by independently fixing municipality, and VDC are not clearly The implementation strategy of the their prices according to an opera- articulated, which can lead to overlap- act is however focused on penalties tional plan (1993). ping roles of the government agencies. and punishments. The act does not Most of the contradictions are seen introduce economic instruments and Community forests have been set up in resource management and physi- market mechanisms for compliance to meet the basic needs of the local cal construction. Due to these ambi- with environmental measures or link community with the prime objectives guities in the roles, implementation of them with incentives. of: programs at the local level is difficult.

32 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Section Rapid Assessment & Site Selection 01/ 9. Rapid Assessment of Existing Eco Tourism Destinations

the purpose of conducting field visits to the aforementioned sites is to prepare a case study which clearly states the key learning, in terms of management, community involvement and particularly determine the benefits and impact on the communities, especially at the household level.

Barahi Temple, Panchase Lake 33 The previous section introduced the developing and determining the suc- village destination. The following overall status of tourism, includ- cess of future projects. three sections outline the observa- ing community based ecotourism tion, findings, and analysis of the in Nepal, and key opportunities Therefore, the aim of the field visit three case studies. and challenges faced by the tourism was to identify the following: industry. It also highlighted the exist- • Factors influencing household par- 9.1. Baghmara ing ecotourism initiatives in Nepal, ticipation in order to ensure that Community Forest international best practices, and the the benefits trickle down to all overarching laws governing the tour- households ism sector as well as those ensuring 9.1.1 Initiation of the Project climate and biodiversity. The next • Effectiveness of the management The Baghmara community for- section provides the findings and committee in transferring the bene- est, located in the Bachhauli Vil- analysis of the rapid assessment that fits of the project to the communities lage Development Committee on was conducted of the two existing the northeast boundary of Chitwan ecotourism destinations in the TAL • Factors influencing household par- National Park, is surrounded by the and CHAL landscapes. ticipation in biodiversity conservation Rapti River in the south, the Budi Rapti and Khagedi Rivers in the Objective • Positive and negative impacts on northwest. And settlements in the Before conducting field visits to the the biodiversity of the areas east. The Baghmara forest was once shortlisted districts where potential a dense forest and a famous hunting community based ecotourism sites • Impacts on the local communities ground for tigers, after which the area will be evaluated, it was necessary to with regard to sociocultural and was named (bagh meaning tiger and visit existing pilot sites where com- socioeconomic advantages and dis- mara meaning kill). Over the last 20 munity based ecotourism initiatives advantages years, due to lack of attention from have already been tried and tested. government authorities and increas- For the purpose of our study, the two • Factors that encouraged the coming needs of the local people, the for- sites chosen were the Baghmara Com- munity to participate in the tour- est had been completely decimated munity Forest in Chitwan (CHAL/ ism activity and overgrazed. Realizing the need TAL) and Ghalegaon Village in Lam- to repair this damage, a reforestation jung district (CHAL). The reason for • Economic benefit to the partici- project was launched in 1989. choosing these sites was that they pants and the community cover the two most common forms In the first year of implementation, of ecotourism initiatives: conserv- • Ways in which engagement in tour- Nepal Conservation Research and ing natural resources by establishing ism activity empowered women and Training Center faced problems a protected area (here a community marginalized groups from encroachers who made several forest), and providing community attempts to seize land. But most managed homestays. These two eco- Once these objectives are identified, people opposed the encroachment, tourism sites are also in line with the they will provide a framework of dos recognizing the potential benefits Hariyo Ban Program’s objectives of and don’ts to consider while exploring of conservation. The Department of eliminating threats to biodiversity, the development of the potential eco- National Parks and Wildlife Conser- providing alternate means of liveli- tourism sites. vation helped the project by provid- hood, and ensuring social and gen- ing technical assistance and materials der inclusion. Also, in order to document the les- for plantation. sons learned from a once popular Broadly speaking, the purpose of con- tourist destination, a third case study In 1989, an area of 32 hectares was ducting field visits to the aforemen- of Sirubari Village in Syangja has covered with fast growing indigenous tioned sites is to prepare a case study been presented. In its initial years, tree species such as sissoo (Dalbergia that clearly states the key learning in Sirubari Village was successful in sissoo), khayar (Acacia catechu) and terms of management, community attracting many tourists. However, other fodder species in the ratio of 70 involvement, and particularly deter- in recent years tourist arrival has sig- percent, 20 percsent, and 10 percent mine the benefits and impact on the nificantly decreased. This case study respectively. A total of 81,000 saplings communities, especially at the house- is equally important in order to iden- were planted, which had a survival rate hold level. This data will provide tify the issues that led to the downfall of over 85 percent. In the second year, information that will be very useful in of a popular community managed an additional 20 hectares was covered

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Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Fact Sheet birds became visible. This opened the area to new avenues and tourism offi- Study Area Baghmara Community Forest, 215 hectares cially began in October 1995. Tour- ism activities such as elephant rides, Location 27°30”0’N 84°20”0’E, Altitude: 100 meters jungle walks, and canoe trips were Bachhauli VDC, Sauraha district. initiated. In December 1995, a machaan with two double-bed rooms was Area and Terrain Area: 215 hectares established in the forest area. Slowly tourism started picking up in Bagh- Terrain: Forest coverage area: 163 hectares, grazing land, plantations: 52 hectares, mara, and it became instrumental in wetlands and few rivers and sandbanks providing a source of income to the communities and in conserving the Number of Wards Four wards biodiversity of the area.

Accessibility Road Transport: Connected via Prithvi Highway, 185 km from Kathmandu, 86 km 9.1.2 Village Economy from Pokhara The Baghmara Community Forest User Group (BCFUG) is situated in Air Connectivity Bharatpur Airport 15 km west of Sauraha with regular daily services from 4 wards in the Bachhauli VDC. Most Pokhara and Kathmandu of the households are dependent on agriculture and livestock farming, Attractiveness Flora and Fauna: while a few are employed within the Community Forest as guards and Number of Species: Mammals: 21 mahuts for elephants. Birds: 196 Flowers: 40 The number of households associ- Trees: 81 ated with the BCFUG in 1996 stood Medicinal Plants: 158 at 584; this number saw a gradual increase over the years reaching 907 Cultural: Tharu Cultural Show in 2003 and finally 1,056 in 2012. The increase in the number of house- Activities: Elephant Ride through forest holds is due to more households reg- Elephant Breeding Center istering with the CFUG and also to Elephant Bath family separation and inward migra- Jungle Walk tion from the hills. Boat Ride Canoeing While wards 1, 2, and 4 constituted Wildlife Display Museum and Information Center households with more or less the same level of income, ward number House hold 1056 households 3 constituted the poorest community. The Mushar community lives in a Ethnicity Tharu 58%, Brahmin: 19%, Mongolian: 17%, Others: 5% building donated by a foreign agency, with only the minimum necessities to Means of livelihood Agriculture, Livestock rearing, Tourism and labor keep them going. While other wards have agriculture and livestock farm- Village Committee Baghmara Community Forest User Group Committee ing to rely on, the Mushars own no such land or animals. The only source with 56,000 saplings in the same pro- of endangered species within the park. of income is wage labor. Even after portion. Through assistance from the The plantation area of 52 hectares was the establishment of the Baghmara Biodiversity Conservation Network, officially handed over in 1995. Community Forest, the Mushars the King Mahendra Trust for Nature have not been able to secure a steady Conservation, and the World Wildlife The restoration of the forest made source of income to improve their Fund-US, the project was officially it possible for the animals from the living standards. For instance, the launched in 1994 to enable commu- national parks to move in, and over a BCFUG Committee had established nities to be involved in the protection period of time many wild animals and a fishery for the Mushars to provide a

35 stable source of income. The revenue positions: chairman, vice chairman, Chitwan National Reserve office, stat- from the sale of fish was to be shared treasurer, and general secretary. ing the previous year’s income and among the CFUG and the Mushars in expense breakdown. The committee a ratio of 60:40. However, in discus- The committee consists of 13 mem- must also prepare a progress state- sions with the Mushars, it was stated bers, out of which each of the nine ment that it must read in the general that the fishery was set up without toles has a representative. The remain- assembly. The requirement is that the their being consulted. Since the fishing four seats are reserved for one general assembly be held at least once ery is located within the community woman representative from each a year; however, the committee can forest, access at night to the fishery is of the four wards. However, due to hold more if needed. restricted hence during the night time politicization and the various vested the guards and ranger were found to interests of the committee members, As per the Article of Association, the be engaged in stealing without any the executive committee has been dis- committee must maintain a savings evidence to prove theft. Ultimately, solved for four years now. Currently account with the income from the sale this meant that maintaining a fishery a multi-party committee headed by of forest products, penalty fees, other did not prove to be fruitful. The fish- four representatives for four political fees, and any other source of income, ery currently has no fish. parties looks into the operations. Each such as prizes. For the organization of of the four representatives rotates as an annual program and based on the 9.1.3 Operating Module head of the meetings, which has led suggestions provided by the BCFUG, Governance to a lack of continuity in operations. the committee must expend the The operations of the Baghmara money from this account. Community Forest were earlier The committee needs to conduct a looked after by an executive com- general assembly for BCFUG in the Committee elections will take place mittee composed of four executive presence of a representative from the only if the committee is not established by a general consensus among the user group. It is required that an Figure 4: Diagrammatic Representation of the Committee Constitution of BCF audit of the financial statements of the previous fiscal year be completed by July 15 of the same year.

At the time of our visit, it was observed that none of the aforementioned crite-

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Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Table 12: Income Stream from the Various Activities Offered by the CF (Amount in NPR) - A discussion hall with capacity for Activity Fees Charged Capacity 50 people will be constructed and furnished with a television, deck, Nepali SAARC Foreigners and benches. - A documentary of the Baghmara Registration of Elephants 15,000 per elephant N/A N/A 47 Community Forest will be made (One Time Fee) available in both English and Nepali. Elephant Fee per trip 450 per elephant N/A N/A 47 - Trails will be maintained properly for bird watching. Boat Ride per trip 210 per person 210 per 210 per 20 - The route of boat rides will be person person increased to go further into the jungle. Machaan 500 500 500 3 double - A study will also be conducted on bed rooms the impact of tourism on animals and places they live. Jungle Walk 20 50 100 However due to weak management, Briefing 500 500 1000 implementation has been poor. The BCF is guarded by 9 security Sale of Logs 80 per quintal N/A N/A guards and staffed by 26 people.

Source: Baghmara Community Forest Income Statement for FY 2009/10 Membership Criteria In order to become a member of the ria were being fulfilled by the commit- programs on conservation, deforesta- community forest user group, the fol- tee. The general assembly has not been tion, road and building construction, lowing rates have been devised for the held for the past four years, nor has geological conservation, and women’s following categories. All these rates are a the audit been conducted. However, empowerment and inclusion must be one-time fee for acquiring membership. after constant pushing and warnings made. The Article of Association spec- from Chitwan National Park (CNP), ifies undertaking the following activi- • On the basis of Land an audit of the past four years was tak- ties in order to promote ecotourism: o 3 kattha and less: NRs. 300 ing place during our visit. - Proper waste management will be o 4 to 10 kattha: NRs. 1500 conducted in the picnic spot, and o More than 10 kattha: NRs. 3005 The Article of Association also speci- a toilet and facilities for water will fies that while preparing the budget, be made. A flower garden will sur- • On the basis of Business contributions toward educational round the picnic spot. o Hotel Entrepreneurs: NRs. 300 o Agro-based Entrepreneurs: NRs. 200 Figure 5 Route taken by Tourists to Come to Baghmara o Others: NRs. 100

Source of Income Tourists The main source of income for the Baghmara CFUG is from tourist arrivals. Other sources of income include membership fees and sales of forest produce. However, these contributions do not make significant con- Travel Hotel tributions to the total income genera- Agents entrepreneurs tion of the CFUG.

Marketing and Promotion Other than brochures published on the Baghmara Community Forest, no Baghmara advertising or promotion techniques Community are used to create a brand for it. All

37 tourists are brought in via Table 13: Income and Expenditure of BCF (2008/09 & 2009/10) (Amount in NPR)

hotel entrepreneurs. The Income FY 2008-09 FY 2009-10 Expense FY 2008-09 FY 2009-10 following diagram depicts the route taken by tourists Elephant Entry Fee 3,146,776 4,281,936 Conservation Expenses 352,595 3,263,691 to come to BCF. Boat Management 2,766,100 3,312,300 User Group Conservation 463,013 298,222 Income Program Banghmara Community Conservation Fee 170,860 205,379 Logwood Distribution 225,765 276,494

Forest is able to attract Nepali Entry Fee 628,900 860,960 Institutional Donation 1,302,625 677,675 tourists because it is close to Chitwan National Park. SAARC Walk 400 50 Alternative Source of 92,000 179,500 Energy Program While interviewing hotel Foreign Walk 27,000 18,100 Flood Prevention Program 311,560 2,046,020 entrepreneurs about their guests, this became evi- Machaan Income 250,600 242,900 Community Development 2,512,319 345,890 dent. How the Baghmara Program Elephant Registration 46,100 30,200 Income Generating 590,253 1,168,197 Community Forest has Fee Expenses been able to take advan- Nursery Sapling Sold 5,090 - Promotional Expenses 38,375 130,730 tage of its proximity is explained below. Turmeric Sale 12,005 - Administrative Expenses 773,135 990,461

Wood Sale 220,588 213,525 The main objective for tourists arriving in Sauraha Fish Sale 8,250 - is to experience the wildlife. While jeep safaris and Membership Fee 10,000 - walks into the forests are Picnic Spot Income 42,435 - popular tourist attractions, Sightseeing 5,251 5,100 elephant rides are regarded Photography Income as the one attraction that Penalty Fee 600 950 one must try when in Sau- raha. This is what BCF Recommendation 1,010 200 capitalizes on. Interest 395,075 447,748

For a certain period in Employee Selection 1,400 - the past, private elephants Ticket Management 33,600 36,600 were allowed to enter Chitwan National Park, Wooden Tools Sale - 240 but the fees charged were comparatively higher than Sale of Scrap - 20,000 what was charged by BCF, Boat Sale - 63,000 and this discouraged the private players because Other Income - 80

it reduced their profits. Total Income 7,772,040 9,739,268 Total Expenses 6,661,640 9,376,880 However, now private elephants are not allowed Source: Baghmara Community Forest Income Statement for FY 2009/10 to enter the park area to prevent the formation of trails that can harm the growth of stepped in to take tourists to the BCF take them to BCF. Most tourists are shrubs and grass. The CNP owns only for elephant rides. unaware of this “scam.” On some a few elephants and cannot meet the occasions tourists do put forth objec- demand for elephant rides by tour- As stated earlier, the major income tions; however, this has not yet led to ists. Nonetheless, elephant rides from stream for the Baghmara CF is from serious consequences. If these objec- the park can be arranged only once elephant rides. However, it must be tions do lead to a restriction on using a permit is obtained from the CDO noted that tourists intend to visit the name of Chitwan National Park office, which is a cumbersome process. the CNP and not BCF. It is out of to lure tourists to Baghmara Commu- Therefore, private entrepreneurs have compulsion that hotel entrepreneurs nity Forest, it will be a blow to BCF’s

38 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

revenues since it has no real market- Figure 6: Distribution of Income- BCF ing. However, since BCF on its own boasts wildlife and biodiversity attractions (with its main attraction being the rhino), and since BCF is a community owned and managed forest that directly benefits locals, it could have enough selling points to adver- tise itself as a stand-alone destination.

9.1.4 Financial Snapshot With the initiation of the community based ecotourism project in Bagh- Source: Baghmara Community Forest Income Statement for FY 2009/10 mara, a steady revenue stream was established. According to the current current scenario in BCF. Addition- conservation. While interviewing the management and retired chairman ally, the benefits of establishing the households in the four wards, it was of the committee, during its initial Baghmara Community Forest will be seen that the locals were keen on pre- years, the BCF raised NPR 60,000 weighed against any shortcomings to serving the forest and being part of the to 80,000 per year from elephant provide a holistic analysis. conservation process. Yet it was also rides and the sale of wood, grass, and seen that the community was not will- other such activities. These numbers Factors Influencing ing to invest in tourism activities. This have been increasing at a steady pace. Community Participation could be because the community does In 1999, the income had reached After conducting several interviews not believe in the profitability of tour- approximately NPR 2 lakhs, jumping with the various stakeholders of the ism activities. In such a situation, the to almost NPR 30 lakhs in 2001. By BCFUG, it was learned that three ability of the management to involve the end 2009, the revenues had soared points play a key role in commu- the community is drawn into question. to NPR 77 lakhs. The following table nity participation. These points are provides a breakdown of the income explained below. Capability of the Community and expenses for the two financial The capability of the households years 2008/09 and 2009/10. Village Committee involved must also be taken into con- Since the committee that has been sideration because the composition of With the initiation of the community set up represents the local commu- the household is essential in determin- based ecotourism project in Baghmara, nity, community members rely on it ing whether it will be capable of con- a steady revenue stream was estab- to voice their opinions. The commit- ducting tourism activities. As Nepal lished. According to the current man- tee needs to be active in advocating is a country dependent on migration, agement and retired chairman of the for the community in terms of par- much of the population is absent. Even committee, during its initial years, the ticipation and involvement wherever when Nepalis have not gone abroad, BCF raised NPR 60,000 to 80,000 per possible. For instance, the hotel and many have migrated internally. There- year from elephant rides and the sale of resort industry is booming in Sauraha; fore, many villages are dominated by wood, grass, and other such activities. however, there have been no links an elderly population. This demo- These numbers have been increasing at made with it to take advantage of the graphic composition affects the num- a steady pace. In 1999, the income had community engagement in agricul- ber of people fit to conduct ecotour- reached approximately NPR 2 lakhs, ture. Such links will only help boost ism activities, and in turn will have an jumping to almost NPR 30 lakhs in involvement and increase the standard impact on the effectiveness of ecotour- 2001. By the end 2009, the revenues of living of the community. ism projects. Also, in order to set up had soared to NPR 77 lakhs. The fol- a mechanism to enable hotel entrepre- lowing table provides a breakdown of Willingness of Community neurs to buy agricultural produce from the income and expenses for the two The key to determining the success the community, households must be financial years 2008/09 and 2009/10. of an ecotourism project is not only able to generate more what they need the active role of the committee but for personal consumption to be able to 9.1.5 Key Learning also the willingness of members of the sell the surplus to hoteliers. The following section covers the key community. Their willingness is deter- learning of the case study and pro- mined by the benefits each household These three points are crucial in deter- vides an analytical perspective on the receives and the success of biodiversity mining whether the benefits of an

39 ecotourism initiative will reach the households. They must be ensured before initiation a project in order to guarantee effectiveness.

Impact on Biodiversity As was seen during our field visits, the impact of reforestation is clearly visible through density of the community forest. As stated earlier, 52 hectares were used for plantations and 163 hectares for natural regeneration. Since fast growing trees were used, the impacts were seen more quickly. Once the forest was revived, it had positive impacts on the flora and fauna of the area. Rhinos started entering and settling in the forest. Impact on the Community lets, including six rings, cement lid Currently there are 10 to 12 rhinos Benefits from the Community Forest (dhakkan) and a slab. permanently residing in the forest. The distribution of the benefits During migration seasons, a large received from the Baghmara CFUG • The committee makes recommen- inflow of birds has been observed is done mostly in kind rather than via dations for healthcare and electric- over the years. The number of species monetary distribution. The following ity to the local district authorities seen speaks to the benefits of conser- list describes the benefits offered. whenever required. vation in the region. • The community forest committee • The committee provides free While the number of animals has has promoted biogas as an alternative trainings for men and women in increased, their habitat in the park to the dependency on the forest for bee keeping, sewing, cycle repair has been decreasing due to ecologi- firewood. The committee provides and maintenance cal succession and erosion. The suc- assistance of NPR 7,000 for setting cession of the short grasslands to tall up of a biogas plant. The committee • For the Mushars, the poorest com- grass, shrubs, and riverine tree species has also made special arrangements munity in the village, the commit- has caused a decrease in short grass, with Ekikrit Urja (Himalayan), a tee set up a fishery in the commu- resulting in decreased fodder supply. biogas company, to set up biogas nity forest and provided training so Subsequently, animals leaving the plants in the village. Approximately, that they could be provided with a park have ventured into farmland in 400 households in the community source of income. search of food. have installed the plants. • Out of the total earnings, 30 to At present, BCFUG is receiving an • The committee maintains a revolv- 50 percent is used for conserva- increasing number of tourists, which ing fund of NPR 300,000 to provide tion purposes, which includes con- could have a negative impact on the loans to the community. The loans struction of roads, dams, and other forest’s biodiversity. Normally an are provided for the purchase of live- infrastructure. elephant is allowed to enter the park stock, irrigation, sewing machines, twice a day. However, during the and bicycles. The interest rates for • Community controlled grazing peak season elephants enter the forest a period of one year, two years, and is allowed, whereby user group more than four times in a day. This three years are 6 percent, 8 percent, members are allowed to cut grass will ultimately lead to increased ero- and 9 percent respectively. during an allotted time. Free graz- sion and trampling of plant saplings, ing is not allowed. affecting the regeneration of flora. • Earlier the committee provided Lack of proper control and commer- NPR 1,000 to assist households • The committee provides each cialization will negatively impact the in establishing toilets. However household with firewood limited to biodiversity and risk the conserva- this initiative was not as fruitful as three quintals for six months. For tion efforts that have been practiced hoped and it moved instead to pro- households with biogas plants, fire- for more than a decade. viding the materials for making toi- wood is limited to two quintals.

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Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

restricted and the fisheries were left at wood is too high for the community • The committee makes a contribu- the mercy of the guards and rangers to afford, so they are left with the only tion to schools and the maintenance who resorted to theft. Therefore main- option of stealing from the forest. If of river basins. taining a fishery was not profitable for the limit were raised, the commit- the Mushars. tee would get additional income and • During river flooding, the national stealing would be reduced. park provides NPR 35,000 as Furthermore, all housing and electric- compensation. ity assistance is provided by foreign Compounding these limits in assis- agencies, not the committee. Cur- tance, school tuition fees had also • In case of wild animal attacks, the rently the electricity meter is broken not been paid for children in the community provides compensa- and the community has done noth- community. tion of NPR 5,000 while Chitwan ing to restore electricity. When asked National Park provides NPR 25,000 about the training programs provided In addition to these issues affecting and the VDC provides NPR 225. by the committee, respondents said benefits to the community, there were that such programs were actually pro- other broader issues with regard to the • Depending on the income status of vided by foreign agencies. They are operating module of the community the community members, children’s not aware of who is paying for their forest. They are discussed below. school fees are also provided by the children’s education. members. Lack of Equitable Distribution With regard to trainings provided by of Benefits Adequacy of Benefits Provided the committee to other communi- The setting of the Baghmara Commu- When conducting interviews with the ties, respondents felt that the train- nity Forest has provided overarching local community, the effectiveness of ings were very basic and did not teach benefits to the community in terms these benefits was questioned. While them adequate skills. For example, if of infrastructural services, loan provi- the general consensus was that after a training was provided in tailoring, sions, electricity, and sanitation facili- the establishment of the BCFUG it did not teach one how to actually ties. With increased tourist arrivals, there have been improvements in become a tailor. Also, in the absence revenues will be positively impacted. conservation, road construction, and of a ready market, there was no moti- However, the question that arises is overall assistance, the community vation to continue training programs. that of the equitable distribution of questioned the adequacy of the ben- benefits. It has been observed that efits in lifting their standard of liv- Although the committee provides only a few Tharu communities reap ing As mentioned earlier, while talk- some assistance to set up biogas plants most of the benefits. It was seen that ing to the Mushar community it was and toilets, and provides firewood and the Mushars have not benefitted from learned that the fishery was created grazing facilities, it is not adequate. the CFUG. As explained above, their without their input. Because the fish- For example, the firewood limit of standard of living has not improved. ery is located within the community three quintals is barely enough for Any contribution toward the better- forest which means access at night is a month. In the market the price of ment of their status is done by foreign agencies. Non-Tharu households are Figure 7: Tourists Arrival in BCF (2003-2010) not affected by whether the infrastructural facilities in the area are improved or whether tourist arrivals have gone up. They care about basic benefits such as a regular stream of income or education for their children. When asked in an interview whether the BCF had made any arrangements for his children’s studies, one member of the community said that he had never heard of such a thing, even in other households. Ultimately, we observed a lack of pro-poor activities taken up by the committee. As mentioned earlier, there is no separate fund created Source: Baghmara Community Forest Tourism Management and Development Committee to provide education and other ben-

41 efits to the poorest households. There- fore, if the poorest are not receiving benefits from the project, its purpose of ensuring that all communities are equally benefitted is defeated.

9.1.6 Issues Raised

Tourist Growth and its Impact Analyzing past data, a steady rise in tourist arrivals was observed. The following graph depicts tourist arrival over the past eight years. It shows the breakdown of foreign, SAARC, and Nepali tourists.

As the graph shows, foreign tourists popular among tourists because it is As for Nepali tourists, Sauraha pro- constitute the largest percentage of heavily marketed by tour and travel vides a reasonable getaway. Lately tourist arrivals at an average of 59 operators. BCF benefits from the though Baghmara is fast becoming percent, followed by SAARC country high number of visitors to the area. a popular destination. The graph tourists, and lastly Nepali tourists. In depicts that lately the inflow of Nepali the year 2009, due to political insta- • One of the major attractions in tourists has increased dramatically. bility, tourist inflow was badly hit. Nepal is the diverse wildlife. CNP The booming of the tourism industry Tourist arrivals picked up again the is particularly popular because of can be seen in the number of hotels next year. Foreign tourist arrivals are its flora and fauna. The main attrac- operating around the BCF. While the higher for the following reasons: tion in CNP and BCF are the one establishment of more hotels should horned rhinos found there, followed have created employment opportuni- • As has been stated, BCF benefits closely by tigers, deer, and a variety ties for the local communities, this has from the advertising and marketing of birds during the migration season. not been the case. Most of the hotel activities of Chitwan National Park. entrepreneurs are not locals and do Among the nine national parks and • Sauraha provides a cheaper alterna- not hire local staff. They claim that the reserves in Nepal, CNP is the most tive to other wildlife-rich countries. locals are difficult to manage because

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they create unnecessary nuisances. not have adequate finances to buy demanding some sort of accountabil- Also, Tharu dances are performed at machines. Furthermore, the lack of a ity in the working of the BCF User the hotels, and though they provide a market in which to sell their products Group. This led to lost working days in salary to those participating, the hotels left many women without the moti- which hotel entrepreneurs readily had make a handsome profit by charging vation to take part in trainings. Even other options to take tourists: nearby more for these cultural shows. No during interviews the women seemed Kumrose Forest, Narayani Commu- such dances have been organized in to have very little knowledge of the nity Forest, and Chitrasen Community the village so that the local communi- existence and working of BCF. We Forest. Such an unstable working envi- ties may benefit as well. concluded that it is not that efforts ronment can discourage hotel entre- have not been taken to ensure a gen- preneurs from working with the BCF. Lack of Marketing Activities der balance, but that these efforts have Naturally Baghmara’s revenue is not been enough to be fruitful. All of these problems have arisen directly correlated to its number of because there is not strong manage- tourist arrivals. However, the BCF Poor Management ment. Since continuity in operations committee has not thought about the According to our analysis, one of was broken with the dissolution of the way forward once it reaches satura- the ways BCF can improve its over- executive committee, there has been tion. BCF has already increased the all operations is by strengthening its no one to hold accountable and that number of trips per elephant per day management system. As has already is where the effectiveness of the proj- that it allows into the park to meet been stated, politicization led to the ect started diminishing. demand during peak seasons. While dissolution of the executive commit- this increase in trips increases the aes- tee four years ago. Therefore, in the Lack of Entrepreneurship thetic capacity of the park, it does so absence of a permanent management Analyzing the present situation, it was at the cost of its ecological capacity. committee to govern the operations seen that although there were opportu- More trips mean that there is more of the user group, there has been no nities that existed for the community damage being done to the natural efficient governance. The concept of to engage in entrepreneurial activities, biodiversity of that area. As for hotel a community forest is beneficial to all none of them were doing so. None of entrepreneurs, other options are read- the members only if strong manage- the community members were enthu- ily available. Located very close to ment is developed to ensure the proper siastic about getting involved in boost- BCF is the Kumrose Community distribution of forest resources. The ing tourism in BCF. For instance, the Forest, which provides hoteliers with development works undertaken by communities have not made an effort an easy alternative to take tourists the community are haphazard. Proper to link up with hotel entrepreneurs to for elephant rides and other tourist planning, including specialized tour- sell agricultural produce or to orga- attractions. Hotel entrepreneurs have ism planning, has to be in place. nize cultural shows in their villages. already started taking tourists to Kum- The benefit of increased tourism was rose during peak seasons when entry For the past four years, the finances being transferred not to the commu- into Baghmara might be difficult. In have not been audited, nor has a gen- nities but to only a few entrepreneurs the absence of any marketing scheme eral assembly been held to disseminate doing business in Baghmara. to promote BCF, and by relying solely information regarding the operations on the surplus of Chitwan National of the BCF. As a result, the commu- In summation, it can be stated that Park, there is the very real chance nity user group does not know the the benefits to the community and of losing tourists to other options position of the fund, leading to a lack the biodiversity of the area cannot nearby. If the BCF was branded as a of transparency. As per talks with the be overlooked. Comparing the situ- destination in itself it would not have current management personnel, the ation before the establishment of to rely on hotel entrepreneurs to bring forest’s revenues have been increasing the community forest to the cur- in tourists. every year. Yet in interviews with com- rent state, we can see that there have munity members, they claimed that been vast improvements. What we Women’s Participation the benefits they received had not been learned from this study is that in Though training programs for women rising in proportion with the increased order to ensure the effectiveness of in tailoring, sewing, weaving, fishery revenues. After being warned by the an ecotourism project such as this, management, etc. were provided, they National Reserve to conduct an audit, competent management with good were not effective. The trainings were the process has been initiated. leadership and entrepreneurial skills, not comprehensive enough to provide effective marketing, and community the required skills. Also, after com- Very recently, the office premises were willingness are key to ensuring the pleting their trainings, women did locked by members of the community equitable distribution of benefits.

43 9.2 Ghalegaon Ghalegaon Fact Sheet Study Area Ghalegaon

9.2.1 Background Location 28027’N 84030’E, Altitude 2100m Locally known as Koiule Nasa, UttarKanya VDC, Lamjung district. Ghalegaon lies off the main trekking Number of Wards Three wards route of the Annapurna conserva- Accessibility Road Transport: tion area. It has spectacular views of 205 Km NW Kathmandu; 125 Km NE Pokhara. Road Transport: Connected via Prithvi Highway, 185 km from Kathmandu, 86 km the Manaslu range in the east, Lam- from Pokhara jung Himal and Annapurna II in the Trekking Trails: Bharatpur Airport 15 km west of Sauraha with regular daily services from north, and Machhapuchhare in the Pokhara and Kathmandu • Besisahar- Baglungpani-Ghalegaon. west. For decades the locals of Ghale- • Khudi-Lamchaur-Ghalegaon. gaon relied upon subsistence agricul- • Khudi-Roplephant-Vanche-Ghalegaon. ture, which never provided enough Attractiveness Geological: • Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Machhapuchhare (6,993m), Manaslu (8,163m), for a decent livelihood. Many people Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna II (7,937m), Annapurna IV (7,525m), Lamjung began to search for jobs abroad. Ini- Himal (6,983), Buddha Himal (6,974m), Himalchuli (6,747m). • Sunrise and sunset viewing from view points tially the trend was to join the Indian • Tea gardens Army as it provided a steady income, Cultural: a name in society, and a secure • Gurung, architecture, lifestyle and Home Stay • Honey Hunter tours future. However, with the Indian • Cultural show “Sorathi dance, Krishna Charitra dance, Ghantu dance”. government restricting the number Activities: • Cultural studies of army recruitments from Nepal • Honey Hunter tours • Hikes to Bhujung, Ghan Pokhari, Pasgaon, Khudi, Taghring, Simpani. each year, people started migrating • Honey hunter tours (seasonal) • Tourist engagement in farming activities (seasonal) to the Gulf and South Asian coun- • Sheep Farming tries for employment. Villagers relied House hold 118 households excessively on pensions and remittances to supplement their liveli- Ethnicity Ghale Gurungs and Dalit communities (Damai, Kami, Sarki hood and the village economy as a Means of liveli- Agriculture, Livestock rearing, Foreign Employment, Tourism and Handicraft whole. This encouraged ever more hood migration among the working class Major Festivals Ghalegaon Carnival (Mahatsov). of Ghalegaon. Village Committee Ghalegaon Tourism Management Committee (GTDMC) Youth club and Cultural Committee Few alternative means of livelihood, Mother Group coupled with subsistence agriculture Father Group Tourism Infra- Home stay: and high immigration, prompted structures • Registered: 32 households Mr. Prem Ghale to explore tourism • Operational: 25 households providing home stay facility with toilets and bathrooms opportunities within Ghalegaon. The successful Sirubari Homestay Based Rural Tourism program was chosen as such as the Ministry of Tourism and in May 2000 during the Ghalegaon the role model for tourism in Ghale- Civil Aviation and the Tourism Board, Carnival held each year. gaon. Decision makers and elders of which helped to promote Ghalegaon the village were identified and an edu- as a model village for homestays. 9.2.2 The Product cational tour was organized to Sirubari The rural village tourism model of to understand the workings of the Unlike in Sirubari, rural tourism Ghalegaon is a replica of the Sirubari rural tourism model. Further inter- development was not easy to achieve model. Guests are welcomed to the views and group discussions were held because Ghalegaon lacked the basic village with panche-baja (flower gar- with Tony Park, the pioneer of home- infrastructure such as road connectiv- lands) and a light snack. Thereafter stay based rural tourism in Sirubari. ity, water, and sanitation demanded guests are escorted in groups of three Further understanding of tourism was by the tourism industry. But with or four to live with their host families. enhanced by looking at other tour- strong unity, local participation (cost The average stay of tourists in Ghale- ism areas such as Ghandruk, Sikles, to benefit sharing in all stages of devel- gaon is one night and two days. Chhomrong, and Dhampus. From the opment), and a feeling of ownership, very beginning Mr. Prem Ghale cre- the homestay based rural tourism Ghalegaon offers the opportunity to ated strong linkages with government flourished in Ghalegaon. The home- experience traditional Ghale Gurung and semi-government institutions, stay program was officially launched culture firsthand by living and dining with the host family. The day begins

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early as tourists are guided to the vil- Figure 8: Ghalegaon-Visitor Numbers (2001-2011) lage hilltop to watch the picturesque sunrise and view the majestic Himala- yas. During the day, tourists are guided by a member of the community on a walking tour to see the village and its unique architecture and artifacts. On request, tourists may engage in agricultural activities. Tourists may also see the traditional community sheep farming and can tag along with the world famous honey hunters of Lam- jung to nearby cliffs in search of wild honey. The sunset in Ghalegaon is another attraction that draws tourists to the village. The evenings are fun- filled with cultural programs wherein guests can dance and sing alongside the villagers. Source: Ghalegaon Tourism Development and Management Committee

9.2.3 Tourist Arrivals Kathmandu or Pokhara for a fee of NPR and environmental science students. Over the years, inflow of national and 2,000. International FITs on arrival This can be attributed to the affordable international tourists has increased from without a permit from Kathmandu or prices being charged in comparison to 62 domestic tourists in 2001 to 10,520 Pokhara must pay double the amount, other destinations. For example, bed domestic tourists in 2011, with a com- NPR 4,000, which discourages them charges are NPR 100, while meals range pounded annual growth rate of 67 per- from staying in the village. from NPR 150–200. cent. Foreign tourist visits grew from 18 to 308 during the same time period. The huge number of domestic tour- Generally tourists visiting Ghalegaon Domestic tourists made up 97 percent ists, meanwhile, can be attributed to spend one night and two days in the vil- of the total tourists visiting Ghalegaon. the short distance of Ghalegaon from lage due to the lack of professional pack- The chart below depicts the growth of Kathmandu, Pokhara, and the Terai ages coupling Ghalegaon with similar tourism from 2001 to 2011. region. Interviews with a few visitors tourism products in nearby villages. reveal that it is a close escape from the Refer figure 8. The low inflow of foreign tourists can hustle and bustle of the city, especially be attributed to Ghalegaon lying off during weekends. Ghalegaon has a lot 9.2.4 Tourism the main trekking route of the world to offer to these domestic tourists. The Management Model famous Annapurna Circuit. Promotion pleasant weather, panoramic view of the The management structure and style is of Ghalegaon as a cultural destination Himalayas, hospitality, local authentic similar to that of the Sirubari homestay among the international community food and drinks, and reasonably priced model. All tourism related activities in has not been effective in attracting for- tour packages were the major reasons Ghalegaon are managed and controlled eign tourists. Furthermore, interna- for domestic tourists to visit Ghalegaon. by the Ghalegaon Tourism Develop- tional Free Independent Travelers (FITs) Among domestic tourists, students con- ment and Management Committee who come to Ghalegaon are unaware stitute approximately 70 to 75 percent. (GTDMC). The executive commit- that the village lies in the ACAP region In fact Ghalegaon has emerged as a pop- tee members are chosen by consensus and that a permit must be obtained in ular destination for hotel management among the villagers and serve for five

Figure 9 : Structure of Ghalegaon Tourism Development and Management Committee

45 years. In total the executive commit- so that guests may be in homes near The club also organizes gatherings to tee consists of nine (sometimes eleven) to each other. Food is arranged so that create awareness about issues related members as shown in figure 9. each homestay household prepares a to peace, harmony, and the security of single meal for everyone in the house. the village. The GTDMC sets the rules and regulations for tourism development Mother Group The GTDMC solicits tourist feed- and management within the vil- The members meet twice a month back on their experience. If there is lage and has the right to introduce and, based on the yearly plans set by negative feedback regarding a partic- or amend any rules and regulations the GTDMC, devise their own plan ular homestay then the household is pertaining to tourism in Ghalegaon. of action for achieving the target set. immediately informed and necessary It coordinates with other groups Usually during such meetings mem- assistance is provided. If the house- such as the Mothers Group, Fathers bers are taught how to welcome and hold shows no improvement, the Group, and Youth Club on welcome bid farewell to guests. It is during committee may bar it from receiving and farewell ceremonies, homestay these meetings that cleanliness drives guests or, if necessary, cancel its home- allocations, sanitation, hygiene, and are planned. Groups are formed to stay registration. village tour activities. The commit- undertake the cleanliness drive of tee is also responsible for facilitating their respective wards. Members of 9.2.6 Source of Income and and providing tourism skills to its the Mothers Group are also respon- Revenue Distribution group members. The GTDMC exec- sible for picking tea and promoting Household Investents and Returns: utive committee consists exclusively picking among the tourists lodged at Investment in homestays is mainly in of Ghale Gurungs. Dalits and other their homes. accommodation and toilet facilities. marginalized groups do not have a Accommodation facilities require the representative on the GTDMC. Youth Club and Cultural Committee construction of single rooms that can The Youth Club is responsible for accommodate two or three guests at a A tourism development plan is for- organizing all cultural shows and time, including a bed and furniture. The mulated each year along with a plan sports activities. Each month two majority of households have invested of action during the annual general meetings are held to discuss ways to their own savings because access to meeting. The yearly plan is further improve the current cultural shows finance in Ghalegaon is limited to bifurcated into monthly targets, and how to make engagement in vil- money lenders, who charge exorbitant which clearly explain the duties and lage life more entertaining for tourists. monthly interest rates (5 to 7 percent). responsibilities of the committee. The plan of action and program for Table 14: Major Source of Revenue of GTDMC development are communicated to Income Amount all stakeholders. Besides the annual general meeting, the GTDMC com- Contribution to fund (20%) 5% of total bill raised towards contribution to fund

mittee meets every month to discuss 15% of total bill raised as service charge the progress of plans, and issues per- towards contribution to fund taining to the development of tour- Car/Jeep fees NRs. 15 per Jeep per trip ism in Ghalegaon. Hot water shower NRs. 10 per use Nepali and NRs. 20 foreigners

9.2.5 Operation Museum NRs. 10 per person All tourists arriving in Ghalegaon Telecommunication Towers NRs. 12000 per year must contact the GTDMC office, which is solely responsible for allocat- Cultural program (30%) NRs. 2500 per show ing guests to their respective homestays. Visitors, both national and Home stay renewal fees NRs. 500 per year foreign, are not allowed to choose the Mule fees NRs. 2500 per year host family. This enables all GTDMC member households to welcome Shop renewal fees NRs. 3000 per year

tourists and receive tourism benefits Sheep Farming NRs. 2000 per year equally. The allocation of guests also depends on the group size. A single Donations and charities Not fixed homestay offers lodging to only two Source: Ghalegaon Tourism Development and Management Committee, Income Statement or three people, so when the group size is large, an arrangement is made

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Households have invested mostly in single rooms and sanitation facilities. Only a few of the existing households have been able to upgrade the existing facilities, which they have done with money from pensions and remittances.

On average the total construction cost of a single room is approximately NPR 200,000 and constructing bathrooms amounts to approximately NPR 110,000. Households engaged in homestays on average earn NPR 15,000–20,000 per month. However during peak season (September–Octo- ber and February–May), households may earn NPR 35,000–40,000 per month, though this is limited to households operating two-room facilities.

GTDMC Revenue The major sources of revenue for the GTDMC are shown in table 14.

The GTDMC assigns a member of its committee to prepare the bills for each homestay. While preparing the bills, an extra 5 percent is charged as a contribution toward the GTDMC fund and an additional 15 percent is added as a service charge. This extra 20 percent charge goes directly into the GTDMC fund. The homestay host family is reimbursed in cash as of higher education, thereby increas- soon as the required amounts have The total fund collected by GTDMC ing the literacy level of the village. been raised. amounts to approximately NPR 210,000 each year. A major portion Biodiversity The GTDMC is responsible for fixing of this fund is spent on organizing the Before the introduction of tourism the prices of all tourism related activi- Ghalegaon Carnival (Mahatsov) and there was rampant felling of trees to ties as well preparing a standard food administrative and staff expenses. meet the demand for firewood for menu and food prices. No household cooking and heating. This had left can charge anything above those prices 9.2.7 Positive Impact of Tourism the northern hill of Ghalegaon devoid fixed by the committee. The commit- Access to Education of vegetation. The growth of tourism tee is also responsible for coordinat- The introduction of homestay based has made villagers realize that tourists ing with the Mothers Group and the rural tourism has helped families to coming from metropolitan areas visit Youth Club to provide cultural shows. earn an additional income of about Ghalegaon not just for its scenic view The GTDMC has fixed the rate of NPR 15,000–20,000 per month. This of the Himalayas or its cultural charms, cultural shows at NPR 2,500 per has enabled families to cover not just but for its natural greenery as well. In show, out of which 30 percent goes to the basic necessities of food but also this respect the GTDMC, with assis- the GTDMC fund and the remaining higher education for their children. tance from ACAP, has undertaken the amount (NPR 1,750) is distributed to The household survey shows that fam- responsibility of regenerating the once the Youth Club and Mothers Group ilies engaged in homestays have sent barren land into a lush green forest. according to the number of perform- their children to Besisahar or bigger Each year the GTDMC plants 1,000– ers representing each of the groups. cities, such as Kathmandu, in pursuit 1,500 saplings. The locals have been

47 barred from cutting trees haphazardly and only certain areas and trees are marked for firewood, at a price of NPR 15 per cubic foot. The forest has regenerated and during the migratory seasons various species of birds can be seen. Leopards have also been sighted in the forest.

Entrepreneurship Development The introduction of tourism in Ghale- gaon has helped the residents to look beyond agriculture as the only means of livelihood. A few of the households have made investments in lodging and sanitation facilities to cater to tourists. Some households have gone beyond the Uttarkanya Temple, Ghalegaon Lamjung current capacity and made provisions from the income they have generated was prevalent. With the introduc- they have a toilet with proper running to expand and upgrade the homestay tion of tourism, villagers have been water before they register as a host. amenities, while others have identified educated on the importance of sani- Keeping the cleanliness and hygiene local Gurung handicrafts as products tation and hygiene and how these factors in mind, a cleanliness drive that can be marketed and sold to visi- affect their daily lives and the num- is undertaken by the Mothers Group tors as souvenirs. The construction of a ber of tourist arrivals. The village has wherein members gather and clean road to Besisahar has led some locals to banned open defecation and encour- the village. buy vehicles for driving tourists to and aged households to construct toilets fro from Besisahar, as well as for trans- with a proper waste disposal system. Women Empowerment porting goods to Ghalegaon. Currently all toilets in the village use The majority of households in Ghale- septic tanks and have plans to use the gaon depend on subsistence agri- Sanitation and Hygiene waste as fertilizer in the fields. Fur- culture, which has never provided Prior to the introduction of home- thermore, it has been made manda- enough to take care of the house- stays, the village did not have a proper tory that households locate the lodg- hold. This led to male members sewage system and open defecation ing away from animal sheds and that either joining the army or seeking foreign employment. Women were left entirely dependent on remittance money. The introduction of rural tourism based on the homestay model has been instrumental in empowering the women of the village. Now women have become financially independent and are better able to afford basic necessities as well as to provide higher education to their children.

9.2.8 Negative Impacts of Tourism

Waste Management Tourism has grown dramatically in Ghalegaon since the homestay program began. Currently no negative impacts have been felt in the village. However, looking at the increasing number of tourists, the problem of Locals bidding farwell to the visitors

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trash collection and waste disposal is ders have discouraged villagers from low and most are spent on administra- a major concern. The village does not cooking with gas. The felling of trees tive expenses. Even if the poorer house- have a proper dumping site and use of is controlled by ACAP, but alternative holds wish to take part in the home- biodegradable material is nonexistent sources of energy need to be promoted. stay program, they are unable to do so at the moment. because they lack access to finance. 9.2.9 Key Issues and Challenges Sale of Packaged Food and Beverages Migration The concept of homestay tourism was Participation The benefit derived from homestays is started so as to retain the income gen- The construction of homestay facilities limited to only those households that erated from tourism within the vil- costs approximately NPR 300,000. are currently in the homestay program. lage itself. However, with the increas- The households engaged in homestays Other households have not been able to ing number of tourists, shops have are those whose family members have increase their revenue and still depend been established to cater to the tourist gone abroad for foreign employment. on subsistence agriculture for their demand. The easy availability of pack- The homestays have been constructed livelihood. As a result, people continue aged food and beverages has led to using remittance money. The income to migrate for foreign employment, increased consumption of such food. of each household is limited, and the defeating the objective of retaining As a result, money is starting to flow majority of households do not have the working class in the village. This out of the village. any savings or access to loans for con- has led to a shortage of manpower in structing additional units to meet the agriculture and hence agricultural pro- Pressure on environment growing number of tourists. The exist- duction has further declined, pushing The entire village depends on firewood ing families engaged in homestays are more households to move abroad for for all cooking and heating purposes. able to expand their units using the better avenues. The mentality of “chora With the increase in tourist inflow, the income generated from the homestay manchay bha aa pachi ek choti bidesh demand for wood is sure to increase, program. While this leads to addi- jannu parcha” (as a son, one has to go leading to illegal felling or stealing from tional income, only a few households abroad at least once) is very much the the nearby forest. Though the majority see the benefits of the program. way of thinking in the village. of households have a gas stove installed, scarcity and the high cost of gas cylin- Lack of Finance Lack of Equitable Distribution The funds raised by GTDMC are very The homestay model has greatly

49 vide an alternative means of income, a retired army captain, Mr. Radar Man Gurung, explored the tourism potential in the village and established a tourism model for the village in 1997. This model was designed to expose guests to experience the life, culture and ways of the village. The first village tourism experience com- menced with 16 Belgian tourists visiting Sirubari.

The village is well planned with good underground drainage and in routes. It is electrified, with telephone connectivity, and gives high priority to hygiene and sanitation. Most of the houses were built by the locals them- benefited only certain sections of benefits to the poor and marginalized selves using local materials that are the community through additional members of society by increasing their environmentally friendly and provide income, sanitation, and health facili- participation in the tourism develop- a traditional look. House tagging has ties. Though the rise in the number ment process. The main problem is been done with the specific iden- of tourists will further boost revenue, the lack of capital and easy access to tification number and name of the the GTDMC has concentrated on finance, making seed financing diffi- house owner in order to reduce con- issues related to infrastructural devel- cult. Capacity building programs and fusion for visitors. The accommoda- opment and environmental conserva- trainings in various tourism activities tion is simple but comfortable, with tion, ignoring the issue of advancing must be initiated to motivate and good bedding and clean toilet facili- socially disadvantaged classes. build self-confidence. ties. Smokeless cooking stoves and biogas plants were built, reducing The Dalits and marginalized groups 9.3. Sirubari consumption of wood and improv- have not been included in the homestay ing the life of villagers. Vegetable program and have only a minor role 9.3.1 Background farming projects were also imple- in the village tourism projects. They Sirubari is the first tourism product mented to supplement the income receive zero or marginal benefits from in Nepal to be created from the sup- of village residents. tourism and tourism related activities. ply side of the tourism market unlike The Dalits and marginalized groups are demand-led tourism development 9.3.2 Home stay: the Village employed in supportive works in the prevalent in other parts of Nepal. This Tourism Model development of village tourism, which means that the product was developed The village tourism model that is entail physical labor rather than eco- with available resources and marketed currently practiced offers visitors an nomic investment. In other words, the to create a demand. It is abundant in opportunity to experience the tra- homestay model has not been instru- flora and fauna, hills that provide a ditional culture of the Gurung peo- mental in the advancement of Dalits stunning view of the western Hima- ple. The visitors are welcomed with and marginalized groups. layas, and shrines and pilgrimage sites panche-baja and garlands. The guests that dot the landscape. It has evolved are then divided into groups of two As per our findings, it was seen that the as an exemplary village tourism and and four to live with their host fami- Ghalegaon project was more success- homestay destination. Largely popu- lies. The practice in Sirubari is often ful in providing a means of livelihood lated by traditional Gurung families, characterized by: to the community than the Baghmara most households have at least one initiative. However, even with its male member in the Nepali, Indian, - Short stays. Guests usually spend limitations, the benefits must not be or British army. The livelihoods of the two nights with their hosts. ignored, and such initiatives must be families heavily depend on subsistence - Meals with the hosts. Visitors usu- replicated in the future in other simi- farming and the village economy ally dine with their host family. lar villages. In projects like these, the depends upon the pensions and remit- Meals are typical Nepali style. focus should be on providing greater tances sent back to families. To pro- - Tourist attractions and sightseeing.

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During the day, tourists have the 9.3.3 Village Tourism Marketing cially in the marketing and promo- opportunity to see the local tour- Sirubari has a unique form of village tion category. NVR assumed full ist attractions, which include the tourism. It did not grow into a tour- responsibility for marketing and sunrise and mountain views from ism destination with the involve- promotion, including making con- atop the hills. Visitors travel around ment of central level planners but tacts with travel and tour operators, the village to see the culture and developed from active participation and setting up a website through a lifestyle of the villagers. Evenings at the grassroots level, consulta- contractual agreement. are scheduled with entertainment tion, coordination, and partner- provided by the community, usu- ship between the Tourism Develop- Under this model income leakages ally Gurung dancing and singing. ment and Management Committee were minimized as tourist operators While there, tourists can visit cot- (TDMC) of Sirubari and a market- imported less and guest rooms, toi- tage industries such as traditional ing and promotion agency named lets, furniture, and handicraft shops handicraft and paper making work- the Nepal Village Resort (NVR) used mostly local materials. Also, shops, and a plant nursery cover- based in Kathmandu. The tour- a major part of the tourism money ing 380 hectares that includes one ism initiative was designed in a way stayed in the village. This resulted million trees and plants. There are that it is small scale with low visi- in sustainable development and two small lakes nearby, and bird tor numbers. In the initial stage of empowerment of the people. watching and wildlife observation village tourism development, the are possible. model faced several challenges, espe- 9.3.4 Tourism Arrival By 2068 BS (mid April 2010), the num- Sirubari Fact Sheet ber of visitors to Sirubari amounted to 11, 220 (9,553 domestic and 1,667 Study Area Sirubari international visitors, according to the Location 28°6’51”N 83°45’19”E TDMC). An annual breakdown of visi- Altitude of 1,700 meter above sea level Panchamul – 4 tors is shown in the graph below. Visita- Syangja District tion increased from 1999 to 2002, but West Nepal once the country was engulfed in civil Accessibility Road Transport: Jeep ride from the district headquarter of Syangja bazaar (Putalibazar) or by Bus/Jeep from Naudanda along the Pokhara-Sunauli war, visitor numbers decreased drasti- Highway (Siddhartha Highway) Trekking Trails: Helu-Lamachaur (about 50 km south of Pokhara) along the cally to just 106 in 2005/06. However, same highway offers the joint experience of adventure travel and short trekking after the end of the decade-long conflict, along the lush green valley and terraced farm land of Darau-Khola and then uphill climb of about 2 hours from Arjun Chaupari. tourism gradually increased in the coun- Attractiveness Geological: Viewpoint at Thumro Juro at 2300 meters (spectacular view of try and the same was true for Sirubari. Langtang, Machhapuchhare, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri) Still, arrivals were hit by the termination Buddhist Monastery- Buddha Gompa Shiva Temple of the marketing contract with NVR Viewing Tower and the number of foreign visitors was Gurung Museum Picnic Spot not significant. Refer figure 10. 2500 ha Well managed community forest (Awarded) Cultural: Gurung Lifestyle and livelihood pattern 9.3.5 Management Welcome with Panche-baja Cultural Program and lifestyle showcase The most interesting aspect of Sirubari village tourism is its management style. The Sirubari Village Tourism Devel- Tourist Season September – June (Non Monsoon season) opment and Management Commit-

No. of Households 42 tee (SVTDMC) looks into the overall management responsibilities of tour- Ethnicity Gurung & Dalit Communities (Damai, Kami, Sarki) ism activities, and every household

Occupation Agriculture, animal husbandry, Migration, Tourism and Handicraft is a general member of the Commit- tee. The executive committee consists Village Committee Sirubari Village Tourism Development and Management Committee (SVTDMC) of nine (sometimes eleven) members Youth club and Culture Committee Mother Group (the president, vice president, secretary, Father Group treasurer, and five members represent- Tourism Infrastruc- Home stays : initial 25 households, Current 15 house holds ing the Fathers Group, Mothers Group, tures Rooms : 15 Beds :40 Youth Club, and two (sometimes four) No. of Home stay Registered: 39 Households providing Home stay facility. others: one male one female nomi- Availability: Currently 15 Households providing Home stay facility. nated from among the villagers. The

51 members are chosen through consen- Figure 10: Visitor Numbers- Sirubari (1997-2012) sus for a period of two years. It has the full right to make and amend any rules and regulations pertaining to tourism activities in the village. It manages the welcome and farewell ceremonies, guest rooms (including the type and quality of food and accommodation), local environmental sanitation and hygiene, assignment of visitors to the local hosts on a rotational basis, and the arrangement of village tour activities through one of the community members. Though effective, this executive committee is not inclusive as Dalits and other marginalized groups do not have representation. Source: TDMC, Sirubari

Operation Modality and encouraged to book the pack- NPR 2,500 for a two night/three The operation modality of the village age tour in groups. But national visi- day package from foreigners and tourism of Sirubari was simple: all tors often bypassed NVR and went NPR1,500 from Nepali nationals. families with guest room facilities are directly to the village and the SVT- From this, 65 to 70 percent goes to required to be members of the SVT- DMC managed the accommodation the homestay operator and SVT- DMC first and agree to the SVTDMC for them. Once the tour date is fixed, DMC keeps some of the remaining rules and regulations. SVTDMC has the SVTDMC is given prior notice to money and gives some to the village developed its own rules and procedure arrange for porters, a welcome pro- occupation groups that provide a regarding the upkeep of guest rooms, cession, and cultural program. This welcome and farewell ceremony for sanitation and hygiene, assignment of helps SVTDMC and host families to the visitors. Some of the money also rooms, type and quality of meals and be prepared in advance. If the visitors goes to paying the groups that pro- snacks, as well as welcoming, sight- enter the village in a group of eight or vide afternoon tea, and some is paid seeing, and cultural programs. There more (Folmar, 2008), there will be a to the porters. are two different guest room catego- welcome procession with traditional ries. In the first category, which meets panche-baja or naumati baja. A stan- The contractual agreement with Nepal the strictest requirements, SVTDMC dard package of two days/three nights Village Resort ended in 2007, leading members host national and interna- or three days/four nights is offered. SVTDMC to function as an indepen- tional visitors, while the second cat- Most of the visitors choose the first. dent organization. The SVTDMC egory is for only national visitors. In was also reformed for the first time in order to distribute benefits more equi- According to the contract with ten years. The reason for this was that tably, SVTDMC has decided to spread Nepal Village Resort, SVTDMC NVR did not agree to the new tariff visitors across available guest rooms. receives NPR 1,700 for every tour- proposed by SVTDMC to meet the ist that arrives in the area, regardless market value and expenses. Also, the Tourists and porters who came freely of the size of the package tour. SVT- number of tourist arrivals seemed to without the knowledge of any of the DMC pays the guest room owner have decreased in comparison to earlier stakeholders were not allowed in the NPR1,000 per tourist for two night years. It was evident that NVR did not village until 2007, as all visitors were accommodation, which includes match the marketing and promotional taken by tour operator through NVR three meals a day. SVTDMC receives activities of the previous years. How-

Figure 11: Structure of Sirubari Village Tourism Development and Management Committee

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ever, SVTDMC gave NVR one year to rethink its decision. Once NVR chose Extract: Economics of guestroom establishments ICIMOD and partners conducted a survey of village tourism operation in Sirubari not to renew its agreement, the old in late 1999. During the survey year, an average guest room owner in Sirubari agreement was dismissed. This now accommodated 12 tourists and received NPR 1,000 per tourist for a two night made it possible for FITs and indepen- stay. Average income per guest room was NPR 12,000, while the average invest- dent tourists to visit the village. ment and annual operating cost per guest room was NPR 50,299 and NPR 10,422, respectively. The upfront investment costs when amortized under alter- Now the SVTDMC accepts tourists native lending terms provide annual repayment costs to a guest room owner. from independent travel agencies and For example, if the base investment of NPR 50,299 is financed at an 18 percent tour operators with private guides and annual interest rate over a five-year loan maturity period, the annual repayment FITs. Notification of arrival is expected to a guest room owner is NPR 15,989. In other words, the guest room owner well in advance. The SVTDMC is also would find it difficult to recover investments. However, if a more favorable lending open to any travel or tour operator to term of 10 years at 16 percent interest is applied, annual costs decrease to NPR enter into a contractual agreement sim- 10,345—sufficient to recover the investment. ilar to NVR if they accept the standards Since the guest room owner faces both an upfront fixed investment cost and proposed by SVTDMC. However, the annual operating costs, net income per guest room owner is total annual tourism acceptance of FITs or tourists with pri- income minus annuity of fixed investment cost, amortized over different lending vate guides in the future depends on terms. Because the current level of income is not sufficient to meet the costs the new agreement with prospective involved (NPR 10,422 plus annual repayment NPR 15,989), alternative income travel and tour operators. determinant scenarios that play around with price, visitor numbers, and duration of stay per guestroom were assessed. Given the tariff structure agreed upon by 9.3.6 Investment & Returns the TDMC and NVR for the guest room owners to recover their costs, the length Operating homestays is the norm of of visitor stay has to increase from the present two nights to four nights, and tariff the village and a significant amount of rates must increase by 20 percent. money has been channeled into homestay related activities. All members of Can the villagers afford to invest? A fundamental question to address is whether the initial investment cost borne the SVTDMC have investments in by an average guest room owner in Sirubari (NPR 50,299) is within the reach of either a two room guest room that can an average mountain household. If rural households willing to invest in and build accommodate four guests at a time, or guest rooms have access to institutional credit, it is essential to know the afford- in single room accommodations that able size of the annual loan repayment (annuity) rate that a rural borrower will be suit two guests. Investments are also able to bear given the level of income in the area. A typical household in Nepal made to upgrade the rooms, toilets, spent NPR 35,834 in 1996, based on the National Living Standards Survey of and other services. that year, out of which it is assumed the household will spend about one-third (NPR 10,750) on loan repayment. With this level of income, the affordable loan According to a study by Thapa (2005), that can be amortized varies anywhere from NPR 33,617 (at an interest rate the maximum amount of invest- of 18 percent and a loan maturity period of five years) to NPR 51,958 (at a 16 ment was NPR 70,000, incurred in percent interest rate and loan maturity period of ten years). What this exercise the construction of bathrooms and illustrates is that the present level of investment for making a guest room is within the reach of an average rural household if comfortable lending terms are offered. some modifications to guest rooms. The lowest investment was just NPR Source: Banskota, K., Sharma, B., and Blonk, E. (2005). Economics of Sustainable Village Tourism: 20,000 and was incurred in convert- Experiences and Lessons from Sirubari, Nepal. ICIMOD Newsletter No. 48, p. 29–31. ing a normal room to a guest room and arranging some furniture. Most of the villagers running homestay opera- seem to be bright for Sirubari because From this information it is evident tions have invested their own money of the low level of leakages due to that only the wealthy were able to from family savings to avoid the eco- strong backward linkages reacing the engage in the homestay activities and nomic burden of acquiring such loans. community. However the the eco- capitalize on the tourism benefits. Another discouraging factor was the nomic benefits from tourism that the cost of borrowing, which was as high villagers in Sirubari receive are quite 9.3.7 Biodiversity and as 3 to 4 percent per month. low in comparison to the investment Environment Benefits made in guest rooms (NPR 50,299) The award-winning community forest If a comparison is made between and operating costs (NPR 10,422) in Sirubari has maintained its biodi- Sirubari and Nepal’s other well-known (Banskota et al., 2005). versity. Many mountain tourism des- tourism destinations, the prospects tinations in Nepal are facing a defor-

53 estation problem due to the growing field of tourism and local development. ers. Sirubari has a strong social capi- need for firewood required by tour- Policy planners have replicated it in tal base because of its rich Gurung ists and locals, and because of the other potential areas as a means of con- culture and strong sense of solidarity. absence of alternative energy sources. servation and economic development, • Proactive marketing and publicity But households in Sirubari have some and as a way to extend tourism benefits at the national level, developed and sort of alternative energy source such to the rural people. As mentioned ear- managed well by NVR as improved cook stoves, biogas, or lier, Sirubari is the first tourism product solar cookers. Negative environmental in Nepal that was created from the sup- • Strong social and economic standing impacts have not been experienced so ply side of the tourism market. It has of the participants far in Sirubari probably because of the bagged various awards, which reflect low inflow of tourists. its success as a role model not only for • Community support for tourism Nepal but for the world. Sirubari vil- and willingness to adapt to eco- Consuming local meals has discour- lage won the Pacific Asia Travel Asso- nomic opportunities, as well as a aged the use of packaged food items, ciation Gold Award in the heritage cat- feeling of ownership of the project so the problem of disposing plastic, egory at the 2001 PATA Gold Awards. cans, and bottles is reduced. Waste Similarly, the government of Nepal has • Projects built upon principles of management is well practiced. Gray recognized Sirubari for its contribution partnership and collaboration water from bathrooms is fed to a to sustainable mountain development septic tank while waste water from at the local level. The village has been • External support from the govern- household activities is supplied to awarded the International Mountain ment and NGOs kitchen gardens. Biodegradable waste Development prize on the occasion is used to make compost or mixed of International Mountain Day 2004. More than 50 percent of receipts from together with farm yard manure. The village also received television cov- tourism were retained in the village. There is increased awareness in terms erage as an exemplary tourism model This was many times higher than the of hygiene and sanitation. The villag- in a program aired by Japan’s NHK tourism receipt retained by regular ers organize cleaning campaigns at channel and by Singaporean channels. trekking routes. least once a week in the main trails and community area to make it aes- Success Factors Opportunity Gaps thetically pleasant for the guests. The successful initiation and imple- Tourism in the village has seen many mentation of Sirubari village tourism of the drawbacks and opportunity 9.3.8 Sirubari the Role Model depended on some important factors: gaps that hinder growth. Some of the The village tourism model of Sirubari underlying issues are: has provided the background for plan- • Strong leadership, community par- ners and policy makers working in the ticipation, and unity among villag- • Duration: The length of stay in

54 SECTION 1

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Sirubari has not been increased. Over Where is Sirubari Heading? • New investments: There has not 95 percent of visitors still choose the Once one of the first, and most suc- been any investment in new home- two night/three day tour package. cessful, tourism projects—that received stays. The existing households The main reason for this is the lack of global recognition and accolades— (the majority are from poor and other tourism activities that encour- Sirubari is now facing hurdles that have marginalized groups because the age visitors to stay longer. drawn into question its sustainability. wealthier ones have migrated) do Its declining success has helped bring not have the money or have not • Migration: Young villagers are migrat- forward key lessons for designing and been able to get financial assistance ing to urban areas or abroad for developing similar projects. The main to engage in tourism. Households higher studies and better paid jobs. issues that have affected its success are: do not want to expand their home- This has created a generation gap in stay activities as there is a dearth of Sirubari, leaving few to take up tour- • Migration: Most of the locals of manpower resources. ism management responsibilities. Sirubari who were associated with Because of the lack of interest among the British Gurkha Army are eligi- • Laid back attitude: The zeal and the younger generation, the tourism ble for resident status in the United enthusiasm that once existed in project may not be sustainable. Kingdom and have opted to become the village during the start of the citizens there. These locals owned village tourism in Sirubari is fast • Lack of pro-poor activities: The mar- the households that invested their disappearing. This has created ginalized groups have still not been savings in homestays. With the gaps in the quality of the experi- able to reap the benefits of the tour- migration of these families, a large ence and hospitality people used ism initiative in the village. It is often vacuum has been created for poten- to get in Sirubari. argued that tourism has helped only tial successors to run the business. the rich community capable of run- Furthermore, the younger genera- • Separation from NVR: During the ning homestays. The Dalits are still tion does not seem to be interested conflict period, Sirubari received treated as untouchables and contact in carrying forward the business. negative publicity, which affected with them is avoided to the greatest the flow of international tourists. extent possible. • Lack of interest: The empty houses The termination of its contract with of the families that have migrated NVR has impacted its marketing • Other: Sirubari suffers from poor have been occupied by friends or activities. There has not been much access, weak transfer of state-of- relatives or rented out. These people growth in the number of interna- the-art technology and practices to are not interested in running home- tional tourists and this may impact the new generation, low occupancy stays. From the 25 homestays there the whole dynamic of the tourism rates (the highest number in a year are now only 15 operational. This business. Also, other destinations was 300 domestic and 1,500 foreign has reduced the dining and lodg- have come up with similar offer- tourists), and the lack of a local code ing capacity, and guests have been ings, creating competition. of conduct for villagers and tourists. turned away.

55 Section Rapid Assessment & 01/ Site Selection 10. Summary of Findings

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Kanchanpur 56 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Community based ecotourism has always been promoted as an instru- ment for providing social, environmental, and economic development in the community. It is believed that such forms of tourism do to a certain extent achieve the objectives mentioned above; however, their success, or lack of it, has not been documented, and the benefits are largely not quantified. As an alternative to mainstream tourism, setting the objectives of economic and social development, they are rarely subject to criticism. Nev- ertheless, despite any documented benefits, this form of tourism remains popular when it comes to conserva- Regional Workshop, TAL tion and uplifting local communities. or not. A strong leadership is required Other representatives could be from However, it must not be forgotten that to make the project participatory as National Trust for Nature Conserva- the community also makes its contri- lack of leadership skills would result tion or any active non-governmental bution to the project in the form of in non-participation due to the house- organization within the project area. time and labor. These have value when holds not being confident and moti- The main purpose behind such repre- considering significant opportunity vated and therefore not wanting to be sentation is that it would lead to a more costs. Especially for the poorest com- involved in the activities. Therefore, transparent working system within the munities, they cannot afford to be the management committee must be committee. Other practices to ensure distracted from subsistence activities. efficient enough to meet the objec- transparency could be an annual pub- Since they contribute to the ecotour- tives of the project. lic hearing and public auditing. ism project, they too have an interest in knowing how successful such initia- Committee Representation Effective Marketing tives will be before engaging in them. Ecotourism projects need a sound In a world of cutthroat competition, Therefore, it becomes imperative that institutional framework within which it is extremely important to market research be done and past initiatives the poor and underprivileged can and brand a product to differentiate it be analyzed first. exercise their rights to act, organize, from other such products available in make demands, and claim resources the market. The experience of Sirubari To evaluate the overall learning from from the public funds. In order to village speaks to the importance of the rapid assessment, all three pilot ensure this, there needs to be repre- marketing. With Nepal Village Resort sites were analyzed and compared to sentation of the poor on the commit- assuming full responsibility of the better judge the advantages and short- tee. Taking the example of the Mush- marketing activities, tourist arrival comings of each. The following sec- ars in Baghmara, the intentions of the saw significant growth. But when tion summarizes the major learning committee were right in setting up a the contract ended in 2007, tourism from all three case studies, which will fishery, but its utility was diminished arrival decreased accordingly. Bagh- help formulate the ground work for because it did not adequately involve mara Community Forest meanwhile the Hariyo Ban ecotourism initiative the Mushar community. has been taking advantage of the brand and ensure its success. of Chitwan National Park. However, Also, to ensure accountability and with other such community forests in Competent Management transparency of the committee, a rep- the vicinity, it stands to lose tourists if The management and governance resentative of the governing agency marketing is not done properly. committee is the foundation of the should be included in the committee project, as it enables implementation to play an advisory and governing role. Market Linkages of the idea. It depends on the manage- For instance, if the region falls under As has been stated earlier, the com- ment committee whether the benefits the Annapurna Conservation Area mittee must be entrepreneurial and are being received at the community Program, then the committee must explore all possibilities of market level and whether they are adequate include a representative from ACAP. linkages with the community, and

57 establish them wherever possible. to ensure that the poor and mar- Technical and Financial Support For instance, providing trainings in ginalized groups also have access to A separate fund must also be estab- sewing and fishing is not adequate financial assistance for ecotourism lished to provide loans at subsidized if there is no market in which to sell activities. This will instill a sense of interest rates to community members such products. These trainings can be inclusion. so they may purchase livestock and provided, but a ready market for such machines or upgrade their homestay products must also be established. Tourist Numbers based of facilities. Technical assistance and This will help aid social inclusion in Lodging Facility training in conducting homestays the village. In order to ensure that no compli- should be provided regularly. cations about where tourists will be As was the case in Baghmara, the hosted arise at the latter stage of the It was observed that Ghalegaon and hotel industry was booming due to ecotourism project, all details must Sirubari were entrepreneurial initia- increased tourist arrival. However the be worked out in advance. For exam- tives, while Baghmara was established CFUG could not take advantage of ple, certain criteria must be met to be only to sell a product, the Baghmara this as a market for the agricultural labeled a homestay, such as Community Forest. Locals of Sirubari produce of the community. If such a and Ghalegaon could be called entre- link could be established, the commu- • at least five houses must be involved preneurs because they are directly nity would benefit. in homestays for the project to be involved in the tourism business called a rural community based through homestays. But the Bagh- Promoting Local Produce homestay; mara community has no such involve- It was noticed that in Ghalegaon, ment in tourism activities. The only with the establishment of shops sell- • the village home must have a mini- way community members see benefits ing alcohol, chips, and other such mum of one separate room for tour- from tourism is through the man- items, the profits were concentrated ists and maximum of four rooms; and agement of Baghmara Community in a few hands. In such places, locally Forest. Had the community and the made items, including alcohol, can • each room must have a maximum management committee been more be promoted so that the benefits of two beds. proactive, a mechanism could have from sale are dispersed to a larger been developed so that they could group of people. The aforementioned criteria limits benefit from increased tourist arrival. the maximum number of tourists Consensus among Stakeholders that one village home can accom- For instance, each of the four wards As was the case in Ghalegaon, at the modate to eight. Therefore, if the could open a hotel and staff could start of the project itself, ties were potential ecotourism sites are based be hired from the respective wards. developed with the Nepal Tourism on a homestay model, the maxi- Agricultural produce could be pur- Board which helped promotion of mum number of tourists will reach chased from people within the ward, the village. Likewise all the involved saturation once all the village homes creating a backward linkage with the stakeholders must be in consensus operate four rooms. This means that community. Even if resources are regarding the project, which will increasing the number of tourists to lacking to open a hotel, some sort of enable achieving the objectives. increase revenue is not a model that mechanism could be drawn where can be adopted. Before adopting a the existing hotel entrepreneurs buy Separate Fund for Poor and homestay model, it must be clearly agricultural produce from the local Marginalized Group understood that there is an upper community. However, such initia- Where the community based eco- limit on the number of tourists the tives are lacking. As a result, the key tourism project does not provide village can accommodate and it can- difference between the two forms of a direct source of livelihood to the not be negotiated. If the target is to community based ecotourism is that community, a separate fund can be engage in mass tourism, then other Ghalegaon and Sirubari are a means established to raise the standard of forms of stay such as lodges or hotels of directly providing a livelihood to living of the poor and marginalized will need to be built to ensure the the community, while Baghmara groups. Since the entire objective of capacity of the tourism destina- focuses on the conservation of bio- the project is to provide a source of tion can be increased. Similarly, to diversity. Ultimately, in order for the income to the poor, the creation of engage in mass tourism, tourism ecotourism initiative to work, the such a fund is essential. Alternatively, information centers, professional committee must be entrepreneur- this fund can be utilized to provide wildlife guides, and cultural activi- ial and explore all opportunities for financing activities at affordable rates ties will be required. community participation.

58 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Section Rapid Assessment & Site Selection 01/ 11. District Profiling andS election

View of Fewa Lake, Panchase Hill

11.1 Methodology & Approach Parbat, Baglung, Myagdi, Gulmi, The study used a standard statistical Arghakhachi, and Palpa. evaluation technique to identify two potential districts in both the Chit- 11.1.1 Initial Short-listing of Districts wan Annapurna Landscape (CHAL) Given the time and resource con- and Terai Arc Landscape (TAL). straints, it was not possible to assess TAL stretches between the Bagmati and map the ecotourism potential in River in Nepal and Yamuna River in all these districts through field visits. India, and encompasses 15 protected Therefore, it was agreed to shortlist The main objective of areas, which include all or part of 14 only a few districts in both land- Terai districts (Rautahat, Bara, Parsa, scapes. All the districts in both land- this project is to reduce Chitwan, Makwanpur, Nawalparasi, scapes were evaluated against various Rupandehi, Kapilbastu, Dang, Banke, parameters. These parameters resulted threats to biodiversity, Bardia, Kailali, Kanchanpur, Palpa) in ten potential districts for the next between the Bagmati and Mahakali phase of evaluation through in-depth create alternative rivers. CHAL contains the Kali, Seti, study and field visits. The parameters Marsyandi, and Trisuli river basins, on which the evaluation of the dis- means of livelihood and encompasses all or part of 19 tricts was undertaken were grouped districts, which include Mustang, into four major components, namely and improve gender Manang, Gorkha, Rasuwa, Nuwakot, objective, primary facilitators, second- Dhading, Lamjung, Tanahu, Chit- ary facilitators, and people, as shown and social inclusion. wan, Nawalparasi, Syangja, Kaski, in table 15.

59 Table 15: Components and Parameters for District Selection available to evaluate gender and Objective Primary Facilitators Secondary Facilitators People social inclusion, the study used related parameters that reflect it. Biodiversity Geological Attractiveness Accessibility Demography To evaluate this parameter we used Livelihood Flora & Fauna Infrastructural Adequacy Migration Pressures the Human Development Index

Gender & Social Cultural Heritage (HDI), the Gender-related Devel- Inclusion opment Index (GDI), and the Gen- Existing Tourism Destina- der Empowerment Measure (GEM). tions The averages of these were taken to Scope for Clustering score the districts under this param- 4 3 2 1 eter. Districts with a low score were rated higher since the project aims to foster social inclusion, gender Each of the components was given a Biodiversity: The factors that were balance, and empowerment of vul- weight on a scale of 1 to 4, 1 being the measured to score biodiversity were nerable groups in the region. lowest and 4 being the highest, based based on the availability of attractive, on their importance to the project. All well-protected areas; wetland (ramsar) Ranking based on the evaluation parameters were rated on scale of 1 to sites; important bird areas; the occur- of the above component is given in 5, 1 being the lowest and 5 being the rence of endemic and rare charismatic table 16: highest. The weighted average for all species; and attractive geomorphic the districts would then form the basis formations and features. Areas scoring Table 16 : Top 10 Districts on for selecting the 10 potential districts high in the following areas were given the basis of Objective for field visits. The field visits will help a high score because they would be Rank Particulars Total identify the sites or clusters where rich in biodiversity and because con- 1 Manang 14.67 there is a high possibility of engaging servation is key to protecting the sites the communities and developing an from potential threats. Tourists are 2 Mustang 14.67 ecotourism destination that would be also attracted by natural landscapes 3 Rasuwa 14.67 saleable and which would ultimately that harbor significant biodiversity. contribute to the achievement of the 4 Nawalparasi 13.78 objectives of this project and Hariyo Alternative means of livelihood: Ban Program. Each of the compo- Districts in both landscapes were 5 Chitwan 12.89 nents and parameters shown in the evaluated on the basis of various 6 Kailali 12.00 table is discussed in detail below. sources of livelihood, for example, agriculture, trade and industry, and 7 Kapilbastu 11.56

Objective dairy farming. As it is labor inten- 8 Myagdi 11.56 The main objective of this project is sive, has relatively high multiplier to reduce threats to biodiversity, create effects, and requires relatively low 9 Banke 11.11 alternative means of livelihood, and levels of capital and land invest- 10 Bardia 11.11 improve gender and social inclusion. ment, tourism can yield significant benefits in remote and rural Ecotourism is seen as just one of areas where traditional livelihoods Primary facilitators include those the ways to do it. Tourism is one of are under threat. Districts with no factors that facilitate the develop- the fastest growing industries and alternative means of livelihood were ment of a tourist destination. These can be a sustainable alternative to given a higher score as the project is are attractions that will drive tour- economic activities that would be aimed at venturing into areas with- ists to visit these destinations. With- damaging to biodiversity. Therefore, out alternative sources of income. out these it will not be able to pack- three major parameters were evalu- Ecotourism can be a key source of age an attractive destination. This ated under this goal: biodiversity, income and employment for local includes geological attractiveness, livelihood, and gender and social communities, which in turn pro- flora and fauna, cultural heritage, inclusion. The highest weight of 4 vides strong incentives to protect and existing and potential tourism was given to this component as it biodiversity. destinations. These are enablers that determines where the project is most will make the project feasible. suitable and in line with the objec- Gender and Social Inclusion: tive of the program. Since, no district information was Geological attractiveness: Attractive

60 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Table 17 : Top 10 Districts on the Table 18: Top 10 Districts on the geomorphic formations and fea- basis of Primary Facilitators basis of Secondary Facilitators tures, mountain views, famous lakes Secondary Parameter Wise Ranking and rivers, waterfalls, and historical Rank Particulars Total Rank Particulars Total sites were considered while scoring 1 Manang 12.00 the districts. 1 Kaski 9.67 2 Mustang 11. 4 2 Tanahu 9.00 Flora and fauna: Districts were 3 Gorkha 10.8 reviewed based on their level of flora 3 Rupandehi 9.00 and fauna, with districts with greater 4 Kaski 10.8 4 Nuwakot 8.00 flora and fauna being rated higher. 5 Rasuwa 10.2 5 Parbat 7.67 Cultural heritage: Historical sites, 6 Chitwan 9.6 6 Syangja 7.67 religious sites, and ethnic cultural 7 Lamjung 9.6 prominence were the factors con- 7 Rautahat 7.33 sidered while scoring the districts 8 Myagdi 9 under cultural heritage. A higher 8 Banke 7.00 9 Nawalparasi 8.4 scoring was given to districts with 9 Palpa 6.33 more of these factors. 10 Palpa 8.4 10 Gulmi 6.33 Existing tourism destinations: Dis- tricts were reviewed and scored on accessibility, the availability of air- the basis of available tourism desti- ports and road connections were Table 19 : Top 10 Districts on the basis of People Component nations and their ability to attract considered. To assess the accessibility, People Wise Ranking tourists. Districts with these features the existing road density in each of were scored higher. the districts was evaluated. Rank Particulars Total 1 Baglung 4.00 Potential for clustering: All 30 districts Infrastructural adequacy: In order to 2 Rautahat 3.33 in question were analyzed to see if a measure infrastructural adequacy, the possible group or cluster could be availability of facilities such as drink- 3 Gulmi 3.33 made by combining destinations that ing water, electricity, and sanitation would provide a varied and holistic were considered. Districts with a 4 Bara 3.33 range of tourist attractions. Districts greater availability of these features 5 Kapilbastu 3.33 that could be grouped with other were given a higher score. such destinations in the vicinity were 6 Arghakhachi 3.33 scored higher. Ranking based on the evaluation 7 Tanahu 3.00 of the above component is given in Ranking based on the evaluation of table 18: 8 Parbat 3.00 the above components is shown in 9 Parsa 3.00 table 11. People The last parameter was the willing- 10 Myagdi 3.00 Secondary Facilitators ness and ability of the local commu- Secondary facilitators are those that nity to engage in tourism. Therefore, will enable tourism activities to be the demographic profile in each of the local biodiversity. conducted. As a result of Nepal’s districts was evaluated to see if there geographical terrain there are many were sufficient human resources. Demography: The demographic pro- places that have huge tourism poten- Along with this, migratory pressure file of the districts was measured tial but are not easily accessible. Also in each of the districts was evaluated using the formula given below. The due to the lack of infrastructural ade- to see if outmigration could be con- lower the literacy level of the dis- quacy these areas have not been able trolled by creating employment in trict, the greater the score as there to cash in on the tourism potential these locations. Sustainable tourism is a lower chance of migration. For supported by their rich natural and can also make communities proud this criteria, the bigger the house- cultural resources. of maintaining and sharing their tra- hold, the greater the score given. ditions, knowledge, and art, which This is because there is a greater Accessibility: In order to measure contributes to the sustainable use of chance that these households have

61 Table 21 : Overall ranking of Dis- just one source of income from tra- working or running projects in tricts in the CHAL and TAL Regions ditional means, which is unlikely to these areas, thus the interven- sustain their entire household. The tion will only double the work Rank CHAL TAL lower the migration rate, the higher already done. 1 Rasuwa Chitwan the score, as it is essential to provide opportunities for people to prevent • Getting community members to 2 Manang Nawalparasi outmigration. buy in will be difficult as they are 3 Kaski Kailali already engaged in this activity and Ranking based on the evaluation of the know how to generate income to 4 Mustang Banke

above component is given in table 19. sustain themselves. 5 Chitwan Kapilbastu

Overall Ranking Still, starting a project in these areas 6 Nawalparasi Kanchanpur

Finally, the table below shows the would be easy because there are existing 7 Myagdi Bardia overall ranking of the districts tourism activities that may need only according to all of the parameters. scaling up, promoting, or marketing. 8 Gorkha Palpa are shown in table 20 and table 21. 9 Lamjung Rupandehi The study went on to identify It is evident that the districts that those districts that have great 10 Syangja Makwanpur have high rankings are those where potential for tourism but due to 11 Palpa Parsa there is already a lot of tourism. It some reason or other have not was agreed that focusing on these been able to take advantage of it. 12 Parbat Rautahat districts may not be very fruitful for The districts are as in table 22. the following reasons: 13 Tanahu Bara These six districts were subject to 14 Baglung Dang • There is already an established change depending on the initial find- sector and it will be very difficult ings presented by the baseline study 15 Gulmi

to intervene since we will have team and the CHAL rapid assess- 16 Dhading to make changes to the exist- ment team. Upon conducting discus- ing structure rather than starting sions with the Hariyo Ban team and 17 Nuwakot

something new. researching other potential destina- 18 Arghakhachi tions, four additional districts were • There are already other multilat- identified. In total, 10 districts will eral and bilateral organizations undergo field visits in the next step to identify the four potential sites or The objective of interacting with the Table 20 : Overall Ranking Based n clusters with ecotourism potential. stakeholders was to gather the experi- the Four Major Components ences of experts working at the policy Total Ranking 11.1.2 Key Informant Interviews level and to hear the views and opin-

Rank Particulars Total After narrowing down the study area ions of organizations, agencies, and from 32 districts to six, the task was individuals directly involved in the 1 Rasuwa 33.53 to identify potential community based tourism sector in order to identify 2 Manang 32.67 tourism (CBT) sites within each of potential CBT sites. the six districts and also to identify 3 Kaski 32.36 any other districts with potential that Interviews and discussions with stake

4 Mustang 32.07 might have been missed in the initial holders were semi-structured and con- short listing. In the absence of relevant ducted using the questionnaire pro- 5 Chitwan 30.49 data, stakeholders were relied on as both vided in the inception report as a basis

6 Nawalparasi 30.18 key informants and key players in the for information gathering. Each stake- implementation of tourism develop- holder was provided with the list of 7 Myagdi 27.22 ment activities in the districts. Meetings the selected districts and asked to pro- and discussions with relevant stakehold- vide insights on the tourism potential 8 Gorkha 27.02 ers were a vital part of the study since of each, taking into account its biodi- 9 Kailali 26.53 there was little or no publicly available versity, geological attractiveness, and information about community based current tourism activities. Interactive 10 Banke 26.18 tourism in the selected districts. discussions with the stakeholders dis-

62 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Table 23: List of Sites where Table 22: Potential districts Field Visits were Conducted

CHAL Region TAL Region S.N Site District Region

Clusters Individual Districts Clusters Individual Districts 1 Barpak Gorkha CHAL

-Syangja - Gorkha - Kailali - Makwanpur 2 Tanahusur, Tanahu CHAL -Palpa - Kanchanpur Dhor Phirdhi, Merlungkot 3 Panchase Lekh Kaski/ CHAL Syangja/ closed several sites that included both 11.1.3. Discussion with Parbat well-developed tourist destinations as Hariyo Ban Team 4 Syange, Lamjung CHAL well as potential sites for CBT. The list of potential sites was pre- Nipragaon, Chapa Dada, sented to the Hariyo Ban team. Keep- Dod, Rhendu, Destinations that had already devel- ing in mind the time and resource Ghopte oped into a tourist hub were excluded constraints, an interactive session 5 Jalbire Chitwan TAL from the list and only those sites was held to discuss each potential 6 Amaltari, Nawalparasi TAL where the participants saw poten- site so as to filter the exhaustive list Baghkhor tial were kept on the list. A total of into workable prospects. The main 7 Madi Chitwan TAL 37 sites were identified (see Annex objective of the discussions was to 8 Shukhla Kanchanpur TAL 1). Each potential site was then dis- use the expertise of the team mem- Phanta Wildlife cussed in detail with respect to its bers to identify the sites that had the Reserve biodiversity, geological attractions, most potential, and arrive at a num- 9 Ghoda Ghodi Kailali TAL Lake accessibility, infrastructural adequacy, ber that would meet the limits of the and resident community. A detailed project. From the 37 potential sites it site-specific inventory was prepared to was agreed that nine—four in CHAL showcase the reasons why each loca- and five in TAL—were ideal for con- region. The following table provides tion had potential as a community ducting an extensive survey in order a list of the sites to which field visits based ecotourism destination. to identify two destinations in each were conducted.

63 Section Rapid Assessment & 01/ Site Selection 12. Pre-Feasibility Assessment

A boy grazing buffalo at Mipra, Lamjung 64 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Table 24:Parameters for Pre-feasibility Assesment of Sites Visited Destination visits were conducted to Human Socio carry out a pre-feasibility assessment Attraction Inventory Potentialities Capacity Infrastructural Economic to narrow the nine selected sites to Assessment Adequacy Analysis four. The study used quantitative Geological Attractions Accessibility Demograph- Electricity Source of tools to assess the potential for eco- ics Income Biodiversity Market Demand Activeness Sanitation Standard of tourism. As was done for all districts (Groups and Living in the TAL and CHAL regions, the Committees) selected sites were assessed on a num- Cultural Heritage Competitiveness Willingness Schools ber of criteria. The following section Historical and Existing Tourism Capability Medical Facilities outlines the methodology used to Religious Relevance arrive at the final four sites. Potential Activities Migratory Pressure 12.1. Methodology and Approach 5 4 3 2 1 The study used a statistical evaluation technique to identify the four sites with most potential for developing an It included: cies of medicinal plants, and 262 ecotourism destination. The sites were • Potential geological attractions, wil- species of birds. Black bears, leop- evaluated on the basis of extensive derness, trekking routes, mountain ards, porcupines, deer, and flying parameters, which were as in table 24. views, and the like squirrelsare easily spotted. Panchase also offers a majestic 180 degree view Based on their importance, the param- • Flora and fauna in the proposed sites of the Himalayas, namely, Anna- eters were assigned a weight from 1 purna I and II, Lamjung, Machha- to 5, 5 being the parameter with the • Cultural heritage and opportunities puchhare, and Gauri Shankar. The most importance in determining the for tourists to experience it (dances, Panchase Dham attracts 30,000 dev- sites for the ecotourism initiatives, museums, etc.) otees every year. All in all, Panchase and 1 being the parameter with the provides a complete package for a least importance. Each component of • Historical and religious sites varied clientele. the parameter was scored on a scale of 1 to 5, and thereafter multiplied by Each of these attractions was evaluated Syange meanwhile is home to two the weight given to the parameters. In on its potential to support the eco- beautiful waterfalls, Rhendu and this way we arrived at a final score for tourism project. All sub-components Syange, with three additional waterfalls the nine sites. The components of the were scored on a scale of 1 to 5, 1 for nearby. Syange is surrounded by the parameters are explained belowi. the least attractive and 5 for the most. pristine Himalayas in the north and Since these form the basis on which the Mahabharata range in the south. Attraction Inventory the ecotourism products will be devel- The destination provides breathtaking The most important component in oped, the attraction inventory was views of the sunrise and sunset. Other developing a tourism product is the given the highest weight of 5. Based on attractions include hot water springs varied attractions it can offer. Taking this parameter, the ranking for the sites and honey hunters. As in Panchase, this into consideration, all existing and stood as in table 25. Syange is rich in Gurung culture. potential attractions in the sites were examined and an inventory was made. As can be seen from the table, in In the TAL region, Amaltari in Nawal- the CHAL region, Panchase in parasi and Madi in Chitwan are both Kaski and Syange in Lam- located close to Chitwan National jung were ranked highest, Park. Therefore, the main attraction in Table 25: Ranking Based on whereas in the TAL region, both destinations is the jungle. Because Paramters for Attraction Inventory Madi and Amaltari were of the area’s proximity to the park, ani- Sites in CHAL Ranking Sites in TAL Ranking ranked highest. Panchase is mal and bird sightings are common. Panchase 3.67 Amaltari 3.17 a hotspot for biodiversity, both in terms of flora and Potentialities Syange 2.83 Madi 3.17 faunaIt boasts 113 species The next parameter evaluated the

Tanahusur/ 2.67 Sukhlaphanta/ 3.00 of orchid out of which two potential of these sites to develop Merlungkot Ghoda Ghodi species are indigenous to the attractions and create sustainable Lake Panchase. There are, 589 demand through measurable sub- Barpak 2.00 Jalbire 2.33 flowering plants, 107 spe- components. They include:

65 • Accessibility:One of the determi- inventory. Based on this parameter, politicized as was the case in Bagh- nants of a successful ecotourism des- the following table provides the rank- mara. Since Nawalparasi has not been tination is how easy it is to access. ing for the sites in the CHAL and marketed yet, and the eastern belt Each of the sites was evaluated on TAL region. of the Narayani River has yet to be the basis of its connectivity to major explored and established as a tourism Table 26: Ranking Based on Potentialities cities in Nepal, and the ease of destination, other established areas Sites in Sites in mobility within it. TAL Ranking CHAL Ranking pose competition. Sauraha is an estab- Panchase 3.40 Amaltari 3.50 lished pocket, where the CF offers the • Market Demand: This parameter same tourism activities. There are a gauged whether the ecotourism Syange 3.20 Sukhla- 3.40 handful of hotels already established phanta products would be able to generate in Amaltari, so the homestay villages Ghoda 3.00 Jalbire 3.20 enough demand to sustain the proj- Ghodi Lake will also face competition. ect. The potential target market was Tanahusur/ 2.60 Madi 2.90 analyzed as well in order to deter- Merlungkot Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve and mine the demand. Barpak 2.00 Jalbire 2.40 Ghoda Ghodi Lake are located in the Far Western region, so travel costs • Competitiveness: A review of each from Kathmandu will be high. But site’s competitiveness was made to In terms of accessibility, Panchase SWR is close to northern India, and assess the competition in the region. is at an advantage because it is close the flow of Indian visitors already It looked at competition from exist- to Pokhara. It is connected via metal exists. Now these activities need to be ing tourism destinations in other and earthen roads. Its richness in bio- marketed to them to create demand. sites that could either compromise diversity will attract researchers and Among domestic tourists, travel cul- sustainability or overlap objectives. students. Panchase would face compe- ture is increasing. Repeat clientele to The threat from new entrants was tition from Dhampus and Sarangkot, Chitwan National Park and Bardia also analyzed to ensure tourism clus- but since there are more attractions National Park will decrease as domes- tering does not happen. than just the scenic view of the moun- tic tourists look for new destinations. tains it has an advantage. Since tour- This is where Shuklaphanta will have • Existing Tourism: It was decided ism is in its nascent stage, a few houses a market. Also, Nepalis who take that sites with existing tourism have started homestay facilities, but this route to Nainital and other areas activities would not be chosen for they are not yet organized. could be potential targets. As for for- this project because it was felt that eign tourists, spending an additional a new destination where tourism Syange’s great attraction is canyoning. USD 200 is nominal once they have potential exists but has not been As stated earlier, two target segments entered Kathmandu, so they might be promoted would provide a higher of tourists on the Annapurna circuit interested in an alternative to CNP. marginal benefit to the local com- trek and tourists looking for adven- munities. ture sports will be marketed to. The Human Capacity Assessment third attraction of homestays will help Since tourism is a people-oriented • Potential Activities: Based on the capture the trekking market that is business and depends on the quality attraction inventory, possible activi- already there. Located approximately of its service, it is important to deter- ties were mapped out, keeping in 26 kilometers from Besisahar, Syange mine the existing capacities and the mind the novelty or pioneering is easily accessible, making it all the degree to which a community can nature of such activities. more competitive. meaningfully engage in the sustainable development of ecotourism. To All the above sub-components were Amaltari in Nawalparasi is probably assess the human capacity of the com- scored on a scale of 1 to 5 for each of the best location in terms of acces- munity in each of the sites, the follow- the sites, with 1 given to those sites sibility. With the decision to remove ing components were looked into: with the least amount of potential and the hotels inside Chitwan National 5 given to those with the most. Sites Park, lodges will move to the out- • Demographics: The demographics with existing tourism activities were skirts of the park and take their guests of the community were analyzed on given a low score and those with little to the neighboring community for- the basis of cultural homogeneity, or none were given a higher score. The ests. Once this move takes place, the composition, and size. A manageable weight given to this broad parameter demand for the neighboring CFs will size with a homogeneous commu- was 4, as it is the second most impor- increase drastically. If the CFs receive nity in terms of caste and a composi- tant parameter after the attraction higher revenues, they may become tion with the right balance of youth,

66 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Table 27: Ranking Based on adults and, the elderly would be bers and create a fund to provide loans Human Capacity Assessment ideal. Such a community was given a to members. In Panchase migration is Sites in Sites in TAL Ranking Ranking higher scoring where it existed. very high, so there are fewer youths in CHAL the community. One of the villages in Barpak 3.80 Madi 3.40 • Activeness: Whether the community Panchase is being transformed into an had formed groups for fathers, moth- organic village, which could also be Panchase 3.60 Amaltari 3.40 ers, and youths helps assess its active- used as a marketing tool. Syange 3.50 Jalbire 3.20 ness and motivation in improving living standards. The level of active- Infrastructural Adequacy Tanahusur

ness helps us assess whether the com- Inadequate infrastructure and basic Merlungkot 3.10 Shukla- 3.00 munity will be willing to get involved facilities can hinder tourism develop- phanta Ghoda in tourism activities. The higher the ment. First-hand information was col- Ghodi Lake capability, the higher the scoring. lated through interviews regarding electricity, sanitation (prevalence of • Willingness: : In order for the eco- toilets), shower facilities, drinking tourism project to be successful, the water, medical facilities, and other the national grid. Medical facilities, buy in of members of the commu- such infrastructural resources that will though minimal, are present. nity was a must as they would be ones support tourism activities. The avail- implementing the project. Therefore, ability of schools in the locality was Socioeconomic Analysis the willingness of the community to also documented because it gives an Since the objective of the project was engage in such activities was assessed. idea of the extent of development in to improve the standard of living The higher the capability, the higher the region. Since accessibility is of the communities through direct the score. already discussed in the parameter involvement in ecotourism activities, measuring potentialities, it has not it was important to set this as one • Capability: Along with willingness, been discussed again here. For the of the parameters. Current sources the capability of the community to aforementioned points, sites with ade- of income were analyzed to see their contribute to the project was also quate infrastructure were given a standard of living in terms of whether assessed. Again, the higher the capa- higher score. Based on this parameter, they were able to provide basic ame- bility, the higher the score. the ranking in the TAL and CHAL nities to their families. Communities regions stands as follows: with a higher standard of living were • Migratory Pressure: : The extent of given a lower scoring and vice versa. Table 28: Ranking Based on outward migration in these regions Infrastructural Adequacy This was done to favor those com- was also analyzed. Regions with a Sites in munities where ecotourism activities Sites in TAL Ranking Ranking higher migration rate were given CHAL could help raise the standard of liv- a higher weight since one of the Barpak 3.50 Shukla- 3.00 ing. This parameter was assigned a phanta objectives of the study was to create Ghoda weightage of 1, as with the aspect of means of livelihood so that people Ghodi developing a tourism product, other Lake would not have to leave their vil- parameters took precedence over this Tanahusur/ 3.00 Amaltari 2.75 lages to seek employment. Merlungkot one. Based on this, the ranking stands Syange 2.75 Jalbire 2.25 as in table 29. The aggregate scoring for the aforementioned sub-components was mul- Panchase 2.50 Madi 2.13 Due to high migratory pressure in tiplied by a weightage of 3. The rank- Syange, there is only a small youth ing for this parameter is as in table 27. population. High dependence on agri- Barpak ranked the highest in terms of culture limits their source of income, It was seen that communities in all tourism infrastructure. It has access and most of the produce is consumed sites were very willing to engage in to electricity all year round because it by the families. ecotourism activities. In Barpak, the owns a micro-hydropower plant that community was large in terms of produces 75 kilowatts. Every house has Although Madi is one of the most household size, but it was still closely access to a full bathroom. The other fertile regions in Nepal, half of its knit and unified. The village groups in top three destinations according to this produce is destroyed by wild animals. Barpak, Panchase, Madi, and Amal- parameter more or less fared the same The community close to Shukla- tari are also very active. All groups with access to public toilets and bath- phanta Wildlife Reserve is also mostly would take contributions from mem- rooms. Electricity is obtained through dependent on agriculture, and some

67 Table 29: Ranking Based on residents are involved in manual labor, flora and fauna, as well as its scenic Socieconomic Analysis electrical work, tailoring, teaching, view of the mountains. The cultural Sites in Sites in and other such activities. and historical heritage is also strong TAL Ranking CHAL Ranking with a closely knit Gurung commu- Syange 3.50 Madi 4.00 12.2. Overall Ranking nity residing there. Syange has been Barpak 2.00 Shukla- 3.00 Based on all of the above parameters, selected because it can be developed as phanta table 30 provides a list of the overall an adventure sports destination with Ghoda Ghodi ranking of the sites in the TAL and activities that have not been devel- Lake CHAL regions. oped in other parts of the country, Tanahusur 2.00 Jalbire 2.50 and it can benefit from a first mover Merlungkot A detailed spreadsheet with an expla- advantage. As mentioned above, since Panchase 2.00 Amaltari 2.00 nation and justification for all param- it falls on the Annapurna circuit, trek- eters for each of the sites is attached in kers can also serve as another market, life Reserve and Ghoda Ghodi Lake Annex 2. The scoring is provided as thereby ensuring its sustainability. as a cluster. Since the wildlife human well. The overall scoring ranked Pan- conflict in Madi was extremely high, chase and Syange the highest in the Madi in Chitwan and Amaltari in it was decided to go ahead with Madi TAL region, and Madi and Amaltari Nawalparasi were ranked the high- as it would help the community to see the highest in the CHAL region. est in the CHAL region. Both sites the biodiversity as an asset to attract are located in the peripheral area of tourism rather than as a liability. In As compared to Tanahusur and Bar- the Chitwan National Park and thus this way it would promote conser- pak, both Panchase and Syange have will develop similar kinds of tourism vation and the purpose of the study. better potential in creating an ecotour- products and cater to the same clien- Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve is ism product with the use of existing tele. Therefore, in order to ensure that also as rich in biodiversity like other attractions. Panchase provides a com- the proposed sites are a viable option, national parks, but it has not been posite package of attractions ranging it was decided to select only one of the able to attract tourists because it is from its diversity, both in terms of two and develop Shuklaphanta Wild- located in the Far Western region. Ghoda Ghodi Lake is another desti- Table 30: Overall Ranking Based on all Parameters nation in Kailali that will attract bird Rank Sites in TAL Scoring Rank Sites in CHAL Scoring watchers. Combined, the two desti- 1 Panchase 49.73 1.00 Madi 45.88 nations provide a complete package with bird watching, animal sighting, 2 Syange 46.47 2.00 Amaltari 47.53 homestays, and other such attractions. 3 Tanahusur 41.03 3.00 Shuklaphanta/ 45.00 Merlungkot Ghoda Ghodi Lake Lastly, the four sites were evaluated 4 Barpak 38.40 4.00 Jalbire 37.87 under the following criteria to ensure the sustainability of the project.

68 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Section Rapid Assessment & Site Selection 01/ 13. Final Sites Assessment

The impact of the project would help kick start tourism development in the unexplored far western Nepal and help revive the dying Rana Tharu Culture, conserve the biodiversity and at the same time provide economical benefits to the communities.

Ghodaghodi Lake, Kailali 69 In addition to the site selection based ber and December. The target segment Lamjung – Syange on the weightage and scoring system, may further be extended to researchers -Mipra & Chappagaon the four highest scoring sites were and educational excursion groups. appraised against five different param- Duration: Field research indicates eters to authenticate and reinforce the Product: The tourism product here that Mipra and Chappagaon will be findings for each of these sites and would be nature based tourism with an able to sustain tourism activities for ensure the viability of the project. The emphasis on biodiversity, culture, and seven to eight months from Sep- parameters were as follows. geological attractions. The village has tember to May. The best season for switched to organic agriculture, and canyoning and trekking is February • Duration of Tourism Activities can be marketed as an organic nature to April, and September to Decem- based cultural tourism destination. ber. The spring, autumn, and win- • Client Segment ter seasons offer a 360o view of Impact: Tourism here will have a mul- the Himalayan range in the north • Product tiplier effect on the overall develop- and Mahabharata range toward ment of the village and will improve the south. • Impact the standard of living of marginalized groups. The benefits expected Segment: : The major target segments • Opportunity for expansion are direct as well as indirect. Directly, here are the Annapurna circuit trek- tourism could create job opportuni- kers and tourists arriving for can- Kaski Panchase, ties because people will be needed yoning. On top of this, Mipra and Bhadaure Ward 1 & 2 for nature guides, tea shops, eateries, Chappagaon can also be positioned as and hotels. This will reduce depen- a leisure getaway among holiday seek- Duration: The expected tourism dency on foreign employment. The ers and educational excursion groups. duration is for nine months from marginalized groups of the village are They offer several attractive activities, September to May. This excludes skilled in metal work, which can be such as hot springs, honey hunting the monsoon season. These months channeled toward tourism through sites, and cultural shows. are ideal for tourism activities, but the creation of products that can be spring is the best time to experience marketed to tourists. This would help The trekkers who stop at Syange could Panchase in all its hues. Tourists reduce dependency on contract agri- be attracted to Mipra and Chappag- have a clear view of the Himalayas cultural labor. aon, which are just three kilometers and the lush green Mahabharata uphill from Syange. A view of the range. A hike to the Panchase forest Indirectly, tourism is expected to Himalayan mountain range, a home- is an experience in itself: it has with help promote and preserve tradi- stay experience in a village house, and 5 species of rhododendron, 113 spe- tional crafts and culture. Income cultural entertainment will be the key cies of orchid, and 589 flowering generated from tourism is expected factors attracting Annapurna circuit plant species in full bloom. Autumn to be invested in higher education. trekkers to spend a night. For adven- is ideal for viewing the Himalayan Conservation of the natural environ- ture seekers, Syange and Rhendu mountain ranges and experiencing ment is well engrained in the village waterfalls offer the best canyoning the Gurung culture. Two of the big- and the promotion of tourism will experience in Lamjung District. In gest festivals in Nepal, Dashain and be a reward that further fosters and addition, there are others waterfalls, Tihar, fall during these months. The encourages conservation. such as Ghopte Falls, Kabindra Falls, winter season meanwhile is best for Babu Falls located only a 30-minute watching the 262 bird species found Opportunities for expansion: Cur- drive from the village. in Panchase along the backdrop of rently tourism is just beginning in the Himalayan mountains and the Bhadaure. Developing Bhadaure as Product: The tourism product in snow covered village. a tourism destination will help pro- Mipra and Chappagaon will have mote the Panchase region. It can serve to be developed depending upon Segment: The target group for Bhad- as a model village and provide a spark the target segment. For Annapurna aure includes foreign and local tour- for tourism development in other circuit trekkers, the product offered ists, divided into leisure tourists and villages in the Panchase region. The is a night stay in the village, which trekkers. Religious groups are another opportunity for expansion will spill includes authentic local cuisines fol- segment that can be targeted. Visitors over to nearby villages, thereby creat- lowed by an evening of a fun-filled in this segment will be highest during ing the nature based cultural tourism cultural show. The next morning the Bala Chaturdasi festival in Novem- corridor Kaski-Parbat-Syangja. trekkers can be taken to Chhap-

70 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

padanda to view the sunrise and the Chitwan – Madi release tourism pressure from Sauraha Himalayan mountain range. Since Duration: The duration of tourism and will provide development oppor- time is a major factor for this tar- activities in Madi is similar to Sau- tunities in other areas. This will lead get segment, activities will have to be raha—it lasts for about eight or nine to development of the larger Chitwan packaged in a time-sensitive manner. months. However, the best season for corridor. The opportunity for expan- tourism is from October to March. sion lies in targeting underprivileged However for the adventure segment, villages in Madi and engaging with the product offered includes canyon- Segment:Foreign tourists, locals, marginalized communities, such as ing at Syange and Rhendu water- researchers, and educational groups the Bote community. This will pro- falls and a night stay at the village, will form the major target segment of vide an alternative livelihood through followed with cultural shows, local Madi, Chitwan. tourism and reduce their dependency cuisines, views of the sunrise and on nature. sunset, a drive to the hot springs, and Product: : The tourism activities are a panoramic view of the Himalayas. similar to those offered in Sauraha, Kanchanpur-Kailali The product can be further extended Chitwan. Since animal sighting is Cluster (Shuklaphanta & to include canyoning in other nearby common and very close to the village waterfalls, such as the Ghopte, Kabi- agricultural fields, the product will Ghoda Ghodi Lake) ndra, and Babu Falls. involve construction of community- run machaans to lodge tourists. Meals Duration: Tourism activity in the Kan- For those seeking leisure, the package will be served in the village in one of chanpur-Kailali area is expected to last will include a night stay at the village, the households a rotating basis. Dur- for eight to nine months. The best tour- local cuisines, cultural entertainment, ing the evenings cultural shows shall ist season is from October to March. views of the sunrise and sunset, a trip be showcased in the village courtyard. to the hot springs, and the view of the Segment: The distance between Himalayas. Impact: Madi is cordoned off from Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve and the Chitwan mainland, and the vil- Kathmandu is approximately 695 Impact: : The impact of tourism lage of Simara is the most disadvan- kilometers. Therefore the target seg- on the two villages will be tre- taged village in the area. During the ment for these sites is not tourists mendous. Tourism will enable the monsoon the village experiences from the capital or other cities such as community to understand, and severe flooding, destroying homes, Pokhara, Dharan, or Biratnagar. The serve as a role model for, the way agricultural fields, and displacing target group is Indian tourists from the villages harness the benefits of families. There is also high human- neighboring states, and locals, such specialized adventure sports cur- wildlife conflict that leads to loss of as students and parents travelling to rently enjoyed by and limited to life and agriculture. Members of the Musoorie or Nainital. the private players. community view conservation unfa- vorably because they have not benefit- Product:Tourism development here Opportunities for Expansion: The ted from it. Instead they have suffered would be a cluster development and villages and communities falling huge losses that have made life diffi- the target segment would mainly con- within the Annapurna circuit have cult because they cannot easily access sist of Indians from neighboring states not been able to take advantage of their homes, fuel, and fodder. Initiat- and locals travelling to Musoorie and the tourism opportunities of the ing tourism activities here may help Nainital. Here the tourism product trekking route. The lodges in Syange change the attitude of the community can have a maximum duration of three are limited to a basic stay and food toward conservation because tourism nights and four days; for example, one with no other activities. Mipra and will provide economic benefits. night might be spent camping in the Chappagaon can cash in on their cul- Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, one tural and geological attractions to Opportunities for Expansion: Tour- night in the village to experience the lure tourists. Since the community ism development in Chitwan is lim- Rana Tharu culture, and one night lacks marketing abilities and the ited to Sauraha even though other could be spent at the wetlands of experience to conduct canyoning, sites are equally attractive. This has led Ghoda Ghodi Lake. it needs to enter into an agreement to excess tourism pressure on the Sau- with private operators. In doing raha side of Chitwan National Park, In Kanchanpur, tourism activities so, it will benefit from their strong resulting in the depletion of buffer would be related to wildlife safaris marketing network and ability to zones and community forests. Starting and Tharu culture. Meanwhile in promote the villages. tourism activities in Madi will help Kailali, the biodiversity element with

71 72 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

each of the community forest benefi- munity has a negative attitude towards project for development of the tour- ciaries would offer a unique tourism conservation because they have not ism industry in Far Western Nepal. product. benefited from conservation activities. There are many destinations in the Far They view conservation as an impedi- West that have extremely high poten- Impact: Both Shuklaphanta and ment to development. tial for tourism development. Because Ghoda Ghodi Lake offer tourism the sights have not been advertised, activities similar to those offered in The project would help kick start they have not been able to capture the Chitwan or Bardia. However, these tourism development in the unex- tourism market. Marketing activities sites have not been able to brand them- plored Far Western Nepal and help should be focused on the neighboring selves as a wildlife destination because revive Rana Tharu culture. It would second tier cities of India. On a larger they are far from the major cities of also conserve the area’s biodiversity scale, expanding the entire North– Nepal. The region’s Rana Tharu culture and provide economic benefits to South–Far Western corridor for tour- is slowly fading away, but the commu- the communities. ism development could be accom- nity is aware of this fact and is willing plished through this project. to revive it. In the Ghoda Ghodi Lake Opportunities for Expansion: The region on the other hand, the com- tourism project here is seen as a seed

73 Section Rapid Assessment & 01/ Site Selection 14. Tourism Management and Development Plans The study has also prepared Tourism Table 31: Site specfic tourism management development plan Management and Development Plan (TMDP) for the selected sites in TAL S.No Landscape Location District and CHAL which is available online on Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve and 1. TAL Kanchanpur-Kailali the website of Hariyo Ban Program. Ghodaghodi Tal These sites have been selected for their high potentials to be developed as 2. TAL Madi Chitwan pilot sites for community based ecotourism (CBET). The four selected 3. CHAL Mipra and Chappa Gaun Lamjung sites are given in table 31. 4. CHAL Bhadaure, Panchase Kaski The TMDP aims to provide the necessary guidelines and recommendations ment and the conservation needs. mation was collected from various to ensure a balanced and integrated other sources (listed in bibliography) approach for tourism development The study has evaluated and taken and their use is highly acknowledged. and management in the selected sites. into account the required interven- The TDMP drawn in this report is a This plan has been drawn with the tions and inputs from the program, guiding tool to commence CBET in objective of initiating CBET in the needs of the community and the com- the selected sites. This plan has been area by making it participatory as far mercial realities of the market for such developed based on the research and as possible and focused on the long tourism products. Information gath- field visits that have provided some term goals of integrated sustainable ering was difficult as there was dearth valuable information which warrants management to achieve the necessary of information and data related to the potentials of the sites to be devel- balance between community develop- tourism in these sites, however, infor- oped as a tourist destination.

Tourism Management & Development Plan Tourism Management & Development Plan Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve Madi Valley Ghodaghodi Tal Chitwan Valley Kanchanpur – Kailali Cluster

Ghodaghodi Lake, Kailali

Tourism Management & Development Plan Tourism Management & Development Plan Mirpa & Chhappa Gaon Bhadaure Tamagi syange - Lamjung Panchase Lekh

en route to Syange, Lamjung Annexure 1: Total Budget for Establishing the Community Based Eco-tourism Sites in CHAL and TAL

S.No Details Amounts (NRs)

1 Need Assessment Survey

Tourism Cluster:Kanchanpur and Kailali (Far West) 500,000

2 Tourism Infrastructure Development 15,580,950

Shuklaphanta-Ghodhaghodi Cluster 5,007,162

Madi-Chitwan 1,953,930

Bhadaure Tamagi- Panchase 3,890,377

Mipra and Chappa Gaon- Syange 4,729,482

3 Capacity Building Trainings 2,675,000

Shuklaphanta-Ghodhaghodi Cluster 1,375,000

Madi-Chitwan 350,000

Bhadaure Tamagi- Panchase 475,000

Mipra and Chappa Gaon- Syange 475,000

4 Marketing 2,250,000

Shuklaphanta-Ghodhaghodi Cluster 1,200,000

Madi-Chitwan 400,000

Bhadaure Tamagi- Panchase 300,000

Mipra and Chappa Gaon- Syange 350,000

5 Promotion Materials 950,000

Shuklaphanta-Ghodhaghodi Cluster 500,000

Madi-Chitwan 150,000

Bhadaure Tamagi- Panchase 150,000

Mipra and Chappa Gaon- Syange 150,000

Grand Total NRs. 21,955,950

Grand Total USD. (USD 1 = NRS. 85) 258,305

Activity-wise Distribution of Budget Area-wise Distribution of Budget

76 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL Annexure 2: Ecotourism Initiatives in Nepal

Annexure 2: Ecotourism Initiatives in Nepal

Project Name Fact Sheet Details

Chitwan National Area: 932 sq. km - The dramatic decline of the rhino population and the extent of poaching prompted the Park District: Chitwan government to institute the Gaida Gasti – a rhino reconnaissance patrol of 130 armed Mammals: 43 species men and a network of guard posts all over Chitwan. To prevent the extinction of rhinos Birds: 543 species the Chitwan National Park was gazetted in December 1970 Fish and crocodiles: 113 species - Translocation of one horned rhinoceros due to their increase in numbers and creation of a viable wild population and preservation of Royal Bengal Tiger. - Because of the occurrence of many endangered plant species such as the tree fern, screw pine and several rare orchids and endangered mammals such as tiger, rhino, wild elephant, gaur, striped hyena, sloth bear and Gangetic dolphin , it was declared a World Heritage Site in 1983 Sagarmatha Area: 1148 sq km - This park was gazetted in 1976 and declared as World Heritage Site in 1979. National Park District: Solukhumbu - It is one of the rarest cases in the world, as the park lies above 3000 meters. 3% of the Birds: 118 species land is covered in forest, 69% is barren and 28% is forest. Mammals and flora: few rare species - This park can be divided into four climate zones because of the rising altitude which found include a forested lower zone, a zone of alpine scrub, the upper alpine zone which includes upper limit of vegetation growth, and the Arctic zone where no plants can grow. - Besides Mt. Everest, there are other attractions like its unique flora and fauna, museums, and some of the world’s famous trekking routes

Langtang National Area: 1710 sq km - Represents the Central Himalayan ecosystem. Park District: - Due to its wide altitudinal variation, the park host diverse flora and fauna from upper Mammals: 32 species tropical forests to alpine shrubs and perennial snow. Birds: 246 species - Langtang, Helambu and Gosainkunda Lake form the major trekking routes Endemic Plant Species: 15 - Tourist arrival in the park hasn’t been able to reach its peak as the destination has not been marketed properly

Annapurna Conser- Area: 7629 sq km - It is the first and largest conservation area in Nepal, established in 1986 by the KMTNC. vation Area Program 1,226 species of flowering plants, - The main goal of the project is t transform traditional subsistence activities into a system (ACAP) Mammals: 102 species of sound resource management, conservation thereby uplifting the standard of living of Birds: 474 species the local people. Reptiles: 39 species - It draws more than 60% of the country’s total trekkers. Amphibians: 22 species - The ACA is divided into 7 unit conservation offices which focus on various aspects depending on the area such as tourism management, agriculture development or heritage tourism. - It is involved in multifarious areas of activities such as development of local institutions, tree plantation, heritage conservation, forest conservation, community development, literacy enhancement etc Ghalegaon Sikles District: Kaski -The KMTNC/ACAP established this project in 1992 as a model trekking route between Ecotourism Project Ghalegaon and Sikles in Western Nepal. - The project involved foot trail construction, forest zoning and establishing proper camping facilities for trekkers. - The project includes activities such as plantations, establishment of micro-hydro projects, river flood prevention and sustainable harvest of forest products from defined zones for the local communities. - The community development component includes tour-guide) training, hotel management training, vegetable production training, leadership training and exposure tours. The project is also involved in trail development and maintenance, bridge construction and repairs, school education support, community toilets and drinking water schemes - This area attracts fewer trekkers than other Annapurna regions and therefore there is less pressure on the natural and social environment Upper Mustang Area: 2567 sq km - The project was a community based conservation project implemented by NTNC and Biodiversity Conser- District: Mustang ended in 2006. vation Project - The main threats to Upper mustang were excessive livestock rearing, increased demand for firewood due to increased tourism, over-exploitation of native medicinal plants, weak- ening of organizations and the authority of local institutions, and impact of inadequately planned commercial activities. - The objective of the project was institutional capacity building, developing biodiversity database for community based planning, management and monitoring system, and demonstration of replicable income generating activities based on nature and heritage based tourism and pasture and livestock management. - The major funding source for this project was through Global Environment Facility (GEF) and UNDP.

77 Manaslu Conserva- Area: 1663 sq km - The MCA was declared in 1998, whereby the management was handed over to NTNC by tion Area Project District: Lamjung the GoN. The management mandate for NTNC expires in 2018. Plants: 2,000 species - The area was neglected in terms of infrastructure development and basic services such Mammals: 33 species as access to water, electricity, health services and education. Threat to biodiversity due Birds: 110 species reptiles: 3 species to dependence of local people on natural resource also existed. Butterflies: 11 species 11 types of forest - The objective was to improve the capacity of the local communities to benefit from tourism in an environmentally benign manner for sustainable development. All the aforementioned neglects areas are looked into by MCAP. - Like in the ACAP, the main backbone of the project is conservation education. Extensive programs are held to ensure active participation and support of the local communities. Kanchenjunga Area: 2035 sq km - KCAP was initiated in 1998 by DNPWC with technical and financial support from WWF Conservation Area District: Taplejung Nepal. Project - The project has been implementing its programs in partnership with community-based organizations, namely Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Management Council and other user committees which it helped establish. The KCAP was handed over for community management in 2006. - The KCAP also applies the integrated conservation and development project, emphasizing on strengthening the capacity of local communities to improve their livelihood while maintaining the biological diversity of the area. - The major impact of tourism in the KCA area is solid waste left behind, with cleaning efforts starting only in 1998 when 3000 kg of rubbish was collected and disposed off. Currently local Mothers’ Groups and village residents run regular clean up campaigns. Makalu Barun Area: 1500 sq km - It was established in 1992 as an eastern extension of Sagarmatha National Park. National Park District: Solukhumbu, Sankhuwasabha - The physical setting is unique, within 40 km; the altitude varies from 400 meter to almost Mammals: 88 species Birds: 421 8500 meter at the confluence of the Arun River with Mt. Manaslu. species - The park had not been able to attract as many tourists due to prolonged rainy seasons Fish: 78 species Reptiles: 43 species and difficult terrain. Amphibians: 16 species - However in 1999, with the declaration of the buffer zone, the management approach has Butterflies: 315 species been adopted to promote ecotourism through renovation of the cultural heritage and conservation of forests and natural reserves - The park is home of the last remaining pristine forests and alpine meadows, therefore it has been designated as a Strict Nature Reserve, the first in Nepal. Bardia National Park Area: 968 sq km - Originally a hunting reserve, Bardia became a conservation area in 1976 and then District: Bardia attained National Park status in 1988. Mammals: 53 species - About 70% of the park is covered with forest, with the balance a mixture of grassland, Reptiles: 25 species savannah and riverine forest. Birds: 400 species - Species conservation has been satisfactory and a number of mammals such as tigers, Fish: 121 species elephants, deer etc have increased. Reintroduction of endangered rhinos has been conducted since 1986, which has drastically increased the number of rhinos in the park. - The diverse flora and fauna and the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous culture of the buffer zone communities. Tourist arrival has been increasing in the park. Rara National Park Area: 106 sq km - The park was gazetted in 1976 and is the smallest park in Nepal District: Mugu and Karnali - It was established to protect Rara Lake which is an important area for staging migratory Mammal: 51 species birds. Birds: 212 species - The flora and fauna of the region is endemic to the Humla Jumla region, which is also fully Flora: 1074 species protected - The park can be reached either after a 2.5 days trek from Jumla or from Surkhet after 10 days trek. The Park area hosts only a small number of visitors each year because of its remoteness. Shey Phoksundo Area: 3555 sq km - It is the largest and only trans- Himalayan national park in Nepal. National Park District: Dolpa, Mugu - This area was set aside to protect one of the last wild habitats of endangered species Birds: 200 species such as the snow leopard, wild yak, Tibetan antelope, and wild ass. Reptiles: 6 species - Despite the natural attractions, flora and fauna and interesting culture, tourism has not Butterflies: 29 species developed in an impressive manner in this area.

Khaptad National Area: 225 sq km - The area was gazetted in 1984; the area of the buffer zone is 216 km. Park District: Doti, Bajhang, Bajura and - The park has cultural importance due to the presence of Shiva shrine at higher triveni, the Accham ashram of Khaptad Swami and a temple of Khaptad Mai. Birds: 217 species, - Khaptad is of importance to conservation of nature due to its wide variety and high quality Mammals: 18 species of forests which comprise of subtropical, lower and upper temperate and subalpine types. Flowering plants: 567 - Conservation challenges are related to Illegal grass cutting , over grazing, felling of trees Butterflies: 5 species and other destruction

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Area: 175 sq km - The park was gazetted in 1976 and was established mainly to preserve the habitat for the Reserve District: Sunsari, Saptari, Udayapur last remnant population of wild water buffalo in Nepal. Plants: 514 species - The reserve has been recognized as a wetland site in 1987; the park is also famous for Mammals: 31 species bird watching. Birds: 485 species - The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Camp is located inside the reserve to solely cater to the bird watchers - Elephant safari, jungle walk, bird watching and boating are some of the tourism products offered to visitors.

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Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Shivapuri National Area: 144 sq km - Earlier established as a watershed and wildlife reserve, the park was established in 1976. park District: Kathmandu, Nuwakot, - It has a high diversity of forest types (Sal, Terai hardwood, mixed hardwood, chir pine and Sindhupalchowk oak), which occupy 39 percent of the land. Mammals: 19 species - It is a popular park due to its close proximity to Kathmandu and also due to the 13 trek- Birds: 9 species king routes inside the park itself Butterflies: 150 species - It is one of the more popular national parks in terms of tourist influx. Parsa Wildlife Area: 499 sq km - Reserve District: Parsa, Makwanpur, Bara The reserve was gazetted in 1987, and is located adjacent to the Chitwan National Park Flora: 919 species - The reserve is dominated by the Churia hills, where sal and chir pine are abundant, and Birds: 300species approx the bhavar region with its sal forest and mixed sal forest. - The area also suffers from scarcity of water resulting in poor habitat conditions for wildlife. - Together with the Indian Tiger Reserve Valmiki National Park, the coherent protected area of 2,075 sq km represents the Tiger Conservation Unit (TCU) Chitwan-Parsa- Valmiki, which covers a 3,549sq km Dhorpatan Hunting Area: 1325 sq km - It is the only hunting reserve in Nepal, gazetted in 1987 and is open to both Nepali and Reserve District: Myagdi, Baglung, Rukum foreign nationals. - Main animals to be hunt in this area is blue sheep and other games animals such as Leopard, Ghoral, Serow, Himalayan Thar, Himalayan black bear, Barking deer, Wild Boar, Rhesus Macaque, Langur(Monkey), and mouse hare. - The hunting license is issued by the department of National Parks and wildlife Conserva- tion. - There are some endangered animals in the reserve which include Musk Deer, Wolf, Red Panda, Cheer Pheasant and Danphe Shuklaphanta Area: 305 sq km - The reserve was initially managed as a hunting reserve and was later turned into a Wildlife Reserve District: wildlife reserve in 1976 to protect swamp deer. Mammals: 46 - Of the 46 species of mammals found, 18 are protected under the CITES such as the Birds: 423 species Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, Sloth Bear, Swamp Deer, Asian Elephant and Hispid Hare. Fish 27 species - One-horned Rhinoceros were trans-located from Chitwan National Park to establish a third viable population in the country.

79 Annexure 3: Shortlisted 37 Community Based Tourism Sites

Annexure 3: Shortlisted 37 Community Based Tourism Sites

S.N Sites District Region

1 Manbhu Gorkha CHAL

2 Dudh Pokhari Gorkha CHAL

3 Shertung Dhading CHAL

4 Budhathum Dhading CHAL

5 Barseri Dhading CHAL

6 Tanahusur Tanahu CHAL

7 Dhor Phirdhi Tanahu CHAL

8 Kolma Syangja CHAL

9 Dadagaon Syangja CHAL

10 Mattikan Syangja CHAL

11 Panchase Kaski CHAL

12 Chisapani Parbat CHAL

13 Golyang Parbat CHAL

14 Painju Parbat CHAL

15 Dhorpatan Shikhar Aarakhshan Baglung CHAL

16 Gaja Daha Baglung CHAL

17 Gumati ko Lekh Baglung CHAL

18 Madan Pokhara and Rani Ghat, Srinagar Palpa CHAL

19 Bhuruda Singha Myagdi CHAL

20 Takum Myagdi CHAL

21 Narphu Village Manang CHAL

22 Marpha-Tukiche-Kobang-Lete-Ghansa Mustang CHAL

23 Mustang-Mesokanto/Tilicho Mustang CHAL

24 Kagbeni Mustang CHAL

25 Namung Pass Manang CHAL

26 Siurung Lamjung CHAL

27 Syange Lamjung CHAL

28 Bichaur Lamjung CHAL

29 Baledada Lamjung CHAL

30 Chitlang Makwanpur TAL

31 Shuklaphanta Kanchanpur TAL

32 Ghodaghodi lake Kailali TAL

33 Siraichuli hills Chitwan TAL

34 Chepang Chitwan TAL

35 Jalbire Chitwan TAL

36 Bishajari Tal, Devghat Tal Chitwan TAL

37 Madi Chitwan TAL

80 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Annexure 4: Questionnaire used for Pre-feasibility of Sites through Field Visits.

The questionnaires below is just to help the study team gather information in different areas (potentials, hurdles, approach, opportunities, attitude) that will help us understand the current scenario and help develop an effective community based eco-tourism development and management plan for the new sites. The questionnaires are designed in such a way to ensure the objectives of the Hariyo Ban project are captured with special regard to finding communities in dire need of alternate means of livelihood to relieve them from low poverty levels. These questions will not be administered individually but will be used as a basis by the research team to conduct discussions and gather information. Therefore, the questions to be put forth will not be limited to the ones in the questionnaire. In the course of this research, every effort will be put to provide a good representation of diverse groups while collecting information (including women, youth, dalits, socially excluded and marginalized groups). Each of the questionnaires will be used to carry out discussions with different bodies as shown in the table below:

Rapid Assessment : Existing Community • Executive Committee of the pilot sites Managed Eco-tourism Destinations • Management team of the pilot sites • Locals running home-stays or lodges/tea houses

Rapid Assessment :Questionnaire for • Communities Discussion with the Community • VDCs • Community Forestry User Groups • Youth Group & Associations

Feasibility: New Community Managed Eco- • Local Development Office Tourism Destinations or Clusters • Communities • VDCs • Community Forestry User Groups • Youth Group & Associations

Questionnaire for Travel & Tour Operators • Travel & Tour Operators • Trekking Agents Association of Nepal • Hotel Association of Nepal • Nepal Association of travel & Tourism Industries

Key Informant Interviews • Government & Semi Government Bodies • District Development Committees • Non Government Organizations • Industry Experts • NTB • Different Associations

User Group Questionnaire • Randomly chosen individuals from the community group

Women Group Questionnaire • Randomly chosen individuals from the community group

81 Rapid Assessment: Existing Community Managed Eco-tourism Destinations

1. What was the motivation behind engaging in Eco-tourism?

2. What are the legal provisions that need to be adhered to?

3. What are the major tourist attractions? a. Geological b. Culture & Heritage c. Flora & Fauna, Wildlife d. Amusement & recreation e. Uniqueness

4. How do tourists come to the destination (road, air, hike)? How is it connected to the major cities?

5. Infrastructure: Do you have the following facilities: a. Electricity (Government/Solar/Generator/Wind/Micro Hydro) b. Communication (Telephone, Mobile, Internet) c. Drinking water and Sanitation d. Medical Facilities e. Security against poachers etc f. Existing energy sources (Electricity, Gas, fuelwood consumption patterns /rate) and use of energy saving devices, availability and potentials for replacements?

6. Hospitality and retail services assessment a. Evaluation of number, and type of lodges (could be home stays), retail stores and restaurants b. Facilities offered by lodges, operating hours and sales of lodges, retail stores and restaurants. c. Ratio of local patrons versus visitors d. The average daily rate and the occupancy rate during peak and off-seasons. e. Type of guests, length of stay and purpose of stay f. Type of souvenirs and products available for purchase g. Type of ownership including number of employees and marketing

7. Demographic and Economic Profile of Tourists visiting the Destination a. Number of visitors: Group Size versus free independent travelers b. Local Vs International Tourists c. Nationality, Age, Gender, income, profession, travel motivation, duration of stay, mode of travel d. Expenditure per person, per day

8. Human Resource Assessment a. Who is responsible for running the lodges, home stays? b. Are they qualified or have they received any kind of training to be able to run lodges/ home stays? c. Which is the most appropriate area to use the community human resources? d. Do the waiters, cooks, guides, cleaners etc. have any basic training? e. What is the ratio of local staff to staff from other areas? f. How easy is it to find people and hire them? g. Have people left the job to migrate to cities or abroad or sought other activities? h. What are the major human resource problems? 9. Who in the community is involved in the management or how is the management team selected? How do you assure the representation of poor and marginalized group?

82 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

10. Did the community or certain members have to forgo certain activities or their property to commence with the tourism activities?

11. How is the marketing and promotion done? Any tie-ups or collaborations?

12. What has been the economic and social impact of tourism? a. On individuals b. On Group/Community

13. Cost estimation for developing and operating projects including cost for providing and maintaining public facilities and services

14. Estimate of economic leakage and measures needed to retain tourist spending?

15. Have you carried out any Economic analysis of the project to evaluate the returns on investment and evaluate the sustainability?

16. Who do you think are your primary/secondary competitors? How do you plan to manage primary/secondary competition?

17. Has there been any conflict between the outsiders and the community people after starting tourism? How was it resolved?

18. Are there any positive/negative environmental impacts that have been seen after engaging in ecotourism? How has the attitude changed?

19. Perception of community on the benefit received from tourism development. Has the benefit reached all segments of the community?

20. Understand how the benefits are being shared to evaluate if there is any unequal distribution and identify what is the case for this inequality.

21. What are the limitations to growth e.g. volume and type of tourist and development (factors such as ecological resilience, resource capacity, community concerns & tourist satisfaction)

22. What are the risks associated with tourism? What has the community done to reduce/mitigate these risks?

23. Do you prepare, publish or share you financials with all members of the community? How often do you conduct meetings?

24. Have you received any support or aid from government or non-government agencies? How was the money or any other such resources arranged?

25. Experience a. Difficulty in managing tourism b. Key learning c. Pros and cons of tourism engagement d. Hindrances in growth e. Advice to other communities who wants to engage in tourism

83 Rapid Assessment : Questionnaire For Discussions With Community

1. Does tourism currently exist in your community? If yes when did it commence? Have you been a part of this?

2. Do you think that your community depends upon tourism?

3. What percentage of your tourists is local, regional, and international?

4. Have the numbers of tourists visiting your community increased in the last one year?

5. What are the natural, cultural, and recreational assets in the area to attract tourists?

6. How interested and supportive is the local community towards tourism?

7. Is tourism beneficial to the community in terms of social, environmental and economic impacts?

8. Do you enjoy having tourists in your community?

9. Currently, does your community experience any negative aspects associated with tourism? If so, please explain.

10. What services are needed in the community to make it more comfortable for residents and visitors?

11. Is the community involved in the management of the natural resources? How could the community improve the management of its natural resources?

12. Tourism potential to provide economic alternatives. Consider the following:

a. Would introduction of ecotourism for job creation and income generating activities draw residents away from more destructive livelihoods, such as encroachment and illegal logging etc?

b. Would it encourage stewardship for biodiversity? Would the benefits from tourism development be enough to motivate the community to conserve the natural environment?

13. Have the local resources and produce been used while serving the tourists?

14. What are the things that tourists buy from the community like, local produces, souvenirs, crafts etc?

15. What is the overall development that the community has enjoyed after being engaged in ecotourism?

16. Has the distribution of benefits been equal? If no, why?

17. Has this engagement brought about a change in socio-economical change in the people of the community?

18. What are the biggest issues and challenges in the community at the moment? Who is helping to solve these problems?

84 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Feasibility: New Community Managed Eco-tourism Des- tinations or Clusters

1. Socio Cultural Assessment of the site: a. Local census information (Population, Gender Ratio, Population density, Literacy Rate, Households number and size) b. Migration trend and reason for migration c. Source and level of income d. Population and employment structure including local resident lifestyle, entertainment and recreation opportunities

2. What are the major tourist attractions? a. Geological b. Culture & Heritage c. Flora & Fauna d. Amusement & recreation e. Uniqueness

3. What infrastructure does the site have: a. Existing energy sources b. Communication c. Drinking water and Sanitation d. Medical Facilities e. Security

4. What do tourists, tourism and ecotourism mean to you?

5. What they believe can attract tourists (what they and their place can offer)?

6. Level of support for ecotourism and concerns residents have about tourism development

7. Places or events the community do not want to develop or expose to tourism

8. How would they like to operate community based tourism (for new location)? Why in this business?

9. How do they plan to distribute the benefits and how comfortable are they with separating a proportion of benefit for social goods and environmental protection?

10. Has the community been engaged in talks regarding tourism development plans in the area? If yes, (i) When? (ii) What was the plan? (iii) What happened to the plans?

11. Have they started or are working with other agencies to commence eco-tourism activities?

12. Has there been any tourism initiative? Are there any lodges, home stays etc.?

13. Is there any competition or similar tourism activities in nearby areas? Is there some scope of linking the districts tourist attractions together with other destinations?

14. How is the availability of the human resource in the area? Can small interventions help bring about significant changes?

15. Is there any threat that ecotourism can cause to the biodiversity and livelihood of the people living there?

85 16. Who are the key individuals who are influential or have the power to change things in the community?

17. What are the main difficulties preventing you from becoming involved in tourism?

18. What types of tourism attractions and products does the destination have the potential to develop or improve?

19. Will employment for local residents be one of the benefits derived from tourism development, and if so, what types of employment will be created?

86 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

Questionnaire for Travel & Tour Operators Business Name :

Contact Person :

Address :

Contact No :

1. What type of inbound tours do you mainly provide?

2. In the current environment what are the tourists typically interested in?

International Tourists:

Domestic Tourists:

3. Other than trekking what are the different packages that are being sold or has demand?

4. What is the demand for new ecotourism destinations?

5. Approximately what percentages of your clients are interested in community/ cultural activities?

6. What’s the best way to market ecotourism in the pilot sites or link tour operators to these destinations?

7. How can tourism in these destinations involve or benefit local communities?

8. Do you market community/ cultural activities as part of your itinerary? If yes, please state the activities.

9. What are the prices like? Do they vary? Are they high, low, or moderate? What is the price range that would be suitable to sell these packages?

10. Are there direct enquiries? Where are visitors coming from and how are they finding out about the area?

11. In relation to Community based ecotourism - What types of facilities and services are being offered? Which ones are missing?

12. How often do you hire local community members for tours or trekking trips?

13. What are the problems that you face while working with communities?

14. Have you given any technical assistance (in-kind and/or financial support) to a community Tourism activity?

15. What are the constraints on community tourism activities?

16. What are the major failures and successes of the ecotourism destinations led by the communities? What led to them?

17. Please list any local community development projects/ income or profit sharing schemes supported by your tourism business.

18. Will you be interested to work with a community to develop a new ecotourism site?

19. What are the potential sites that can be promoted for community managed ecotourism?

87 Key Informant Interviews (Government, Non-government,Industry Experts, NTB, Associations etc.)

Name : Organization : Contact No :

1. Is the local tourism industry doing well? What prospect do you see for Community Based Ecotourism? Any examples that you want to share.

2. According to you which are the potential areas in these landscapes (TAL & CHAL) where community managed tourism could be promoted?

3. What are the internal and external social conditions that will impact the development strategy and outcomes of such ecotourism projects?

4. What government guidelines, laws or policies affect tourism in your area?

5. There are success/failure stories in the context of Community based ecotourism. What do you think are the key factors that needs to be addressed?

6. If a new site is developed based on Community Managed Ecotourism Concept: a. Who are the potential partners? b. Who are the main competitors? c. What are the opportunities for collaboration? d. What are the opportunities for developing differentiated products and services? e. Any recommendations for providing a different, unique service?

7. Are there opportunities to target new markets for these products? If so, which ones?

8. Would this tourism development foster the creation and growth of small and medium-size businesses at the local level?

9. What do you think are the key infrastructural and services support systems that such tourism development will require to make it profitable and sustainable?

10. How could destination stakeholders benefit from this development? How could they lose?

11. What are the potential impacts of tourism on the natural environment and resource use? If negative, how can these are mitigated? What is the major risk or adverse impacts of such projects?

12. What opportunities are there for you to play a role in planning and policymaking at local, regional or national levels?

13. Do you feel that there is a strong link between ecotourism and natural resource protection? What are your suggestions for encouraging such developments in these communities in the future?

14. What do you expect the impacts on (insert appropriate category of impact, such as on flora and fauna, water resources area, etc.) to be?

15. What are your suggestions for the ecotourism development in this region? What investments or improvements can we work together on?

16. Are there other forms of development that you think would benefit the local community in these districts more than

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sustainable tourism? If so, what are they?

17. If other activities, services, or products could be offered in the project area, where do you think these activities or services should be located? Who should run them?

18. Define threats attributed to tourism development plans by communities?

User Group Questionnaire

Name : Age : Education : Marital Status :

1. How would you define ‘tourism’? Do you understand Ecotourism?

2. If I were a tourist, what would you tell me to encourage me to visit your village? How long should I stay, what should I do?

3. How many people live in your house? What are their ages?

4. What do you (and family members) do for a living?

5. Approximately how much do wage earners in your immediate family earn per month? (formal / informal earnings)

6. Do you think commencing ecotourism activities in your community will be good?

7. Have you ever been engaged with a tourism activity? Have you or your family members received any benefits from tourism / ecotourism?

8. Who in your community benefits from tourism / ecotourism? How? If benefits are distributed inequitably, how can this be remedied?

9. What are the potential impacts of tourism on the natural environment and other resource uses? If negative, how can these are mitigated? What are the major risks or adverse impacts of such projects?

10. If your community continues to pursue the development of ecotourism ventures, would you participate? Why / why not?

11. How do you think you can engage yourself in tourism activities?

12. What aspects of your community / culture would you like to share with tourists?

13. What do you think increased interaction with tourists would change about your community?

89 Women Group Questionnaire

Name : Age : Education : Marital Status :

1. What do you think “ecotourism” means?

2. Are you engaged in any income generating activities?

3. Do you belong to some women group? Do you wish to establish a group of some kind?

4. Do you make traditional handicrafts or any other artifacts?

5. Do you see tourists in your community?

6. How do you see tourism as a source of income?

7. What kind of attractions are there in your community that would attract tourists?

8. Would you be interested to be involved in the tourism business? If yes, then in what way?

9. What is the best training or support that you require to get involved with tourism?

10. How do you think that things would change if many tourists would visit your community?

11. Who makes the decision on the spending?

12. Do you think ecotourism could benefit conservation efforts in your community? If yes how can we start and how do we get the commitment from the people?

13. In terms of benefits where do you see the majority of benefit coming and how? a. Economic Independence b. Social outlook c. Gender Empowerment

14. With the development of tourism do you see any negative implications that can come up in the near future?

15. Do you think women can take a lead in developing ecotourism and work towards protecting the bio diversity? If yes what kind of assistance and trainings will be required?

90 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL Annexure 5: Scoring for Parameters

Objective Scoring ous section. The districts were gauged those districts with the least attractive against each other based on these aspects and 5 for those with the most Biodiversity aspects and relative scoring was done attractive aspects.

Criteria Weight ranging from 1 to 5 with 1 scored for

1,2,3,4,5 5 Gender and Social Inclusion

Any four factors 4 GRDI GRDI GEM

Any three factors 3 Range Weight Range Weight Range Weight Any two factors 2 0.435-0.468 5 0.414-0.449 5 0.391-0.420 5 Any one factor 1 0.469-0.502 4 0.450-0.484 4 0.421-0.450 4 0.503-0.535 3 0.485-0.519 3 0.451-0.479 3

1- Protected areas. 2- Ramsar sites, 0.536-0.569 2 0.520-0.554 2 0.480-0.509 2 3- Important Bird Area, 4- attractive well protected habitats, 5- occurrence 0.570-0.602 1 0.555-0.589 1 0.510-0.538 1 of endemic/ rare/charismatic species, HDI: Human Development Index, GRDI: Gender Related Development Index, GEM: Gender Empowerment Measure Livelihood Based on district data collected Secondary Parameters regarding the means of livelihood prevailing in the districts, ranging from Accessibility (Road Density) Infrastructural Adequacy agriculture, trading, business, animal Electricity Water Sanitation husbandry and service related work, Range (in Weight Range (In % Weight Range (In Weight Range (In % Weight the lowest score was given to districts meters per sq of popula- Percentage of population) where alternative means of livelihood km of area) tion) of Popula- tion) was relatively more prevalent than in 251 and 5 3.5%-5.9% 1 69.2%-74.6% 1 11%-25.4% 1 other districts. Since the basic objec- above tive of this project is to provide means 191-250 4 6%-8.4% 2 74.7%-79.9% 2 25.5%-39.8% 2 of livelihood for those who have no 132-190 3 8.5%-10.7% 3 80%-85.3% 3 39.9%-54.2% 3 other source, the districts with the fewest means of livelihood were given 72-131 2 10.8%-13.2% 4 85.4%-90.7% 4 54.3%-68.6% 4 the highest score. 12-71 1 13.3%-15.5% 5 90.8%-96% 5 68.7%-83% 5 Gender and Social Inclusion

Demographics Primary Parameters The primary factors namely geologi- Literacy Average Household Size Migration cal attractiveness, flora and fauna, Range (in % of Weight Range Weight Range (In % of Weight cultural heritage, existing tourism population) Population) destinations and scope for clustering 40-52 5 3.75 - 4.57 1 1 – 4 1 comprise of more subjective param- 53-64 4 4.52 – 5.27 2 5 – 8 2 eters that cannot be quantified within 65-76 3 5.28 – 6.03 3 9 – 12 3 a certain range in order to develop a 77-88 2 6.04 – 6.79 4 13 – 16 4 score card. Therefore these parameters were scored on the basis of the quali- 89-100 1 6.80 – 7.55 5 17 – 20 5 tative aspects explained in the previ-

91 Annexure 6: Tourism Potential in Far Western Region of Nepal

Current Market Size Immediate market Future/New market

Current Tourist Arrivals Unit Immediate Potential Unit Population of Target No. of Indian Cities people Tourist Class Hotels - Beds 1,200 Tourist 15,111 Bareilly 4,465,344 Lucknow 4,588,455 Total Room nights 438,000 NGOs/INGOs 5,585 Kanpur 4,572,951 Current occupancy 60% Domestic Tourist 2,000 Nainital 955,128 NGO/INGO Occupancy 85% 223,380 Parents of Nepali 100 Almora 621,927 Total Tourist Potential 22,7964 Moradabad 4,473,138 Indians and other Occupancy 15% 39,420 Sitarganj 200,000 Immediate Market size In USD 1,144,350 Total Rooms nights being Used 262,800 Total Population 19,876,943 Note: Average length of stay of Indian & 3 International tourist • Assuming with a bit of intervention the current number of tourist would New target from bordering 99,3856 Average length of stay of NGO/ 4 Indian Cities INGO increase by 15%. National tourism Immediate Potentials 22,796 growth rate stands at 22%. 10% of Current Indian and International 131401 New market no. of Tourist 122,180 Tourist the NGO/INGO does can be target New market Size in USD 7,330,8137 Current NGO/INGOs workers 558452 while domestic tourist and parents of Nepali tourist of 2000 and 100 can be the immediate potential as Note: Note: well. • Assumed that through market pro- • The current Indian and interna- motion and infrastructure develop- tional tourists has been calculated • Assuming the spend at USD 20 per ment 0.5% of the bordering Indian by dividing beds occupied by Indi- day and length of stay of 3 days for cities can be tapped. ans to the length of stay of Indian Tourist, NGO/INGOs and Parents • Assumed that length of stay is 3 days and International Tourist (3 days). of Nepali Students while length of with spending of USD 20 per day. stay for NGO/INGO is assumed is • The current NGO/INGOs workers at 1 day. The immediate market size has been calculated by dividing beds shows a growth rate of 45%. occupied by NGO/INGO’s to the length of stay of NGO/INGO’s (4 days).

Amount Details in USD Tourist Spend per day in USD 40

Assuming 50% 20 Current market Size 788,4003

Note: • Assuming tourist spend only 50% of the Tourist spending of USD 40 the current size of the market works out to USD 788,400.

92 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL Annexure 7: List of Religious Sites in Panchase Lekh

• Panchadham: Shrine of 5 deities • Saradi and Aandhi Khola • Shrawan Kumar “Samadhi” • Siddha Baba temple • HomeKunda • Panchase Lake (Panchakoshi Sarober) • Balaji Panchyan temple • Bouddha Stupas (200 year old)

93 Annexure 8: List of respondents

Annexure 8: List of respondents Contact S.No. Name of Respondents Organisation Designation Details Location 1 Leela Baniya Nepal Tourism Board Manager 4256909 Kathmandu

2 Jitendra Bhattarai Nepal Tourism Board Research, Planning 4256909 (202) Kathmandu & monitoring officer 3 Khem Raj Timalsena Nepal Tourism Board Tourism Product & 4256909 (178) Kathmandu resource Develpment officer 4 Sunil Sharma Nepal Tourism Board Research, Planning 4256909 (140) Kathmandu & Monitoring, Manager 5 Bodh Raj Bhandari Village Tourism Promotional President 9841236626 Kathmandu Forum -Nepal 6 Jyoti Adhikari Trekking Agents Association Past President 9851020061 Kathmandu of Nepal 7 Mahendra Singh Thapa Trekking Agents Association Trekking Agents 9851027620 Kathmandu of Nepal Association of Nepal 8 Dirga Ghale Ghalegaon Tourism Secretary 9814196581 Ghalegaon, Lamjung Development & Management Committee 9 Bal Krishna Ghale Liberty Holidays Manager 9818601349 Ghalegaon, Lamjung

10 Prem Bahadur Ghale Ghalegaon Tourism Chairman 9856045012 Ghalegaon, Lamjung Development & Management Committee 11 Padmani Ghale Mother Group Vice chairperson - Ghalegaon, Lamjung

12 Krishnamaya Ghale Mother Group Chairperson - Ghalegaon, Lamjung

13 Ganga Ghale Youth Club President 9817112798 Ghalegaon, Lamjung

14 Lalita Gurung ACAP & Women empowerment officer 9846048837 Ghalegaon, Lamjung

15 Kushi Raut NTNC Officer 9845352799 Ghalegaon, Lamjung

16 Kesh Bahadur Gurung Gurung Cultural Museum In-Charge - Ghalegaon, Lamjung

17 Mukta Singh Gurung Home Stay, Ward-1 Registered Member - Ghalegaon, Lamjung

18 Ganesh Bahadur Gurung Home Stay, Ward-1 Registered Member - Ghalegaon, Lamjung

19 Khagan Singh Gurung Home Stay, Ward-1 Registered Member - Ghalegaon, Lamjung

20 Purna Bahadur Gurung Home Stay, Ward-2 Registered Member - Ghalegaon, Lamjung

21 Santa Gurung Home Stay, Ward-2 Registered Member - Ghalegaon, Lamjung

22 Namrata Gurung Home Stay, Ward-2 Registered Member - Ghalegaon, Lamjung

23 Shyama Ghale Home Stay, Ward-3 Registered Member - Ghalegaon, Lamjung

24 Lil Bahadur Gurung Home Stay, Ward-3 Registered Member - Ghalegaon, Lamjung

25 Yamuna Ghale Home Stay, Ward-3 Registered Member - Ghalegaon, Lamjung

26 Arjun Karki Nepal Village Resorts Manager 9856033696 Sirubari, Syangja

27 Baber SinghGurung Sirubari Tourism Development Chairman 9846343357 Sirubari, Syangja Committee 28 Jume Gurung Sirubari Tourism Development Secreatary 9846159388 Sirubari, Syangja Committee 29 Ratna Bahadur Gurung Sirubari Tourism Development Treasurer 9846239761 Sirubari, Syangja Committee 30 Ganesh Gurung Sirubari Tourism Development Tourism Secretary 9846122938 Sirubari, Syangja Committee

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31 Ram Mani Khanal Baghmara Community Forest Congress Executive - Baghmara, Chitwan

32 Singha Bahadur Tamang Baghmara Community Forest UML Executive 9845142918 Baghmara, Chitwan

33 Manoj Kumar Chowdhary Baghmara Community Forest Member 9845101464 Baghmara, Chitwan

34 Bishnu Prasad Aryal Baghmara Community Forest Ex-Chairman - Baghmara, Chitwan

35 Basudev Chapagain Family Guest House Proprietor 9855062381 Sauraha, Chitwan

36 Jari Maya Tamang Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 37 Bharat Raj Mahato Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 38 Suman Lama Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 39 Kanchi Lama Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 40 Pratab Singh Lama Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 41 Shri Krishna mahato Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 42 Budhiram Chowdhary Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 43 Tika Kadel Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 44 Harimaya Thapa Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 45 Budhi Bahadur Pariyar Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 46 Bhagunte Majhi Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 47 Baisakhi Majhi Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 48 Malpool Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 49 Visramji Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 50 Ramana Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 51 Mangara Mahato Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 52 Ram Prasad Subedi Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 53 Tek Ram Mahato Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 54 Ram Chandra Gautam Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 55 Sarala Mahato Baghmara Community Forest Member - Baghmara, Chitwan User Group 56 Trailokya Chitrakar Royal park Proprietor 9851079159 Sauraha, Chitwan

57 Krishna Adhikari Chitwan Park Cottage Proprietor 9855057868 Sauraha, Chitwan

58 Laxmi hamal River view Proprietor 056-580184 Sauraha, Chitwan

59 Ram Prasad Pyakurel Jungle Vista Proprietor 9845023356 Sauraha, Chitwan

60 Dilip Kumar Mali Gorkha Hamlet Proprietor 9851528308 Sauraha, Chitwan

61 Basu Dev Chapagain Chitwan National Park President 9855057059 Chitwan Buffer Zone Mrigakunja User Committee 62 Vishnu Dutt Local Development Office LDO - Syange, Lamjung

63 Meghendra Pokharel Local Development Office Project officer 984607470 Syange, Lamjung

64 Sudip Shrestha Chamber of commerce Syange, Lamjung

65 Pramod Shrestha Chamber of commerce Tourism officer 9856028507 Syange, Lamjung

66 Ram Kumar Hotel entrepreneur/Rotary Club Proprietor - Syange, Lamjung

95 67 Suman Gurung Tourism Development Member 9846315555 Syange, Lamjung Committee 68 Nar bahadur gurung Tourism Development Chairman 9846249109 Syange, Lamjung Committee 69 Sudip Adhikari ACAP Officer 9851125654 Syange, Lamjung

70 Brik Bhadur gurung ACAP Officer 9846066843 Syange, Lamjung

71 Raj Kumar Gurung Youth club mipra Chairman - Syange, Lamjung

72 Nim bhadur Gurung Farther Group Past Ward chairman - Syange, Lamjung

73 Subedar Bill Bhadur Father group/ ACAP ACAP VDC chairman - Syange, Lamjung

74 Khusi maya gurung Chapa gaon Mother group Secretary - Syange, Lamjung

75 Sarkisiu Gurung Chapa gaon Mother group Chairman - Syange, Lamjung

76 Ash Kumari Chapa gaon Mother group member - Syange, Lamjung

77 Sunchu Gurung Chapa gaon Mother group member - Syange, Lamjung

78 Sher Bahadur Gurung Mipra Father's group Chairman - Syange, Lamjung

79 Khum Bahadur Gurung School management VDC chairman - Syange, Lamjung committee 80 Kulprasad gurung School management Teacher - Syange, Lamjung committee 81 Rupesh Gurung Bhaudarey Home stay Chairman 9806510153 Bhadaure, Kaski

82 Hiralal Gurung Rani ban community forest Chairman 9746065735 Bhadaure, Kaski

83 Sirprasad Gurung Community forest ward 2 Chaiman - Bhadaure, Kaski

84 Min Bahadur Gurung Community forest ward 2 member - Bhadaure, Kaski

85 Surya Gurung Srijana Youth club ward 2 Chairman - Bhadaure, Kaski

86 Ash Bahadur Kami Pragati Yuva Parivar Chairman - Bhadaure, Kaski

87 Baesh Kumari Dalit Mother Group ward 2 Chairman - Bhadaure, Kaski

88 Cheez Kumari Dalit Mother Group ward 1 member - Bhadaure, Kaski

89 Sunsari Kumari Dalit Mother Group ward 1 member - Bhadaure, Kaski

90 Bimala Kumari Dalit Mother Group ward 1 member - Bhadaure, Kaski

91 Ash Bahadur Gurung Hotel Entreprenuer Proprietor - Bhadaure, Kaski

92 Hitmaya Gurung Mother Group ward 1 Chairman 9806533156 Bhadaure, Kaski

93 Sukmaya Gurung Mother Group ward 1 member - Bhadaure, Kaski

94 Kunti Gurung Mother Group ward 1 member - Bhadaure, Kaski

95 Manju Gurung Mother Group ward 1 member - Bhadaure, Kaski

96 Sukuna Gurung Mother Group ward 1 member - Bhadaure, Kaski

97 Sita Gurung Mother Group ward 1 member - Bhadaure, Kaski

98 Khim Kumari Mother Group ward 1 member - Bhadaure, Kaski

99 Panch Gurung Mother Group ward 1 member - Bhadaure, Kaski

100 Arati Gurung Mother Group ward 1 member - Bhadaure, Kaski

101 Sargati gurung Mother Group ward 1 member - Bhadaure, Kaski

102 Manmaya Gurung Mother Group ward 1 member - Bhadaure, Kaski

103 Dil Bhadur Gurung Machapuchhere Development Chairman - Bhadaure, Kaski organisation 104 Gopal Gurung Machapuchhere Development - Bhadaure, Kaski organisation 105 Iswaraj Poudel Machapuchhere Development - Bhadaure, Kaski organisation 106 Manish Panchase Samrakshit Ban 9841519587 Bhadaure, Kaski

107 Rajendra Subedi District Development Tourism & Agriculture 98550556487 Chitwan Committee Section, Program Officer

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108 Abdul Sahim Ansari TAL - WWF Project Co - Manager 9855056892 Chitwan

109 Ramprit Yadav TAL - WWF Tiger Rhino 9745009162 Chitwan Conservation Coordinator 110 Ram Kumar Aryal NTNC Admin officer 9955057012 Chitwan

111 Dev Kumar Mahat Lamo Jharana Tourism Chairman 9845210214 Chitwan Development Committee 112 Jeevan Gurung Lamo Jharana Tourism Member 9845177498 Chitwan Development Committee 113 Prabhu Mahato Baghauda BZUC Chairman 9855060503 Madi, Chitwan

114 Mukta Raj Lamechane Rewa BzUC Chairman 9855063979 Madi, Chitwan

115 Mathura Bhandari Ayodhyapuri BZUC Chairman 9815236313 Madi, Chitwan

116 Loknath Poudel Panchpandav BZUC Karyalaya Sanchalak - Madi, Chitwan

117 Kula Nanda Bhusal Baghauda BZUC Member - Madi, Chitwan

118 Biswa Dhakal Someswor Tourism Member - Madi, Chitwan Development Committee 119 Hari Poudel Shanta Resort Hotel Owner - Madi, Chitwan

120 Sarita Bot Panchpandav Nagar, Home Member - Madi, Chitwan stay 121 Anita Mahato Panchpandav Nagar, Home Member - Madi, Chitwan stay 122 Muna Thapa Panchpandav Nagar, Home Member - Madi, Chitwan stay 123 Om Bahadur Pariyar Panchpandav Nagar, Home Member - Madi, Chitwan stay 124 Dil Bahadur Bika Simara Village Member - Madi, Chitwan

125 Sanjay Mahato Simara Vilage Member - Madi, Chitwan

126 Mani Ram Choudhary Simara Village Member - Madi, Chitwan

127 Ram Sharan Karki Simara Village Member - Madi, Chitwan

128 Gauri Shankar Mahato Simara Village Member 9845275116 Madi, Chitwan

129 Mahadev Mahato Simara Village Member - Madi, Chitwan

130 Deepa Jethara Bindra CFUG Secretary - Kailali

131 Deela Sapkota Shri Sindar CFUG Chairman - Kailali

132 Parbati Niwra Mohannail CFUG Chairman - Kailali

133 Ganga Niwra Mohannail CFUG Treasurer - Kailali

134 Jamuna Nirwa Mohannail CFUG Member, Journalist - Kailali

135 Sumitra Kadayat Hariyali CFUG Secretary - Kailali

136 Bindra Debikadayat Hariyali CFUG Treasurer - Kailali

137 Goma Bhatta Komal Hariyali CFUG Secretary - Kailali

138 Jay Bahadur Bam Nakhrot Ghoda Ghodi Member - Kailali Operational Committee 139 Dan Singh Sant Mohannail CFUG Vice Chairman - Kailali

140 Hriday Acharya Shri Sindar CFUG Secretary - Kailali

141 Gaur Joshi Ghoda Ghodi Tourism Chairman - Kailali Development Committee 142 Bhim Baduwal Ghoda Ghodi Grahmin Bidyut Chairman - Kailali Sahakari Sanstha 143 Ram Prasad Sapkota Nakhrot Ghoda Ghodi Accountant - Kailali Bahudesya Sanstha 144 Amar Bahadur Sa Nakhrot Ghoda Ghodi Accountant - Kailali Bahudesya Sanstha 145 Lakshmi Choudhary Nakhrot Ghoda Ghodi Vice Chairman - Kailali Bahudesya Sanstha 146 Maina Datta Teknuna Mahila CFUG Member - Kailali

97 147 Bishna Chaudhary Janhit CFUG Chairman - Kailali

148 Debisara Pant Janhit CFUG Member - Kailali

149 Harikala Sapkota Nakhrot Sahakari Sanstha - Kailali

150 Lakshmi Malla Nakhrot Sahakari Sanstha - Kailali

151 Satrupa Tamata Bageshwori CFUG Vice Chairman - Kailali

152 Chitralal Giri Hariyali CFUG Vice Chairman - Kailali

153 Tilak Ram Sapkota Shri Janadi CFUG Secretary - Kailali

154 Khadak Kadayat Hariyali CFUG - Kailali

155 Chandra Bahadur Chand District Development Local Development - Kanchanpur Committee Officer 156 Rukma Rana Ayya Mothers User Group, Chairman - Kanchanpur Naya Kattan 157 Basanti Rana Ayya Mothers User Group, Member - Kanchanpur Naya Kattan 158 Phulkumari Rana Ayya Mothers User Group, Member - Kanchanpur Naya Kattan 159 Gomti Rana Ayya Mothers User Group, Member - Kanchanpur Naya Kattan 160 Sarita Rana Ayya Mothers User Group, Member - Kanchanpur Naya Kattan 161 Pushpa Rana Ayya Mothers User Group, Member - Kanchanpur Naya Kattan 162 Lakshmi Rana Ayya Mothers User Group, Member - Kanchanpur Naya Kattan 163 Keshmati Rana Ayya Mothers User Group, Member - Kanchanpur Naya Kattan 164 Anita Rana Ayya Mothers User Group, Member - Kanchanpur Naya Kattan 165 Ram Prabesh Rana Teacher - Kanchanpur

166 Birendra Roka Ranger Nawalparasi

167 Dev Natarayan Mahato Gundredhaka CFUG Chairman 9804496090 Nawalparasi

168 Nar Bahadur Mahato Gundredhaka CFUG Treasurer Nawalparasi

169 Prem Shanka Mardaniya Amaltari Buffer Zone User Chairman 9816452925 Nawalparasi Committee 170 Hira Kumari Mahato Kanchanjunga Women User Member - Nawalparasi Group 171 Gyauri Kumari Mahato Kanchanjunga Women User Member - Nawalparasi Group 172 Chan Kumari Mahato Kanchanjunga Women User Member - Nawalparasi Group 173 Meen Kumari Mahato Kanchanjunga Women User Member - Nawalparasi Group 174 Janaki Kumari Mahato Kanchanjunga Women User Member - Nawalparasi Group 175 Chudamani Mahato Ward -5, Homestay Member - Nawalparasi

176 Channu Ram Mahato Ward -5, Homestay Member - Nawalparasi

177 Lok Bahadur Mahato Ward -5, Homestay Member - Nawalparasi

178 Ram Kumari Mardaniya Naya Bihana Women User Member - Nawalparasi Group 179 Rupa Chaudhary Naya Bihana Women User Member - Nawalparasi Group 180 Mithu Mayya Botey Naya Bihana Women User Member - Nawalparasi Group 181 Madhu Chettri NTNC Manager 9856023385 Gorkha

182 Sane Gurung Darchula - Manaslu Tourism Chairman 9841902187 Barpark, Ghorkha Development Committee 183 Khemraj Ghale Darchula - Manaslu Tourism Member 9846401102 Barpark, Ghorkha Development Committee

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184 Bhim Kumari Ghale Seven Sisters Secretary - Barpark, Ghorkha

185 Pur Bahadur Ghale Homestay Development Treasurer - Barpark, Ghorkha Committee 186 Gagan Singh Dalit Samrakshan Samiti Chairman - Barpark, Ghorkha

187 Roshan Dalit Samrakshan Samiti Secretary - Barpark, Ghorkha

188 Hastaram Sunar Dalit Samrakshan Samiti Member - Barpark, Ghorkha

189 Buddhi Bahadur Bikai Dalit Samrakshan Samiti Member - Barpark, Ghorkha

190 Lil Bahadur Dalit Samrakshan Samiti Member - Barpark, Ghorkha

191 Roshini Amma Mother's Group Chairman - Barpark, Ghorkha

192 Manoj Ghale Mother's Group Member - Barpark, Ghorkha

193 Sri Maya Ghale Mother's Group Member - Barpark, Ghorkha

194 Ghamrani Ghale Mother's Group Member - Barpark, Ghorkha

195 Jeet Bahadur Ghale Teen Tarun Samudaiyak Bikas Chairman - Barpark, Ghorkha Sanstha 196 Mani Lal Ghale Ragar Community Forest Treasurer - Barpark, Ghorkha

197 Bal Krishna Shrestha Tanahusur Tourism Chairman 9746006722 Tanahu Development Committee 198 Rajendra Karki District Development Program Officer 9846075674 Tanahu Committee Tourism & Agriculture Section 199 Parvati Rana Local Entrepreneur Local Entrepreneur 9856060410 Tanahu

200 Hari Sing Gurung Tourism Development 9846027030 Tanahu Committee 201 Prakash Shrestha Hill Top Hotel Proprietor 9846164636 Tanahu

202 Ram Chandra Poudel Tourism Development 9746009653 Tanahu Committee 203 Som Gurung Local Resident, 9846079145 Tanahu Merlingkot

99 Workshop Participants Workshop Annexure 9: 9: Annexure

100 SECTION 1

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101 102 SECTION 1

Rapid Assessment of the Pilot Sites in CHAL & TAL

103 104 105 The Hariyo Ban Program is named after the famous Nepali saying ‘Hariyo Ban Nepal ko Dhan’ (Healthy green forests are the wealth of Nepal). It is a USAID funded initiative that aims to reduce the adverse impacts of climate change and threats to biodiversity in Nepal. This will be accomplished by working with the government, communities, civil society and private sector. In particular, the Hariyo Ban Program works to empower Nepal’s local communities in safeguarding the country’s living heritage and adapting to climate change through sound conservation and livelihood approaches. Thus the Program emphasizes the links between people and forests and is designed to benefit nature and people in Nepal. At the heart of Hariyo Ban lie three interwoven components – biodiversity conservation, payments for ecosystem services including REDD+ and climate change adaptation. These are supported by livelihoods, governance, and gender and social inclusion as cross-cutting themes. A consortium of four non-governmental organizations is implementing the Hariyo Ban Program with WWF Nepal leading the consortium alongside CARE Nepal, FECOFUN and NTNC.

WWF Nepal PO Box 7660, Baluwatar, Kathmandu, Nepal T: +977 1 4434820, F: +977 1 4438458 Email: [email protected] Website: www.wwfnepal.org/hariyobanprogram

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