Tourism development and management plan of bhaktapur district (2012 2016)

Tourism Development And Management Plan Of Bhaktapur District2011 – 2015

TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT PLAN OF BHAKTAPUR DISTRICT

District Development Committee, Bhaktapur / Nepal Tourism Board

2012 – 2016An Unofficial Version


First and foremost, on behalf of Bhaktapur Tourism Development and Management Plan Study Team, we would like to express our sincere gratitude

to the District Development Committee, Bhaktapur and Nepal Tourism Board for entrusting us with such an important task of developing and designing the “Tourism Development and Management Plan of Bhaktapur District 2012-2016”. We are also very thankful to all the members of the Governing Council, Steering Committee, and Technical Advisory Committee for their sincere advice and cooperation at all times. Similarly, we are pleased to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to Bhaktapur municipality, Madhyapur Thimi municipality, and all the 16 VDCs of Bhaktapur Tourism Development Committee, Bhaktapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Nagarkot Naldum Tourism Development Committee for their sincere support and cooperation. We are equally thankful to all individuals and institutions including all the Village Development Secretaries for their valuable information, opinions and excellent cooperation during field visits and interactions. Similarly, we owe our special thanks to BCCI, NTB and BTDC for providing workshop venues and other logistics.

We would also like to express our gratitude to Mr. Krishna Lal Goja Shrestha and Mr. Debendra Shrestha of Unified Maoist, Mr. Rameshwor Dhungel of Nepali Congress, Mr Som Prasad Mishra and Mr Rajendra Rajthala of Nepal Communist Party (UML), Mr. Ramesh Thapa Shrestha of Nepal Workers and Peasants Party and Mr. Adip Khadka of Nepal Communist Party (ML) - Members Governing Council.

Similarly we extend our gratitude to Mr. Dipendra Purush Dhakal, Coordinator of Technical Advisory Committee(TAG) and other members of TAG; Dr. Gyanendra Tuladhar, Tourism Consultant; Dr.Horst Mattheaus, Program Director of GTZ-udle; Mr.Kai Weise, Cultural Consultant of UNESCO; Mr. Paul Stevens, Senior Tourism Advisor of SNV Nepal; Mr.Neel Krishna Tamrakar , the founder president of BTDC and Mr.Nirajan Ghimire,Section officer of MoTCA.

We would like to thank Ms. Prabha Pandey, Chairperson, Steering Committee and Local Development Officer, Bhaktapur District Development Committee; Mr. Ram Prasad Pathak, Chief Executive Officer of Madhyapur Thimi municipality; Mr. Giriraj Gyanwali, Planning Monitoring and Administrative Officer of DDC, Bhaktapur; Mr. Kashi Raj Bhandari, Director, NTB; Mr. Nawal Kishore Rajbhandari - Immediate Past President and Mr. Diwan Chandra Dhaubhadel, President of BTDC; Mr. Raj Bhakta Bhuju, Member, Steering Committee; Mr. Basudev Lamichhane, Member Secretary, Steering Committee and CEO of BTDC; and Mr. Sunil Sharma, and Mr. Jitendra Bhattarai, Manager and Officer of NTB respectively for their relentless support and valuable cooperation during the whole process.

Rabi Jung PandeyTeam Leader/Tourism ExpertBhaktapur Tourism Development and Management Plan Study Team

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The Study TeamBhaktapur Tourism Development and Management Plan 2012-2016

Study Team Members1. Mr. Rabi Jung Pandey Team Leader (Tourism Expert)

2. Dr. Jib Raj Pokhrel Member (Physical Planning Expert)

3. Dr. Purushottam Lochan Shrestha Member (Culture Expert)

4. Mr. Kiran Dhungel Member (Socio-Economic Analyst)

5. Mr. Chet Nath Kanel Member (Tourism HRD Expert)

6. Mr. Ram Chandra Sedai Member (Community & Ecotourism Expert)

7. Mr. Kamal Thapaliya Member (GIS Expert)

Special Coordinator of the StudyMr. Basudev Lamichhane, Chief Executive Officer

BhaktapurTourism Development CommitteeAnd Member Secretary, BTDMP Steering Committee

Tourism Development And Management Plan Of Bhaktapur District2012-2016

The Tourism Development and Management Plan, was developed with a view that the District Development Committee (DDC) Bhaktapur is the key Executing Agency for major activities. The study was undertaken on behalf of DDC Bhaktapur and in close cooperation with Nepal Tourism Board. A Consulting Team comprising of seven consultants with guidance from DDC Bhaktapur, Nepal Tourism Board, Bhaktapur Tourism Development Committee (BTDC), and Bhaktapur and Madhyapur Thimi municipalities and all 16 VDCs within the district carried out the various related work for the plan which included field visits and interactions.

The team assessed the feasibility of tourism development activities in Bhaktapur district and its surrounding areas. During this process it also studied the mechanism to design a comprehensive project for a possible package of priority investments in tourism-related infrastructure and facilities that would help in hastening the implementation of the tourism development process in Bhaktapur. The strategies and activities that have been designed have tried to address the consequences of tourism development and the socio-economic development of the local people. It has also tried to focus on the immediate agendas for the development of tourism in the district by taking into account Bhaktapur Durbar area, Bode, Nagdesh and Thimi of Madhyapur Thimi municipality, Changu Narayan, Nagarkot and other potential areas as core tourism attractions.

Volume I of this report has been designed in six chapters. The first chapter is about the rationale and purpose of the overall Tourism Development and Management Plan, objectives of the planning exercise, planning process, general background information about Bhaktapur district, and about the major tourism issues and constraints observed by the planning team. Similarly, the second chapter has focused on the existing tourism and tourism resource potentials in Bhaktapur district and its surroundings. Some discussions about the potentials and challenges for tourism development in Bhaktapur district and its surrounding areas have also been mentioned in this chapter (for details see Annex 7 to 10). It also highlights the potential tourism resources such as culture and pilgrimage; nature based eco-tourism and adventure tourism; rural tourism; MICE tourism; education and research tourism; pleasure, recreation and entertainment; and health, spa and meditation tourism available in the district. This chapter also includes the efforts that have been made to indicate about the tourism market structure and the promotional efforts made so far for the proper promotion of tourism in the district.

Likewise, chapter three presents the development efforts made so far by various organizations for achieving tourism development and conservation practices, and identifying potential opportunities that exist for development in each sector.

Chapter four deals with integrated tourism development, partnership and participation, livelihoods, and sustainability, as the four major guiding principles. These have been based on the ongoing activities that have been adopted by Bhaktapur district at present. A comprehensive intended working area has also been extended as the prime course of action for designing a vision, goal,

Executive Summary

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and objectives. Similarly, five major tourism development strategies have been undertaken such as - adjusting development interventions under its value and importance; area specific priority interventions; sustainable use of local resources; making tourism more responsible and pro-poor; and local economic retention. Derived from these strategies, 106 activties have been designed for a period of five years within 11 major thematic areas. They include - Conservation of Cultural and Historical Heritages; Tourism and Environment Awareness Program; Tourism Facilities and Infrastructure Development; Human Resources Development; Institutional Development - establishing tourism development section in the DDC, Municipalities and Chambers of Commerce and Industry; Publicity, Promotion, Marketing and Research; Communication Facilities and Tourist Information; Tourism Enterprise Development and Income Generating Activities; New Tourism Product Development and Diversification of Tourism Activities; Conservation and Managment of Bio-diversity and Natural Landscape and Monitoring and Evaluation. The framework indicates activities in which the DDC will play a lead role in terms of coordination and facilitation. Among the 106 activities, 83 activities have been earmarked as first priority. The total budget for all activities is expected to be over Rs 17.60 crores. A majority of the activities have been recommended to be undertaken under the coordination and cooperation of various related organizations. The District Development Committee is expected to assume the lead role and allocate over Rs. 5.28 crores on its own. Bhaktapur Municipality is expected to allocate 3.52 crores and Madhyapur Thimi municipalities (MTM) is expected to allocate 2.64 crores from its own resources. The remaining 35 percent amount has been proposed to be collected by the DDC in coordination and cooperation with the NTB, MoTCA, other government ministries, government line agencies, tourism development committees, BCCI, VDCs and development partners as well as doner agencies to implement the activities.

In chapter five, for the effective execution of the planned activities, special institutional arrangements have been suggested for sustainable tourism development in the district. Though, the present Development and Management Plan has been developed for a period of five years, looking at the responsibility, DDC has the mandate to work for an indefinite period of time under the guidance of District Tourism Coordination Committee (DTCC). Therefore, with a view to address development and management aspects effectively, a strong monitoring and evaluation system together with national and international networking and linkages have also been suggested with due possible financial resources for development.

The plan has tried to focus on bringing about overall changes in the general perception of the people of Bhaktapur district regarding tourism and conservation. Similarly, efforts have been made to develop tourism in Bhaktapur district in a concerted and coordinated approach and in partnership with various stakeholders for achieving balanced development in both the municipalities and all the 16 VDCs within the district. A thrust has also been exerted to combine all tourism attractions and services available in the district, with different packages, making Bhaktapur district the centre of attraction (hub) for the region.

All annexes with detailed information including GIS based district maps and photographs have been documented separately as Volume II.

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A.D. : AnnoDominiV.S. : VikramSambatBCCI : BhaktapurChamberofCommerceand

IndustryBCN : BirdConservationNepalBDS : BhaktapurDurbarSquareBM : BhaktapurMunicipalityBTDC : BhaktapurTourismDevelopment

CommitteeCBOs : CommunityBasedOrganizationsCFUG : CommunityForestUserGroupCSIDB : CottageandSmallIndustry

DevelopmentBoardCTEVT : CouncilforTechnicalEducation&

VocationalTrainingDANIDA : DanishInternationalDevelopment

AgencyDDC : DistrictDevelopmentCommitteeDEO : DistrictEducationOfficeDFO : DistrictForestOfficeDoA : DepartmentofArchaeologyDoR : DepartmentofRoadsDoT : DepartmentofTourismDTCC : DistrictTourismCoordination

CommitteeFNJ : FederationofNepaleseJournalistsGIS : GeographicInformationSystemGoN : GovernmentofNepalHDI : HumanDevelopmentIndexHMG : HisMajesty’sGovernmentofNepalIUCN : InternationalUnionforConservationof

NatureandWildlifeKUKL : KathmanduUppatyakaKhanepani

LimitedMICE : Marketing,Incentives,Conferencesand

ExhibitionsMoE : MinistryofEnvironmentMoPP : MinistryofPhysicalPlanningMoTCA : MinistryofTourismandCivilAviationMTM : MadhyapurThimiMunicipality

NAC : NepalAirlinesCorporationNATHM : NepalAcademyofTourismand

HospitalityManagementNATTA : NepalAssociationofTravelandTour

AgenciesNBA : NepalBikingAssociationNCA : NepalCanyoningAssociationNGO : NonGovernmentalOrganizationNNTDC : NagarkotNaldumTourismDevelopment

CommitteeNPC : NationalPlanningCommissionNRB : NepalRastraBankNRs : NepaleseRupeesNTB : NepalTourismBoardSAARC : SouthAsianAssociationforRegional

CooperationSDC : SwissDevelopmentCo-operationSDWDO : SanitationandDrinkingWater

DevelopmentOfficeTAAN : TrekkingAgencies’AssociationofNepalTDC : TourismDevelopmentCommitteeTEAP : TourismandEnvironmentAwareness

ProgramTGDB : TaraGaonDevelopmentBoardTIA : TribhuvanInternationalAirportTITI : TrainingInstituteforTechnical

InstructorsToR : TermsofReferenceTRP : TourismResourcesPotentialsTRPAP : TourismforRuralPovertyAlleviation

ProgramUDB : UrbanDevelopmentBoardUNESCO : UnitedNationsEducational,Scientific&

CulturalOrganizationVDC : VillagedevelopmentcommitteeVFR : VisitingFriendsandRelativesVNY : VisitNepalYearWHS : WorldHeritageSiteWTTC : WorldTravel&TourismCouncilWWF : WorldWildlifeFund

Acronyms

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Tourism Development And Management Plan Of Bhaktapur District2012-2016

List of Tables Page No.

Table 1.1 : Accommodation facilities available in Bhaktapur district 14Table 2.1 : A brief summary of existing tourist activities and places in Bhaktapur 17Table 2.2 : Historical and cultural sites of Bhaktapur district 18Table 2.3 : Accommodation facilities and services available in Bhaktapur 22Table 2.4 : Status of existing places for recreation and pleasure activities 23Table 2.5 : Hotels, lodges & resorts offering accommodation and conference facilities 24Table 2.6 : Composition of solid waste in Bhaktapur and Thimi municipalities 28Table 2.7 : Estimated solid waste situation in Bhaktapur municipality 29Table 2.8 : Festivals of Bhaktapur and Thimi 34Table 2.9 : Traditional dances of Bhaktapur and Thimi (Bode and Nagadesha) 35Table 2.10 : Cultural and pilgrimage tourism potentials of Bhaktapur district 36Table 2.11 : Status of forest by management regime in Bhaktapur district (area in hectares) 39Table 2.12 : Summary of potential eco-tourism and adventure tourism products in Bhaktapur 46Table 2.13 : Major selected rural settlements of tourism potentials 48Table 2.14 : Major rural and traditional features of tourism importance in Bhaktapur 49Table 2.15 : Major potential tourism products and activities for rural tourism in Bhaktapur 51Table 2.16 : List of major built environment and structure in Bhaktapur district 52Table 2.17 : Summary of education facilties run by Bhaktapur municipality 53Table 2.18 : Possible areas for research and study related tourism activities in Bhaktapur 54Table 2.19 : Summary of areas potential for pleasure and recreational activities in Bhaktapur 55Table 2.20 : Summary of activities and places potential for health, spa and meditation

in Bhaktapur 56Table 2.21 : Reason for visiting Nepal in 2009 (top countries) 57Table 2.22 : Tourist arrivals in Bhaktapur Durbar Square 58Table 2.23 : Existing market segment, tourism areas and major tourist activities in Bhaktapur 61Table 3.1 : Major initiatives taken by DDC for tourism and culture promotion in Bhaktapur 64Table 3.2 : Entrance fees to tourists levied by Bhaktapur municipality 65Table 3.3 : Total income, tourism revenue collected by Bhaktapur municipality and utilisation

(Over the last 5 years) 65

List of Tables, Boxes, Charts and Maps

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Tourism Development And Management Plan Of Bhaktapur District

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Table 3.4 : INGOs/Bilateral Projects, NGOs and CBOs in Bhaktapur district working for conservation and tourism-related development 68

Table 3.5 : The priority given to develop human resources in the key themes 71Table 4.1 : Priority programs 79Table 5.1 : Tourism sites to be included in packages in Bhaktapur and Madhyapur Thimi 95Table 5.2 : Potential tourism packages in Bhaktapur and neighboring districts 97Table 5.3 : A framework for developing and institutionalizing Tourism Institutions at

different levels (meso and micro) 102

List of BoxesBox 1.1 : Nepal Airlines market share 15

List of ChartsChart 4.1 : Strategic tourism plan principle 76Chart 4.2 : Bhaktapur District Tourism Development Plan: Implementation and Phasing

of Major Program Activities Chart 92

List of MapsMap 1 : Bhaktapur District Overview 6Map 2 : Madhyapur Thimi areas 7Map 3 : Changu Narayan – Nagarkot 41Map 4 : Nagarkot, Bageswori 43Map 5 : Sipadol, Katunje, Dhadhikot, Sirutar, Gundu 44Map 6 : Probable Tourism Routes 90

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Acknowledgements iThe Study Team iiExecutive Summary iiiAcronyms viList of Tables, Boxes, Charts, and Maps viiiTable of Contents x

Chapter One: Introduction 1.1 Rationale and Purpose 11.2 Objectives of the Planning Exercise 21.3 Planning Process 4 1.4 Background/Overview of Bhaktapur District 4 1.5 Major Tourism Issues & Constraints 9

Chapter Two: Current Status of Tourism and Tourism Resource potentials of the District 16

2.1 Current status of tourism in Bhaktapur 162.1.1 Historical and cultural tourism 172.1.2 Pilgrimage tourism 212.1.3 Leisure, hiking and biking 212.1.4 Recreation and pleasure activities 232.1.5 Meeting, Incentive, Conference and Exhibition (MICE) tourism 23

2.2 Tourism Infrastructure 25

2.3 Tourism Resource potentials 292.3.1 Culture and pilgrimage 302.3.2 Nature based eco-tourism and adventure tourism 382.3.3 Rural tourism 482.3.4 Meeting, Incentive, Conference and Exhibition (mice) tourism 512.3.5 Education and research tourism 532.3.6 Pleasure, recreation and entertainment 552.3.7 Health, spa and meditation tourism 56

2.4 Market Structure (Promotion and Marketing) 57

Topic Page

Table of ContentsMain Volume I

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Chapter Three: Tourism Development Initiatives undertaken 63

3.1 Product Development Initiatives 633.1.1 Initiatives of the DDC 643.1.2 Initiatives of the municipalities and VDCs 653.1.3 Initiatives of I/NGOs and CBOs 68

3.2 Management Initiatives 703.2.1 Institutions 703.2.2 Human Resources Development 71

Chapter Four: Tourism Development Plan 73

737576 8283

4.1 Vision, Goal and Objectives 4.2 Guiding Principles 4.3 Tourism Development Strategies 4.4 Tourism Product Mix and Priorities 4.5 Market Segment and Marketing 4.6 Expectations by 2016 84

4.7 Activities, Budget and Responsibilities 84

Chapter Five: Tourism Management, Program Implementation and Monitoring 91

5.1 Management 915.2 Program Implementation 1015.3 Program Monitoring and Reporting 103

Chapter Six: Perspective & Priority Programs for 2015-2020 105

6.1 Diversification of Tourism Products/Trekking Routes 1056.2 Consolidation and elaboration of Tourism activities 1066.3 Inter-district tourism 1066.4 Cultural and Pilgrimage Tourism 106

References 107

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Annexes Volume II

Annexes Annex 1 : List of participants during interaction at various VDCs

Annex 2 : List of participants for one-day extensive workshop in Bhaktapur

Annex 3 : List of participants for one-day extensive workshop in Madhyapur Thimi

Annex 4 : List of participants for Draft Tourism Plan Presentation and Discussion Program

Annex 5 : Heritage sites of Bhaktapur and Madhyapur Thimi municipalities

Annex 6 : Tourism resource potentials of Bhaktapur district

Annex 7 : Heritage sites of Bhaktapur district excluding Bhaktapur and Madhyapur Thimi municipalities

Annex 8 : Natural and rural-based tourism potentials matrix of Bhaktapur district

Annex 9 : Indices of tourist arrivals in Nepal by continents (1998 – 2009)

Annex 10 : Tourist arrivals by month (1998-2008) (excluding Indians)

Annex 11 : Indian tourist arrivals by month (1998-2009)

Annex 12 : Tourist arrivals in Nepal by gender (1998–2009)

Annex 13 : Tourist arrivals in Nepal by age group (1998–2009)

Annex 14 : Purpose-wise distribution of tourists in Nepal (1998-2009)

Annex 15 : Trend of tourist arrivals by mode of transport (1998-2009)

Annex 16 : Actual length of stay by major nationality (1995–2009)

Annex 17 : Scenario of international tourist flow and receipts (1998-2009)

Annex 18 : Status of Nepal in world tourism and receipts (1998-2009)

Annex 19 : World’s top tourist destination and tourism earners (2008)

Annex 20 : International tourism receipts by region (2000-2008)

Annex 21 : Gross foreign exchange earning in convertible currencies (1998–2009)

Annex 22 : Percent share of foreign exchange earning in different sectors of the economy (1997/98-2008/09)

Annex 23 : Convertible foreign exchange income by different tourism sources (1997/98–2007/08)

Annex 24 : Tourist arrivals by country of residence (1998–2009)

Annex 25 : Total tourist arrivals in Bhaktapur city (non-SAARC)

Annex 26 : Total tourist arrivals in Bhaktapur city (only SAARC)

Annex 27 : Total tourist arrivals in Bhaktapur city

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Annex 28 : Inventory of accommodation facilities in the major tourism areas of Bhaktapur

Annex 29 : Inventory of accommodation facilities in Changu Narayan

Annex 30 : Inventory of restaurant facilities in Nagarkot

Annex 31 : Output of Kharipati (Shreekrishna School) workshop (SWOT analysis)

Annex 32 : Output of Bhaktapur city (BCCI Hall) workshop

Annex 33 : Output of Madhyapur Thimi workshop

Annex 34 : Activities that could have greater socio-economic impact from tourism in Bhaktapur

Annex 35 : Schematic plan including bus stop and terminal building

Annex 36 : Amount required for the development of all the tourist spots in Bhaktapur district

Annex 37 : Maps of Bhaktapur district showing tourism potential sites

Annex 38 : Glimpses of photographs taken during the planning process

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1Tourism Development And Management Plan Of Bhaktapur District2010 – 2014

1.1 Rationale and Purpose

Nepal is commonly divided into three broad physio-graphic areas: the Mountains, Hills, and the Plains

which is the ‘Tarai’ region. All three are parallel to each other, from the east to the west, as continuous ecologi-cal belts, occasionally bisected by the country’s river sys-tems. These ecological regions have been further divided into five development sectors within the framework of regional development planning. Although, largely a sub-stinence agro-based economy, the geographical set-up of Nepal provides two immediate possibilities for driv-ing economic growth and social development: hydro-electricity and a natural and cultural resources-based tourism. Nepal’s unique natural resources, coupled with a vibrant living cultural heritage and a friendly and hos-pitable people, provide significant potential to use tour-ism as a low-cost, eco-friendly activity to spur socio-eco-nomic growth and development.

Realizing the potential of tourism, the first National Tourism Master Plan was formulated in 1972, eleven years after the set-up of the Department of Tourism (DoT). Since then, the tourism industry has been rec-ognized as one of the main sectors for foreign exchange earnings and tourism in Nepal has been consequently developed with planned efforts.

Though, there has been no definitive study to provide a clear and detailed economic impact analysis on a na-tional level that is disaggregated into sectoral or regional

levels, the end result implies only limited benefits reach rural areas including Bhaktapur District.

Bhaktapur District of the Central Development Region of Nepal is a unique landscape in terms of its natural beauty and cultural richness. It is endowed with great natural beauty and a diverse ecology with an abundance of flora and fauna. Its culture, history and architectural sites too are enigmatic. It also represents a unique civiliza-tion of the mid-mountain region of Nepal. Hence, Bhak-tapur district has acknowledged tourism as a significant source of income. Recognizing this potential, the Tour-ism Development and Management Plan for Bhaktapur District was initiated to further enhance the tourism potential in the district. In order to promote the devel-opment of tourism in the district, the Bhaktapur Tour-ism Development Committee, which is an independent body, was formed with an objective to coordinate with various individuals, professionals and organizations.

The District Development Plans made so far by the Dis-trict Development Committees (DDC) have paid very less attention and has barely realized that tourism could also be a viable source of income not only for the DDC but for the local people of the district too. Therefore, de-spite having an immense potential for the development of tourism in the region, enough attention and consid-eration has not been given to tourism attractions in the district and consequently the DDC has not allocated

1CHAPTER ONE

1. Introduction

2 Tourism Development And Management Plan Of Bhaktapur District

2012 – 2016

significant amounts of budget for the development of tourism in the region. Likewise, neither has the district paid adequate attention to nor has it allocated the re-quired amount of budget for the maintenance and devel-opment of the various natural, historical, archaeological and cultural sites of attractions, with a view to develop-ing the tourism potential that the region possesses.

There are potential sites in the district which possess high cultural, historical, archaeological and religious value, that are considered as essential assets for the de-velopment of tourism. The district also has a number of natural and man-made attractions and sites with tourism value, which are yet to be fully explored for the develop-ment of tourism in the area.

In the absence of a comprehensive and integrated plan for managing tourism in Bhaktapur, the potential tour-ism products that the district encompasses are lying in a valueless state and their importance has hardly been explored and services too have not been developed ac-cordingly. Most of the tourist sites are lying in an isolated state and services too are fragmented. Therefore, the need for formulating an integrated tourism development and management plan had been realized and subsequently efforts have been initiated to collect additional resourc-es for tourism development and for the repackaging of tourism products and services.

In line with the new Tourism Policy (2065) and Tourism Vision 2020, attempts have been made to provide due attention to give importance to tourism in the district along with the beginning of a new thinking that tourism could also be a means to generate additional income for the district and that tourism could also be the agent to balance inter-VDCs development.

The Bhaktapur municipality (BM) has played a crucial role in the development and management of local tour-ism that are concentrated within its boundaries. It has been, for over a decade, managing local tourism activities including conservation of historical and archaeological assets; encouraging local-level participation in the pro-tection of traditional architecture, ponds, temples and other intangible cultural values of the local (Newar) society, etc. Furthermore, it has also been directly in-volved in managing tourists coming from the domestic, SAARC, as well as, overseas markets to Bhaktapur city.

It has been witnessed that in the past there were some lo-cal initiatives and efforts to promote tourism in the area. However, due to poor results and low income from tour-ism activities, the whole tourism development process was excluded from the district development plans. At this crucial juncture, Bhaktapur District Development Committee, through Bhaktapur Tourism Development Committee (BTDC), with financial and technical sup-port from Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) decided to take the lead for developing a comprehensive Tourism Devel-opment and Management Plan of Bhaktapur District 2011 – 2015.

1.2 Objectives of the Planning Exercise

The broader objective of this assignment is to develop a five-year sustainable Tourism Development and Man-agement Plan with an objective to conserve tourism re-sources and provide livelihood opportunities to the lo-cal communities including deprived groups and women through a wider focus on tourism entrepreneurship. It is expected that the plan will contribute in developing tour-ism activities based under the principles and guidelines of the World Heritage Sites conservation and develop-ment practices. In this regard, the potential tourism sites will further be developed through a planned approach.

The objectives of the present planning exercise based on the Terms of Reference (ToR) are as follows:

1. To increase the length of stay of both domestic aswell as international tourists and to compreneh-sively expand and diversify tourism activities byenhancing the quality of tourism services that arebeing offered in a sustained manner

2. To develop a physical infrastructure developmentplan with a view to conserve, maintain and de-velop tourism development activities

3. To expand and promote existing tourism activi-ties in all potential sites of the district through thepropagation of different activities such as agri-tourism, eco-tourism, etc.

4. To develop institutional mechanism for bettercoordination and cooperation among all tourismrelated institutions and organizations involved intourism development and management practices

3Tourism Development And Management Plan Of Bhaktapur District

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5. To involve Non Governmental Organizations(NGOs) for the better conservation, mainte-nance and management of all historical, cultural,and religious heritage sites

6. To enhance the capacity of institutions and indi-viduals involved in the tourism sector for provid-ing quality products and services

7. To expand employment opportunities in ruralareas and to provide economic incentives to thepoor, disadvantaged, as well as, discriminatedgroups, and women through the development oftourism

8. To develop tourism in a sustainable way and to ex-pand tourism activities in all parts of the districtmaking the development process more inclusive,and rendering tourism activities more attractivefor both domestic as well as international tour-ists

9. To encourage local entrepreneurs to invest in de-veloping tourism facilities and services and to alsopersuade them to expand and upgrade the qualityof their services

10. To establish backward and forward linkagesamong all stakeholders for effective tourism de-velopment, marketing and promotional activities

In doing so, the planning team also had the fol-lowing additional responsibilities:

1. Review the existing government policies, rules,regulations, plans and programs regarding thepromotion of tourism and to analyze policystrength and gaps

2. Explore the tourism potential in terms of attrac-tions, facilities, services and accessibility both interms of tourism products and destination

3. Recommend an integrated framework plan forthe district stating the economic, environmental,socio-cultural, managerial goals/objectives of theplan, zoning plan, sustainable rural tourism-re-lated activities and the marketing strategy of thetourism products and services.

4. Suggest or/and recommend clear institutionalmechanism to implement this management plan.

1.3 Planning Process

Based on the broader objectives set in the planning ex-ercise, the process for the preparation of the Tourism Development and Management Plan for Bhaktapur Dis-trict consisted of:

• Literature review including the Periodic DistrictDevelopment Plans (2059/60 – 2063/4 BS), andvisitor perception survey and stakeholders surveydone by BTDC in 2008

• Meeting with major stakeholders (DDC, NTB,Bhaktapur municipality, Madhyapur Thimi mu-nicipality, Bhaktapur Chamber of Commerceand Industry, BTDC, NNTDC, VDCs, localcommunities)

• Field visits to all VDCs and municipalities withinBhaktapur district

• Tracking all historical, cultural, natural and ar-chaeological sites and existing tourism resourcesthrough a GIS-based technology

• Intensive interaction with district and local levelstakeholders in a workshop (Annex 1, 2, 3) focus-ing on the SWOT analysis on the current statusand prospects of tourism in Bhaktapur district

• Setting objectives of the Tourism Developmentand Management Plan (TD&MP), and priorityareas and activities for the development of tour-ism in Bhaktapur district

• Consolidation of the strategic thrusts of the pro-posed plan

• Validation workshop at the district level beforethe proposed plan is finalized and steps to inte-grate the plan in the district development pro-cess

The field visits were concentrated mainly within the Bhaktapur district covering all 16 VDCs, Bhaktapur and Madhyapur Thimi municipalities, Changu Narayan, Nagarkot, and other potential natural and cultural heri-tage sites. The proposed plan has also hoped to comple-ment earlier initiatives including those indicated in the Periodic District Development Plan and Tourism Plans prepared at local levels. Furthermore, it has attempted to integrate them at the district level. Similarly, the di-rectives imparted by the Governing Council, Steering

4 Tourism Development And Management Plan Of Bhaktapur District2012-2016

Committee and Technical Advisory Group have also been adhered to.

1.4 Background/Overview of Bhaktapur District

The district at present is popularly known as ‘Bhaktapur’ by everybody. The Newars call it ‘Khwopa’ which is de-rived from the word ‘Khopring’. ‘Khopring’ was the ini-tial and non-Sanskrit name of the entire district that had prevailed during the Kirat Period which is a period even before the advent of the Lichchhavis. ‘Khopring’, which is the ancient name of present-day Bhaktapur district was first mentioned in an inscription set up in 477 A.D. as ‘Khopringgrampradesha’ during the reign of Manadeva, the historical Lichchhavi king.1 This epigraphic evidence further reveals the fact that Bhaktapur district is one of the oldest peripheral settlements in the Nepal valley. It is also important to note that the present-day Tamang inhabitants still refer to Bhaktapur as ‘Khobang’ in their native language which is closely associated to the word ‘Khopring’. According to Vajracharya, the Kirat word ‘kho’ perhaps denotes ‘Bhaat’ (cooked rice) which in the later period translated into ‘Bhakta’, the Sanskrit word, and the word ‘Pring’ perhaps denoted a village. In San-skrit, a village is called a ‘Gram’.

From the aforementioned fact, it can be easily compre-hended that Khopringgrampradesha was an extensive rural area, particularly famous for ‘Bhaat’. In course of time due to this feature, ‘Khopring’ transformed into the Sanskrit name ‘Bhaktagram’. ‘Bhadgaon’ originated from the word ‘Bhaktagram’. The name ‘Bhadgaon’ seems to have been used frequently but only after the end of the Malla period. In Sanskrit, a well developed town is called ‘Pur’. Bhaktapur was also known as ‘Bhaktagram’ in the medieval period. The name ‘Bhaktapur’ was first referred to in a manuscript titled ‘Kiran Tantra’ written in 924 A.D. Since then not only the city but the entire region has been referred to as ‘Bhaktapur’.

It is interesting to note that the name of a certain ter-ritory was used in two different languages in the past. We thus have ‘Khopring’ in the Kirat language. ‘Khwo-pa’ originated from the word ‘Khopring’ in the Newar dialect and Bhaktapur in the Sanskrit language. It can be concluded that the word ‘Bhakta’ not only denotes devotees but also food stuff, i.e., ‘Bhaat’ (cooked rice). For instance, a vessel containing cooked rice is called

‘Bhaktapurita bhandam’ in Sanskrit. (See Annex 4, 5 and 6 for details).

The historic district of Bhaktapur, which lies at a latitude of 27°36’ to 27°44’ North and a longitude of 85°21’ to 85°32’ East, is situated within the Kathmandu valley and is at a distance of 13km east from the capital city of Kathmandu. It is renowned for its elegant art, historical monuments, fabulous culture and Newari lifestyle. The district is equally endowed with natural beauty and bio-diversity. The district shares its southern border with La-litpur district, with Kavrepalanchowk district lying to its east, and Kathmandu and Lalitpur districts to the west. Likewise, Kathmandu and Kavrepalanchowk districts also border it in the north. The unique combination of cultural, historical and natural heritage has positioned Bhaktapur district as a highly potential district for the development of tourism. Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Changu Narayan Temple, the two best preserved World Heritage Sites (WHS) are also located in the district (See Map 1).

Bhaktapur district is also rich in its distinctive color-ful festivals and traditional dances. Bisket Jatra, Gatha Muga Chare, Saparu (Gai Jatra), Indra Jatra, Yomari Punhi, Ghaya Chaku Salun are some of the special fes-tivals and fairs celebrated at Bhaktapur. Bhaktapur dis-trtict also has unique local products and iconic images to its credit such as wooden carvings, paubha/thanka painting, terracotta, traditional masks, handloom, ju-judhau (king curd/yogurt), metal craft, peacock window and Bhadgaule cap.

If you look at Bhaktapur district from a tourism perspec-tive then the religious and historical festivals, events and monuments that the district possesses constitute as ma-jor tourism attractions. The Bhaktapur Durbar Square is one such example – it resembles an open museum and is a repertoire of different historical temples, monasteries, palaces, and images of Gods and Goddesses. Nyatapola, the five-storied temple and the Bhimsen temple are the major attractions of Taumadhi Square. Similarly, the Dattatraya Square still displays some captivating histori-cal evidences through its art and architecture. The tra-ditional lifestyle and year-round festivals in Bhaktapur and Thimi areas also lure many tourists during the fes-tive season. Bisket Jatra and Gai Jatra (Cow Festival) are some of the more prominent and attractive festivals in Bhaktapur.

Tourism Development And Management Plan Of Bhaktapur District 52010 – 2014

Map 1: Bhaktapur District Overview

Similarly, Madhyapur Thimi, which is a medieval city, is also a traditional Newar settlement. It is equally well known for its handicrafts, green vegetables, diverse art, culture, festivals, dance, traditional music and lifestyle. The 32-chariot festival (Bisket Jatra), the Tongue Pene-trating Festival ( Jivro Chhedne Jatra), traditional Nil Ba-

rahi Dance of Bode, Devyashowri Temple of Lokanthali, classical dances, the lively music, old palaces and crafts are the real identities of Madhyapur Thimi and they have made this town a living museum and one of the most important cultural places within the Kathmandu valley (See Map 2, Annex 4, 5 and 6 for details).

6 Tourism Development And Management Plan Of Bhaktapur District2010 – 2014

Map 2 Madhyapur Thimi areas

Apart from these discernible tourist spots, festivals, tem-ples and monasteries, there are other diversified products which too attract visitors to Bhaktapur district. One of them is Nagarkot, a famous hill resort, which lies to the north of Bhaktapur and borders Kavrepalanchwok dis-

trict. Banepa, Dhulikhel, Panauti and Lakuribhanjyang are other neighboring tourist sites of Bhaktapur which have also been contributing to the development of tour-ism in Bhaktapur.


2012 – 2016

The total area of Bhaktapur is 138.46 sq km, making it the smallest district of the country. It expands 1.6 km from east to west and 11.2 km from north to south. The average altitude of the district is 1331 meters from the mean sea level with the highest point being Nagarkot at an altitude of 2191 meters. From a political and admin-istrative point of view, the district has been divided into 2 electoral constituencies, 11 Ilakas, 2 Metropolitans and 16 VDCs.

The altitudinal variation of the district ranges from the mid-hills to the valley. Over 80 percent of the total area of the district is covered with agricultural land (102.40 sq km) and 17.91 percent (22.8. sq km) with forests and shrubs. Thirty percent of the total cultivated land (3322 hectares) has irrigation facilities round the year. Because of the very fertile nature of the soil which is conducive to agriculture, Bhaktapur is also known as the ‘storage-house’ of grains and vegetables. Paddy, wheat and millet are the major agricultural produces of the district. Even though one-third of the total cultivated land is under an irrigation system, a traditional agriculture system still continues to exist, which does not make it very cost ef-fective. The district is drained by the Manohara, Hunu-mante, Tabyakhusi, Mahadev Khola and Ghatte Khola rivers.

Because of the low altitudinal variation, the climatic conditions of the district range from the cold to the sub-tropical with a total of 1343 mm of rainfall annually. The temperature between the months of March and Septem-ber remains very hot and humid and at times reaches 35 degree Celsius, whereas, during the winter months the temperature drops down to -2 degree Celsius (LRMP/GIS, 1999 cited in DDC Profile).

Population and Ethnicity:

Bhaktapur had a population of 225,461 in 2001 with an average population growth of 2.71%. There were 41,253 households with an average household size of 5.47. Un-like the average situation in Nepal, Bhaktapur has an ex-cess of males to females with a sex ratio of 109 males to every 100 females. The population density according to the census is 1895 persons per square km.

Bhaktapur is home to a number of diverse ethnic groups, but the majority of the population is the Newars who comprise about 56.05 percent of the total population.

Chhetri (18.39%), Brahmin (10.13%), Tamang (6.54%) and Magar (1.61%) are the other major ethnic groups. Other groups make up about 7.29 percent of the popu-lation. According to the 2001 census, Hinduism consti-tuted 89.97 percent of the population, followed by Bud-dhism (9.40%), and Christianity (0.35%).

Due to its proximity to the capital, Bhaktapur is one of the most literate districts of Nepal with 70.6 percent of the population being literate. This is relatively high compared to the national average of 54.1 percent. But among the female population, the literacy rate is much lower (59.64%) as compared to males (81.14%). Newari is the mother tongue of 54.31 percent of the population followed by Nepali (36.95%).

Agriculture is the predominant occupation of Bhakta-pur as nearly 64.45 percent of the economically active population is dependent on it. Less than 3.20 percent rely on the service industry. Tourism within Bhaktapur district has emerged as an important economic activity. Though earnings from tourism are quite considerable in the district it appears to have made negligible impact on the livelihoods of the majority of the ethnic groups.

Since Bhaktapur has been a beneficiary of a number of development projects, the situation with regards to the provision of services and infrastructure is better in Bhaktapur as compared to other districts. The distribu-tion of service institutions in terms of schools and health posts is also much better in Bhaktapur as compared to its neighboring districts. There are 428 schools of various levels, and 19 institutions for higher studies. The district has 6 hospitals, 2 primary health posts, 7 health posts, 12 sub-health posts, 3 Ayurvedic centres and 1 cancer care centre. All VDCs in the district have telephone facilities with over 8,853 PSTN (land line) and over 5000 cellular telephones distributed.

More than half the district population (23,912 house-holds) has access to electricity. Seventy percent of the district population has access to safe drinking water. The Nepal Human Development Report 2004 has ranked Bhaktapur 2nd among the 75 districts of Nepal. Simi-larly, the Human Development Index for Bhaktapur is 0.595 as compared to 0.652 for Kathmandu and 0.471 for Nepal. These measurements clearly indicate that Bhaktapur’s development performance has been much better than the national average.


1.5 Major Tourism Issues and ConstraintsIssues

During the SWOT exercise on tourism in the stake-holder’s workshop in Bhaktapur, Madhyapur Thimi, and Kharipati, and during interactions with local communi-ties during the numeorus field visit programs, a number of key issues related to tourism development and man-agement in Bhaktapur district were identified and raised (Annex .31, 32 and 33).

The major issues relating to tourism development in Bhaktapur district include:

• Extension of the present tourism activities thatare at present centreed only in limited areas of thedistrict

• Conservation of natural, cultural, historical andarchaeological resources and environment pro-tection

• Extension of the present length of stay of visitorswithin the district

• Economic development and attenuation of in-equalities in general, and among the ethnic disad-vantaged groups in particular

• Creation of alternative livelihood opportunitiesthrough tourism resource base which is in a mini-mal state at present

• Provision of development of physical infrastruc-ture

• Strong coordination among tourism stakeholdersboth inter- and intra- district

• Linkages with other neighboring districts’ tour-ism products including Kavre, Lalitpur, Kath-mandu and Sindhupalchowk

Economic development and reduction of inequalities can be possible only through better education and health service delivery, and promotion of better alternative livelihood opportunities. Other issues will be addressed when there are economic benefits and no discrimination in Bhaktapur district. This also underscores the role that tourism has to play in opening up the prospects for de-velopment in Bhaktapur district. This means that

• Cultural and heritage conservation, and environ-mental protection, have to go hand in hand forthe development of tourism

• Local socio-economic development has to becomplimented by social and physical infrastruc-ture intended for tourism

• Tourism activities need to create and enhance sus-tainable alternative livelihood opportunities

• Tourism benefits have to be shared to a greaterextent, so that social and economic inequalitiesremain minimized.

Similarly, during the interactions, various other con-cerns were raised which have been having a negative ef-fect and hindering the promotion of tourism in Bhak-tapur district. They included:

• Deforestation and land encroachment due to un-controlled settlement development

• Waste management problem

• Shortage of packaged product development, pro-motion and market management

• Lack of product diversification

• Problem of coordination among stakeholders

• Low interest for protection and conservation ofcultural heritage

• Less effort on institutionalization of tourism de-velopment efforts

• Problems in professionalization and skill devel-opment practices

• Tenuous linkages of tourism with local produc-tion base

• Weak practices followed for improvement ofroads

• Not much participation of women, poor and thedisadvantaged in tourism development and ben-efit sharing

• Scarcity of standard hotels (at the city-core area)and accommodations in the southern part of thedistrict,

• Unplanned establishment of resorts/lodges/restaurants

9Tourism Development And Management Plan Of Bhaktapur District2012-2016

• Not many overnight stays (especially in Bhakta-pur and Changu Narayan) due to the absence ofrecreational activities at night

• Duration of tourist visits to the durbar squareareas are short

• No easy access to many rural/unexplored sites

• Fewer community-based or community-led tour-ism development programs in Bhaktapur

• Lacking in sanitation and hygiene practices

• Absence of local government units/system

• Inadequate toilet facilities in public places/tour-ist routes

• Unavailability of Internet facilities in the ruralareas

• Shortage of direct international contact/ promo-tion/ marketing, at present. Bhaktapur tourism istotally dependent on entrepreneurs (travel/touragents) based in Kathmandu

• Low media (print and electronic) coverage ofBhaktapur tourism

• Inadequate information about Bhaktapur’sbeauty and potentials in brochures published byBhaktapur municipality,

• Inadequate infrastructure development andminimum effort in identifying new areas/poten-tials

• Lack of tourist information centre and sign-boards/arrows at strategic locations

• Hawker problems in main areas

• Counterfiet products sold to tourists (unfairtrade practices)

• Cut-throat competition among tourism entre-preneurs

• Futile and poor monitoring system of the gov-ernment

• Low contribution by NTB in developing andpromoting Bhaktapur

• Less effort made by local leaders/bodies in bring-ing new donors/projects

• Fewer efforts in encouraging youth involvementin tourism-related activities

• Shortage of human resources with tourism man-agement knowledge and skills

• Impunity culture (no punishment to destructiveforces)

• Lack of professionalism in exhibiting local cul-ture/tradition to tourists

• Short of expertise in managing traditional musi-cal institutions and cultural activities

• Dearth of skilled/ trained, as well as licensed,local tour guides

• Absence of quality tourism education and train-ing institute(s) in Bhaktapur district

• Inter-city traffic problem (in Bhaktapur city),

• Lack of banking facilities , especially in ruralareas including Nagarkot

• Increasing environmental problems: river pol-lution, brick-factories/chimneys, unplanned ur-banization, sewage and transportation problems,hap hazard parking, roadside encroachment,destruction of forest resources, etc.

• Visual pollutions: unsystematic sign-boards/hoarding-boards, posters, electricity and cablewires, etc.

• Misconception among locals that ‘tourism andconservation’ are the responsibility of entrepre-neurs only

• Pilferage and smuggling of historical/archaeo-logical property

• Less security to tourists, particularly in the Dur-bar Square Area and some rural areas (Bhaktapurhas no ‘Tourist Police’ yet)

• Poor coordination among travel agencies/hotelsand other stakeholders

• The new Labor Act has been less congenial toentrepreneurs discouraging them to recruit newemployees

• Lack of experts/expertise in local songs, dancesand Daafaa

• Lack of modern/scientific research on traditionalcultures/festivals, songs and dances

• No regular cultural programmers in major tour-ist sites


• Absence of ‘Calendar of Events’ in Bhaktapur

• Less attention/poor efforts of the concerned(responsible) to develop tourism even in highlypotential sites/areas/settlements

• Acute shortage of water supply to fulfill thegrowing demand

• Absence of proper place (dumping site) to man-age waste

• Low local benefits (particularly among themarginalized and disadvantaged families) andcommunity participation

• Less investment and concerted efforts by thegovernment for the development of tourism inBhaktapur

• Conflicts during special festivals (e.g., jibrochhedne jatra)

• Limited access to some temples seasonally fortourists (therefore loss of potential income)

Constraints

The major constraints for the development and man-agement of tourism in Bhaktapur district that were per-ceived during field visits and interactions at the local level are as follows:

a. Lack of tourism awareness

There is a lack of awareness about the benefitsof tourism among many stakeholders not onlyat the local levels, but also equally at the districtlevels and in many government organizationstoo. Due to the present political unrest andvolatile security situation, development oftourism has never received priority within thedistrict’s development planning and policymaking process. Hence, Bhaktapur district didnot accord much importance to develop tourismas a backbone of its local economy. It also did notlay importance in maintaining coordination andharmony among various agencies related to thetourism sector and also did not help in solvingproblems faced by the tourism sector. It has alsonot played any helpful role by not issuing policyguidelines to the executing agencies under DDC,municipalities, VDCs and reviewing pertinentplans and programs.

b. Suppressed prospects of domestic tourism

Popular destinations like Bhaktapur DurbarSquare, Changu Narayan, Nagarkot and othertrekking routes within Bhaktapur district havebeen rated as the beneficiaries of tourism inthe area. In fact, the real estate prices in theaforementioned areas have risen higher than inother urban centres in Bhaktapur. Living costs forthe average local have thus become exorbitantlyhigh, which has also forbidden the growth ofdomestic tourism in these areas. Likewise, theseareas are also considered expensive for domestictravelers. The prices of food and accommodationat hotels are similar for both foreign touristsand Nepalese tourists, and the prices too arealso not uniform within the concerned areas.Moreover, what is more disheartening is thatmany facilities which have the required standardof accommodation amenities do not prefer toprovide their services to domestic tourists. Suchpractices could be dangerous in the long runmaking the destination vulnerable to a collapse ifthere is a considerable downturn in the numberof international tourist arrivals.

c. Lack of entrepreneurship and overlooked aspectsof value for money

There is a low level of technical knowledge andmanagement skills among the local entrepreneurs.Very few tourism entrepreneurs know aboutmodern marketing practices and about marketlinkages for their products. Room tariffs, in almostall hotels, regardless of their quality/standard,vary significantly which provides visitors anedge to bargain and buy services at cheaper rateswhen the lodges are not fully occupied. Peopleare aware of the fact that this practice is directlyhampering their businesses. However, they arestill promoting such practices because of lowtourist turnover during the offseason.

d. Inadequate product development anddiversification with additional tourism relatedinfrastructure development

The availability of a tourism resource base iscrucial for the development of tourism anywhere.


It has been experienced globally that the more unique and varied the resource base is, the better is the prospect for the tourism industry in that area. Likewise, there is great scope in Bhaktapur for converting the existing resource potentials into tourism products. However, due to the lack of a proper strategic planning to transform the resource potentials into tourism products in a sustainable manner, Bhaktapur has not been able to mobilize its tourism attributes satisfactorily. There is a need to transform resources into tourism products to such an extent that we can derive benefits from the existing resources.

e. Trekking trails in frail conditions with lack ofinformation and interpretation facilities

The construction of motorable roads in all VDCsof Bhaktapur district has directly affected thetrekking trails making it shabby and has causedvarious problems to the trekking industry. Sometrekking trails are relatively not wide enough,which also need immediate improvement atseveral locations. In addition, there is a lack ofsignposts in many areas which is the source ofconfusion for many individual travelers. Due to thelack of trained local interpreters and local guideswho can explain and interpret about the varioustourist attractions to the tourists many importantplaces have lost their value and significance.This has put Bhaktapur further behind in termsof competition with neighboring VDCs anddistricts with similar tourism products.

f. Lack of tourist-standard accommodationfacilities

Out of the total 60 tourist-standard hotels withinthe district, almost 59% are located in Nagarkotand 30% are in the Bhaktapur municipal areas,occupying almost 64% of the total available roomsand beds (Table 1.1). Among the remainder, theMadhyapur Thimi area and other VDCs hold thelowest number of good accommodation facilitiesas compared to Bhaktapur municipal area andNagarkot (see details Annex 27 to 30).

Table 1.1 Accommodation Facilities Available in Bhaktapur District

Accommodation Facility available at

Hotel Numbers

Room Numbers

Bed Numbers

Nagarkot 35 543 955

Bhaktapur Municipal Area 21 278 511

Changu Narayan 4 16 32

Total 60 837 1498

Source: Accommodation Inventory Report, CEST Nepal/NTB, 2010

Moreover, most of the hotels and lodges available in Bhaktapur and Changu Narayan lack standard facilities and services to cater to the needs of visitors.

g. Ignorance on hotel/lodge chain concepts( franchising/joint venture)

At present, there is no international hotel chainoperating in Bhaktapur district. This in turnhas limited the potential market for the arrivalof quality tourists in the district. Besides, localconcerns about the new hotels/lodges in someareas include: a) little or no local content (food,furniture and fixtures) b) unsuitability of thearchitecture to the local environment c) negligibleemployment to locals d) minimum usage andconsumption of locally available food items andother materials and finally, e) there is heighteningtension and conflict with the local community.

h. Lack of strong monitoring from the governmentregarding product standardization and lawenforcement

Many tourism products within the districthave been categorized according to the level ofinvestment made in them and have been maderesponsible to provide facilities and servicesaccording to set standards as per internationalrules. However, the monitoring of such facilitiesand services by the government is not strongand effective. Likewise, the Acts and regulationsare also not followed strictly. While delivering


services to tourists in many tourism sites including Bhaktapur district, the government has not been effective and efficient in delivering their services as compared to other services that are provided by the private sector.

The other constraints are not directly related to tourism in Bhaktapur. However, they have a major impact on the overall development of tourism in the nation. They are as follows:

1. Poor air access and weak structure andmanagement of NAC

Nepal Airlines Corporation, the only nationalflag carrier, which once held more than 50%of the total share in the overall tourist arrivalsmarket in the tourism sector is losing its image

and at present holds less than 25% share due to its inefficient and ineffective management and services. It is also gradually losing its brand image in the overseas destinations, where it once had earned a very good reputation. Its poor capacity and precarious financial status has remained as major impediments to the growth of the institution (GoN 2004a). Poor management of Nepal Airlines has led to limited air seat capacity and lack of direct link with major markets (See Box 1.1). The share of tourist arrivals by air decreased from 83% in 2001 to 74.4% in 2009 (Annex 15).

2. Poor facilities at the International Airport

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), theonly international airport of the country, lacksinternational facilities (standard). The existinggeographical set-up with high hills nearbydoes not permit easy landing and takeoffs forbigger aircrafts. The same airport serves bothinternational and domestic flights which keepsthe runway busy during peak hours. During thewinter months, TIA is in a more chaotic situationdue to the weather conditions. Latenight flightsare also not popular as a transit point due to itslack of strategic location. The capacity of theterminal building is not large enough to cater tomore flights and bigger aircrafts.


2. 1 Current Status of Tourism

More than 100,000 foreign tourists visit Bhaktapur district annually. However, the exact figure of

tourist arrivals including domestic visitors is unknown. The statistics maintained by Bhaktapur municipality includes only the number of visitors from third and SAARC countries who visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. It has been revealed from the study that the major tourism activties taking place in Bhaktapur district are visiting cultural and heritage sites; leisure, hiking and biking; recreation and pleasure; and MICE activities. A survey conducted by BTDC among the 209 sampled visitors from January to May in 2008, shows that the primary motive of the visitors coming to Bhaktapur is to visit the World Heritage Site (32%), followed by the experience of local culture and tradition (30%), enjoying its people and lifestyle (29%), conducting research (2%) and for other mixed motives (7%).

Another significant information that can be derived from the study is that a larger section of the visitors that come to Bhaktapur city do so for a day’s trip only followed by other pleasure activities (Table 2.1) with very few visitors actually staying in Bhaktapur city.

The prime tourism products of Bhaktapur that have helped in attracting both domestic as well as international visitors have been its cultural and natural attractions, especially visiting the core areas of Bhaktapur city, Changu Narayan, Nagarkot and Suryabinayak. The major cultural tourism activities in Bhaktapur have included heritage tours at Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Changu Narayan and Thimi areas, exploring various historical and cultural monuments, and enjoying various cultural and traditional festivals, fairs, rituals and events. Similarly, the major nature-based and adventure tourism activities have included recreational visits to Nagarkot and enjoying the sunrise/sunset view, panoramic mountain views, day hiking and jungle walking. What can be derived from the study is that a very small segment of visitors come to enjoy mountain biking and other forms of tourism activities. However, though the number of visitor arrivals at the moment is low, but the cultural sites that are emerging as potential tourism sites include pilgrimages to Mahamanjushree, Ashapureshwor and Doleshwor Mahadev. Additionally, other special interest visitors include excursion tours by college and school students to Bhaktapur Durbar Square area and Changu Narayan.

2CHAPTER TWO

2. Current Status of Tourism andTourism Resource Potentials of the District


2012 – 2016

Table:2.1 A brief summary of existing tourist activities and places in Bhaktapur

Purpose of visit Major Areas Major Activities

Undertaken

Leisure and holiday making

BDS, Changu Narayan, Nagarkot, Suryabinayak,

Heritage tour, sightseeing, day hiking, biking, trekking, sunrise/sun set view, mountain view, picnic

Business and MICE activities

Nagarkot, Chundevi, Madhyapur Thimi Municipality

Training, workshop, conference, meetings,

Research, education and excursion

BDS, Thimi, Suryabinayak, Changu Narayan

Culture research, education and excursion visits

Religious and pilgrimage

BDS, Changu Narayan, Mahamanjushree, Suryabinayak, Boudha Bihars

Pilgrimage visit, observing festivals, fairs and rituals, meditation, yoga

At present, there is not a single village in Bhaktapur district, which has been developed and promoted with a major focus on rural tourism. However, some interested visitors are making side trips to some beautiful villages like Jhoukhel, Bageshwori, Thakalmath and Ghampedanda villages while visiting Suryabinayak, Changu Narayan

and Nagarkot. Some tour operators have extended their packages up to Chisapani, Saankhu, Nalachhap, Dhulikhel, Panauti, Godavari, and Phoolchowki from Bhaktapur.

A brief summary of existing tourism status in Bhaktapur district

2.1.1 Historical and Cultural Tourism

Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Changu Narayan, being enlisted as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 1979 A.D., have been the prominent sites for both domestic as well as foreign tourists. Further more, within Bhaktapur municipality, Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square and the Dattatreya Square are the prime sites. The survey conducted in 2008 (BTDC 2008) also reveals that the major sites preferred by visitors in the Bhaktapur municipality area are Taumadi square (24.30%), followed by Pottery Square (19.60%), Dattatraya (17.10%), Hanumanghat (5.60%) and museums (4.80%). It has been noted that the historical and cultural factors have been the major elements of tourism in the existing tourism pattern of Bhaktapur district. The potential historical and cultural heritage sites within Bhaktapur district including Madhyapur Thimi and all 16 VDCs are as indicated in Table 2.2 below:

Table 2.2: Historical and cultural sites of Bhaktapur district

Loca

tion

Heritage Value Type

Potential from Tourism point of view

Inter

natio

nal

Regio

nal

Natio

nal

Distr

ict

Loca

l

A. Municipalities

Bhak

tapur

Taleju Religious/ Historical √Dattatreya Religious/ Historical √Nyatapola Religious/ Historical √Bhairavnath temple Religious √Tilmadhavnarayana temple Religious √Bhugol-mandir Religious √Bhimsen temple Religious √Wakupati Changu Narayana temple Religious √Buddhist Bihars Religious √ √ √ √ √Jame Masjid Religious √


2012 – 2016

Loca

tion

Heritage Value Type


Inter

natio

nal

Regio

nal

Natio

nal

Distr

ict

Loca

l

Madh

yapu

r Thim

i

Thimi

Dolkha Bhimsen Religious √Panchayan Sivalaya Mandir Religious √Tagha Hiti Historical √Pati-Vihar Religious √Paco Ganesha Religious √Gunga Chaitya Religious √Digu Dhyo Religious √Jiswan Vaha Religious √Jetvan Mahavihar Religious √Chapacho Ganesha temple Religious √The Nanis Historical √Hernilvarna Mahavihar Religious √Herasuvarna Mahavihar Religious √Siddhikali-Ganesh Temple Religious √Sima-Dhwaka Historical √Mandap-Pati Historical √Pun-hiti Historical √Balkumari Temple Religious √

Bode

Mahalaxmi-temple, Religious √Ganesha-temple, Religious √Nrityanath-temple, Religious √the shrine of Nilvarahi, Religious √images of Uma-Maheswor and Garuda, Religious √Mahadeva-temple, Religious √images of Ganesha, Narayana, Mahankal, Religious √Dhyobu-Narayana-temple, Religious √Shiva-lingums, images of Dhartimata (mother earth), Saraswoti and Manjusri, Religious √

Kalika temple of Visnughat (the wooden struts of this temple are carved by erotic postures), Religious √

Gorakhnath-Dhungedhara, Historical √Pancho-Ganesha temple, Religious √image of Kalkinarayana, Religious √Narayana temple, Religious √Krishna temple, Religious √Nasa-dhyo temple, Religious √Narayana temple (Shikhara-style), Religious √Bhimsen shrine etc Religious √

Nagdesh

Siddhiganesha-temple Religious √Panchimukhi Hanuman Religious √Images of Ganesha, Krishna, Amoghasiddhi, Lokes-wor, Mahishamardini Bhagavati, Amitav, Ratnasamb-hav, Akshobhaya in the premises of Siddhiganesha temple.

Religious √

Divyaswori temple Religious √


2012 – 2016

Loca

tion

Heritage Value Type


Inter

natio

nal

Regio

nal

Natio

nal

Distr

ict

Loca

l

B. VDCs

Duwakot

Swarsati Mandir, Religious √Phai Dhoka Ganesh, Religious/Recreation √Tripurasundari Religious √Chatur-vyuha Vishnu Religious/Historical √

Changu

Narayan

Changu Narayan temple Religious/ Historical √Kileswor Mahadeva Religious/ Historical √Chinnamasta. Religious/ Historical √'Devi than' Religious/Natural √

Nagarkot

Jalpadevi Religious √Kalidevi and Mahakali Religious/Natural √Panchakanya temple √Mahankal Religious √Mahadeva Pokhari Religious/Natural √

Chha lingTrishul Danda (Mahankal Temple) Religious/Recreation √Telkot Historical √

BagesworiBaghhiti Religious/Natural √Valmikeswor or Vageswor temple Religious/Natural √

Sudal Lhasapaka saraswotithan (Mahamanjushree) Religious √Goukhureswor-Mahadeva Religious √

Tathali'Thulo-dhunga' and 'Vasuki-dhunga Historical √Gadhi (Thulo and Sano) in 'Aietabare/Thulopakha-samudaik-ban' Historical √

Jhaukhel Jyotirlingeswor Mahadeva Religious/ Historical √

ChittapolLord Shiva (143ft. tall) Religious/Natural √'Natarambheswor/Lataramveswor' Religious/Natural √Pine Forest (Lingo Ban) Historical √

Sipadol

Doleswor Mahadev Religious √Ranikot-gadhi Historical/Natural √Baghbhairav Religious √Ashapuri Mahadeva Religious √

Nangkhel Nandikeswor Mahadeva Religious √

Gundu Bhaktamukteswor, Kalbhairabsthan, Duble-Ganesha, Gokules-wor, Bhuvaneswori, Tarakeswor, Kailesh, Kasi-viseswor Religious √

KatunjeSuryavinayak, Religious/Recreation √Suverneswor Mahadevathan, Religious/Recreation √Susilbhairav temple, Religious √

Dhadhikot

Anantalingeswor Religious √Charakhendeswor shrine Religious √Bindhyabashini Religious √Radhakrishna temple Religious √

Sirutar Somalingeswor Religious √Balkot Dharmeswor Mahadev Religious √


2012 – 2016

2.1.2 Pilgrimage Tourism

The history of Pilgrimage Tourism in Nepal goes back to the mythological period. According to Hindu and Buddhist legends it is believed that Lord Krishna, the Hindu deity and Mahamanjusri the Buddhist deity came to Kathmandu valley to establish human settlements. So from a tourism point of view, both of them are considered as the foremost tourists to Nepal. Furthermore, it is speculated that the Bhaktapur region was a pilgrimage site for the followers of two great religions since the evolution of Kathmandu valley. Historical evidences together with existing religious shrines clearly point out that Bhaktapur district was a pilgrimage destination since the ancient and medieval times. Moreover, the Jame-Masjid and the Church that once existed in Bhakatapur, which were established during the Malla period are considered to be the best known examples to prove Bhaktapur as a secular place for the major religions of the world.

Every year, during the sacred days of the holy months, both domestic and international pilgrims visit many pilgrimage sites in Bhaktapur district including: Changu Narayan, Dattatreya, Taleju complex, Suryavinayak, Yosinkhel, Thimi and Nilvarahi - Bode, Kalikathan, Mahadeva Pokhari – Nagarkot, the Navadurga God-house, Bageswori, Doleswor Shrine - Sipadol, Ashapureswor, Anantalingeswor - Gundu, Suverneswor and SusilaBhairava Shrines - Katunje, Charakhendeswor - Dadhikot, Rajganesha - Chitrapur, Joutirlingeswor - Jhoukhel, etc. Besides, there are other popular shrines which could be equally potential sites for pilgrims of all religions coming from different areas (Annex 4, 5, and 6).

2.1.3 Leisure, Hiking and Biking

Despite its huge tourism potential, very few places like Nagarkot, Changu Narayan and Suryabinayak have been promoted as leisure, hiking and biking tourism destinations. A survey conducted by BTDC in 2008 shows that only one third (35%) visitors coming to Bhaktapur Durbar area show interest in extending their visit further in Nagarkot, followed by 17.30% to Changu Narayan, 6.4% to Suryabinayak and 5.90% to Thimi areas. Likewise,

only one-third (35.4%) are interested in visiting other areas including Dhulikhel, Panauti, Nala and Sankhu after their visits to Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The study also reveals that at present visitors are using the following hiking and biking routes in the district:

1. BDS-Kamalbinayak-Byasi-Pikhel- Chang uNarayan (7km)

2. Changu Narayan-Telkot-Gadgade-Nagarkot (..km)

3. BDS-Chyamashing-Nala (7km)

4. BDS-Suryabinayak-Ghampedanda (2.5km)

Situated 32km east of Kathmandu at an altitude of2175 meters, Nagarkot is by far the most favoredhill station and can be accessed from Sankhu,Bhaktapur, Changu Narayan, Telkot and Nalaareas. Besides hiking and biking through ChanguNarayan and Nalachhap, Nagarkot has been apopular leisure destination due to its appropriateclimate and strategic location for sunrise andsunset views and the Himalayan panoramastretching from the Annapurna range in thewest to Kanchenjunga in the east. Currently, theMinistry of Tourism and Civil Aviation throughits tourism infrastructure development projectis preparing a 2.5-km-long eco-trail in KushumCommunity Forest, Nagarkot. Also known asa resort tourism destination, the Nagarkot areapresently comprises of more than 35 hotels,lodges and resorts offering 543 rooms and 991beds for visitors. There are 60 hotel/lodges, 837rooms and 1538 beds available for heritage tour,leisure, and hiking/biking visitors in Bhaktapur(Table 2.3).


2012 – 2016

below indicates the existing status of different places in Bhaktapur suitable for recreation and pleasure activities.

Table 2.4: Status of existing places for recreation and pleasure activities

S N

Places Recreation and pleasure activities

Major features

1 Nilbarahi, Changu Narayan, Suryabinayak, Ganeshman Uddhyan

Picnic and excursion

Picnic and entertainment activities particularly by students and some corporate houses. Availability of picnic shelter at Changu Narayan (8), Suryabinayak (5), Ganeshman Uddhyan (3)

2 Nagarkot Danda Film and video shooting

Various places from Telkot to Nagarkot Tower used for film shooting

3 Nagarkot Changa Chet Annually offered by Club Himalayan as promotional effort

4 BDS Bhaktapur Night

Newari food carnival, music, dance and craft

5 Ashapuri Mahadesthan

Picnic and Hiking

Picnic and entertainment activities particularly by students.

2.1.5 Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) Tourism

Bhaktapur, Nagarkot and Dhulikhel areas have established themselves as prime destinations for MICE activities after Kathmandu due to their close proximity to the capital, tranquil environment, one of the best views of the mountain panorama and the availability of required facilities and services for conferences. The successful completion of the UNESCO World Cultural Conference, WWF Conference, and SAARC Retreat have been some major events in the past that highlight the importance of Bhaktapur and Nagarkot as prime destinations for MICE tourism, combined with its rich cultural and natural heritage along with the best panoramic view of the high mountains.

Table 2.3: Accommodation facilities and services available in Bhaktapur

S.N Name of the Hotel/Lodge/Resort

Number of Hotels/Lodges

Num-ber of Rooms

Bed capac-ity

Confer-ence capacity

1 Bhaktapur and surroundings

21 278 515

2 Changu Narayan 4 16 32

3 Nagarkot and Naldhum

35 593 991

Total 60 837 1538


Likewise, located 7km north of Bhaktapur, and standing at an altitude of 1541 meters is Changu Narayan, a popular leisure and hiking destination. Changu Narayan provides a wonderful opportunity to observe one of the oldest Hindu shrines dating back to 325 A.D., the best sunset view over the Manohara river and the still virgin rural lifestyle and culture of Newari and Tamang communities alongside the lush green forests.

2.1.4 Recreation and Pleasure Activities

Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Changu Narayan, Suryabinayak and Nagarkot have always been very suitable places for pleasure and recreation activities for both international and domestic visitors. However, for domestic visitors, Nilbarahi in Madhyapur Thimi is also considered a recreation site. From an entertainment and recreation point of view, Changu Narayan, Suryabinayak and Ganeshman Park are other magnificent areas which comprise of 8, 5 and 3 picnic spots respectively. Efforts have also been undertaken to construct a children’s park in Dachhin Barahi (Dadhikot) and picnic facilities in Nilbarahi and Latarameshwor forest. Siddhipokhari and Na Phukhu (pond) in Bhaktapur city are also wonderful sites for pleasure and recreation activities to local visitors in Bhaktapur. Table 2.4


2012 – 2016

More than 18 hotels and resorts offer conference facilities and services and have a daily capacity to accommodate 1720 participants in Bhaktapur district (Considering 30-person capacity as minimum number) (Table 2.5). The conference capacity alone in Bhaktapur city area comprises of 550 people and that of Nagarkot alone stands at 1220 people (See Annex 27 to 30 for details).

Table 2.5: Hotels, Lodges and Resorts offering accommodation and conference facilities

S. N

Name of the Hotel/Lodge/Resort

Location Bed capac-ity

Conference capacity

1 Bhaktapur Guest House Chundevi 60 115

2 Green Land Guest House

Bhaktapur 13 40

3 Planet Bhaktapur Bhaktapur 24 35

4 Khowpa Guest House Bhaktapur 20 30

5 Hotel Sweet Home Bhaktapur 14 130

6 Arniko Village Resort Nalinchowk 30 150

7 Club Himalayan Nagarkot 84 230

8 Hotel Space Mountain Nagarkot 44 210

9 Hotel Chautari Nagarkot 68 150

10 Hotel Country Villa Nagarkot 68 130

11 The Fort Resort Nagarkot 72 120

12 Nagarkot Hillside Village Resort

Nagarkot 48 100

13 Niva Niwa Nagarkot 39 40

14 Hotel View Point Nagarkot 77 50

15 Galaxy View Point Nagarkot 34 60

16 Hotel Sun Shine Nagarkot 32 40

17 Hotel New Dragan Nagarkot 20 40

18 Hotel Nagarkot Besso Nagarkot 34 50

Total 781 1720


2.2 Tourism Infrastructure

Access

Bhaktapur is one of the most accessible districts of Nepal. In terms of road density, it ranks second among the 75 districts of the country. The total road length is 97.47 km, of which, 71.17 km is black topped, 18 km is gravelled, and 8.3 km is earthen. Correspondingly, all the tourist sites within Bhaktapur are accessible. However, the roads are rather narrow (generally of a width of 3 meters) and are not suitable for two-way traffic. Moreover, the roadsides are susceptible to landslides because the alignment of the roads has not been done according to the required engineering practices. There is thus a need to widen them more systematically in gradual phases. This is more necessary for places like Doleswor Mahadev (Annex 37 for Maps), which has high religious importance with a considerable number of visitors coming from both Nepal and India.

Accommodation

Various accommodation facilities are available in Bhaktapur, Changu Narayan, and Nagarkot. Accommodation facilities are also available in Ghyampe Danda and Kailash Danda in the form of tourist resorts and camping (tent) facilities. Accommodation facilities are being constructed in Mali Gaon too. Home-stay facilities can also be built in Bode, Thimi, Nangkhel, Mali Gaon, Jeetpur, and Bhaktapur through the conversion of vacant buildings in the community. The particulars of accommodation facilities are as indicated in Table 1.4 above.

Other Infrastructures

Bhaktapur also has other necessary infrastructures in differing degrees. In terms of health infrastructure, it has 1 government hospital, 2 PHCC/HC, 7 HP, 12 SHP, 52 PHC outreach clinic, 89 EPI clinic, 189 FCHV and 18 NGO/INGO private sector establishments. Despite these, the incidence of ARI per 1000 children below 5 years of age is 67 percent. The incidence of diarrhea per 1000 children below 5 years is 67. The proportion of malnourished children under 3 years per 1000 children and the reported death per 1000 population is 3.99. Similarly, the information and communication infrastructure is also considerably good in Bhaktapur


district. The information and communication infrastructure in Bhaktapur municipality is also good. The district boasts of 73.4 percent of its households with radio facilities making it the sixth-ranked district in the country in this category and it is the third-ranked district in terms of telephone connectivity with 38.46 per 1000 people owning telephone facilities. This shows that Bhaktapur possesses excellent information and communication infrastructure. Bhaktapur also has 45 newspapers with 1 daily, 21 weeklies, 11 monthlies, 1 yearly and 11 other publications of different durations. The district also has a literacy rate of 86 percent, which also indicates a higher rate of information and communication. In rural areas, information and communication facilities, especially for visiting tourists, need to be established which is not a difficult task due to the existence of basic infrastructures such as roads and electricity around the district (DDPN, 2004).

Information and Communication

Providing adequate information about the tourism attractions and facilities is a key task in attracting more visitors and increasing their length of stay. When this is done, then it enhances the satisfaction of visitors in any tourist destination. Appropriate interpretation is the best way to inform visitors about tourist attractions and facilities. Both electronic and physical forms of interpretation can be used for providing necessary information to visitors. In Bhaktapur, very little effort has been made for providing interpretation services and facilities. No separate website, blog, or homepage describing the tourism attractions, facilities, services

and major tourist packages has been developed and uploaded for Bhaktapur. When it comes to the physical form of interpretation, very little effort has been made by Bhaktapur municipality, BTDC, Changu Narayan VDC or Nagarkot Naldhum Tourism Development Committee (NNDTC). Bhaktapur municipality has been disseminating some limited information on tourism in BDS by word-of-mouth propaganda through its staff and through some leaflets about BDS in its visitor checkpoints in Bhaktapur municipality. No interpretative signage, tourist attraction boards and information boards have been developed and set up by Bhaktapur municipality in Bhaktapur. BTDC has been disseminating some tourist information on BDS and Changu areas through its Information Centre and the Bhaktapur Guide Book. Similarly, Changu Narayan VDC has developed a heritage-based brochure on Changu Narayan and has been distributing it to visitors through its checkpoint at Changu Narayan. Likewise, NNTDC in close cooperation with NETIF recently established a tourist information centre at Nagarkot and has tried to disseminate information on tourist attractions, hotel/lodge facilities and additional tourism packages through several brochures, maps, hoarding boards and locally trained guides. There is an urgent need to develop and place artistic and informative arrows, signage, information boards, and tourist attractions and facilities boards in BDS, Changu Narayan, and Nagarkot and throughout the tourist potential areas in the district too. There is a dearth of interpretative signage and boards even for intra-district hiking, biking, and trekking in Sankhu, Nagarkot Tower, Nalachhap, Sanga, Ashapureshwor, Ranikot, and Suryabinayak areas.

Regarding communication facilities and services for visitors, there is adequate telephone and mobile facilities to make national and international calls. Limited internet facilities are also available in Bhaktapur, Thimi, and Nagarkot areas though these facilities are not available in other potential rural areas.

Environment management

The environment in the country side of Bhaktapur is relatively good but the same cannot be said about Bhaktapur city and the areas where there are brick kilns. The brick kilns, solid waste, sewage ponds and the electric transmission lines create an adverse environment impact in the district.


Pollution due to Brick Kilns

One of the major factors that has aided in the environmental degradation in Bhaktapur is the presence of a wide number of brick kilns. It has been reported that there are 64 brick kilns in Bhaktapur which employ some 10,000 people from all around the country. According to Dr. Sunil Kumar Joshi, Assistant Professor, Department of Community Medicine, KMC, ‘though results of other monitoring studies done in the area of the location of brick kilns show high levels of air pollutants like TSP, PM10, CO2, Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) and Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) in those places; air quality monitoring conducted at Duwakot VDC did not follow a similar trend’. Levels of TSP and PM10 during both brick kiln operating and off-season periods were within permitted exposure limits. Nevertheless, though insignificant, the level of TSP and PM10 was relatively higher during the time when the brick kilns were in operation. The presence of CO, SO2 and NOX was not detected by the Drager Pump and Tube during the time when the brick kilns were in operation and also when they were not in operation.

He further says that though the levels of different air pollutants were not significantly high due to some unidentified technical reasons, a health survey done during this study clearly showed that people living near the brick kilns were more likely to suffer from illnesses related to pollution caused by the kilns than people living in areas without the brick kilns. A comparison of the health examination done on children studying in a school located next to brick kilns with that of those children from an area without brick kilns showed that the health of the children exposed to emissions from the brick kilns was worse than the health of the children in the area that was free of brick kilns.

More recently, local people have begun raising their voices against the pollution caused by brick kilns, and in

response to what are a genuine concern, the government has taken a few positive steps towards controlling the pollution. Furthermore, international agencies such as DANIDA and SDC have initiated programs to introduce cleaner technologies (Box 2.1). This study recommends that these efforts should be fully supported by the government as well as the industrialists. It also says that the government should take strong measures to shut down illegal kilns and make sure that all industrialists shift to kilns with cleaner technology within a year and half. The government should also take measures to introduce emission standards and enforce them.

Visual PollutionVisual pollution is basically a man-made pollution when the landscape is cluttered with advertising billboards, wall paintings, overhead powerlines, telephone and electric poles, etc. The chaotic way that the electric wires have been placed in Bhaktapur is a major source of visual pollution in the district. Moreover, the signage has also been creating visual pollution in the district skyline. The construction of modern buildings against the backdrop of traditional buildings has also created visual pollution. As Bhaktapur is one of the major tourist destinations, visual pollution which is one of the main factors responsible for the degradation of the beauty of the city should be minimized. Unfortunately, this disturbing phenomenon is rising every day primarily due to the indifference on the part of the local government.

Pollution of Water Body There are several historical and natural ponds in Bhaktapur, particularly within the municipality area. Some have dried up such as the Mahadev Pokhari in Nagarkot and others have become dirty such as the Siddhipokhari in Bhaktapur. Many of the ponds have been supplied with water through Raj Kulos (traditional water feeders) but since these Raj Kulos have become defunct, the ponds too have dried up.

Industrial PollutionThe number of registered factories in Bhaktapur is 112 out of which 34 are believed to be approved by the government. In Bhaktapur, the most prominent industrial area is the Bhaktapur Industrial Estate. It was established in 1979 and consists of 37 factories, which manufacture goods ranging from textiles and ceramics

HIGH SHAFT BRICK KILN

This kiln is 40 per cent

efficient and reduces

pollution significantly


to dairy products. There is estimation that some 6000 kg of waste is generated per month from the Estate of which the amount of organic waste is believed to be around 1000 kg. Medical waste is also generated by the 4 hospitals in Bhaktapur. With a total capacity of 500 beds and with 1.7 kg per head/per bed per day of medical waste being generated, the total amount of medical waste that is generated each day is 850 kg.

Pollution due to Solid Wastes The other major cause of pollution is the solid wastes particularly in Bhaktapur municipality. The composition of solid waste in Bhaktapur and Thimi municipalities is presented in Table 2.6.

Table 2.6: Composition of solid waste in Bhaktapur and Thimi Municipalities

Content Bhaktapur2003

Thimi2003

Organic 70.16 70.1

Paper 2.37 4.9

Rubber 0.05 0.55

Leather - -

Wood - -

Plastic 3.23 8.25

Textile 1.69 2.31

Ferrous Metal 0.07 0.25

Inert 21.05 12

Glass 1.33 1.29

Other 0.05 0.19

Medical Waste - 0.2

Total 100 100

Source: HMG/IUCN, 1992, Kathmandu Valley Environment Outlook, 2007

The solid waste generated in Bhaktapur municipality is 22 tonnes per day. The estimated per capacity comes to be about 0.303 kg per day. More than 80 percent of this waste is organic. Paper increased from 1.6 per cent in 1997 to 6 percent in 2004 and plastic increased from 1.6 percent to 7.5 percent during the same period. The study for the whole of the district has not been made but it gives an indication of the solid waste situation in the district as shown below in Table 2.7.

Table 2.7: Estimated solid waste situation in Bhaktapur Municipality

S. N.

Items Tuladhar B Suwal JICA Study

Weight Percent Percent Weight

Dry Season

Wet Season

1 Kitchen Waste 540 87.9 75 83.6 87.4

2 Paper < 1 kg Negligible 3.25 6.0 3.2

3 Textile 2.5 0.4 3 1.5 0.7

4 Wood/Leaves - - - 1.5 1.1

5 Plastic 10 1.6 3.4 7.5 3.2

6 Rubber/Leather 1 0.16 - 0 0

7 Metal <1 Kg Negligible 0.3 0 0.1

8 Glass 3.4 1.6 1.5 0 1.6

9 Ceramics 55 9 - 0 0

10 Others 11.4 0 2.6

2.3 Tourism Resource Potentials Endowed with a beautiful natural landscape, still vibrant and rich Newari culture, and one of the best-preserved historical and religious sites, Bhaktapur district is regarded as the most charming and best-preserved among the three cities within the valley. Bhaktapur district is widely popular among the visitors for its rich culture, world-class heritage sites and serenely beautiful landscape and biodiversity. The unique combination of these rich natural, cultural, and historical tourism resources has been for a long time luring visitors of diverse segments to the district (Refer to Table 2.10 and Annex 7). The major tourism resources and tourism potentials of Bhaktapur are presented below.


2.3.1 Cultural and Pilgrimage Tourism

Bhaktapur district is enriched with intangible cultural heritage too. The ancient festivals that are still celebrated to this day and which are mysterious, colorful and fun have evolved over the years to its present status because of the popularity of the supreme deities belonging to two great religions - Hinduism and Buddhism. The rites and rituals performed during these festivals come from within a background of interesting myths, delightful legends and folktales. The common belief is that celebrating a festival will ward off evil spirits and dangers; will help in the growth of agricultural production and economy; will help maintain peace and prosperity; will help in protecting the country from outsiders, etc. Some significant festivals of Bhaktapur district are as follows:

BISKA/BISKET Jatra: The Solar New Year festival:

This festival marks the beginning of the New Year, according to the official Nepalese calendar, which always falls in the middle of April. The festival lasts for nine days and is celebrated with great joy and fun. The very festival at Thimi and Bode are quite unique and different. Katunje too celebrates this festival. This festival lasts for over a period of a few days and various celebrations are held which are as follows:

1. Ratha Jatra: Four days prior to the New Year,Bhairab and Bhadrakali are enshrined in theirrespective temple-shaped Rathas: chariots, whichinaugurate the Bisket celebration. The RathaJatra starts from Taumadhi tole in the city ofBhaktapur. The swarming crowd of people whohave joined in for the celebrations try their levelbest to pull and move the chariot towards theirown direction.

2. On the day before New Year the lingam pole(some 80-foot long wooden pole flanked bya pair of flags) is erected at the festive placecalled ‘Yosinkhel’. The lingam is worshippedas Lord Bhairabnath. This celebration is calledviswodhojothanam. But before performing this

celebration, a lingam belonging to Lord Ganesha is first erected at Bolachhen/Kumale tole, early in the morning.

3. In the afternoon of New Year’s Day the lingampole is laid down on the ground. This ceremonyis called ‘Yosin-ko-thueigu jatra’ in Newari.Hence, the New Year actually commences as it isbelieved.

4. Balkumari Jatra of Thimi: Goddess Balkumariof Thimi is very famous. The three-storey roofedtemple is in the heart of Thimi which is throngedby musicians and worshippers alike throughoutthe New Year’s Day. The Goddess along withthe subordinate deities is worshipped duringthe festival. The annual festival is held the nextday. The honored Goddess Balkumari includingthe other deities which total 32 are enshrined intemple-like khats and a ceremonial processionbegins. During the ceremonial procession,worhsippers and common people fling clouds oforange-red powder viz. ‘Sindur’/’Bhui Sinha’ andthis is popularly known as ‘Sindur Jatra’ too.

At Bode, the awesome ‘Jivro-Chedne’ (tongue-piercing) Jatra/ceremony is observed.

5. The ninth day of the Bisket festival in Bhaktapurtown concludes with the pulling of the chariotand the moving-ceremony of Lord Bhairabnath.

There are various other smaller celebrations that are observed in Bhaktapur during the festive days which are as follows:

Mahakali and Mahalaxmi Jatra: April 15

Bramhyani Jatra: April 16

Chhuma-Ganesha Ratha Jatra: April 17

Bhairab Bhadrakali Jatra: April 18

Amako Mukh Herne (Mother’s Day): This festival falls on the last day of the dark fortnight of April/May.

CHANGU NARAYAN, CHHINNAMASTA, KILESWOR RATHAJATRA

This ceremony is held on the premises of Changu Narayan and is observed on the last day of the


dark fortnight of April/May. Chhinnamasta is an awesome, esoteric tantric Goddess who is also worshipped in the form of Navadurga. The nearby temple in the Changu Narayan complex is dedicated to her where the images of the nine Mother Goddesses - Navadurga – are kept for woership. She is regarded as the counterpart of Lord Visnu. The principal Gods of this ceremony are Lord Visnu as Changu Narayan, Chhinnamasta and Lord Shiva as Kileswor. There is a small two-storied roof-tiered temple in front of Changu Narayan temple which is called ‘Kileswor Mandir’.

BUDDHA JAYANTI PURNIMA

The full moon day of late April or early May viz. ‘Vaisakh Purnima’ is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Buddha. Stupas and chaityas are the focal points for Buddhist activities on the Great Master’s birthday. As he is the ‘Light of Asia’ and actually the glory of the whole world, non-Buddhists too celebrate this sacred day.

SITHINAKHA /KMARSASTHI

The birthday of Kumar, the Warrior God, is celebrated during the bright lunar fortnight of May. He is worshipped and offered six types of cakes and breads. The day also marks the end of the one-month Dewali period. The tradition of cleaning wells, tanks and ponds on this festive day still exists till date.

GHANTAKARNA CHATURDASI

This celebration falls on the 14th day of the dark lunar fortnight in July or early August. The day traditionally marks the end of the rice transplanting season and the commencement of various fairs and festivals.

The people call him Ghantakarna, often known as ‘Gathamoga’, a horrifying giant devil. Legend tells us that as Ghantakarna was killed on this day, the fellow countrymen celebrate his death and beg their Gods for protection against evil spirits. It is believed that celebrating this festival will ward off evil spirits, and get rid of witches, evil eyes and ghosts.

To some extent, Ghantakarna can be considered as a manifestation of Lord Shiva because he is also regarded as the ‘Lord of Ghosts and Witches’. In the case of the Navadurga Gana of Bhaktapur, on this sacred day, the mask-wearing performers (Gatha) receive the first clay from the potters of Talako and prepare a small face of Shiva.

GUNLA-DHARMA

It is regarded as the sacred month of Lord Buddha. It falls in the sacred lunar month of August or early September. The Stupas, Chaityas and the Vihars are the focal points for Buddhist worshippers during the sacred days of Gunla. They celebrate the occasion by traversing through the city streets in groups, and playing musical instruments in the early mornings.

NAGA-PANCHAMI

This is the day of the Serpent God. It falls during the monsoon rains on the fifth day of the lunar fortnight in late July or early August. It actually falls within the holy Buddhist month of Gunla.

JANAI-PURNIMA/RAKSHA-BANDHAN

It is a sacred-thread festival which falls on the full moon day of August. The high caste-Hindus annually change their sacred thread on the very day. It is interesting that farmers customarily feed frogs in their fields early in the morning on this day.

GAI-JATRA / SAPARU

Gai-Jatra means the procession of sacred cows. The Newars called it ‘Saparu’. It is celebrated on the day after Janai Purnima. Actually this is a festival that is celebrated to honor the soul of a dead. In Bhaktapur, Ghintanghisi dance attracts numerous viewers. The Saparu lasts for a week where satirical street dramas are organized.

KRISNNA-JANMASTAMI

Lord Krishna is one of the most adored Gods amongst Hindus. Lord Krishna is their ideal of manhood. The midnight hour during the seventh


day of the dark lunar fortnight in August or early September is glorified by Lord Krishna’s birth. He is the incarnation of Lord Vishnu who was born on earth to save the good, and destroy evil and also to re-establish Dharma (righteousness).

TIJ-VRATA

It is a three-day ‘fasting’ festival for women only. During the festival they wish for a happy and productive marriage, good fortune and a long life for their husbands. The festival falls in either August or early September, and ends on the full moon day.

GANESH-CHATURTHI (CHATHA)

Lord Ganesha is regarded as the God of knowledge and wisdom. He is always the first deity to be worshipped before beginning any work to remove obstacles. It falls in the month of September. On this festive day, Ganesha’s shrines are the focal points for his devotees and amongst them Suryavinayak of Bhaktapur is the most remarkable one.

INDRAJATRA

Indra is the God of rain, a great warrior, ruler of heaven and the king of the Gods. This is an eight-day long festival dedicated to Lord Indra, which starts on the 12th day of the waxing moon in September. Just like how the Bisket festival of Bhaktapur is famous with the locals of Bhaktapur, the Indrajatra of Kathmandu is also a very popular festival among the locals of Kathmandu. The festival is also observed in Bhaktapur though. Wooden poles are erected in different parts of Bhaktapur. Indrayani khatjatra is also celebrated during this time and the Pulukishi jatra also fascinates people who have come for celebrations.

DASHAIN/MOHANI

One of the longest, most auspicious and joyous festivals celebrated throughout the country is Dashain and particularly among the Newar

community as Mohani. Goddess Durga is the main deity of this festival. She as the collective force assumed the power of nine Mother Goddesses and defeated the demons and protected her followers. This great festival is celebrated to mark the ultimate victory of good over evil.

The Dashain festival in Bhaktapur is quite unique and significant and fascinates everyone who has the chance to observe it. For instance, through tantric rituals, Durga Bhavani manifests in the form of the corporal Navadurga Gana: the protector of the country and the fellow countrymen. On the ninth day of Mohani, a buffalo representing the mythic demon slayed by Durga, known as ‘Khame’ is chased from the Navadurga God house towards the shrine of Brahmayani which is located towards the east of the town. This buffalo-chasing jatra is popularly known among the local inhabitants as ‘Khame Bwakegu-jatra’

TIHAR / SUNTI

This five-day long festival is celebrated in October or early November and is another glorious festival where devotees worship the ill-omened crow, lowly dog, a sacred cow, Laxmi - the Goddess of Wealth and Yamaraj - the God of Death respectively. The Newars celebrate their New Year’s Day on the 4th day of Tihar. On the same day, they also have a culture of self-worship which is called ‘Mha puja’.

Besides the aforementioned festivals there are other festivals that are celebrated with great pomp in Bhaktapur district such as the Haribodhani Ekadashi, Changu Narayan – Akhanda Dipa, Bala-Chaturdashi, Sita-Vivaha-Panchami, Yomarhi Puni/Dhanya Purnima, Changu Narayan – Milapunhi, and Lhosar (New Year festival celebrated by the Gurungs and Tamangs as Tol-Lhosar and Tamu-Lhosar respectively). Similarly, the holy month of Magh, Bhimsen Puja, Jaggannath-Yatra, Mahashiva-Ratri, Holi and other festivals too are celebrated. A summary of the major festivals of Bhaktapur and Thimi are presented below in Table 2.8.


Table : 2.8 Festivals of Bhaktapur and Thimi

Festivals Period

1 Gathan Mugah (Ghantakarna) (August)

2 Gunla Dharma (August-September)

3 Gunhu Punhi (Gai Jatra) (August- September)

4 Pancha Dan (August-September)

5 Yanya Punhi (Indra Jatra) (September)

6 Mohani(Dashain) (October)

7 Sunti (Tihar) (October-November)

8 Sakimila Punhi (November- December)

9 Bala Chahre (Bala Chaturdashi) (December)

10 Yomari Punhi (December-January)

11 Ghayh Chaku Sanhu (Maghe Sankranti) (January)

12 Swasthani Bakhan Kanegu (January-February)

13 Shree Panchami (February)

14 Sila Chahre (Shivaratri) (March)

15 Holi Punhi (Phagu Purnima) (March-April)

16 Biskah Jatra (Bisket Jatra) (April)

17 Swanya Punhi (Buddha Purnima) (May-June)

18 Sithi Nakhah (June)

19 Jivro Chhedene Jatra (Tongue piercing festival)

Likewise, Bhaktapur district is also rich with numerous historical monuments, religious shrines, traditional music and dances (Table 2.9), archaeologically important sites and museums, etc.

Table 2.9 Traditional Dances of Bhaktapur and Thimi (Bode and Nagadesha)

Bhaktapur Thimi Bode

1.1 Mahakali Dance

1.2 Lakhe Dance

1.3 Monkey Dance

1.4 Khyak Dance

1.5 Kawan (Skel-eton) Dance

1.6 Devi Daitya

Sangram (The Battle of Goddess and Demon)

1.7 Navadurga Dance

1.8 Bhairab Dance

1.9 Ghintanghisi

1.10 The Mass Street Dance

1.1 Mahakali Dance

1.2 Lakhe Dance

1.3 Monkey Dance

1.4 Khyak Dance

1.5 Kawan (Skeleton) Dance

1.6 Devi Daitya Sangram (The Battle of Goddess and Demon)

Folk Dances

1 Jyapu- Jyapuni (Dhimey) Dance

2 Indra Apsara (Nymph) Dance

1 Lusi (Pestle) Dance

Charya Dances

1 Manjushree Dance2 Bajrayogini Dance3 Pancha Buddha Dance4 Rakta Ganesh Dance5 Arya Tara Dance

1.1 Mahakali Dance (Na-gadesha)

1.2 Nil-Varahi Dance (Bode)

The cultural heritages mentioned above are indeed major elements of Cultural Tourism. In fact, these are sufficient resource potentials for the promotion of various types of cultural tourism in Bhaktapur.

Bhaktapur town also has three National Museums - The National Art Gallery (renowned for its admirable collection of paintings), The Woodcarving Museum (which has a wonderful collection of age-old masterpieces of wood art) and The Bronze & Brass Museum (which houses a superb collection of ceremonial and household metal wares). These attract both foreign as well as domestic tourists.

It is notable that museums also play a prominent role in promoting city tourism, and Research or Educational Tourism. Dadhikot comprises of the Anantalingeswor shrine, Charakhendeswor, and Dakshin Varahi where pilgrimage tourism can be promoted. The numerous Vihars throughout Madhyapur and Bhaktapur town are


like hidden treasures and if they are promoted and managed properly from a tourism point of view, there will be a continuous flow of foreign Buddhist tourists to these shrines. Further, the Jame-Masjid of Bhaktapur town may also become a pilgrimage destination for Muslim pilgrims from home and abroad. To do so , it is necessary totake initiation towards proper management and promotion of such sites.In-short, these advantages that Bhaktapur holds is apparent from Table 2.10.

Table 2.10: Cultural and Pilgrimage Tourism Potentials of Bhaktapur district

Location Attractions/Heritages Types of Attractions

Preferred type of Tourism

Market

Tourism Resource Potentials

High

ly Fe

asibl

e

Feas

ible

Mode

ratel

y fea

sible

(for –

dome

stic o

nly)

Municipalities

Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, Dattatreya Square, Golmadhi Square, Potary Square and so on

Historical monuments, religious shrines, fairs and

festivals, music and dance, art and ar-chitecture, etc.

All types √

M a d h y a p u r Thimi

Thimi Archaeologically important site, TripurasundariShrine, Phaidhoka Ganesh, Saraswoti Shrine

Historical monuments, shrines, fairs and festivals, music and dance, etc.

All types √

Bode Nilvarahi and her Jatra and Naach, Mahalaxmi Jatra, Jivro Chedene Ja-tra (Tongue boring ceremony)


All types √

Nagdesh Siddhiganesh shrine and Siddhiga-nesh Jatra


All types √

VDCs


Preferred type of Tourism Market


High

Mediu

m

Mode

rate

Duwakot Archaeologically important site, TripurasundariShrine, Phaidhoka Ganesh, Saraswoti Shrine

Historical monuments, fairs and festivals, shrines, etc.

Cultural and Pilgrimage Tourism

√

Changu Narayan Changu Narayan temple, Chinnamasta temple and Kileswor temple. Archaeologically and historically important.

Historical monuments, shrines, festivals, etc.

Pilgrimage and Cultural √



Preferred type of Tourism Market


High

Mediu

m

Mode

rate

Nagarkot Mahadeva Pokhari, Jalpa Devi, Kalikasthan, Mahankal, Chamero Gufa, Archaeologically important site

Historical monuments, religious shrines, etc

Cultural and Pilgrimage

√

Chhaling Telkot Gadhi, Panchakanya shrine, Brahmayani shrine, Siddhiganesha, Mahankaldevi and so on

Religious shrines, historical monuments, etc.

Cultural and Pilgrimage

√

Bageswori Archaeologically important site, Baghhiti, Valmikeswor

Religious shrines, historical monuments, etc.

Pilgrimage √

Sudal

Lhasapaka Saraswoti shrine, Brahmayani, Monastery and the cave, Gaukhureswor, Manikaarnika Ghat

Religious shrines, Pilgrimage √

Tathali

Three massive rocks having dated rock edicts and rock line drawings, Caves and Fortresses, Archaeologically important site

Historical monuments Archaeological Tourism

√

Jhaukhel Jyotirlingeswor shrine, the seven natural pools, Recenty discovered Lichchhavi Chaityas accompanied by a Lichchhavi stone inscription, Archaeologically important site

Religious shrines, historical monuments Pilgrimage √

Chittapol

Fortress, Sallaghari, Dirghamukteswor, Natarambheswor, Gufa- Danda, Newly built huge image of Lord Shiva

Religious shrines, historical monuments Pilgrimage

(Regional) √

Sipadol Doleswor, Ranikot Gadhi, Baghbhairav, Ashapureswor, Mali Gaon Cultural Village (Tamang)

Historical monuments, religious shrines Pilgrimage (Regional) & Cultutral

√

Nangkhel Nandikeswor Shrine, Archaeologically important site, Typical ethnic Newar settlement

Religious and cultural Cultutral √

Gundu

Anantalingeswor Historical monuments, Shrines Pilgrimage √

Katunje

Suryavinayak, Suverneswor, Sushil-bhairav Historical monuments, shrines Pilgrimage √

Dhadhikot

Charakhendeswor, Rajganesh, Dakshanvarahi Historical monuments, shrines Pilgrimage √

Sirutar Somalingeswor Religious Pilgrimage (Domestic)

√

Balkot Dharmeswor Religious Pilgrimage (Domestic)

√


2.3.2 Nature based eco-tourism and adventure tourism

Lush green forests, wetland areas including a river network and lakes, a serenely beautiful landscape and a unique geographical setting combined with mild climatic conditions are the primary attributes of nature based tourism in Bhaktapur district. The lush green forests, which occupy 1994.07 hectares (16.75% of the total area) in the northern, eastern, and southern hills of the district alongside some small patches of forests in the valley area are the major features of natural environment contributing to the rich biodiversity, water source generation, and enhancing the scenic beauty, and thus creating foundations for the development of tourism in the district. Despite its small geographical coverage, the variation in microclimate and the presence of a varied topographical setting along with varying elevation has resulted in a variety of forest types and species in Bhaktapur. The major forest types in Bhaktapur include Pine forests, lower broadleaved and upper broadleaved forests. Besides the two species of pine, Pinus roxburghii and Pinus wallichaina, the major broadleaved forest species in Bhaktapur include

Chilaune (Schima wallichii), Katus (Castanopsis indica and Castanopsis hystrix), Utis (Alnus nepalensis), Angeri (Lyonia ovalifolia), Painyu (Prunus cerasoides), Setikath (Myrica capitellata), Kafal (Myrica esculenta), Gurans (Rhododendron species), Lakuri (Fraxinus floribunda), Chuletro (Brassaiopsis hainla), Lapsi (Choerospondias axillaris), Dalchini (Cinnamomum tamala), Sugandha kokila (Cinnamomum glaucescens), Mauha, Jhigane, Churi and so on. Likewise some major Non Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) species found in the forest include Kafal, Laligurans, Sugandwal, Gurjo, Timur, Titepati, Kurilo, Nagbeli, Nigalo, pine Khoto, etc. Various species of mud, stone and tree Orchids are also found in Nagarkot, Bageshwori, Sudal and Suryabinayak forest areas.

These lush forests have not only provided greenery and water to human beings but have also provided a suitable habitat for various wild mammals like chituwa (Clouded leopard), fox, jackal, red deer, wolf, hare, pangolin (salak), various species of butterflies, lizards, snakes, amphibians and various species of birds like kalij, dhukur, titra, luinche, etc.

Among the VDCs, Sipadole, Nangkhel, Gundu, Chhaling, Nagarkot, Bageshwori and Sudal VDCs hold relatively larger forest coverage. Out of the total of 1946.1 hectares of forest coverage in the district, a total of 1808.6 hectares of forest area has been handed over to 58 Community Forest User Groups (CFUGs) in 13 VDCs and Madhyapur Thimi Municipality (MTM); 24 hectares has been handed over as Leasehold Forest in Gundu VDC and 1 hectare has been handed over to a Religious Group in Katunje VDC. Altogether, 110 hectares of forest area are preserved and managed as National Forest in Nagarokt (75 hectares) and Katunje VDCs (25 hectares) by the District Forest Office (Table 2.11). The handing over of forests to the CFUGs as community forests can be considered as a more flexible management system for fostering community based eco-tourism in the district.


Table-2.11..: Status of forest by management regime in Bhaktapur district (Area in hectares)

S. N.

VDC Name No. of CFUG

CFUG area

Lease Hold Forest

Religious forest

Gov. Managed forest

Total forest area

1 Katunje 1 15.41 0 1 35 51.41

2 Gundu 7 215.08 24 0 0 239.08

3 Sipadole 9 359.4 0 0 0 359.4

4 Nangkhel 5 291.26 0 0 0 291.26

5 Chhaling 5 238.1 0 0 0 238.1

6 Jhaukhel 0 0 0 0 0

7 Changu 3 51.51 0 0 0 51.51

8 Duwakot 2 3.4 0 0 0 3.4

9 Bhaktapur 0 0 0 0 0

10 Mdhyapur Thimi

2 27.77 0 0 0 27.77

11 Bageshwori 3 115.6 0 0 0 115.6

12 Chittapol 6 89.04 0 0 0 89.04

13 Nagarkot 3 148.84 0 0 75 226.34

14 Tathali 3 49.81 0 0 0 49.81

15 Sudal 3 140.25 0 0 0 140.25

16 Dadhikot 6 63.13 0 0 0 63.13

17 Balkot 0 0 0 0 0 0

18 Sirutar 0 0 0 0 0 0

Total 58 1808.6 24 1 110 1946.1

Source: VDC level forest resource statistics report, District Forest Office, Bhaktapur, 2066

The core valley of Bhaktapur is almost encircled by three major beautiful landscapes comprising of lush green forests, outstanding natural landscape and terraced agriculture fields ranging from 1372 meters to 2191 meters in the northern, eastern and southern hills.

The major natural landscapes of outstanding tourism features found in the district are mentioned below:

(i) Northern Hill Landscape (Changu Narayan, Chhaling, Nagarkot)

The Northern Hill Landscape comprises of lush green forests and is associated with outstanding natural landscape that stretches 9.6 km from Manohara to the Nagarkot ridge in Changu Narayan, Chhaling and Nagarkot VDCs (See Map 3). The major forest areas lying in this landscape include Changu Narayan, Manedanda and Nyachopouwa forests in Changu Narayan VDC; Jalpadevi, Gangarani, Shree Ban, Setidevi and Italidevi forests in Chhaling VDC; and Nagarkot Aindanda, Kushum and Lakhane forests in Nagarkot VDC (See Annex 37 for Maps).

The major forest types in this landscape include lower broadleaved forests, pine forests and upper broadleaved forests which comprise of a very rich biodiversity. This area is primarily dominated by the Schima-Castanopsis forests followed by some tiny patches of pine forests in Changu Narayan and Nagarkot. Nagarkot, Bageshwori and Chhaling forests provide special habitat for some wild animals like Clouded leopard, pangolin, barking deer, jackal, fox and other animal species. This belt of land also provides special ground for various species of residential and migratory birds.

Map 3: Changu Narayan - Nagarkot

This is the most potential landscape for nature based eco-tourism, and soft and hard adventure tourism with an opportunity for promoting various pleasure and recreation activities. Changu Narayan-Chhaling-Telkot-Nagarkot forest provides a wonderful opportunity for pleasure hiking to visitors. The strategic locations for the best view of the mountain panorama include Changu Narayan, Trishuldanda, Nagarkot and Thakalmath. The highest point, which is situated at 2191 meters in the Nagarkot forest offers a magnificent view of the Kathmandu valley, rolling hills of the Mahabharat range and panoramic views of the Himalayas stretching from the Annapurna range in the west to Kanchenjunga in the far east. The major mountain range seen


from Nagarkot includes the Kanchenjunga range, Makalu range, Everest range, Numbur range, Gaurishankar range, Dorje Lhakpa range, Langtang range, Ganesh Himal range, Manaslu range and the Annapurna range. The mountain ranges that can be best viewed from Nagarkot are the Langtang range and Dorje Lhakpa range.

Nagarkot, Changu Narayan and Telkot are also potential sites from where one can view sunsets over the Himalayas, Manohara River and the Kathmandu valley. However, Nagarkot itself is

renowned for its exotic sunrise and sunset views. Chhaling, Nagarkot and Bageshwori forests also provide wonderful opportunities for bird watching and jungle walk. Muhan Pokhari forest in Bageshwori is best suited for rock climbing and canyoning.

Other areas within this landscape that has much natural beauty include Thali-Danchi, Indrayeni, Bajrayogini, Sankhu-Suntol, Naldhum, Deupur, Narsingpouwa and Lapsiphedi.



(ii) Eastern Hill Landscape (Bageshwori, Sudal, Tathali, Chittapol, Nangkhel)

The Eastern Hill Landscape comprises of lush green forests and exceptional natural landscape and stretches 12.8 km, from Mahadev Pokhari to Lakuribhanjyang (Kakrabariin) in Bageshwori, Sudal, Tathali, Chittapol and Nangkhel VDCs. The major forests that lie in this landscape include Subidhabasti and Bahal forests in Bageshwori VDC; Manjushree, Patle and Bahal forests in Sudal VDC; Wollothulopakha, Aitabare and Kadkelako Pakha forests in Tathali VDC; Lingaguthi, Vingali, Thulo Gairopakha, Mahakaleshwor Jurethumko, Deurali and Pipalchour forests in Chittapol and Dokedando, Kakrabari, Perunge, Bandeshwori and Nawadurga forests in Nangkhel VDC (See Annex 37 for Maps).

The major forest types in this landscape include lower broadleaved forests, pine forests and upper broadleaved forests comprising of a very rich biodiversity. This area is primarily dominated by the Schima-castanopsis forest. The forests in Sudal, Tathali and Kakrabari provide special habitat for some wild animals like Clouded leopard, pangolin, barking deer, jackal, fox and other animal species. This forest belt also provides special ground for various residential and migratory bird species.

The forest located in Khadkagaun of Chittapola VDC is widely popular for its huge cylindrical pine trees from where pine poles (more than 70-foot long) are brought annually to Yashinkhel, Bhaktapur city to be erected as Yoshin (Lingo) during the Bisket Jatra and Indrajatra of Kathmandu as well.

This area is also a highly potential and suitable site for nature based eco-tourism, various soft and hard adventure tourism and various pleasure and recreation activities. The Mahadev Pokhari - Thulopakha (Sudal) - Nalachhap forest provides one of the most pleasurable hiking opportunities for visitors after the Telkot - Nagarkot section.

Map 4: Nagarkot, Bageswori

The major strategic locations for the best views of the mountain panorama include Sudalbhanjyang, Latarameshwor, Chittapol Mahadev, Kakrabari Ranikot and Lakuribhanjyang. Sudal Bhanjyang in Sudal VDC near Thulopakha forest provides the best view of the sunset. The earthen road


from Nagarkot to Nalachhap via Simaldanda is considered as one of the best sites for mountain biking and day hiking. The historical forts situated at the top of Thulopakha Danda forest and Latarameshwor are a strategic location for a majestic view of the Kathmandu valley. Lakuribhanjyang offers a strategic location for savoring the splendid views of the Himalayan panorama in the north and the mesmerizing view of Kathmandu valley in the west. The Sudal Thulopakha forest is a wonderful site for bird watching and jungle walk. The Halalgaon and Basuki rivers which lie on the laps of the Thulopakha forest consist of one of the best rock formations where historic Rock Inscriptions were recently discovered and have been publicized too. It is believed that the unparallel and cylindrical rocks found in this site were widely used to erect sculptures of various Gods, Goddesses, as well as various artistic and sacred structures during the ancient times in Kathmandu valley.

The other beautiful areas associated with this landscape are Nalachhap, Banepa and Panauti.

(iii) Southern Hill Landscape (Sipadol, Katunje, Gundu, Dadhikot)

The Southern Hill Landscape too comprises of lush green forests and beautiful natural landscape that stretches 4.8 km from Kakrabari/Ranikot to Bindhabasini temple in Sipadol, Katunje, Gundu, Dadhikot VDCs. The major forests that lie in this landscape include Ranikot, Bimaleshwor, Hariyali, Toudol, Suryabinayak, Satidevi, Taleju Devisthan, Sepilo Pakha and Golko Pakha forests in Sipadol VDC; Suryabinayak forest in Katunje VDC; Ranikot, Manthali, Sanothumko, Gouradevi, Balkumari and Likhanarayan forests in Gundu VDC; and Anantalingshwor, Ashyarya Uddhan, Patletar, Chameli, Birsinghe and Nangopakha forests in Dadhikot VDC (Map 5). Gundu Bhaktapur which is a large area comprising of 24 hectares of forest in Gundu VDC-2 was handed over on lease as a lease forest to Hotel Mount Monastery Private Limited, Kathmandu on 2053/10/23 for a period of 40 years.

Map 5: Sipadol, Katunje, Dhadhikot, Sirutar, Gundu

The major forest types in this area are dominated by lower broadleaved forests followed by pine forests in the higher elevation. The major forest species include Schima-Castanopsis, Patle and other broadleaved forest species. During March and April, the Ranikot and Suryabinayak forests literally turn red as the Rhododendrons are in full bloom.

The major strategic locations for the best views of the mountain panorama include Ranikot, Ghampeedanda and Kailashdanda. Ranikot is the highest point (2025 meters) in the southern hills and is the best place to relish the splendors of a kaleidoscopic view of Kathmandu valley and the Himalayan panorama in the north. Ranikot along with Lakuribhanjyang and Kailash Danda provide the best settings for paragliding and other sport activities.


The other beautiful regions associated with this landscape are Lubhu, Lakuribhanjyang (Lalitpur), Godabari, and Phoolchowki, the highest point around the Kathmandu valley (2760 meters) (See Annex 37 for Maps).

After Nagarkot, the Suryabinayak forest is the other most preferred hiking area by visitors. Very few visitors visit the Ranikot area through hiking and biking. Lying very close to Bhaktapur city, the Suryabinayak forest is also regarded as one of the best sites for bird watching and jungle walk. The Suryabinayak forest is the only other place where the White-Bellied Yuhina can be seen within the valley. It provides a suitable breeding ground for different kinds of resident and migratory birds. Lots of Wablers and Finches can be seen here during the winters. The Suryabinayak forest is one of the best wintering grounds for Wablers and Finches and the best refuge and breeding ground for many summer migratory birds like Fly-catchers, Cuckoos and Bee-eaters. Many resident birds like Doves, Magpies, Treepies, Woodpeckers, Flower Peckers, Nuthatches, Laughting-Thrushes, Minivets, Barbets, and Bulbuls can be seen everywhere in the forest.

(iv) Core Bhaktapur Valley Landscape

The Core Bhaktapur Valley Landscape comprises of Bhaktapur city, Madhyapur Thimi municipality

and other VDCs. Amongst the valley landscape, Manohara agriculture field, Tathali, Nangkhel, Sipadol and Dadhikot farmlands could be considered as the most beautiful and decorated agricultural landscapes in Bhaktapur. The undulating and rolling landscape at Jhaukhel, Jitpur, Chittapol, Nalinchowk, Sipadole, Gundu, Dadhikot and Charkhandeshwor areas are other scenic landscapes of tourist attractions. The valley becomes more colorful during the planting and harvesting seasons of wheat and paddy. The Nilbarahi forest and Balkumari forest have enhanced the greenery and scenic beauty of the Thimi areas. These beautiful landscapes not only provide a pleasant and leisurely environment to the visitors but also augment other rural, cultural and heritage tourism attractions in the district.

Bhaktapur district also consists of numerous small rivers and ponds. The Manahara and Hanumante Khola are the major rivers in Bhaktapur that create and augment tourism attractions in Bhaktapur. The Salinadi Khola that originates from the Lapsiphedi area of Kathmandu and the Gatte khola which originates from the Nagarkot area meet near Sankhu and thus form the Manahara River. Likewise, the Khasyan Khusun Khola and the Hanumante Khola together form the Hanumante River when they meet at Nekosera. The Tabyakhusi Khola which originates from the Bageshwori forest, the Chaku


Khola which originates from the Nalachhap area and the Sipadol Khola together contribute to the Hanumante Khola. Besides providing sufficient water for agriculture and drinking purposes, these rivers also provide one of the best views for visitors during sunsets. The Pani Muhan area in Bageshwori forest is an appropriate site for canyoning. Bhaktapur city is also regarded as the city of ponds with ponds such as Siddha Pokhari, Na Phukhu, Bhut Pokhari, Kamalbinayak pond, and various other ponds which cover 6.43 hectares of land which is about 0.05 percent of the total land mass of the district. These ponds can also provide better opportunities for fishing, boating and recreation activities especially for domestic visitors.

The northern, eastern and southern natural landscape of Bhaktapur could offer various nature based eco-tourism and adventure tourism activities to visitors. Forest walks, rhododendron walks, orchid walks and bird watching activities could be developed as eco-tourism products. Likewise, day hiking, mountain biking, jeep safari, pony trekking, soft trekking, paragliding, rock climbing and canyoning activities too could be developed as adventure tourism products in Bhaktapur (See Annex 37 for Maps). A brief summary of the potential nature based eco-tourism and adventure tourism activities are presented below in Table 2.12:

Table 2.12: Summary of potential Eco-tourism and Adventure tourism products in Bhaktapur

Tourism Products

Tourism activities Potential areas and routes

Eco-Tourism Products

Wilderness/forest walk

Kushum Community Forest Eco Trail (2.5km), Nagarkot

Suryabinayak- Ghyampedanda -Gundu Frest Eco-Trail

Changu Narayan-Telkot-Chhayabasti Eco Trail

Rhododen-dron walk

Suryabinayak-Ranikot – Lakuribhanjyang - Kailash Danda - Anantalingshwor Rhododendron Trail

Orchid trek Nagarkot, Bageshwori, Suryabinayak

Bird watchingNilbarahi, Suryabinayak forest, Chhaling forest, Sudal Bhanjyang, Bageshwori, Nagarkot, Kakra-bari forest, Ranikot.

Adventure Tourism Products

Day hiking and biking

Thimi – Nagadesh – Saraswotikhel – Duwakot – Besigoan – Sangdanda - Changu Narayan

Nagarkot – Telkot – Changu Narayan – Neel Barahi – Bode – Thimi

Reviving Mandev trail (Brick slaved):Changu-Sangdaha-Gelalgoan-Kulpakot-Jhaukhel-Byasi-Khasyangkhusung-Bhaktapur

Nagarkot-Mahadev Pokhari-Thakalmath-Bageshwori-Muhan Pokhari- BDS

Nagarkot - Mahadev Pokhari – Thakalmath – Saraswotikhel – Jitpur - BDS

Nagarkot - Mahadev Pokhari – Sudanbhan-jyang – Halalgaon – Nalachhap – Tukuchanala – Latarameshwor - Chittapole Mahadev (143ft.)

BDS - Suryabinayak – Doleshwor – Maligaon – Kakrabari – Ashapureshwor - Sanga

BDS – Suryabinayak – Ghyampedanda – Ranikot – Patibhanjyang – Ashapureshwor - Kakrabari-Sanga

BDS - Suryabinayak – Ghyampedanda – Ranikot – Lakuribhanjyang – Kailashdanda – Anantalingshwor - Gundu

BDS – Suryabinayak – Katunje – Gundu – Anantalingshewor - Kailash danda – Bindhya-basini – Chitrapur - Thimi road

Sanga – Ashapuri Mahadevsthan – Kankrabari – Sipadole (Hanging Valley)

Nagarkot – Telkot – Changu Narayan – Byasi (through Jhaukhel) or Bode/Thimi (through Neel Barahi)

Nagarkot – Lapsiphedi – Sali Nadi – Sankhu


Nagarkot – Sankhu (shortest route from Nagarkot to Sankhu)

Nagarkot – Lapsiphedi – Chisapani – Sundarijal

Nagarkot – Naya Gaon – Sipaghat – Mandan Danda – Dolalghat (overnight at Sipaghat)

Nagarkot – Anekot – Chandeswori Temple – Banepa

Nagarkot – Panchkhal – Hokse – Palanchok Bhagvatisthan

Rock climbing Muhan Pokhari, Bageshwori

Canyoning Muhan Pokhari, Bageshwori

Paragliding Telkot, Nagarkot, Sudalbhanjyang, Lataramesh-wor, Lakuribhangyang, Ranikot

Jeep safari

Bhaktapur Ringroad, Bhaktapur – Changu – Telkot - Nagarkot, BDS – Ghampedanda - Ranikot, BDS – Bageshwori – Sudalbhanjyang - Nalachhap

Pony trek (horse riding)

Changu Narayan/Sankhu - Nagarkot, Nagarkot - Nalachhap, Suryabinayak - Ranikot

Soft trekking BDS – Ghyampedanda - Ranikot-…….Phoolchowki

BDS – Ghyampedanda - Ranikot -…….Godabari

BDS – Ghyampedanda – Ranikot – Ashapureshwor - Panauti

2.3.3 Rural tourism

Bhaktapur has a number of rural villages with unique lifestyles and beautiful natural surroundings all around its outskirts. The unique lifestyles of the people in the typical rural areas of Bhaktapur could be a matter of interest to visitors

who want to experience, in close proximity, a typical rural lifestyle of the Nepalese people. Moreover, the villages are at a close distance from the capital city Kathmandu for visitors who do not want to venture out too far. Dominated by the Newar community (55.8%), the district is still known for the most well preserved Newari culture, traditions and unique lifestyle. Balkumari, Nagadesh, Chapacho, Bodey, Saraswotikhel, Nangkhel, Chitrapur, Chittapol are some typical rural settlements of the Newari culture. Likewise, Korean village (Changu), Gadgade village (Nagarkot), Kakrabari and Maligoan are other typical Tamang villages offering rural tourism opportunities. Other typical rural villages of mixed ethnicity that offer a potential for rural tourism are Saraswotikhel, Changu village, Jhaukhel, Bageshwori, Thakalmath, Jitpur and Gundu (Table 2.13).

Table 2.13: Major selected rural settlements of tourism potential

Ethnicity Name of villages Major features

Newari village

Balkumari,Thimi, Nagadesh, Chapacho, Bodey, Chittapol, Nangkhel, Chitrapur

Best preserved Newari culture and lifestyle, traditional houses, temple and vihar, various Newari festivals and fairs, Jyapu agriculture practices, best Newari food

Tamang village

Gadgade, Korean village, Kakrabari, Maligoan

Tamang culture and lifestyle, terraced farming, beautiful landscape and best views of Himalayas and Kathmandu valley

Village of mixed ethnic group

Saraswotikhel, Changu, Bageshwori, Thakalmath, Jitpur, Gundu

Tiled roofed homes, typical Chhetri and Brahmin culture, best practices of organic farming, Ramayan Bhajan and other performances

These villages also have unique architecture with houses that have tiled roofs and decorated windows coupled with an agro-economy based rural lifestyle and various traditional rituals and practices. Visitors to these rural villages of Bhaktapur can enjoy some of the most elaborative


2010 – 2014 2010 – 201 2012 – 2016


Newari festivals and fairs like Bisket Jatra, Sindhur Jatra; various traditional music like Dhime Baja; costumes like Haku Patasi; unique agricultural practices by the Jyapu community; pottery and ceramic making by the Prajapati community; and metal craftsmanship by the Tamrakar community (Table 2.14).

Table 2.14: Major rural and traditional features of tourism importance in Bhaktapur

Tourism potentials

Major cultural features Potential areas

Cultural pack-age

Dhime baja Saraswotikhel, Haku Patasi, Sangi, Dapha

BDS, Thimi, Saraswotikhel, Bode, Nagadesh, Nangkhel

Tamang Selo Nagarkot areas, Kakrabari, Maligoan

Ramayan bhajan Jalpadevi, Saraswotikhel, Bageswori, Sudal

Newari dance Thimi, BDSBisket Jatra Bode, BalkumariFest and fairs Thimi, BDS

Craft and crafts-manship

Thanka painting Changu Narayan and Suryabinayak

Wooden craft/mask Changu Narayan, BhaktapurMetal craft Bhaktapur, ThimiCeramic/pottery/terracotta

Thimi, Balkumari, Na-gadesh, Chapacho

Experiencing Bhaktapur’s unique crafts, food and souvenir

Tikani Baji and Taichun Baji Tikani, Chitrapur

Juju Dhou Yogurt/curd Bhaktapur city, Thimi

Khuwa Jitpur, SudalBhadgaule capMakhamali flower Banmali community, TathaliNepali Lokta paper Jadibuti areasSolar dried Lapsi Tathali, ChittapoleMilk products Doleshwor

Strawberry Nagarkot, Maligoan, Thaka-lmath areas, Sudal, Tathali

Jam Maligoan, Thakalmath, Kakrabari, Nagarkot

A survey conducted by BTDC in May 2008 has revealed that about 30 percent of the total visitors who come to Bhaktapur do so, simply

to experience the local culture and tradition. Similarly, 29 percent of the visitors come to enjoy the people and their lifestyle.

With more than 75 percent of the population engaged in agriculture as their main occupation and about 81.67 percent of the area still covered

by agricultural land, Bhaktapur district also has a high potential for the development of agri-tourism. Jhukhel, Bageshwori, Sudal, Tathali, Nangkhel, Gundu are some of the highly potential sites for agri-tourism activities. Some informal reports have mentioned that the Manohara Agriculture Field is ranked among the Top 10 farmlands in the world possessing a unique farming pattern with better productivity and greater diversity in crop species that change with the seasons. Likewise, the hill terraced farming system in the surrounding hills of the district could be another attraction for visitors.

37Tourism Development And Management Plan Of Bhaktapur District2010 – 2014 2010 – 2014 2012 – 2016


Bhaktapur district also has a variety of social attractions like the several Ramayan Bhajan Mandals, art galleries, religious Guthis, which also provide a wonderful platform for offering a colorful culture, traditions, rituals and costumes to the visitors. Bhaktapur district, especially Madyapur Thimi, is famous for its pottery works. There are about 16 ceramic industries in Bhaktapur out of which 11 are in Madyapur Thimi alone. The pottery-making process itself could be a unique tourism experience for visitors to Bhaktapur. Moreover, the ceramic products can also be used as souvenirs for tourists. Rural and community tourism could also be a true platform for visitors to observe and buy products that involve unique craftsmanship like pottery, metal craft making, wooden craft making, bamboo craft making, etc. A survey conducted by BTDC in 2008, has justified the potential for handicraft and souvenior production by showing that 67 pertcent of the visitors buy local authentic handicrafts. Besides engaging visitors in rural tourism activities, the rural communities in Bhaktapur also have a high potential to develop and supply other feeder value chain products like strawberry, organic food products and craft items and thereby establish rural-urban linkages.

Various efforts have already been undertaken to develop a rural tourism package in the district. The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation/Taragoan Development Committee has already completed a feasibility study of Nangkhel village with its potential as a ‘Home-stay tourism village’. Likewise, Nagarkot and Naldhum Tourism Development Committees in close cooperation with NETIF are trying to develop home-stay tourism packages in the surrounding villages of Nagarkot and Naldhum VDCs. The ‘Children of Universe’, a Bhaktapur based NGO has tried to develop home-stay tourism packages at Maligoan in Sipadole VDC.

Bhaktapur district presents plenty of opportunities for the improvement, expansion and continual development and expansion of new tourism development products within and outside the core city area. By developing basic accommodation and stop-over facilities and services in and en-route

to potential villages, rural tourism could provide unique opportunities for spontaneous interaction between locals and visitors while offering an exposure to the rich culture, tradition, rituals and lifestyle of Bhaktapur. Home-stay experiences, village tours and agri-tourism activities could be taken up as prime tourism activities under rural tourism products in Bhaktapur (Table 2.15).

Table 2.15: Major potential tourism products and activities for rural tourism in Bhaktapur

Tourism products Tourism activities Potential village and route

Home-stay experiences

Accommodation at the typical Newari, Tamang and Chhetri/Brahmin houses; observing village lifestyle, village walk, temple visits, participating in daily life activities, fairs and festivals, cultural performance, visiting culture centre and museums, observing live craftsmanship, pottery making, observing the production process and buying local products like Tikani Baji, Juju Dhou etc.

Bodey (Balkumari – Thimi – Nagadesh – Gakhu – Nekosera – Sallaghari - Bhaktapur)

Sarasworikhel

Changu Narayan (Changu and Korean village)

Nagarkot (Gadgade and other villages)

Thakalmath (Bhaktapur – Kharipati – Basnbari - Muhan Pokhari – Bageshwori – Thakalmath – Saraswotikhel – Jitpur - Bhaktapur)

Nangkhel (Bhaktapur-Nalinchowk –Nangkhel – Bhatedhikuro - Suryabinayak)

Maligoan (Bhaktapur – Suryabinayak – Doleshwor – Maligoan – Sipadol - Jagati)

Agri-tourism activities

Studying, observing and participating traditional farming practices like rice, wheat and vegetable cultivation and harvesting, using pure organic products during home-stay

Periphery of Bhaktapur city, Thimi/Monohara, Bode, Jhaukhel, Bageshwori, Tathali, Sudal, Nangkhel, Gundu, Dadhikot

Village tour package as part of hiking

Visit of model village and settlement, visit temple, Vihars and water spouts as part of short hiking and biking

Balkumari, Nagadesh, Chapacho, Bode, Saraswotikhel, Jhaukhel, Changu Narayan, Mahamanjushree, Jitpur, Bageshwori, Thakalmath, Tathali, Kakrabari, Maligoan, Gundu Chitrapur


2.3.4 Meeting, Incentive, Conference and Exhibitions (MICE) Tourism

Its close proximity to the capital city Kathmandu, a relatively easy access by road, mild climate, tranquil environment with greenery in the surroundings, an ample opportunity for scenic views of the mountain panorama combined with the rich cultural and natural heritage in offer, the northern, eastern and southern hills along with some plain areas of the district could offer a fantastic opportunity for the promotion of Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism in Bhaktapur. Nagarkot and some peripheral areas of Bhaktapur city have already developed some facilities and services for conferences and workshops in the district.

Various man-made structures combined with its natural bounty have augmented the creation of new avenues for MICE activities alongside education, recreation, health and spa tourism activities in the district. Some of the man-made aspects that have contributed to various tourism activities in Bhaktapur are presented below in Table 2.16.

Table 2.16: List of major built environment and structure in Bhaktapur district

S N Places Built Environment Tourism

Potential

1 Chittapole, Sanga Chittapole Mahadev (143 ft.) Pilgrimage and

Leisure

2 Chittapole, Sanga Health and Spa Centre Health and Spa

Tourism

3 Thimi SAARC Tuberculosis Research Centre, Bhaktapur Health Tourism

4 Bhaktapur Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital Health Tourism

5Nagarkot, Chundevi, Nalinchowk,

Resort and conference facilities MICE tourism

6Thimi, Kharipati and Nagarkot

Various training centres (Nepal Electricity Authority Training Centre, Kharipati, Sanitation and Drinking Water, Training Centre, Nagarkot, Agriculture Develop-ment Bank, Training Centre, Thimi, TITI/CTEVT (Training Institute for Technical Instructors)

MICE and Education Tourism

7 Nagarkot, Changu

Nagarkot View Tower, various picnic spots

Pleasure, recreation and entertainment

8

Telkot, Chhay-abasti, Thimi, Thakalmath, Bhaktapur

Trishul Danda, Jalapa Devi temple, Buddha Bihars, Pan-chamahalaxmi temple, Shyama Shyam Dham, Brahma Kumari Yog Centre at Bhaktapur

Yoga and meditation

The 6-lane road from Koteshwor to Suryabinayak which is under construction will further enhance the potential of MICE activities in Bhaktapur. The availability of a considerable amount of open public land and private agricultural land also provide avenues for further expansion of infrastructure and associated amenities for MICE tourism in the district. The strategic presence of two World Heritage Sites - Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Changu Narayan Temple - has also enhanced the value of the district to lure more quality MICE visitors to Bhaktapur.

The establishment of various training centres such as Nepal Electricity Authority Training Centre at Kharipati; Sanitation and Drinking Water Training Centre at Nagarkot; Agriculture Development Bank Training Centre at Thimi; TITI (Training Institute for Technical Instructors) CTEVT at Sano Thimi; and SAARC Research Centre for Tuberculosis at Thimi, has opened new avenues to attract more domestic and regional visitors for MICE tourism to Bhaktapur district. Besides expanding and upgrading the conference facilities in Nagarkot and Bhaktapur, more areas like Changu Narayan, Thakalmath, Lakuribhanjyang, Maligoan, Ranikot, Ghampedanda and Kailash Danda could be developed as MICE tourism destinations in Bhaktapur. Likewise, by developing some community centres with training and workshop facilities, some potential


home-stay villages like Thakalmath, Nangkhel and Maligoan could also be developed as MICE spots that cater to small numbers of visitors especially for meetings, trainings and workshops for NGOs and small corporate houses.

2.3.5 Education and Research Tourism

Bhaktapur district has a high potential to attract more educational and research institutions and thereby link them with the existing tourism package in the district. The development of education and research tourism will not only expand the potential market for the tourism products in Bhaktapur but will also help explore, invent and publicize new tourism assets in the district. Its close proximity to the capital city Kathmandu, mild climate, beautiful and spacious location and the presence of world renowned heritage sites provide a strong foundation for making Bhaktapur an ‘Educational’ city. Bhaktapur city and Changu Narayan area have been attracting many school and college students for excursions and educational tours. In recent times, Nagarkot too has developed as an alternative destination for students who are studying travel and tourism. The study shows that about 2 percent of the total visitors to Bhaktapur come for research purposes.

A well-developed and reasonable package on heritage tour, natural and adventure activities, and a rural tourism package focusing on students and researchers can usher in various direct and indirect tourism benefits for the people of Bhaktapur. Bhakatpur district already has an established education and research infrastructure like CTEVT, Janak Shikchha Samagri Kendra, Higher Secondary Education Board (HSEB), SOS Bal Gram, Khopwa Group of Colleges run by Bhaktapur municipality (Table 2.17), and Nepal Engineering College at Duwakot. Based on this existing infrastructure, Bhaktapur district could be developed as a focal point for other educational institutions comprising of Engineering, Medical, Tourism, Culture and Art colleges.

Table 2.17: Summary of education faculties run by Bhaktapur Municipality

S N

Name of the Campus/College

Affiliation Faculties

1Khwopa Engineering College

Purbanchal University

M.E. in Earthquake Engineering, MSc. in Urban Design & Conservatrion, B.E. Civil, B.E. Computer, B.E. Electronics & Communication & B.E. Architecture.

2Khwopa College of Engineering

Tribhuvan University

B.E. in Civil and B.E. in Electrical.

3Khwopa Poly-Technic Institute

Certificate in Nursing and Diploma in Civil Engineering

4 Khwopa College

Tribhuvan University

MSc. in Environmental Science, MBS (Master in Business Studies), MA (Master in Arts) in English & Economics, and other Bachelor courses in environmental science, Business Studies, Arts, Physics/Chemistry/Mathematics

Bhaktapur district has a myriad of intricately carved historical, cultural and archaeological sites and monuments preserved within the two World Heritage Sites. It also has artistically constructed temples and vihars, various historic forts and important public assets. Likewise, Bhaktapur is also rich in festivals, fairs and traditions, and biodiversity spots. It also has amazing geological formations, a traditional farming system, a unique livelihood pattern and unparalleled artisanship. All these assets of Bhaktapur district provide an incomparable theme for research and studies in the district (Table 2.18). At present, many researchers are conducting research on historical arts, monuments, and Newari culture focusing on Bhaktapur city, Thimi and Changu Narayan. The recently discovered rock inscription site at Tathali VDC, Halalgoan has added a further possibility for research in stone art and history in the district.


Table 2.18: Possible areas for research and study related tourism activities in Bhaktapur

S N Research areas Places

1 Historical art, craft and architecture

Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Changu Narayan, Thimi

2Newari culture, lifestyle, rituals, fair and festivals

Bhaktapur city, Thimi, Nagadesh, Tathali, Chittapol, Nangkhel, Chitrapur

3 Tamang culture, lifestyle

Maligaon, Kakrabari, Nagarkot, Changu

4 Forest ecosystem, biodiversity

Suryabinayak, Chhaling, Bageshwori, Muhan Pokhari, Sudalbhanjyang, Sipadole

5 Agro-ecosystem, agro-biodiversity

Manohara field, Sudal, Bageshwori, Nangkhel

6 Rural lifestyleSaraswotikhel, Changu, Bageshwori, Thakalmath, Chittapol, Banmali com-munity, Nangkhel, Kakrabari

7 Rock inscription and art Sudal, Halalgoan, Nalachhap

8 Pottery and ceramic

Bhaktapur Pottery Square, Thimi Nagadesh, Chapacho and Balkumari

The following areas that could be promoted as potential areas for education and research tourism activities in Bhaktapur are as follows:

o Bhaktapur and Changu Narayan areas could bedeveloped as centres of excellence for research inhistory, art, and architecture.

o Thimi area could be developed as an open culturalmuseum for traditional Newari culture studies.

o Suryabinayak area could be be developed andpromoted as a natural/open zoo and botanicalgarden.

o Suryabinayak, Chhaling and Nagarkot/Bageshwori forests could be developed as bio-diversity research centres.

o Manohara, Bageshwori, Sudal, and Nangkhelcould be developed as agriculture/agro-biodiversity research centres.

o Pancha MahaLaxmi, Chhayabasti and Chhalingcould be developed as centres of excellence forSanskrit education.

o Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital could be developedas a Regional Cancer Research Centre.

2.3.6 Pleasure, Recreation and Entertainment

Its close proximity to the capital city Kathmandu, tranquil environment, wonderful mountain scenery, and picturesque and spacious landscape has enhanced the potential for pleasure and recreation based tourism activities in Bhaktapur. Nagarkot has long been promoted as a prime leisure destination to many international as well as domestic visitors. When we look at the national figures, what we can see is that about 40 percent to 45 percent of the visitors come to Nepal for holiday and pleasure. Most of the visitors who come to Bhaktapur too come for the same reasons. They come for very short visits with durations of about one to two days. The visits are usually day tours for pleasure or for recreation purposes to Nagarkot. Actually, the number of visitors could be higher as a large number of people of the expatriate community based in Kathmandu and domestic visitors also come to Bhaktapur for pleasure and recreation.

Many areas in the northern, eastern, and southern landscape including Nagarkot provide a strategic location for a panoramic view of the Himalayan range in the north, a kaleidoscopic view of Kathmandu and probably the best views of the sunset and sunrise. Nagarkot has become by far the most favored hill station in Kathmandu valley offering a perfect environment for pleasure and recreation activties. It has a stimulating climate with great mountain views. A hike through the typical rural villages such as Saraswotikhel and Jhaukhel, and through the lush green forests such as Suryabinayak, offer gratifying moments for visitors in Bhaktapur. The sites in Bhaktapur and Chagu Narayan that contain the historical monuments provide a magnificent platform for holidaymakers who have come for leisure. With a provision for some better eateries, nightlife activities and a better interpretation service of


the existing art, culture, and heritage, visitors will definitely be able to enjoy more in these areas.

Furthermore, various recreational activities like picnics and sporting activities could be promoted at various forests and public park areas to both international as well as domestic visitors as indicated in Table 2.19 below.

Table 2.19: Summary of areas that have the potential for pleasure and recreational activities in Bhaktapur

S. N

Pleasure and recreational activities

Places

1 Sightseeing with heritage walk

Bhaktapur City (World Heritage Site and sur-roundings), Thimi, Changu Narayan

2 Sightseeing with hiking

Saraswotikhel, Jhaukhel, Changu, Nagarkot, Thakalmath, Suryabinayak, Ashapuri Ma-hadevsthan

3 Sightseeing with pilgrimage visit

Chittapol Mahadev, Latarameshwor Mahadev, Trishuldanda, Anantalingshwor, Suryabinayak, Mahamanjushree, Ashapuri Mahadevsthan

4 Best mountain view

Nagarkot, Sudalbhanjyang, Latarameshwor, Kakrabari, Ranikot, Ghampedanda, Kailash-danda

5 Best sunrise view Nagarkot, Ranikot

6 Best sunset view Nagarkot, Sudalbhanjyang, Trishuldanda, Changu Narayan

7 Cultural tour and cultural performances

Madyapur Thimi, Bhaktapur, Nagarkot village, Nangkhel

8 Picnic and entertainment

Changu Narayan forest, Suryabinayak for-est, Ganeshman Uddhyan, Dakchhin Barahi Children’s Park (Dadhikot), Balkumari for-est, Nilbarahi forest, Latarameshwor, Girija Prasad Memorial Park (Duwakot), Ashapuri Mahadevsthan,Thulopakha Forest, Bahalban (Bageswori)

9 Boating, fishing, roaming

Siddha Pokhari, Na Pukhu, Kamalbinayak pokhari, Manohara river

10 Sports activities Sallaghari public land

11 Changa Chet and winter snow

Nagarkot

12 Film/video shooting

Nagarkot, Ranikot, Sanga

13 Summer clouds/fog view

Nagarkot, Ranikot, Chittapol Mahadev

14 Swimming and physical fitness

Club Bagmati

15 Sports tourism activities (Cricket, etc.)

Any suitable place within core Bhaktapur val-ley

2.3.7 Health, Spa, and Meditation Tourism

The interest for meditation, spa, and natural healing is fast spreading even in urban areas as better alternatives for specialized treatments of certain diseases like cancer, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis. Its favorable climate, tranquil environment and relatively lower costs in comparison to the capital city Kathmandu could provide a strong base for meditation, health and spa related tourism development opportunities in Bhaktapur district (Table 2.20).

Table-2.20: Summary of activities and places that have the potential for Health, Spa and Meditation in Bhaktapur

Major Thematic

Areas

Pleasure and recreational activities

Places

Physical Health

Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital

Doodhpati, Bhaktapur

SAARC Regional Tubercu-losis Centre

NayaThimi

Club Bagmati Swimming and physical fitness

Spa and Therapy

Health and Spa Resort (16-room and 32-bed)

Sanga/Chittapol Mahadev

Medita-tion and spiritual healing

Sadhana Bhavan and Meditation Centre (Shyama Shyam Dham)

Madhyapur Thimi,

Meditation centre Jalpa Devi Mandir at Telkot, Thakalmaath

Yoga and meditation Brahma Kumari Yog Centre, Bhaktapur

Meditation and spiritual centre (TAPOBHUMI)

Anantalingeshwor, Pancha Ma-haLaxmi Chhayabasti, Trishul Danda, Suryabinayak


2.4 Market Structure (Promotion and Marketing)

Market structure of Bhaktapur

The national figures show that tourist arrivals in the early 1960s were mainly for holiday purposes (87%), followed by official visits (7.2%) and then business purposes (2.6%). Trekking and mountaineering accounted for a tiny 0.1% share (Annex 8 to 15). Table 2.21 shows that in 2009, 8% of the visitors came for holidays, followed by trekking and mountaineering (26.1%), business (4.5%), pilgrimage (10.1%) and official (4.8%). However, there are no separate figures available for Bhaktapur except for those visiting the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The national trend which illustrates a substantial growth in trekking and mountaineering tourism is largely restricted to the October-May period and almost entirely reliant on long-haul markets (Canada, UK, Denmark and Australia).

Table 2.21: Reason for visiting Nepal in 2009 (top countries)

Countries Holiday or pleasure

Trekking or mountaineering

Business Pilgrimage

India 23552 1985 8869 6210

Japan 10977 4091 1128 670

UK 11879 7071 1034 1187

USA 11083 4035 1356 1160

France 7503 7348 317 771

Germany 4873 6352 577 651

Sri Lanka 5107 18894 567 9300

The Bhaktapur Durbar Square is visited by almost one-third of the total number of visitors who come to Nepal that comprises of a majority from the SAARC countries alone (Annex 34). Among the SAARC countries, Indian visitors alone constitute the largest share comprising of about 25 percent of the total arrivals. The existing market trend is such that a majority of the visitors only visit Bhaktapur city. The remaining is followed by a visit to Nagarkot, Changu Narayan and a few other natural and cultural sites. Very few tourists visit the other culturally and historically important city of Madhyapur Thimi. For many years, the major tourism products associated

with key tourism activities in Bhaktapur district include a visit to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, observing different traditional festivals and events, enjoying the sunrise and sunset views, and the mountain view from Nagarkot, day hiking to Changu Narayan and Suryabinayak and other areas, and some soft adventure activities like mountain biking.

Other forms of tourism such as educational, and special interest activities are also popular in Bhaktapur district. Just like how the country has experienced fluctuations in visitor arrivals time and again, Bhaktapur district too has gone through similar situations (Table 2.22).

As illustrated in the national tourism statistics, and following the trend of the tourism statistics maintained by Bhaktapur municipality, it can be surmised that tourist arrivals in the district, particularly those visiting Bhaktapur Durbar Square, closely follows the national pattern indicating that the largest motivation for visitors coming to Bhaktapur district is for holiday or pleasure purposes (Table 2.21). There are also an important number of arrivals for official travel, education and training, business, and pilgrimage. However, there is no separate mechanism for keeping a record of such arrivals for the entire district. Bhaktapur municipality is the only institution in the district which keeps records of all visitors coming to visit Bhaktapur or to be precise the Durbar Square only.

Table: 2.22 Tourist Arrivals in Bhaktapur Durbar Square

F/Year Non-SAARC Tourists SAARC Tourists Total Tourist Arrivals

054/55 121350 31880 153230

055/56 140077 57728 197805

056/57 148117 49764 197881

057/58 141312 38741 180053

058/59 69700 22100 91800

059/60 54561 30592 85153

060/61 84914 34125 119039

061/62 68467 19138 87605

062/63 69411 22919 92330

063/64 89237 32194 121431

064/65 110965 36380 147345

065/66 104315 38923 143243


The major categories of tourists visiting Bhaktapur district are domestic visitors, Kathmandu-based expatriate community, regional SAARC visitors and international visitors. The Bhaktapur municipality’s record of visitors for the fiscal year 2065/66 shows that annually there are 143,243 international visitors, with 38,923 of them from SAARC nations and 104,315 from non-SAARC nations who come to Bhaktapur city primarily to visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Square area. Of the total visitors, about 27% are from SAARC countries and among them Indian visitiors constituite about 25% share (Bhaktapur Municipality, 2010).

The major tourist segmets by purpose of visit to Bhaktapur are leisure and holiday makers; business and MICE participants; research, education and excursionists; and religious and pilgrimage visitors.

A survey conducted by BTDC has shown that the primary motive for visitors coming to Bhaktapur is to visit the World Heritage Site (32%), followed by the experience for local culture and tradition (30%), enjoying people and their lifestyle (29%), conducting research (2%) and the remaining 7% come for other purposes. The same survey demonstrated that the major places preferred by visitors in Bhaktapur were the Taumadi square (24.30%), followed by the pottery square (19.60%), Dattatraya by 17.10%, Hanumanghat by 5.60% and the museum by 4.80%. The survey has also shown that about 35% of the visitors are interested in further visiting Nagarkot; 17.30% in visiting Changu Narayan; 6.4% to Suryabinayak, 5.90% to Thimi areas, and the remaining 35.4% to other areas including Dhulikhel, Panauti, Nala and Sankhu.

SHRAWAN

BHADRA

ASWIN

KARTIK

MANGSIR

POUSH

MAGH

FALGUN

CHAITRA

BAISHAKH

JESTHA

ASHAD

2060/061 5132 4929 8046 13609 9539 6471 5883 7839 9821 8368 3160 2117

2061/062 6564 5384 7483 13186 7697 4677 3289 4812 6001 5202 2493 1679

2062/063 5877 5478 8545 13015 8601 5635 3404 5524 5776 3282 2200 2074

2063/064 5644 4793 8595 13708 8421 6100 5397 8586 11500 8893 4330 3270

2064/065 9426 7702 11734 18571 10590 7253 6616 9758 11840 10550 4291 2634

2065/066 6417 6122 11871 20209 11741 6545 5120 8371 11087 9645 4172 3015

6417 6122

11871

20209

11741

65455120

8371

110879645

41723015

0

5000

10000

15000

20000

25000

Num

ber o

f Vis

itor

sTourist Flow in Bhaktapur


It can be concluded from the survey that a large segment of the visitors who come to Bhaktapur city do so for day tours and recreation activities.

The survey has also revealed that repeat visitors to Bhaktapur is very low because 84.2% of the sampled visitors were making only their first visit to Bhaktapur city, followed by 7.7% visitors who were visiting for the second time. Likewise, 4.3% visitors were visiting for the third time and 3.8% visitors were visiting for more than three times. It can be summarized that repeat visitors to Bhaktapur accounted for only 15.8% of the sampled visitors.

By analyzing the mode of transportation used by the visitors, it can also be concluded from the survey that about 64% visitors are Free Individual Tourists (FITs) because 45% visitors reached Bhaktapur by taxi, followed by 36% of the visitors through organized transport (probably Organized Group Tourists - OGT) and the remaining 19% used public transport.

The visitor flow in 2065/66 shows that the market segment for Bhaktapur too follows the national trend when it comes to seasonal arrivals because the highest number of non-SAARC international visitors was recorded in Kartik (20,209 visitors) followed by a decreasing trend in Aswin (11,871), Mangsir (11,741), Chaitra (11,087) and Baishakh (9645). Minimum flow was recorded in Ashad (3015) and Jestha (4172). But the flow of visitors from the SAARC region was recorded the highest in Jestha (5404), Aswin (5195), Kartik (4556) and Poush (3925) with the lowest numbers in Bhadra (1593), Shrawan (1834) and Falgun (1970). The most contrasting flow was observed in the month of Jestha.

Cultural and natural tourism, especially visiting the core areas of Bhaktapur city, Changu Narayan, Nagarkot and Suryabinayak, have been the prime tourism products of Bhaktapur that attract both domestic as well as international visitors. The major cultural tourism activities in Bhaktapur include heritage tours at Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Changu Narayan and Thimi areas and exploring various historical and cultural monuments, and enjoying the various cultural and traditional festivals, fairs, rituals and events. The major nature based and adventure tourism activities include recreational visits to Nagarkot to enjoy the sunrise/sunset views, panoramic mountain views, day hiking and jungle walking. Very few tourists also enjoy mountain biking.

A brief summary of the existing market segment, tourist activities and places is presented below in table 2.23.

Table 2.23: Existing market segment, tourism areas and major tourist activities in Bhaktapur

Market Segments

Market Segment by

PurposeMajor Areas Major Tourist

Activities

Non-SAARC International (UK, France, Germany, North America, Australia/New Zealand, Other European countries, Thailand, etc. and Kathmandu based International Expatriates

Leisure and holiday makers

BDS, Changu Narayan, Nagarkot, Suryabinayak,

Heritage tour, sightseeing, day hiking, biking, trekking, sunrise/sunset views, mountain views

Business and MICE activities

Chundevi, Nalinchowk, Nagarkot

Workshops, conferences, meetings

Research, education and excursions

BDS, ThimiCulture research, education and excursion visits


Dattatraya, Mahamanjushree

Pilgrimage walk, observing festivals, fairs and rituals

SAARC/Regional (India, China, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Bhutan etc. and Kathmandu based regional Expatriates)


BDS, Changu Narayan, Nagarkot, Suryabinayak

Heritage tour, day hiking

Business and MICE activities Nagarkot, BDS

Workshops, conferences, meetings, business visits


BDS Education and excursion visits


Dattatraya, Mahamanjushree, Changu Narayan

Pilgrimage visit, meditation, yoga

Domestic (Kathmandu based youth/couples, soft adventure seekers, service holders, adult pilgrims, college and school students)


Nilbarahi, BDS, Suryabinayak, Changu Narayan, Nagarkot

Heritage tour, hiking, picnic

Business and MICE activities Chundevi, Nagarkot

Trainings, workshops, conferences, meetings


BDS, Suryabinayak, Changu Narayan, Thimi

Culture research, education and excursion visits


Dattatraya, Mahamanjushree, Boudha Bihars

Kulpuja, pilgrimage visit, meditation, yoga


Existing Marketing Efforts/Approaches

The current marketing approach in Bhaktapur is very weak and lacks a strategic marketing plan with no marketing collaterals and is heavily dependent on Kathmandu-based tour operators/agencies. The survey conducted by BTDC has revealed that the largest segment of visitors (34.7% of the sampled visitors) were informed about Bhaktapur by travel guides, followed by the Bhaktapur Guide Book (15.30%), travel agents (14.20%), Internet (10.40%), through friends (10.40%), travel news/advertisements (1.10%) and through other means (5.60%). The figure for repeat tourists was only 8.20% of the sampled number. These statistics that are mentioned above reflect a very poor state of promotional and marketing effort made by tour operators and hotel and lodge owners in Bhaktapur and Kathmandu as well.

Bhaktapur requires a niche marketing approach for promoting its diverse tourism products and activities in Kathmandu and also directly to the international tour operators and regional tour agents. The lower number of repeat visitors also indicates an inadequacy of tourist activities and entertainment facilities, probably followed by poor services and facilities.

Marketing Potentials

Bhaktapur probably has the best combination of natural, cultural, historical and archaeological enigma. The diverse cultures and landscapes, and biodiversity have attracted tourists in terms of both diversity and distinctiveness. The district comprises of the two best preserved World

Heritage Sites (WHSs) - Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Changu Narayan Temple. The district holds rich and colorful festivals and traditional dances such as Bisket Jatra, Gatha Muga Chare, Saparu (Gai Jatra), Indra Jatra, Yomari Punhi, Ghaya Chaku Salun, etc. Wood carvings, Paubha/Thanka paintings, terracotta, traditional masks, handloom, Jujudhau (King curd)/yogurt, metal crafts, Peacock window and Bhadgaule Topi (cap) are some of the unique local products and iconic portrayals of Bhaktapur district.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a resemblance of an open museum and is the repertoire of different historical temples, monasteries, palaces, and images of Gods and Goddess which are world famous attractions. The traditional lifestyles and year-round festivals in Bhaktapur and Thimi areas also lure many tourists during the festive season. Apart from these visible natural attractions, festivals, temples and monasteries, there are other diversified products which could equally attract visitors to Bhaktapur. Major tourist sites and products are presented in Annex 4 to 6 (See Annex 37 for Maps).

Soft trekking and sports, together with bird watching are among the special eco-tourism activities that are popular in Bhaktapur. Though Bhaktapur’s potential for attracting tourists is dependent on a wide range of interacting factors such as access to the scenery as well as political stability, tourism in this district has become more susceptible to the actions of policy makers from outside the district, whether they are airline companies, tour organizers, or neighboring districts.


3.1 Product development initiatives

Bhaktapur district has been experiencing tourism activi-ties for a long time. The three main tourism destinations, namely, Bhaktapur city, Nagarkot and Changu Narayan have been a permanent fixture in the national and inter-national tourism maps for almost three decades. These places are famous for both domestic as well as interna-tional tourists. Many tourists from the SAARC coun-tries also visit these places. Tourist records show that the number of tourist arrivals in Bhaktapur has been in-creasing gradually over the last few years, though some fluctuations have been experienced due to the political conflict in the country. Many entrepreneurs, particularly in Bhaktapur city and Nagarkot area, have been encour-aged to expand their businesses anticipating more tour-ists in the days to come.

Despite several positive factors for the development of tourism in Bhaktapur district, a number of critical issues have also been observed. Such issues were further raised by the participants of local level workshops and interac-tions held in April and May 2010.

The key issues associated with the development and man-agement of tourism in Bhaktapur can be highlighted as follows:

I. Diversification of tourism products accommo-dating other ‘attractions’ and resources existing in the district

II. Expanding tourism boundaries beyond Bhakta-pur city, Nagarkot and Changu Narayan areas

III. Conservation and effective management of his-torical, archaeological and cultural values/ heri-tages/monuments

IV. Increasing the stay of tourists coming to Bhakta-pur

V. Sharing of tourism benefits and local employment creation

VI. Capacity (HRD) development of locals in thetourism sector

VII. Participation of rural stakeholders

3CHAPTER THREE

3. Tourism DevelopmentInitiativesUndertaken


VIII. Women’s involvement in tourism developmentand management activities

IX. Consumption of local products and sustainableproduction system

X. Consideration of environmental and natural ele-ments in local tourism development

XI. Institutional arrangements and developments

XII. Environmental pollution (smoke and visual pol-lution from brick factories)

3.1.1 Initiatives of the DDC

The DDC Bhaktapur has so far played a very little direct role for the development of tourism in the region because it has been mainly led by the municipalities and entrepreneurs of the con-cerned areas. The DDC’s contributions have not been significant though it has provided some ‘to-ken’ of support for organizing local-level festivals and events mainly in Thimi/Bode, Bhaktapur city (Bhaktapur Night, Bisket) area and Nagarkot.

However, in recent years, efforts have been un-dertaken towards providing a thrust to tourism endeavours and aspirations of the locals through support in various activities such as construction of roads, provisioning of drinking water facilities, conservation and renovation of physical struc-tures, and so on. The formulation of the ‘District Tourism Development and Management Plan’ has been an instrumental and strategic initiative in order to develop tourism in Bhaktapur.

It has also expanded its working relations with the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation and Ne-pal Tourism Board. Furthermore, in recent times, the DDC has been appreciatively playing a pro-active role in bringing together all the stakehold-ers to a common forum to create concerted ef-forts in developing a common agenda concerning ‘Bhaktapur Tourism’. A focal person (Planning Officer) has been looking after tourism issues and programs in the district. It has started being in the forefront and playing a catalyst/facilitator’s role for the development of tourism in Bhaktapur.

Table: 3.1. Major initiatives taken by DDC for tourism and cultural promotion in Bhaktapur

Year Major initiatives/ works accomplished

2048-2051(DDC’s establishment to pre-conflict period)

DDC allocated total amount of Rs 2,00,000 every year from 2048 to 2051 for tourism which includes conservation of historical monuments, support for cultural groups, organising Bhaktapur Night, etc.

2052-2062(Conflict period)

Rs. 3,00,000 every year.This includes support for organizations like BTDC in organizing cultural programs and other tourism promotional activities, and repairment and maintenance of rural cultural and religious monuments.

2063-2067(Post-conflict period)

Annually Rs. 5,00,000.This budget also includes the formulation of BTDM Plan.

3.1.2 Initiative of the Municipalities and VDCs

Initiatives of Bhaktapur Municipality:

Bhaktapur Municipality (BM) has played a crucial role in the development and management of local tourism that is concentrated within the boundar-ies of BM. Since 1993, with the implementation of the tourist entry fee, BM has been managing local tourism activities including conservation of historical, archaeological assets; encouraging local-level participation in the protection of tra-ditional architecture, ponds, temples and other intangible cultural values of local (Newar) soci-ety, etc.

Furthermore, it has been directly involved in man-aging the records of SAARC as well as overseas tourists coming to Bhaktapur city. The BM has been collecting entrance fees from tourists with different rates applied for SAARC and other in-ternational tourists (Table 3.2 below).


Table 3.2: Entrance fees for tourists levied by Bhaktapur Municipality

S N

Tourist type

Entrance Fees(per entrance /

per tourist)

Remarks

1. Domestic Free These fees have been reviewed/revised almost every 4 to 5 years. For instance, in the beginning, in 1993 (2050), the rates were Rs. 30 for SAARC tourists and Rs. 50 for non-SAARC tourists.

Note: The Bhaktapur Municipality has decided to levy 15 $ (Nrs.1100) for the visitors from Non-SAARC countries and Nrs.100 for SAARC countries’s visitors to be effective from January 1, 2011

2. SAARC Rs. 50

3. Others Rs. 1100

The total tourism revenue collected (for the last 5 years) by Bhaktapur municipality can be found in Table 3.3 below. The revenue thus collected is then managed by the BM itself for the overall conservation of local heritage, tourism/culture promotion and education (at present BM is running 5 higher secondary schools and colleges including: Khwopa Engineering College, Khwopa College, Khwopa HS School, Khwopa Polytechnique Academy, and Khwopa College of Engineering).

Table 3.3: Total income, tourism revenue collected by Bhaktapur Municipality and utilisation (over the last 5 years)

Year(Nepali FY)

Total Income of the Minicipal-ity (External &

Internal)

Annual amount of the revenue generated from

Bhaktapur tourism (Rs.)

Amount spent in Waste Mgt.

(Rs.)Remarks

2004/05(2061/62) 15,12,41,615. 5,13,94,752. 1,64,0,7762.

2005/06(2062/63) 12,14,26,600. 5,18,28,682. 1,79,91’482.

2006/07(2063/64) 12,26,61,063. 6,61,40,260. 2,08,76,055.

2007/08(2064/65) 14,07,84,840. 7,92,09,238. 2,43,34,839.

2008/09(2065/66) 19,25,75,803. 8,03,02,531. 3,04,12,824.

2009/10(2066/67) 39,40,00,000. 9,00,00,000.

(projected)5,53,50,000.(estimated)

Source: Bhaktapur Municipality (2010)

Major heritage sites renovated/ repaired by Bhaktapur Municipality:

Bhaktapur Municipality has been spending a major chunk of its revenue for the renovation and repair of major religious, cultural, and natural heritage sites and traditional wells (inars) in the Bhaktapur city area for the last few years.

The major heritage sites and monuments under renovation and repair are listed below (source: Bhaktapur Municipality, 2010)

1) Jhaurabahi Dipankar Bihar

2) Navadurga Dyochhen

3) Pachapanna Jhyale Durbar

4) Ikhalachhi math

5) Suwalghar

6) Balakhu Ganesh temple

7) Tripurasundari Dyochhen

8) Siddhapokhari peti reconstruction

9) Dokacha patee

10) Nagacha patee

11) Sridhar Narayan (Ward 13)

12) Lamo patee, Inacho

13) Kamalvinayak patee

14) Kamalvinayak temple

15) Chasukhel patee

16) Choga Ganesh temple

17) Mulakhu ganesh Bhajan patee

18) Twacha patee

19) Mupujwa patee

20) Khanchaa pokhari conservation

21) Taleju Bhawani Aagamachhen renovation

22) Tekhapokhari wall construction

23) Yata patee reconstrction

24) Narayan temple (Ward 17)

25) Traditional well (inar) conservation


Initiatives of Madhyapur-Thimi Municipality:

The Madhyapur Thimi municipality has made fewer efforts for the development of tourism in comparison to BM. The municipality only recently started taking some initiatives to introduce tourism development programs in the municipality areas. Its efforts have been concentrated mainly on the renovation of temples/gumbas/vihars/patees/chautarees (traditional rest places) and hity (stone-taps). It is nice to note that Madhyapur is trying to adopt the good practices of BM in the tourism sector.

Nevertheless, despite being very close from Kathmandu and Bhaktapur, and having a high potential, MTM has so far not been able to harness ‘tourism economy’ in the municipal area. There are many traditional settlements with rich cultural heritage in MTM. However, they have not yet been utilized in tourism development purposes. Local level interactions also revealed that the efforts of MTM were lagging behind in bringing MTM tourism to the markets. Some stakeholders even blamed that the BM had put the MTM in its ‘shade’ with respect to tourism development for a long time.

After the start of the facilitation process from BTDC and DDC in the later years, the efforts of MTM have been more concerted and proactive

in order to develop tourism in Madhyapur-Thimi municipal areas.

Initiatives of VDCs:

In terms of the development of tourism in the local villages, the efforts of the VDCs in Bhaktapur have not been commendable. Tourism never acquired a place in their annual VDC development plans for a long time. Despite this fact, Changu Narayan and Nagarkot VDCs have made some efforts in managing and developing local tourism. Certain tourism-related activities have been initiated in these two VDCs for almost 15-20 years. Changu Narayan VDC has been levying certain charges for tourists (Rs. 100 for foreign visitors). The fees collected from tourists are managed through a local contractor on an annual basis. These fees are applicable mainly to enter the Changu Narayan temple. According to the VDC Secretary, these fees have been utilised for the conservation and development of the local area. Similarly, Nagarkot VDC is making some effort to bring together all the entrepreneurs of Nagarkot in one place through the ‘Nagarkot-Naldum Tourism Development Committee’. The efforts of the VDC have primarily been in sectors like local road construction, greening, environmental conservation/waste management, drinking water management, community development and developing a common ‘code of conduct’ for sustainable tourism. However, the stakeholders are not satisfied with the roles that are being played at present by these VDCs. They want such roles to be further enhanced to boost local tourism development activties.


3.1.3 Initiative of I/NGOs and CBOs

A number of NGOs and INGOs working in Bhaktapur district are involved directly or indirectly in supporting tourism initiatives. The list provided in table 3.4 below provides a brief description of the availability of INGOs/Bilateral Projects, NGOs and CBOs in Bhaktapur district and their efforts towards local conservation and tourism-related developments:

Table 3.4: INGOs/ Bilateral Projects, NGOs and CBOs in Bhaktapur district working for conservation and tourism-related developments

S N Organization Type

Location and area coverage in the district

Major focus of work related to tourism development

German Development Project (GTZ)

INGO/ Project

Bhaktapur MunicipalityMadhyapur Thimi Municipality

Cultural heritage sites preservation, community development, etc. (This Project completely the renovation of 182 matha (Priest House), Pati & Sattals (public shelters and inns) 17 hities (sunken tap) and ponds, 2 museums, 6 private buildings of archeological value and other dilapidated monuments destroyed by time and the 1934 earthquake. The project paved 140586 m2 of streets, installed 4520 private and 38 public toilets, two sewerage plants and carried out various activities to uplift the socio-economic and health related status of the people.)The Project outcomes in Thimi will be provided later.

German Development Program (DED)

INGO Bhaktapur Municipality

This organization has been working in Bhaktapur since 2004. It has been focusing on the capacity building of the organizations who are playing pivotal roles in the socio-economic development of local communities.The projects supported by this organization are • B A C S I - B h a k t a p u r

Association of Cottage and Small Industries

• BTDC

UNESCO INGOBhaktapur City and Changu Narayan

• UNESCO declared WHS in 1979, and

• Bhaktapur Municipality was awarded by the UNESCO PEACE PRIZE in 1998/1999 for its endeavors towards conservation and preservation of the cultural heritage of the city.

Bhaktapur Tourism Development Committee (BTDC)

NGO Whole district

Tourism awareness, information centre, networking, initiative in plan formulation, etc.(It has played a significant role in Bhaktapur to bring all stakeholders to one place)

Bhaktapur Udhyog Banijya Sangh (CCI Bhaktapur)

NGO Mainly in the town areas

Active role in the organization of local festivals, promotion, and other joint efforts.

NETIF Project

Along the Sankhu-Banepa trail (via Nagarkot)

Trail improvement, environment and sanitation, o r i e n t a t i o n / a w a r e n e s s , information & interpretation, training, etc.

Nagarkot-Naldum Tourism Development Committee (NNTDC)

NGO Nagarkot area

Information centre management, guides’ networking, awareness creation, information and interpretation, waste management, developing local codes of conduct.

CEST-Nepal(Centre for Environment and Sustainable Tourism)

NGO Changu Narayan area

Awareness creation, waste management, local capacity strengthening trainings

Social and Economic Transformation for Rural Upliftment

NGO Bhaktapur DistrictAwareness creation, waste management, community ewmpowerment, trainings


Local Temple/ Bihar Conservation and Management Committees

CBOs

Jalpadevi, Mahamanjushree, Bagehity, Balmikeshwo, Charkhandeshwor, Subaneshwo, Ananta-Lingeshwor, Bindhyabasisni, Suryabinaya, Doleshwor, Aashapureshwor, Latarammeshwor Mahadev, Jyotirlingeshwor, Panchakanya Mahalaxmi, Patee Bauddha Bihar- Thimi, Siddhikali, Balkumari,

Conservation of temples/vihars and premises, regular pooja/Bhajan, renovation, etc.

(Publicity for tourism purpose is lacking.)

Community Forestry User Groups/Committees

CBOs All VDCsConservation of natural resources, plan for developing picnic spots, etc.

Children of Universe NGO Nagarkot and

MaligaonInitiated to develop home-stay tourism package in Maligoan.

In addition, Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoTCA), Department of Archaeology (DoA), and the Department of Building Construction are continuously helping Bhaktapur to conserve, develop and promote Bhaktapur Tourism in one way or the other. For example, NTB has been providing support for organising Bhaktapur Night for a long time in partnership with BTDC and Bhaktapur municipality.

The MoTCA provided its support in building the view tower and has also been providing support for the conservation/renovation of temples and vihars, development of eco-trail (Kusum forest, Nagarkot), etc. Similarly, Nepal Academy of Tourism & Hospitality (NATHM) has taken some initiative in providing training activities for the past two years.

Likewise, Tara-Gaon Development Board (TGDB) has long been involved in Bhaktapur district. Its effort to run a resort in Nagarkot some 25 years back was a praiseworthy endeavour because that work facilitated and inspired other private entrepreneurs to operate more hotels in

the Nagarkot area. Further, TGDB has started promoting home-stay tourism in Nangkhel VDC through research (which was completed in 2009) and training. The DoA and Urban Development Project are actively involved in the preservation of heritage in Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Thimi, Changu Narayan, Bageshwori, etc.

3.2 Tourism Management Issues

3.2.1 Institutions The absence of a Tourism Development Section at the DDC and Tourism Development (Sub) Committees in the municipalities and VDCs has been hindering the overall development of tourism in the district. The presence of a tourism management committee is immensely lacking in Changu Narayan, where tourism activities have already started. This was the major concern of local stakeholders as well as that of the priest (Mr. Rajopadhyay) at Changunrayan. Currently, except for Nagarkot VDC, no other VDC has formed any committee to develop and promote tourism. The lessons learnt by the Nagarkot-Naldum Tourism Development Committee could be utilized while forming new committees in other VDCs.

Experiences from other districts, where Tourism for Rural Poverty Alleviation Program (TRPAP) was implemented, show that the DDCs and VDCs with Tourism Sections and Tourism Committees are more active and are able to produce better results on tourism through the provision of regular facilitation, social mobilisation, resource sharing, networking, coordination and so on. Similarly, representatives from the VDCs and municipalities could form a District Tourism Coordination Committee (DTCC) for the better coordination of tourism development activities in the district (TRPAP, 2007). The VDC’s Tourism Development Committee (TDC) could enhance the link with the DDC and DTCC, thereby triggering tourism development initiatives.

Similarly, the institutionalisation of local hotels, restaurants, tourist guides, and other suppliers (vegetables, milk, etc.) is also very crucial. So far, hotel entrepreneurs in Nagarkot have been institutionalised through the Nagarkot-Naldum


TDC. However, such institutionalisation has been lacking in other areas/sectors.

3.2.2 Human Resources DevelopmentA comprehensive data on the available human resources has also been lacking in Bhaktapur. Likewise, the projection of such human resources has also not been made due to the unavailability of data of tourist arrivals for each destination of the district. At present, only Bhaktapur municipality has been maintaining the records of foreign tourists and Nagarkot and Changu Narayan have not been maintaining such data. This obviously jeopardises the tourism projection and planning activities. Therefore, in the case of Bhaktapur district, we have to make rough estimations based on personal knowledge and experiences to tackle the growth of tourist arrivals for the next five years or more.

The team has strongly felt that Bhaktapur should accord the highest priority for the development of its own human resources that are required for the development and management of tourism. This will help create new employment opportunities for the rural populace, improve tourism businesses, retain the income within the district as well as help in sustainably managing the businesses with less or no conflict with the locals. Priority should be given for the development of human resources under the key themes as indicated below in Table 3.5.

Table 3.5: The priority given to develop human resources under key themes

S N

Types of Human Resources

Available HR at

present

Requirement for (by) the next 5 years(a projection)

Remarks

1.

Awareness on tourism development/TEAP (Tourism and Environment Awareness Program) (mass scale awareness required)

Some people are aware in Nagarkot, Changu Narayan and Bhaktapur municipality areas

At least 100 households in each VDC should be aware on TEAP/sustainable tourism development issues

A special package of TEAP is available with NTB through the TRPAP project.

2. Cook Data lacking

At least 10 new trained cooks in each potential site

For fulfilling the demands of Nagarkot, the surrounding VDCs could produce such trained cooks for creating local employment opportunities

3. House-keeping 60 120

Nearby villages from Bhaktapur city, Nagarkot and Changu Narayan should be given priority

4. Waiters/waitress 150 300

5.

Small hotel/home-stay management training

30 120

6.

Local Guides(City-tour at Bhaktapur and Madhyapur-Thimi, heritage tour at Changu Narayan, hiking and rural guides for other areas)

30 (Bhaktapur city)

90

7.Visitor Information Centre Management

3 8 BN-2, MTN-2, Changu-2, Nagarkot-2

8.

Cultural performance anchoring (choreography)

data not available 15

BN-2, MTN-2, Changu-2, Nagarkot-2, Villages- 7

9.

Tourist-friendly handicraft production and quality improvements

data not available

200 (Pottering, ceramics, mask production, etc.)

At least 10 persons from each of the 16 VDCs and 20 persons from the 2 municipalities

The DDC should form working relations/partnerships with NATHM, CTEVT, Tara Gaun Development Board and other private tourism colleges/institutions for assessing the real needs, designing appropriate tailor-made training courses and curricula, and conducting skills-focused trainings.


4.1 Vision, Goal and Objectives

VisionIn view of the major strategies taken for development in the district, the following vision statement has been proposed for the development of tourism in Bhaktapur district.

In the next 5 years, Bhaktapur district will be established as a prime tourism destination for natural, cultural, archaeological and historical experiences.

Goal Likewise, the following goal and objectives have been devised for the Tourism Development and Management Plan of Bhaktapur district:

The overall goal of the TD&MP is to sustainably manage and develop tourism in Bhaktapur District and to disseminate wider and increased benefits to local communities, with special focus on conservation and promotion of natural, cultural, archaeological and historical resources of the district including Bhaktapur

Durbar Square, Madhyapur Thimi, Changu Narayan Temple and other natural and cultural sites.

ObjectivesIn line with the above goal, the following objectives have been outlined for tourism development with their intended results:

Objective 1.

To promote conditions for tourism while simultaneously preserving the natural, cultural, archaeological and historical heritage

Intended results:

• Natural, cultural, historical and archaeologicalheritage promoted and conserved

• Access to international as well as domestic touristmarkets improved

4CHAPTER FOUR

4. Tourism Development Plan for District


• New tourism products identified and promoted

• Tourism infrastructure (physical and social)and services that enhance tourism experiencedeveloped

Objective 2.

To improve the quality of life of local communities and contribute to an inclusive economic growth

Intended results:• Livelihood benefits, such as physical, social

or cultural improvements, with a focus onproviding capacity-building training, mitigatingenvironmental impacts, addressing competinguses of natural resources increased,

• Local negative impacts on social and culturalaspects minimized and access to infrastructureand services increased

• Local employment and income opportunitiesenhanced

• Mechanisms that allow local employment andwages, improving local enterprise opportunitiesand creating collective income sources, such asfees and revenue shares for a wider sharing anddistribution of tourism benefits developed.

Objective 3.

To strengthen local institutions and organizations to plan, implement, monitor, manage and coordinate tourism development activities

Intended results:• Participation and involvement in partnerships

is enhanced at the local level by creating a moresupportive policy/planning framework

• Participation of the poor, women anddisadvantaged groups in decision-making processincreased

• Awareness of tourism and its impact among thelocal community increased with increasing flowof information and communication among localstakeholders

• Capacity of local institutions to manage tourism incoordination with Nepal Tourism Board, DistrictDevelopment Committee, municipalities, VDCs,BCCI and other private sectors enhanced

• Capacity of local communities in dealing withconservation, and protection of natural andcultural heritage improved and strengthened

The attainment of these objectives will require the integration of tourism development to the process of local economic, socio-cultural, and environmental development and hence to sustainable management practices.

4.2 Guiding Principles

In order to sustainably manage and develop tourism in Bhaktapur and its neighboring districts and to disseminate wider and increased benefits to local communities with special focus on conservation and promotion of natural, cultural, archaeological, historical and environmental resources, the overall tourism development process in the district will be guided by the following broader principles (Chart 4.1).

(a) Integrated tourism development and promotion.

Bhaktapur will continue with its Strategic Tourism Plan (STP) approach to seek tourism development and promotion in the district. The underlying philosophy of the STP approach to tourism development and promotion is that effective conservation of natural, cultural, historical, archaeological and environmental resources and improvement in the overall tourism development together with wider promotion cannot be achieved without active participation of the local community in all stages of the tourism development and promotion process, right from planning through to implementation, and monitoring and evaluation. Hence, it is essential that the links between tourism development, conservation and participation are made clear to those whose livelihoods are affected.

(b) Partnership and participation.

The local residents will be involved in planning, decision making and implementing processes. They will be made responsible and accountable to manage the tourism activities with quality services. Active participation of local institutions in all stages of project planning will be ensured and its


members will be encouraged to start developing tourism products and services. Similarly, with strong coordination among the stakeholders, including all line agencies related to tourism development, a concentrated development approach will be followed to promote Bhaktapur district as the prime tourism destination along with parallel linkages together with other major tourism attractions of the district such as Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Changu Narayan, Madhyapur Thimi, other potential cultural and pilgrimage sites, etc., so as to make the whole district a single tourism destination.

(c) Livelihoods. Integrating the norms, standards and principles of basic human needs into the plans, policies and processes of tourism development are to be carried out. Livelihoods focus on people to enhance their capacity to achieve the minimum conditions for living with dignity. This approach recognizes the poor and marginalized people to better secure their livelihoods. The key to this is its emphasis on underlying causes of poverty and social injustice that include discrimination, social exclusion and denial of rights to minority groups. While adopting this principle, the plan is aimed at putting the poor, marginalized and vulnerable groups at the core of tourism development and enhancing their capacity for a better lifestyle, and equitable distribution of benefits arising from tourism. In short, the livelihood framework encompasses the development framework and views tourism development with the local communities’ participation as the key to sustainability.

(d) Sustainability. The plan provides high priority to sustainability. Primarily, it will support only those activities and programs which local people can manage by themselves, without further external support in the future. Local people will be encouraged to participate and invest in cash or kind in the development of tourism for ensuring sustainability for their livelihoods. Central to this effort is to ensure local people’s ownership and optimal management of tourism activities and services.

Chart 4.1 Strategic tourism plan principle

4.3 Tourism Development Strategies

The tourism development efforts in Bhaktapur were started after the listing of Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Changu Narayan Temple as World Heritage Sites (WHS) in 1979. Visitors since then were attracted to the Bhaktapur Durbar Square to observe and experience the golden art and traditional events. Later, Nagarkot area became a hill resort destination for nature lovers and holiday makers. The evolution of day hiking, and other soft adventure activities like mountain biking, further enhanced tourism activities in the district. The efforts made by Bhaktapur municipality, UNESCO and GTZ for the preservation of the cultural heritage in Bhaktapur further contributed to the preservation, conservation and renovation of the historical and religious monuments which also contributed in attracting high value visitors to Bhaktapur city. The establishment of the Bhaktapur Tourism Development Committee (BTDC), in 1997, has been another milestone as it has been making sincere efforts in preserving and promoting heritage; creating awareness among the stakeholders and promoting tourism through various events and undertaking tourism research activities.

Despite its tremendous strength in attracting tourists, the major strategic elements for the development of tourism in Bhaktapur district were not strongly indicated in the first-ever Periodic District Development Plans of the district (2059/60 – 2063/64). The validity of the district’s periodic plans has now been completed. Due to the absence of local level elections and its representatives and the new political changes, the possibility for developing such plans in the near future does not look good.

Guiding Principle

Integrated tourism

development and

promotion

Partnership and

participationLivelihoods Sustainability


However, it has been felt that tourism is increasingly becoming an unavoidable part of Bhaktapur to boost its economy as well as to preserve the rich cultural heritage of the district. It has been realised that the full potential of tourism in Bhaktapur district has not yet been explored and realized.

Focusing on the imperative issues raised during interactions, the planning team has been successful in achieving the following strategic components which were strongly suggested during the stakeholder’s workshops at Bhaktapur, Madhyapur Thimi and during close interactions at VDCs during the field visits. They include:

• Coordinated development of tourisminfrastructure through the participation of allVDCs

• Targeting of awareness programs particularlytowards rural people including women and poor

• Development of income opportunities fromtourism through the conservation of natural andcultural resources with a special focus on the poorand disadvantaged groups

• Prioritized focus on the promotion of tourismproducts of Bhaktapur district and its surroundingdistricts and the management of market linkagesfor all tourism products

• Establishing and strengthening of tourism relatedinstitutions and networks

• Facilitate coordination between local levelinstitutions and the DDC

• Diversification of tourism products andopportunities based on a harmonious balancebetween nature, culture and environment

• Benefits to the larger community and localmanagement capability as a criteria forinfrastructure and tourism development

• Coordination and networking among all lineagencies for infrastructure development to beundertaken on the basis of area priorities set forthin the TDMP with a view to reduce duplicity andenhance synergy among all

• Involvement of the private sector and thedisadvantaged in the development of localenterprises

• Utilization of existing local level organizations orinstitutions for the development of tourism

• Establishing a culture for having regularinteractions and sharing of good practices

This specific strategic approach will focus on developing tourism activities and services in Bhaktapur district as per its (i) value and importance, (ii) specific area need priority, (iii) sustainable use of local resources, (iv) making tourism development activities more pro-poor and responsible, and (v) economic retention at the local level .

(i) Adjusting development interventions under its value and importance:

The plan has adapted Bhaktapur district by characterizing the development practices into three broad types, based on natural and cultural resources available and with a focus for tourism development. This will also help in understanding the ground reality and help intervening accordingly for better adjustments.

The three values and importance in Bhaktapur district include:

a) Cultural and historical importance

Bhaktapur district holds high value andimportance from a cultural and historical pointof view. All cultural and historical sites are utilizedequally by locals and visitors round the year. Inthese areas, the resources have been highly impacteddue to human activities such as dense population,numerous festivals, and urbanisation.

b) Natural importance

Bhaktapur has many explored and unexplorednatural sites for the development of eco-tourism.These areas are in some ways suffering directly orindirectly from serious environmental problemsdue to supplementary human activities includingtourism.


c) Pilgrimage importance

Similarly, the district has many religious shrines where pilgrims gather in large numbers during the festivals. The importance of pilgrimage sites could be focused and highlighted for regional and domestic tourism. The development and management implications need careful restriction on the use of the resources in a sustainable manner.

(ii) Area specific priority interventions:

Despite the fact that major issues related to the development of tourism appear to be similar throughout the district, specific opportunities and problems differ from area to area and VDC to VDC. Therefore, the plan suggests the formulation of VDC/area specific programs based on Area Tourism Plan and consolidation at the district level. The tentative priority programs are given below (Table 4.1, Annex 36 and 37):

Table 4.1 : Priority Programs

Area Priority programs

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Heritage conservation, tourist-standard accommodation, vehicular management, proper signage, public toilets

Thimi municipal-ity including Bode, Thimi, Nagdesh

Heritage conservation, tourist-standard accommodation, foot paths, beautification, sanitation and cleanliness, signage and directional arrow boards, information centre, public toilets, vehicular management

Changu Narayan

Heritage conservation (Radhika Naach, Bhujya Jatra, Khi Musical Ornament, Dhime Baza), tourist-standard accommodation, foot paths, beautification, sanitation and cleanliness, erosion and siltation control, local area management committee, drinking water, home-stay in Tamang village, develop linkages with Bajrayogini of Sankhu, TEAP, entrepreneurship training, local guide and other tourism trainings

ChalingTrekking trail upgradation, tourist-standard accommoda-tion, picnic sheds, beautification, sanitation and cleanli-ness, signage

Nagarkot

Heritage conservation (Mahankal Mandir), banking facili-ties, local guides, organic food promotion (farming), vil-lage walks, home stay development, trail upgradation, di-rectional signage, resting places, medicinal plants farming (herbal farming), meditation centre at Jalpadevi, develop local tourism development committee at Jalpadevi, women entrepreneurship training, local guide and other tourism trainings, good direct bus service from Kathmandu to Na-garkot, road upgradation, forest conservation, sanitation and cleanliness, control of public land encroachment

Bageswori Heritage conservation, beautification, sanitation and cleanliness, signage and directional arrow boards,

Sudal Trail development, signage and information along trails, resting places, teahouse

TathaliTrail development, signage and information along trails and in all archaeological sites including Rock Edicts and Basuki Dhunga, resting places, teahouse

Chitapol

Conservation of archaeological and historical sites, trail development, signage and information along trails, rest-ing places, teahouse, parking facility near the statue of Lord Shiva, all-weather road to Nala from Lataremswor Mahadev, TEAP, local guide training, conserve and pro-mote horticulture farming specially Makhamali and Saya-patri flower farming

Nankhel Accommodation facilities including home-stay, signage and information along trails

Sipadol

Heritage conservation (Doleswor Mahadev, Ashapureswor Mahadev), parking facility, widening and black topping of the motoranle road, teahouse facilities, signage and infor-mation along trails, home-stay at Nangkhel and Maligaon, Kakrabari, drinking water, forest conservation, sanitation and cleanliness, TEAP, horticulture farming, marketing and publicity

Gundu

Heritage conservation, signage and information, teahouse, sanitation and cleanliness, picnic sheds, resting places, trail development at Ghyampe Danda, good road network (make gravel road), link with Lakure Bhanghyang, con-serve Ranokot Ghadi

Dadhikot

Heritage conservation (Anantalingswor Mahadev, Bind-habashini Mandir), signage and information, tea house, sanitation and cleanliness, home-stay at Chitrapur, adven-ture sports at Kailash danda, picnic sheds, resting places

Sirutar Heritage conservation (Somalingswer Mahadev, signage and information, tea house, sanitation and cleanliness


Katunje

Heritage conservation (Suryabinayak, Subarneshwor Mahadev, Sushila Bhairav Mandir, Baghbhairav Mandir), signage and information, tea house, sanitation and clean-liness

Balkot Heritage conservation (Dharmeshwor Mahadev), signage and information, sanitation and cleanliness

Jhaukhel Heritage conservation (Jyotilingeswor Mahadev), signage and information, tea house, sanitation and cleanliness

Duwakot Heritage conservation, tourist-standard accommodation, proper signage

(iii) Sustainable use of local resources:

Building on upon the existing and new markets there are ample opportunities for the growth of tourism in Bhaktapur district. The current market and consumer trends indicate that the experienced traveler prefers authentic, off-the-beaten-track vacations in remote and practically unheard of places instead of luxurious vacations. Global trends also indicate the growing demand for nature and culture-based holidays, and spiritual tourism which are forecasted to double and perhaps even triple in the next 20 years. The growing interest in cultural and spiritual tourism and eco-tourism presents enormous opportunities for Bhaktapur district provided that it can avail and make due use of the opportunities presented to it. At this juncture of potential demand in tourism, there is a critical demand from the locals regarding new motor roads. There is a need to combine and convert the assets of all VDCs into attractive and marketable tourism products to foster a synergy among the locals’ demand for road and bus terminals (See Annex 36). There is an urgent need to plan and develop the infrastructure and services in these VDCs and the tourism attractions in an integrated manner. Investment is also urgently needed for enhanced access; developing infrastructure and facilities of the attractions; and a sustainable, responsible and pro-poor tourism management and service delivery. It is also equally necessary to do tourism development works in partnership with local communities, tourism related stakeholders, local bodies and government agencies not only to minimize and mitigate such negative impacts but

also to diversify tourism products and services as well so as to make the tourism development process sustainable. Likewise, Bhaktapur DDC will partner with these organizations to develop new trekking trails so that Bhaktapur district will continue to remain as one of the more popular tourism destinations in the country.

(iv) Making tourism more responsible and pro-poor:

The plan will focus on maling the tourism activities more sustainable and responsible within the framework of pro-poor and responsible tourism with a view that such activities will help meet the needs of the present tourists and host regions while simultaneously protecting and enhancing the opportunity for future growth. An effective and efficient management of all resources will help fulfill the economic, social and aesthetic needs, as well as, make easy the maintenance of cultural integrity, essential ecological processes, biological diversity and life-support systems. Hence, the people and local ownership of tourism services are always at the core of a sustainable, responsible and pro-poor tourism.

Tourism is a critical component in the overall development of Bhaktapur district. It directly contributes to the conservation of cultural and natural heritage and the development activities of the district. Not only that, a visit to Bhaktapur has been reckoned as a lifetime activity for many tourists, and it could draw the attention of many potential pilgrims as well. Tourism has been a priority sector in Bhaktapur district since the time the two of its cultural sites, Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Changu Narayan, were enlisted as World Heritage Sites. The district is endowed with diverse cultural and natural resources. The area has rich distinctive lifestyles. Its unique natural and cultural endowments position it as poptentially the best destination for cultural, historical and eco tourism. Ancient temples, historical monuments, beautiful landscapes and valleys could attract both domestic as well as international visitors. Despite an impressive range of attractions, the area has not yet realized its full potential from tourism. Recently, there was a realization for the need to


work for the promotion of Bhaktapur district as a unique tourism destination. Stakeholders of neighboring districts including Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Kavrepalanchowk and Sindhupalchok have acknowledged that complementary natural endowments and cultural heritage provide an opportunity for regional cooperation in tourism, which can lead to joint product development, cost-effective marketing strategies, and joint investments in the development of tourism infrastructure which will result in greater efficiency. Now there is a realization that tourism should also be environmentally and culturally sustainable and contribute to poverty reduction.

The tourism industry is, primarily, a private sector market-driven activity. There can be both multiple benefits (including job creation, enterprise opportunities, improved access to infrastructure and services) as well as multiple costs (including reduced access to natural resources and increased exposure to risk) to the poor from tourism. The costs and benefits from tourism will have to be carefully assessed in terms of how they affect the livelihoods of the poor and generate net benefits for the poor. In short, the management plan’s approach will be to minimize costs and maximize benefits in favour of the poor.

The plan recognizes that one of the critical issues for small producers is often access to the market - access to the established industry and to tourists. Pro-poor initiatives will increase market access to the poor. Experience has shown that initiatives that do not address issues on how to market the products of the poor and how to integrate them into the value chain, ultimately fail.

(v) Economic retention at local level:

In line with making tourism activities more sustainable and responsible the plan will also focus on making all tourism activities viable and enhance the opportunity for economic retention at the local level. The possible maximum use of local resources will help fulfill the economic, social and aesthetic needs, as well as, help maintain economic activities, and life-support systems at the local level.

Tourism is a significant component in the overall economic development of Bhaktapur district. It directly contributes to the local community with economic retention if a maximum number of local people are involved and local resources are utilized to the optimum level. Despite an impressive range of attractions, the area has not yet realized its full potential from tourism. Recently, there was a realization for the need to work to promote Bhaktapur district by making tourism activities as one of the major economic activities. There was also a realization that tourism should be environmentally and culturally sustainable and contribute to poverty reduction with maximum capital retention at the local level.

Since, it is known that there can be both multiple benefits including job creation, enterprise developments, demands of more services as well as multiple costs including reduced access to natural resources and increased exposure to risk to the poor local people from tourism, costs and benefits from tourism need to be carefully analysed and assessed in terms of how they affect the livelihoods and generate net benefits for the local community. In short, the management plan’s approach will be to minimize costs and maximize tourism income retention at the local level thus benefiting more local communities.

4.4 Tourism Product Mix and Priorities

Natural and cultural tourism, especially visiting the Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Changu Narayan and Nagarkot have been the core products that have been attracting non-SAARC and SAARC tourists as well as domestic tourists to Bhaktapur district. Almost one-third of the total visitors coming to Nepal visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Pilgrimage to Changu Narayan, Suryabinayak, Dugdeswor Mahadev, and many other cultural sites including numerous Hindu and Buddhist shrines are potential sites for domestic visitors as well. Other forms of tourism such as educational and special interest activities are also in an increasing trend in Bhaktapur.

There are beautiful natural areas within Dhadikot, Gundu, Sipadol, Nankhel, Chitapol, Tathali, Sudal


and Bageswori VDCs also, which hold equal potential for developing nature based tourism activities but it needs further exploration. The ethnic culture of the Newars and Tamangs holds equal prospects for the development of tourism. However, there has been no sufficient visible effort made by the Tamangs regarding product development and for the creation of necessary infrastructure for the development of tourism in their areas.

A side product could be the development of man-made attractions in Bhaktapur. For the historical and archaeological enthusiasts, many places including the remains of the forts (Gadhi) and other historical places within the district could be equally attractive for students as well as for researchers.

In the stakeholders’ workshop, the participants identified many pilgrimage, historical, cultural and natural sites and the potential trekking trails within and outside the district as priority areas for the development of tourism. Likewise, possibilities for enhancing joint product development and marketing, and linking tourism attractions with other neighboring districts were also highlighted. It should be noted that many are popular and established destinations, and a few need to be explored and the required infrastructure has to be put into place for the development of tourism products.

4.5 Market Segment and Marketing

Existing tourist market segments in the district, as discussed in Chapter 2, mainly consists of:

• Holiday and pleasure groups from SAARC andnon-SAARC countries visiting cultural andhistorical sites

• Indian/non-Indian foreign groups, nature loversand adventure seekers

• Pilgrims to all cultural sites, domestic (mainlyfrom other districts) and to some extent Indians

• Business and non-business (education, trainings,seminars, workshops and health) people includingdomestic visitors

Potential market segment that can be attracted to Bhaktapur district with appropriate product development would be:

• Special interest groups (nature watching,Ayurveda, yoga, meditation, acupressure andresearch)

• Adventure sports (jungle walk, camping insidethe jungle, rock climbing, canyoning, mountainbiking, village walking, rock climbing)

• Trekking tourists,

• MICE

• Domestic tourists and cultural visitors

The Nepal Tourism Board is the apex national body which has the mandate to promote and market Nepal as an attractive tourist destination in the international arena and to also promote domestic tourism within the country. In view of the potential tourism market segment in this district, there are three main areas where NTB could play an imperative role. These are product development, human resource development and specialized promotional activities to enhance the overall marketing of the country. The promotional and marketing strategies of these districts therefore have to be developed in consultation with, and guidance from NTB. The tour operators need to play the lead role in packaging and presenting Bhaktapur and its surroundings as superior tourism products.

4.6 Expectations by 2015

It is expected that by the year 2015, the basis for establishing Bhaktapur district as a quality tourist destination will have been instituted. Visitor surveys will have been conducted and Bhaktapur district will have an established, direct and strong market linkage with Kathmandu and overseas tour operators. It will have also implemented its targeted marketing strategies and plans. To create more tourism opportunities in this district, new tourism products will have been introduced particularly in new areas. The basis for cultural, pilgrimage and eco-tourism will have been created with proper maintenance and upgradation of the cultural, historical and natural sites. The management plan for popular cultural sites will have been prepared and implemented for managing pilgrimage events in the area.

Hotel/lodge management association/committees will have been institutionalized to deal with the problems of unhealthy competition and standardization. A


code of conduct will be in place for tourists/pilgrims, tourism entrepreneurs and the host population. Waste management and monitoring systems will be in place together with an adequate number of trained guides and other staff. Alternative energy program will have contributed to lessen the dependence on fuel wood. Road access will have improved thus allowing more tourists/pilgrims to visit the areas even during the monsoon season.

The tourism management process will have been institutionalized in the district with active TDCs in the VDCs that fall under the priority tourism development areas. TDS and the BTDC at the district level will be institutionalized and strengthened to the extent that it will be able to plan, coordinate and manage tourism related programs in the district. BTDC will play an active and efficiently coordinated role for the overall development of tourism in the district. The linkages of tourism to the district economy will have been strengthened in all VDCs.

An institutional mechanism will have been worked out between the DDC, municipalities, BTDC and VDCs which will strengthen coordination and cooperation for developing and implementing programs of nature and heritage conservation as well as income generation in the district.

4.7 Activities, Budget, andResponsibilities

The major activities and responsibilities proposed for the first five years of the TDMP are given in Chart 4.2. Activities have been grouped around results determined for the attainment of the objectives that have been identified. The framework indicates activities in which the DDC will play a lead role in terms of coordination and facilitation. Many of the activities have been built around the proposed programs of DDC, Bhaktapur and Madhyapur Thimi muncipalities and VDCs.

Alltogether, the 105 activities, 82 activities have been earmarked as first priority. The total budget for all activities is expected to be over Rs 17.60 crores. A majority of the activities have been recommended to be undertaken under the coordination and cooperation of various related organizations. The District Development Committee is expected to assume the lead role and

allocate over Rs. 5.28 crores on its own. Bhaktapur Municipality is expected to allocate 3.52 crores and Madhyapur Thimi municipalities (MTM) is expected to allocate 2.64 crores from its own resources. The remaining 35 percent amount has been proposed to be collected by the DDC in coordination and cooperation with the NTB, MoTCA, other government ministries, government line agencies, tourism development committees, BCCI, VDCs and development partners as well as doner agencies to implement the activities.

The activities proposed are grouped under 11 major thematic program areas as indicated below.

1. Conservation of Cultural and HistoricalHeritages

The historical, cultural and archaeological heritages of Bhaktapur district exist in both rural and urban landscape settings. The management and conservation of such heritage sites have been considered as a challenging activity that requires to be done regularly. Special emphasis should be laid on the conservation of such important cultural heritage and archaeological sites of this district. A code of conduct for tourists, tourism entrepreneurs, tour operators and the local communities also needs to be strongly administered and monitored.

The cultural heritage of this district is also reflected in the lifestyle of the ethnic tribes. They have their own distinctive traditions, religions, festivals, dances and languages. Plans for the development and implementation of activities for cultural tours and home-stays have been proposed. The DDC, Local Tourism Management Committees and BTDC can coordinate their activities with NTB and local organizations and NGOs to explore further possibilities.

2. Tourism and Environment AwarenessProgram

The impact of tourism on natural resources and cultural heritage has to be controlled, especially in fragile and protected areas. To balance the positive benefits of tourism for local people, the major threats that need to be properly managed include waste disposal, deforestation, and pressure on the


preserved historical and cultural monuments due to mass urbanization and increase in population size. Tourism and environmental planning is the key to balancing the needs of the local community with the protection of the resources.

To help the local people better understand the value of their vital resources, it is necessary to organize TEAPs extensively throughout the district. These awareness programs have already been developed and have proven to be successful in explaining the basic benefits and impacts of tourism on local communities.

Village settlements will remain cleaner if villagers are mobilized through counseling on health, hygiene and sanitation, and students will plant tree saplings once they are made aware of environmental impacts. Booklets and posters need to be published and distributed. TEAPs are considered to be one of the most successful outcomes, and its training manuals are readily available at NTB. Other environmental improvements include improved cooking stoves that can save fuel wood and improve household conditions. Likewise, the construction of local dumping sites, incinerators, rubbish bins, and public toilets needs greater attention to make the local environment cleaner and more hygienic. To make the local environment cleaner, private homes also need encouragement to have toilet facilities and a good sanitation system in place.

3. Tourism Facilities and InfrastructureDevelopment

Just like how it is necessary to upgrade and maintain roads, trails, bridges and other essential infrastructure to access all tourism products within Bhaktapur district, it is also of utmost importance to have quality accommodation facilities for the development of tourism in the district, especially inside the municipal areas. The close proximity of this district with the only international airport of the country and the ongoing expansion of the six-lane road linking it with the capital city Kathmandu, and the availability of open areas within the district hold ample possibilities for the expansion of quality

accommodation in the future. Improvements in the accommodation facilities will not only help tourists stay in Bhaktapur district, but also generate more economic activities at the local level providing more employment to local people. Such accommodation facilities in Bhaktapur and Madhyapur Thimi areas can be developed individually.

Infrastructure development is also an important component for the development of tourism. Improving access to the external market not only helps link existing tourism areas with the outside market but also helps in enhancing the quality of the experience that the tourists get in the areas. This requires the improvement of major road links in Bhaktapur district as indicated: Bhaktapur – Nagarkot, Bhaktapur Ring Road, Bhaktapur – Changu Narayan, Bhaktapur – Doleswor Mahadevsthan, Bhaktapur - Thathali, Bhaktapur – Sudal Maha Manjushree, Nagarkot – Sanga, Muhan Pokhari – Balmikeshwor-Mahamanjushree (swarswatisthan), Duwakot – Changu Narayan, Telkot – Sankhu.

The activities included under this category will on one hand help establish Bhaktapur as a primary tourist destination, and on the other it will help diversify the tourism products of the entire district by developing and promoting natural, cultural and MICE tourism products.

The priority accorded by the Department of Roads will be critical for the improvement of access conditions. The development and maintenance of trails, bridges, drinking water schemes, health posts, signage, bus terminals, etc, in the priority areas of tourism development will be an important element of infrastructure development (See Annex 36). An inventory of infrastructure by area has to be developed and monitored. As a local resident, every member of the local community can enjoy the benefits of infrastructure development/improvement that have been made for the development of tourism. The DDC can coordinate with the Department of Roads or the office of the concerned road department that exists in the district for the types of roads mentioned above.


4. Human Resources Development

The rationale for tourism development in Bhaktapur is based on the premise that tourism will contribute to employment and income generation activities in the district. For this focus will be given to human resources development in terms of capacity enhancement and skill building as per the requirement so as it can generate both employment and income and enhance the livelihoods of local people. The need here is to coordinate these training activities and specifically focus them in areas that have been identified as priority areas for the development of tourism.

5. Institutional Development - EstablishingTourism Development Section in the DDC,Municipalities and Chamber of Commerceand Industry

Sustainable local institutions alone can create the basis for the sustainable development of tourism and for ensuring that tourism contributes to the local economic, environmental, social and cultural development. In the case of Bhaktapur district these institutions are Bhaktapur and Madhyapur Thimi Municipalities, Bhaktapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry, BTDC and local TDCs, local community-based organizations, functional groups and NGOs. The coordination and perhaps the development of a parallel program with Bhaktapur and Madhyapur Thimi municipalities and Nagarkot-Naldum Tourism Development Committee is imperative in Bhaktapur as Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Nagarkot are the prime tourist destinations. The extent to which the DDC, BTDC, municipalities, Chamber of Commerce and Industries and local TDCs are institutionalised in the district will determine the extent to which the tourism policy and program development, coordination, implementation and monitoring capacity of the DDC becomes effective. The DDC needs to work on these initiatives in building and strengthening local institutions.

Simultaneously, the institutional capability of the municipalities and the BCCI to manage tourism in harmony with the aim of conservation needs

to be strengthened and a mechanism needs to be developed for a better coordination and joint program development with the DDC.

The programs proposed in this area include the establishment of the TDS and local TDC so that the institutional basis for planning and implementing tourism activities is created at the district and VDC levels. A major role of the DDC will be to strengthen the TDS and local TDC with adequate recruitment and assignment of responsibilities, by providing trainings on aspects of tourism program development and management, and rural development. This can enhance the local and district capabilities to coordinate tourism related activities. District level networking and regional and national networking will foster backward and forward institutional linkages too. The establishment of a tourism section in the municipalities and at BCCI will go a long way in enhancing the capability of private business institutions in managing the development process of tourism and its impacts, and in coordinating efforts with the DDC.

The DDC will have to undertake a regular monitoring exercise of tourism programs that it initiates or coordinates in the district, and the impact that tourism has on host communities and the environment. Reviews of this nature will contribute to better program implementation and coordination, better program formulation and better integration of mitigation measures in the overall program development mechanism.

6. Publicity, Promotion, Marketing andResearch

The promotion of the new tourism products at the local, national and international levels in close cooperation with NTB is very important. This needs a series of marketing activities that includes the production of a range of booklets, brochures, posters, audio-visuals, a website and other publicity materials, agent and media familiarisation trips, and travel exhibitions and trade fairs.

Developing new tourism products in areas with no established flows is extremely difficult and


presents a formidable challenge for marketing and promotion. Linking new tourism businesses with tour operators from Kathmandu and Lalitpur has been an essential part in the development of any new product in such areas.

There is an urgent need to publicize and market the tourism products of Bhaktapur district. A calendar of events and festivals needs to published, in association with NTB. Promotional posters and brochures, with combined packages need to be developed jointly with NTB and private entrepreneurs. The DDC, in association with municipalities, BCCI and other private sectors have to organise festivals and exhibitions regularly to promote the area and its handicrafts.

7. Communication Facilities and TouristInformation

Communication has always been and still is the power engine for the promotion of tourism all over the world. All relevant information relating to tourism activities and services needs to be communicated and displayed through various means of communication channels. The best option to provide basic information and travel plan aid at the local level could be the establishment of a Visitor Information Centre with all basic communication facilities available. Providing services through such information centres is a common practice in all tourism destinations around the world.

Visitor Information Centres play an important role in the tourism industry. The centres make a significant economic contribution to tourism, particularly in local areas, by providing information to visitors that encourages them to stay longer, spend more money, experience more attractions, and revisit an area. Visitor Information Centres also create significant social benefits, as many rely heavily on a volunteer workforce and operate as an important community facility.

In recent years, there has been an increased recognition of the role of Visitor Information Centres and their importance in providing high-quality tourist information.

8. Tourism Enterprise Development andIncome Generating Activities

Skill-based trainings to existing and potential local entrepreneurs, and in other trades with direct linkages to tourism such as hotel, lodge and home-stay management, local guides, cooks, production of vegetables and livestock for the tourist market and souvenir production, may be the key to generating maximum employment and income advantages from tourism. Gender mainstreaming has been proposed as a common component for all the training programs. Special efforts are needed to train women and the poor and disadvantaged groups so that they can be the beneficiaries of the development process in general and tourism development in particular. For this purpose special programs have been proposed.

9. New Tourism Product Development andDiversification of Tourism Activities

A very short stay-period and the confinement of tourism activities in only some limited areas like BDS and Nagarkot are the key strategic issues that need to be considered and looked into for the benefit of the wider community through tourism in Bhaktapur. For this purpose Bhaktapur district needs new tourism products and a diversification of tourism activities from the existing traditional practices. A strong coordinated approach for the development of new products and for the strengthening of existing tourism products through a standardization process needs to be put in place. Similarly, the district needs to pursue fair prices and fair trade practices to compete with neighboring tourism products. Diversification of tourism products and activities will help enhance benefit-sharing practices which will further contribute to local development.


Map 6: Probable Tourism Routes


2012 – 2016


10. Conservation and managment of bio-diversity and natural landscape

Its natural environment, rich biodiversity and a beautiful landscape provide a strong basis for nature-based tourism in Bhaktapur while further augmenting heritage and culture-based tourism activities. Negligence in preserving and maintaining these natural resource bases will not only diminish the possibility of expansion and diversification of tourism products in the district but also decrease the quality and standard of the existing tourism products in Bhaktapur.

The Tourism and Environment Awareness Program (TEAP), as a powerful sensitizing tool, should be operated by taking into consideration the role of forests, wetlands, natural landscape and water sources for the sustainable growth and development of tourism in Bhaktapur. The capacity and skill of the Community Forest User Groups (CFUG) should also be strengthened to develop, promote and manage eco-tourism activities in forests and the natural landscape. A mechanism should also be developed to ensure the utilization of alternative energy system and devices with proper training and incentive packages particularly in the rural areas. Efforts should also be made to develop adequate drainage, sanitation and waste management systems in the major tourism sites.

An environmental code of conduct for tourists, entrepreneurs, tour operators and the local communities needs to be strongly administered and monitored. Some policies related intervention also need to be initiated immediately.

11. Monitoring and Evaluation

The tourism activities will be subjected to a multi-party review which will be conducted at least once

a year. Before each multi-party review meeting, the DDC will be responsible in preparing and submitting an Annual Progress Report. The DDC, in consultation with all the concerned stakeholders, may call for additional, meetings, whenever a situation so demands. In addition, technical review meetings at the working level will be held regularly (every three to six months) to help ensure a well coordinated and proactive program implementation, monitoring and problem solving process.

The DDC, municipalities, VDCs, DTCC, private sector and NGOs will coordinate in the preparation and delivery of the program evaluations.

The tourism development activities will be subject to annual reviews by a joint evaluation mission consisting of the DDC, municipalities, VDCs, DTCC, NTB, private sector and NGOs. The suggestions and recommendations of all the evaluation missions will be incorporated in the plans and programs. If necessary, the strategy will be adjusted and new activities and inputs will be included to improve the development program.

Local level Self Assessment

In addition to the formal assessments and evaluation carried out by the DDC, it is considered essential that participants at the village level should also be engaged in similar activities. In this context, it will be essential for the DDC to assist the TDSCs to carry out annual self-assessments. The evaluation tools such as Development Wheel (a self monitoring tool used by TRPAP) may be used for this purpose. This is an integral part of the empowerment process.

The phasewise implementation of the programs has been proposed. The major program activities according to the priority tourism development areas are illustrated below in Chart 4.2.


Chart 4.2 - Bhaktapur District Tourism Development Plan: Implementation and Phasing of Major Program Activities

Proposed Programme and Activities

Timeline(Year) Responsible Organisation Supporting

Organizations

Tentative Budget

(Rs.000)

Potential funding sources Priority1 2 3 4 5

1. Conservation of Cultural, Historical and Archaelogical Heritages

1. Conservation (Renovation, repair, reconstruction, fencing, painting, public awareness, etc. as per the need) of local monuments.

1.1 Bhaktapur Municipality• Golden Gate• Siddhi Chowk• Narsingha Image (National

Art Musem)• Five-story Temple• Hanuman Ghat (Shiva Panchayan)

Asta Matrika Piths, Sattals- Dudh Pati Erotic Carvings etc,

• Art and artifacts of Siddha Pokhari• Ancient Ponds, Ghats, Water

conduits,• Traditional Public and Private

Houses• Monuments of different religious

beliefs

Respective Municipalities and VDCs, DoA*, District Forest Office, Guthi Sansthan, Ministry of Culture*

DAO,DDC, BTDC, NTB, BCCI, NNTDC Local communities,

10000

Ministry of Culture, Municipalities, VDCs, DoA, NTB, BCCI, Donor Agencies, Private entrepreneur and Philanthroist societies

1

1.2 Madhyapur Municipality

• Nil Barahi, Bal Kumari, Siddhi Ganesh and Siddhikali Temple

• Asta Ganesh- Shrines , Sattals-Erotic Wood Carvings etc,

• Art and artifacts of Mahakali Temple • Ancient Ponds, Ghats, Water

conduits, God Houses- Agam Ghar• Traditional Courtyards- Nani /

Chowk• Traditional Public and Private

Houses

5000




Organizations

Tentative Budget

(Rs.000)


A.3 VDCs• Duwakot- Tripur Sundari temple,

Sculptures of Chatur Vyuha Vishnu, Water Spouts and other ancient religious monuments

• Jhaukhel- Jyotirlingesvor Mahadev , ancient chaityas and Lichhavi stone inscriptions,

• Changunarayan– Changunarayan temple, Devithan, newly discovered rock painting at Chap Gaun

• Chaling- Trishul Danda, Mahakal temple

• Nagarkot- Jalpa Devi, Mahakal, Kali Devi, Nagarkot and Telkot Forts, Caves, Mahadev Pokhari,

• Bageswori– Bagihiti and Balmikesvor sites

• Sudal- Lhasapaka Saraswatisthan ( Maha Manjushree), Bharamahini Temple

• Tathali- Recently discovered rock edicts, inscription,historical forts and caves

• Chittapole- Plantation of Pine Forest ( Lingo Ban ), Latarameswor Mahadev and fort

• Sipadole- Dolesvor Mahadev, Ranikot Fort, Baghbhairav, Ashapuri Mahadev

• Nangkhel- Nandikesvar Mahadev Temple

• Gundu- Budhi Gandaki, Bhaktamuktesvor Mahadev, Kal Bhairabstan

• Katunje- Suryavinayak Temple, Suvarnesvor Mahadev Shrine, Sushil Bhairab Temple

• Dadhikot- Ananta Lingesvor Mahadev, Charkhandesvor Mahadev Temple

• Sirutar- Somalingesvor Mahadev Temple

• Balkot- Dharmesvor Mahadev Temple

2000

1.4 Environmental/Landslide protection at Nilvarahi and Changunarayana sites.

√ √ √ √ √ MTM, DoSCWM and Changunarayana VDC

DAO*,DDC, DFO*,Local communities 7500 MTM, Changunarayana

VDC,DDC ,DoSCWM* 1

1.5 Construction of side walk in and around important monument sites

√ √ √ √ √ Bhaktapur Municipality, DDC 1




Organizations

Tentative Budget

(Rs.000)


2.Tourism and Environment Awareness Programme-TEAP

2.1 Documentation of indigenous knowledge and practices to create unique tourism products.

BTDC, NTB, Municipalities DDC, VDCs, BCCI 1000DDC, Donor agencies,Municipalities, VDCs, NTB

1

2.2 Organize tourism, culture and environment awareness programme for communities, tourism enterpreneurs and educational institutions

DDC, MunicipalitiesBTDC, VDCs, Local cultural groups and clubs, BCCI, NTB

2000DDC, Municipalities, VDCs, NTB, Donor Agencies

1

2.3 Install information boards highlighting the tourism resources and need for conservation

DDC, Municipalities, VDCs BTDC, Local communities 500 DDC, VDCs,

Municipalities, NETIF 1

2.4 Production and distribution of leaflets, newsletters, documentary among the local community members, tourism entrepreneurs and stakeholders

√ √ √ √ √ DDC, Municipalities BTDC, VDCs, Local communities, NTB 1000 DDC, NTB, BCCI,

Municipalities

2.5 Establish tourism , environmental and cultural (TEC) club in schools and college as per requirement and interest

√ √ √ √ √ DDC, BTDC,NNTDC DEO, Education Institutions 320 DDC, VDCs,

Municipalities, NETIF 2

2.6 Aware local communities to promote traditional systems and practices.

√ √ √ √ √ BTDC, VDCs,NNTDC Local communities 500 DDC, Municipalities, Donor Agencies 1

3. Tourism facilities and infrastructure developement

3.1 Encourage investors to develop and upgrade resorts with convention facilities in Nagarkot areas

√ √ √ √ √ Private entrepreneur DDC, DFO,VDCs, CFUGs,NTB Private entrepreneurs 1

3.2 Encourage investors to develop and upgrade standard accomodation in Bhaktapur, Thimi Changunarayana and Nalinchowk areas with special focus on domestic and Indian visitors

√ √ √ √ √ Private entrepreneur DDC, DFO,VDCs, CFUGs Private entrepreneurs 1

3.3 Encourage and facilitate investors to develop resort accommodation and convention facilities in eastern and southern hills (Thakalmath-Sudal, Kailashdanda, Kakrabari, Ranikot, Ghyampedanda, Maligoan areas)


3.4 Developing and upgrading standard accommodation facilities and services in Changu Narayan areas

√ √ √ √ √ Private entrepreneurs DDC, DFO,VDCs, CFUGs Private entrepreneurs 1

3.5 Support to develop homestays in selected rural villages

√ √ √ √ √ Respective communities

DDC,VDCs, CFUGs, MoTCA, NTB, Taragaon Development Committee*

2000 MoTCA, DDC,VDCs,NTB, NATHM* 1

3.6 Encourage and facilitate investors to develop eco-lodge/cottage and camping facilities in southern hills





Organizations

Tentative Budget

(Rs.000)


3.7. Rest points in all hiking, biking and trekking trails.

√ √ √ √ √ DDC, VDCs BTDC,Local communities 1000 DDC, VDCs, MoTCA, NTB,

Private entreprneurs 1

3.8. View tower construction in Ranikot and Trisuldanda

√ √ √ DDC, VDCs Local communities, DoA, CAAN 5000 DDC, VDCs, MoTCA 2

3.9. Access trail to Ranikot √ √ DDC NTB,VDCs, BTDC, local communities 1000 DDC, VDC,MoTCA,NTB 2

3.10 Vehicle parking ( Dolesvor, Nagarkot )

√ √ Respective VDCs, DFO DDC, Local communities, BTDC 1500 DDC, VDCs 3

3.11. Enhancement of Water supply facilities in Nagarkot, Changunarayana, MTM and BM

√ √ √ √ √ DDC, Municipalities, respective VDCs, KUKL* Respective VDCs 5000 DDC, Municipalities,

KUKL, VDCs 1

3.12. Souvenir Shops √ √ √ √ √ Private Enterpreneurs BCCI, BTDC Private Enterpreneurs 2

3.13. Improve sanitation and waste management condition, Place rubbish bin, construct dumping sites, and install sewage treatment plants in Bhaktapur Municipality.

DDC, SDWDO*, BM, MoPPID* 10000 DDC, SDWDO*, MoPPID* 1

3.14. Improve sanitation and waste management condition, Place rubbish bin, construct dumping sites, in Nagarkot, Changunarayan and install sewage treatment plants in Madhyapur Thimi Municipality.

DDC, SDWDO*, VDCs, MTM NETIF, NNTDC,CNTDCMoPPID, 10000

DDC, MTM, SDWDO*, MoPPID*,NETIF,VDCs

1

3.15.Establish art museum dedicated to Newari culture at Thimi MTM DoA*, MoC*, DDC 3500 DoA*, MoC*, MTM 1

3.16.Establish the museum for traditional Musical instruments in Bhaktapur Municipality

BM,DoA* MoC*, DDC 2000 BM DoA*, MoC* 1

3.17. ATM (Nagarkot and Thimi) √ √ √ √ √ Financial Institutions* NNTDC and Local communities Financial Institutions* 1

4. Human Resources Development

4.1 Awareness on tourism development/ TEAP in a mass scale (50 HHs in each VDC/ Municipalities)

DDC, respective municipalities and VDCs

BTDC, BCCI, NETIF, NTB,Training Institutes

1000DDC, Municipalities, VDCs, NTB, NETIF, development partners

1

4.2 Small hotels and lodge management training:• Hospitality Training (50-75

Persons)• Cooking, House-keeping(150

Persons)• Waiter/waitress (300 persons

with focus to women groups)

DDC, NATHM*,NTB

BTDC, municipalitiesVDCs, BCCI, Training Institutions

4000DDC, Municipalities, VDCs, NTB, Local Hotel Group

1

4.3 Home-stay Management Training (250 persons)

MoTCA, DDC, NATHM*,NTB,

BTDC, municipalitiesVDCs, BCCI, Local communities

4000DDC, Municipalities, VDCs, NTB, MoTCA, Development partners

1




Organizations

Tentative Budget

(Rs.000)


4.4 Local Tour Guide Training (200 persons)

DDC, NATHM*

BTDC, Municipalities, BCCI, NTB, Training Institutions

1500 DDC, Municipalities, VDCs, NTB, NATHM 1

4.5 Language training (English, German, French, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese) 50 each

Municipalities, NATHM*, NTB BTDC, VDCs 2000 DDC, Municipalities, NTB, development partners 1

4.6 Train/produce Information Centre Managers for Municipalities and Nagarkot and Changunarayana (10 persons)

Respective municipalities and VDCs, DDC

BCCI, NTB, Training Institutions*, BTDC 250 DDC, Municipalities, NTB,

MoTCA, BCCI, 1

4.7 Local cultural performance training (25 local cultural groups ) and master of ceremony training (15 persons)

DDC, Respective Municipalities and VDCs

BTDC,NTB, Nepal Sanskritic Sansthan*,Local Cultural groups

500DDC, NTB, Municipalities, VDCs, Nepal Sanskritic Sansthan*

2

4.8 Quality enhancement training for handicraft production (200 persons)

BCCI, Handicraft Association of Nepal ( HAN) , CSIDB

BTDC, municipalitiesVDCs,NTB, Bhaktapur Association of Collage and Small Industries (BACSI)* Training Institutions

1000 DDC, Municipalities, VDCs, BCCI, CSIDB* 2

4.9 Capacity enhancement program for tourism information / Checking Counters of Bhaktapur Municipality(30 Persons)

Bhaktapur Municipality BTDC, NATHM, NTB 100 Bhaktapur Municipality 1

4.10 Training for local Heritage and Nature Tour Guides ( 40 each )

Respective municipalities and VDCs, BTDC,NNTDC

NATHM,NTB, TURGAN, BTDC 1000 Respective municipalities

and VDCs, 1

4.11 Provide "Management Capacity Enhancement Training" to potential enterprenuers

Local Bodies, Private sector DDC,NTB,CSIDB, NATHM 1000 GoN,Ministry of Industry,

CSIDB 1

4.12 Conduct tourism development, management and monitoring orientation training with special focus on BTDMP implementation for DDC, Municipality, relevant VDCs, BCCI, BTDC, other line agencies, NGOs and Associations

DDC, NTB BTDC, Municipalities, BCCI 200 DDC, NTB 1

4.13 Orient and build capacity of women and ethnic community on developing and promoting traditional culture and ritual based tourism products

DDC, Municipalities, VDCs BTDC 1000 DDC, Municipalities, VDCs, NETIF 2

4.14 Train and mobilize selected teachers on tourism environmental and culture DDC, DEO*, BTDC, Education

Institutions,DOA 320 DDC, VDCs, Municipalities, NETIF 2

4.15 Conduct Tourism planning, development and management capacity enhancement Training for CBOs and tourism entrepreneurs

DDC, VDCs NTB, BTDC 500 DDC, VDCs 1




Organizations

Tentative Budget

(Rs.000)


5. Institutional Development

5.1 Form Inter-District Tourism Coordination Committee consisting Bhaktapur, Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Kavre districts.

Bhaktapur DDC, BTDC Other DDCs , BCCI 50 Respective DDCs 2

5.2 Form District Tourism Coordination Committee at district level or reform BTDC as the district level organization

DDC, BTDCMunicipalities, VDCs, Local committees 500 DDC 1

5.3 Establish Tourism Development Sections at the DDC, Tourism Development Sub-committees at Municipalities and respective VDCs

DDC, respective Municipalities and VDCs, BCCI

BTDC 200DDC, respective Municipalities and VDCs, BCCI

1

5.4 Organise Tourism Coordination Workshops/ meetings (at least twice a year)

DDC, DTDC,Municipalities, BTDC, BCCI, NNTDC

Municipalities, VDCs, Local Committees, BCCI 150 DDC, Municipalities VDCs, 1

5.5 Enhance capacity of BTDC, NNTDC, CNTDC

DDC,BTDC, NNTDC, CNTDC NTB, respective VDCs, BCCI, 2000 DDC, respective VDCs,

BM, NTB 1

5.6 Form Home-stay tourism development committees ( Maligaon, Kakrabari, Nangkhel, Saraswatikhel, Changu, Nagarkot, Bageswori, Sudal, Tathali, Chittapol,)

Respective VDCs, local communities

MoTCA, DDC,NTB, TGDC, CNTDC,BTDC,BCCI,

100 Respective VDCs, Local Communities 1

5.7 Capacity enhancement of CFUGs for eco-tourism development and promotion

Respective VDCs, FECOFUN* DFO, NTB, DNPWC 100 DDC, CFUGs, FECOFUN* 2

5.8 Make local communities aware about the necessity to promote traditional systems and practices to maintain and safeguard all cultural practices and heritage sites for tourism development. Form separate local level management committees as per necessary

√ √ √ √ √ DDC, VDCs, BTDC Cultural Groups, Art Guthis 500 DDC,VDC,Municipalities 1

6.Publicity, Promotion, Marketing and Research

6.1 Establish a separate tourism brand for Bhaktapur district (Natural, Cultural and Historical) with its distinctiveness for the promotion of tourism

√ √ Municipalities, NTB,DDC , BCCI, BTDC

Travel Trade Associations 500 MoTCA, DDC,

Municipalities, NTB 1

6.2 Promotion of Tourism Brand √ √ √ √ NTB, DDC, Municipalities BTDC, BCCI, NNTDC

MoTCA, MoFA,Travel Trade Associations 2500 MoTCA, NTB,DDC,

Municipalities 1

6.3 Documentation of both tangible and intangible heritage resources.

√ √ √ DoA*,DDC, Municipalities, BTDC,BCCI,NNTDC,NTB 1000

DDC, NTB,Municipalities,VDCs, DoA*, development partners

1




Organizations

Tentative Budget

(Rs.000)


6.4 Identify, document and visualize cultural (intangible) heritage such as festivals, life styles, language, music, dance, arts, etc. and prepare a separate annual calendar of events and festivals for tourism promotion.

√ √ √ DDC, Municipalities, NTB. BTDC , BCCI,NNTDC,CNTDC 1000 DDC, Municipalities, VDC,

NTB . 1

6.5 Identify and develop one village one product to promote specialty such as festivals, dance, music, handicrafts, souvenir items, organic farming etc.,

√ √ √ √ √ Respective VDCs, BCCI, private sectors

FNCCI,BTDC,DDC,NTB,DADO,CSIDB 2200DDC,VDCs and Municipalities,developing partners,DADO*

1

6.6 Support for designing local tour packages targeting domestic, Indian, Chinese and third country tourists.

√ √ √ √ √ Local Communities, BCCI, Municipalities and VDCs

DDC,BTDC,NTB, Travel Trade Associations 1000 Local Communities, BCCI,

Municipalities and VDCs 1

6.7 Organise familiarization (FAM) trips for national and international travel trade, media, government agencies, Nepal based diplomatic missions and expatriates.

√ √ √ √ √NTB,Travel Trade Associations,Municipalities and VDCs

DDC,BTDC,NNTDC 2000 NTB,Municipalities and VDCs,DDC 1

6.8 Jointly organize and promote local festivals, and tourism fairs √ √ √ √ √

BCCI,DDC, Private Entrepreneurs, Municipalities and VDCs,BTDC,Local cultural groups, Guthi Sansthan

NTB, Travel Trade Associations 5000

BCCI,DDC,NTB, Guthi Sansthan, Private Entrepreneurs, Municipalities and VDCs,BTDC,NNTDC,CNTDC

1

6.9 Record and visualize all kinds of festivals, songs, and events , prepare documentary; disseminate and promote through electronic media

√ √ √ DDC, Municipalities, NTB.BTDC , BCCI,NNTDC,CNTDC,Radio and Television Stations

1000 DDC, Municipalities, VDC, NTB . 1

6.10 Develop and promote audio/visual of local festivals, rituals, songs, events ,traditional dances as souvenir items

√ √ √ √NTB, DDC, Municipalities and VDCs, BTDC, Travel Trade Associations, Municipalities ,

BCCI,BTDC,NNTDC,CNTDC, Private Entreprenuers, Local Communities,

2000 NTB,DDC,Municipalities and VDCs 1

6.11 Develop GIS based promotional materials

√ √ √ √ √Private Entrepreneurs, DDC, Municipalities and VDCs, BTDC, NTB

BTDC, NNTDC, CNTDC 1000 Municipalities and VDCs, NTB,DDC 1

6.12 Maintain profile of visitor arrivals in Bhaktapur District.

√ √ √ √ √ Municipalities and VDCs NTB,BTDC,NNDTC,CNTDC 100 Municipalities and VDCs 1

6.13 Identify and promote potential market segments (International as well as domestic)

√ √ NTB,BTDC Travel Trade Asociations 2000 NTB, DDC, Municipalities 1

6.14 Design different packages for domestic tourists, third country tourists and Indian pilgrims with adequate information including tourism products, transport and accommodation facilities, seasonality, hardships including possible hazards and preventive measures to minimize seasonality

√ √ √ √ √ Private Entrepreneurs BTDC,NNTDC,CNTDC Private Entrepreneurs 1




Organizations

Tentative Budget

(Rs.000)


6.15 Encourage local private sectors to establish market linkages for the promotion of MICE activities

√ √ √ √ √ BTDC,NNTDC, NTB NTB, BCCI, Travel Trade Associations 100

Private entrepreneurs,NTBMunicipalities, Tourism Committees

1

6.16 Develop mechanism to offer special souvenir (Special Certificate, Bhadgaule cap and Haku Patasi to the visitors entering to the BM/Thimi)

√ √ √ √ √ Municipalities, Craft producers, BTDC BTDC, BCCI 1000 Municipalities, Craft

producers 1

6.17 Conduct visitors and tour operators perception survey on a periodical basis

√ √ Municipalities, BTDC,DDC NTB, Local committees 3000 DDC, Municipalities, NTB, Local committees 1

6.18 Develop comprehensive guide book and Coffee Table Book (Picture Book) on Bhaktapur District.

DDC, NTB, BTDC, BCCI, NNTDC, CNTDC 2000 NTB, DDC, Municipalities, VDCs 1

7. Communication Facilities and Tourist Information

7.1 Strengthen BTDC as a nodal point for overall information dissemination in the district.

DDC Municipalities, BTDC, NTB, VDCs, BCCI 500 DDC, Municipalities, Donor Agencies 1

7.2 Establish new tourist checking point/information centers in MTM as the main entry point to the district.

MTM, DDC MoTCA, NTB, DDC 2500 MTM, DDC, NTB 1

7.3 Establish multi-user visitor center /cultural center at Bhaktapur Municipality and Sankhadhar Shakwa Chowk

BM, MTM MoTCA, NTB, DDC, DoA 30000 BM, MTM, DDC, NTB, DoA 1

7.4 Upgrade Tourist Checking Point/Information Centres at Bhaktapur Municipality Nagarkot and Changunarayana

BM,NNTDC,CNTDC NTB, DDC, BTDC, NETIF 3000 BM, DDC, NTB, NNTDC, NETIF, VDCs 1

7.5 Establish ethnic, art and handicraft museums at Thimi MTM DoA, MoC, DDC 1000 DoA, MoC, MTM 1

7.6 Establish Cultural centre at Bhaktapur and Thimi offering the glimpse of Newari culture, traditions, rituals, art, folk and dances

Private entrepreneurs, BTDC DDC, , MoC, BCCIDDC, DoA, Donor Agencies, Private Enterprenuers

1

7.7 Place standard and artistic tourist interpretative signage boards/, tourism attraction and facility maps at appropriate locations

DDC, Municipalities, NTB, BTDC, private sectors 1500 DDC, Municipalities,.

VDcs, NTB, private sectors 1

8. New tourism product development and diversification of tourism activities

8.1 Conduct study to identify possible tourism enterprises; both direct tourism products/services and other feeder value chain products/services

DDC,BCCI,CSIDB* Municipalities, VDCs, DADO*, DLSO* 600 DDC, NTB, Donor

agencies 1

8.2 Conduct tourism entrepreneurship and skill development training to maximize local production and encourage entrepreneurs to use local products and services.

DDC, CSIDB, BCCI, DADO, DLSO VDCs, NATHM, CTEVT, 2000

DDC, VDCs, CSIDB, BCCI, DADO, DLSO, DDC, NTB, Donor agencies

1




Organizations

Tentative Budget

(Rs.000)


8.3 Provide small grant support to backward communities and women groups in particular for establishing homestay

MoTCA, DDC, VDCs BTDC 2000 DDC, VDCs, MoTCA, Development partners 1

8.4 Conduct training on tourism product development, packaging, pricing and marketing for new tourism entrepreneurs.

BTDC, BCCI, Private enterpreneurs

DDC, NTB,Travel trade Associations 300 DDC, NTB, BCCI, VDCs,

Development Partners 1

8.5 Train locals to run craft learning cum exhibition centers at Bhaktapur and Thimi (pottery, ceramics, wooden and metal carving)

DDC , BTD Private entrepreneurs, Municipalities 100

Private entrepreneurs, Municipalities, DDC, Development partners

3

8.6 Facilitate to link poor and marginalized communities for accessing to micro finance

√ √ √ √ DDC, BCCI, BTDC Financial instutionsMFIs, Cooperatives,MoTCA, Development Parters

2

8.7 Train local people to diversify their agriculture produce into high value crops, with reference to OVOP.

√ √ DDC, BCCI DADO, DLSO, CSIDB*, BCCI* 1000

DDC, BCCI, DADO*, DLSO*, CSIDB*, Development Partners

2

8.8 Brand, package and promote traditional food products like Tikani Baji and Taichun Baji in Tigani and Chitrapur

√ √ √ √ BCCI, private enterpreneurs, Local committees, CSIDB, DDC, VDCs 200 Local committees, private

enterpreneurs 2

8.9 Encourage with special incentives to establish travel/tour agencies in the district.

√ √ √ √ √ Municipalities, BCCI DDC,BTDC, CSIDB Travel Trade Associations, MoTCA

Private Sectors 1

9. New Tourism Product Development and Diversification Tourism Activities

9.1 Carryout detail feasibility study for expanding and diversifying tourism products and activities in the periphery of BDS, Thimi and Nagarkot areas

DDC, Municipalities, BTDC, VDCs

BCCI, NNTDC, CFUGs, NTB, Travel Trade Associations

1000DDC, NTB, Municipalities, VDCs, Development Partners

1

9.2 Conduct detail feasibility study for Home-stay tourism package in potential villages such as Bode, Saraswotikhel, Nagarkot, Thakalmath, Nangkhel, Maligoan,Kakrabari etc.

DDC, BTDC, Municipalities,VDCs

MoTCA, BCCI, NNTDC, NTB, CFUGs, Travel Trade Associations

1000 DDC, NTB, Development Partners 1

9.3 Conduct detail feasibility study to develop eco-tourism packages in southern, eastern and northern hills :

Bird watching: Nilvarahi, Chhaling, Nagarkot, Bageshwori, Sudal Gadi, Suryabinayak, Sipadol

Jungle walk: Nilbarahi, Chhaling, Nagarkot, Bageshwori, Sudal Gadi, Suryabinayak, Sipadol

DDC, VDCs, MTM, CFUGs

BTDC, NTB NNTDC, Local Committees, Travel Trade Associations, BCN, DFO,

1000 DDC, VDCs, NTB, Development Partners 1




Organizations

Tentative Budget

(Rs.000)


9.4 Conduct detail feasibility study to develop leisure, recreation, adventure and sport tourism activities.

Bycyling: Bhaktapur ring road, linkroad and major trekking trailsParagliding: Thakalmath, Latarameshvor, Lakuribhanjyang, RanikotRock climbing: Muhan Pokhari,BagesworiCanyoning: Muhan PokhariJeep safari: Bhaktapur Ringroad, Changu and NagarkorPony trekking: Changu Narayan, Nagarkot, Ranikot/LakuribhanjyangSport Utility:Coverd Hall ,Cricket Ground, Football Ground

DDC, VDCs

CAAN, BTDC, NTB, NNTDC, Entrepreneurs, Local Committees, NMIA*, NCA*, NBA*, CFUG

1500 DDC, VDCs, NTB, Development Partners 1

9.5 Conduct detail feasibility study to develop Shiva/ Mahadev Pilgrimage Circuit Trail

DDC, VDCs

Guthis/Temple Management Committees, Local Committees

200 DDC, VDCs, NTB 1

9.6 Conduct feasibility study to develop MICE facilities in eastern and southern hills.

Private entrepreneurs, BTDC, DFO, CFUGs, VDCs, Travel Trade Associations

Private entrepreneurs 1

9.7 Develop yoga, alternative medicine and meditation tourism in –Trisuldanda, Jalapa Devi, Chhanya Basti, Nagarkot, Balmikeshvor, Bahalban, Mahamanjushree, Thulopakaha Ban, Kailash Mahadev(Sanga), Ranikot,Anantalingesvor, Suryavinayak

√ √ √ √ √ Private entrepreneurs, Yoga Clubs

BTDC, Ktm. based Meditation houses CFUGs,

Private entrepreneur, Yoga Clubs 1

9.8 Promote shamanism in Tamang settlements (Kakrabari, Nagarkot and Changunarayan areas)

√ √ √ √ √ Private entrepreneurs, Local Committees,NNTDC,CNTDC

BTDC, Travel Trade Associations

Private entrepreneurs, Local Committees, 2

10. Conservation and managment of bio-diversity and natural landscape

10.1 Demarcate and protect national, religious and community forest (Nilbarahi, Chhaling, Nagarkot,Suryavinayak, Ranikot)

DFO*, CFUG Nepal Army*, VDCs 500 DFO*, CFUG 2

10.2 Demarcate and preserve public open land, ponds,Traditional well ,stone water conduits and rivers

DDC, BM, MTM, VDCsTDC

DoA*,DAO*, DFO*, Guthi Sansthan* 1000 DDC,BM, MTM, VDCs

DFO, CFUG,TDC 2

10.3 Provide training and grant support to use alternative energy and energy saving devices like solar and wind energy, improve cooking stove, encourage fire briquette etc.

DDC, VDCs CFUG, DFO*, AEPC* 1000 DDC, VDCs, AEPC*, Private enterpreneurs 2




Organizations

Tentative Budget

(Rs.000)


10.4 Provide technical input and financial incentive for use of improved chimney for Brick factories.

CSIDB*, BCCI, Entrepreneurs BM, MTM, VDCs CSIDB*, BCCI, Entrepreneurs, GoN 1

10.5 Prepare and implement scientific landuse plan discouraging land fragmentation and unplanned urbanization.

TDB DDC, Municipalities, VDCs, TDB*, DDC 2

10.6 Ban and remove posters, telecommunication towers, electrical transmission lines, hording boards, and flexes from heritage sites to stop visual pollution.

Municipalities, District Administration, Municipalities

Local communities, Entrepreneurs

Municipalities, District Administration 1

10.7. Drafting of conservation bylaws and enforcement followed by suitable incentives.

BM, MTM, VDCs DDC, BCCI, BTDC, DOA, 2000 DOA, DDC, BM, MTM, VDCs 1

10.8.Undertake water source conservation activities including conservation plantation, catchment protection and lake rehabilitation activities

DFO, KUKL , CFUG, DDC, VDCs, 500 DFO, DDC, VDCs KUKL 1

10.9.Develop and enforce social, cultural and environmental code of conducts DDC, Minicipalities, VDCs, BTDC, BCCI, Local

committees 200 DDC, Municipalities, NETIF, VDCs, 1

10.10.Designate separate area for tourist standard accommodation

√ √ √ √

Private sector to take the lead at earliest possible for tourist standard accommodation facilities.

Private Entrepreneur 1

11. Monitoring and Evaluation

11.1 Conduct Base line survey to identify tourist visiting Bhaktapur district, infrastructures, services, facilities, and manpowers available, and fix targets for five years.

√ BTDC DDC, Municipalities, NTB, Local committees 200 DDC, NTB, Local

committees 1

11.2 Conduct visitor perception survey on a periodical basis and to develop/diversity tourism products/activities accordingly in year two and four respectively.

√ √ BTDC DDC, Municipalities, NTB, Local committees 600 DDC, NTB, Local

committees 2

11.3 Monitor tourism development and management activities regularly by preparing participatory monitoring and evaluation plan

√ √ √ √ √ DTCC

DDC, VDCs, Municipalities, TDSCs, Private stakeholders, NGOs

500 DDC, Municipalities, VDCs 1

Total 176090


The management of tourism in principle is seen to be structured around four basic themes: (i) Managing the tourism system; (ii) Managing tourism business; (iii) Managing tourism in its environment; and (iv) Con-temporary issues in tourism management. Hence, to-ruism management in Bhaktapur district needs to follow all these basic four themes.

Global tourism patterns and the distribution systems followed by all leading market destinations, especially the Indian market, should be followed as the prime guid-ing principles to promote tourism in this district. While managing tourism activities as a business, a careful assess-ment has to be made and both the demand and supply sides of the industry need to be taken into account.

On the demand side there are pressures that are exerted by tourism on the environmental, natural and cultural resources of an area. On the supply side are the infra-structure and facilities that need to be put into place to attract tourists and to also make tourism socially, eco-nomically and environmentally viable.

There will be many other issues, which will come up in parallel to the aforementioned ones and which will re-quire immediate attention to solve the unforeseen prob-lems. If managed properly, then each and every tourism attraction in this district will be able to provide maxi-mum benefits with little negative impacts from tourism.

5.1 Management

5.1.1 Management of Cultural, Historical and Ar-chaeological sites

It is a well-known fact that Bhaktapur district is wealthy in cultural, historical and archaeological heritage. The lengthy field studies of the entire region of the district that were conducted show that there are even more hid-den heritages in this district which have not yet been brought in the limelight. On one hand such unique heritage sites that are lying scattered all over the district makes us proud as they were handed down to us by our ancestors, but on the other hand, it is disheartening to see that such remarkable heritage sites have not received

5CHAPTER FIVE

5. Tourism Management, Program Implementation and Monitoring


due attention and are literally lying in ruins. Overall, when you look at the tangible cultural heritages, you will see that many of them have either been lost or stolen. Many of them, due to carelessness, ignorance and the lack of awareness among the general public, are in a di-lapidated state. Some have been broken down and the archaeological remains have been taken away by natives as raw materials for construction purposes. Some more are in very unsafe conditions.

Hence, an urgent need has been felt to preserve these precious heritages not only for our future generations but also for the greater glory of the entire humanity. Regarding the intangible cultural heritages, it is note-worthy that the spirit of the intangible culture is related with the income of the Guthi’s land (trust) as well. It was previously the permanent source of income for organiz-ing fairs and festivals, rites and rituals, music and dance, renovations, etc. Presently, such Guthi-land has been lost due to encroachment and illegal buying and selling. The Newar culture of Bhaktapur, particularly, can be consid-ered as an agricultural-land-based culture. So, one has to understand that if there is no trust-land, then there is no culture. Unfortunately, the situation is precarious and we could lose all the trust-land.

Therefore, for the better management of the cultural, historical and archaeological sites, preservation and con-servation efforts are inevitable. It is the moral responsi-bility of the local people, as well as the formal duty of the concerned authorities, to manage the sites properly. It is true that a heritage is like the proverbial golden egg-laying hen. Hence, it has to be preserved well for future generations.

5.1.2 Environment and Landscape Management

Its natural landscape and rich biodiversity have not only provided a strong basis for nature based tourism but have also provided the means to augment and sustain heritage and culture based tourism in Bhaktapur. Considering the impending threats on the natural environment and landscape due to encroachment and illegal felling of forest resources, depletion of water resources, land frag-mentation due to unplanned land plotting and road con-struction, and unplanned urbanization combined with the increasing air, water and sound pollution, Bhaktapur district should adopt a policy to maitain and preserve the greenery of the area and the landscape to preserve these

rich natural resource bases while still boosting tourism in the district.

A strong and coordinated effort needs to be made to pro-tect the national, community and religious forests from being encroached in the Nagarkot, Bageshwor, Changu, Suryabinayak and Ranikot areas. The District Forest Of-fice should play a lead role in building the capacity of CFUGs to safeguard forest resources while promoting ecotourism activities by capitalizing on the forest and natural landscapes. Efforts should also be undertaken to stop the degeneration of forest areas due to the un-planned and unnecessacery road construction in Surya-binayak and Gundu forest areas.

Special efforts should also be initiated to protect and re-vive water sources and wetland areas, particularly around the lakes in Changu Narayan, Bhaktapur and Thimi areas by conducting awareness raising programs and through bioengineering methods.

Special efforts should also be made to halt unplanned land plotting, sand excavation and unplanned road network to maintain the beautiful landscape in the val-ley and the foothills. Municipalities, VDCs and Town Development Committees should adopt a standard green-city concept by introducing a compulsory green belt, green parks, kitchen gardening and organic farming practices. The DDC can best utilize the tourism zoning concept based on the availability, capability and priority of the available land resources.

5.1.3 Sanitation and Waste Management

Solid wastes generally originate from households, in-dustries and hospitals in any place. In a tourism site, the waste is mostly of household type. The estimated per capita waste generation of Bhaktapur city is about 0.303 kg per head. The waste generated in the tourism sites too is either equal to this quantity or marginally lower. The waste is generally organic in nature. It has been found that the waste in Bhaktapur city is 80 percent organic with the remainder being inorganic. The Disposal Sys-tems that are being used in Bhaktapur are:

• Waste Storage

• Waste Collection and Transfer

• Street Sweeping


• Door-to-Door Collection

• Tipan Tapan

The Solid Waste Management of Bhaktapur is regarded as one of the best in the country. The Tipan Tapan Sys-tem is the hallmark of Bhaktapur as it is practiced in this city only. Hence, this system can be used in the tourism sites as well.

Formation of a Sanitary and Solid Waste Manage-ment Committee

A committee should be formed to administer the waste management systems as described above. Most of the problems will be solved if there is the implementation of a system whereby the waste is separated during col-lection at the source itself. A home-composting practice should be promoted so as to nip the solid waste problem in the bud itself.

5.1.4 Hotel, Lodge, Home-stay, and Campsite Man-agement

Accommodation management has been seen as a par-ticular problem in all areas of Bhaktapur district except Nagarkot and Bhaktapur municipal areas which have quality hotels and lodges. With a view to create a stron-ger institutional base for overseeing that the lodges, ho-tels, home-stay venues and campsites are managed and operated within the bounds of fair trade practices, it is of utmost importance to conduct trainings for people involved in hotels, lodges, home-stay venues and camp-sites. Local associations and communities need to be strengthened as an institution to standardize prices and services, to oversee the quality of services, and to ensure that the code of fair trade conduct is enforced so that un-healthy competition is systematically discouraged. Past experiences suggest that training alone is not enough, and has to be backed by an institutionalized system that reinforces continual vigilance with respect to service quality and practices of accommodation management.

While expanding hotels, lodges, home-stay venues and campsites in existing as well as new areas, particularly in the southern belt, there should be a sustained focus to ensure the use of alternative energy instead of firewood and emphasis must be laid on maintaining safety stan-dards for sanitation and sewage management.

5.1.5 Recreation and Entertainment Management

Since recreation and entertainment are the major ele-ments of tourism, they have become the major subjects within the overall management of tourism in the area. The act of providing recreation and entertainment for tourists as well as locals has developed as a separate spe-cialized sector in many destinations that have developed tourism. The participation of the local people in per-forming cultural programs and dances has gained popu-larity worldwide. To make such events more vibrant and rewarding there should be proper management of such performing groups and acts.

Metropolitians such as Bhaktapur and Madhyapur Thi-mi need to provide more recreation and entertainment facilities to retain more visitors in their cities (Table 5.1, 5.2). Yet, it is equally necessary to be vigilant in control-ling and impeding untoward incidents during the whole process of providing recreation and entertainment. With these two cities being the potential sites for cul-tural, historical and MICE tourism, the management of amenities including recreation and entertainment comes under priority activities.

5.1.6 Package Development and Tour Operations

Package development and tour operations are always done in parallel by private entrepreneurs. This manage-ment practice will help boost the promotional activities of the tourism industry in Bhaktapur. Combining all attractions within the district, and breaking them into small packages by taking into consideration the total time that a tourist devotes in it, and designing the total cost for each package including transportation facilities are the major actions that need to be cautiously formulated by the tour operators. In Bhaktapur district, the major cultural, archaeological and historical sites are scattered and this requires a careful combination of sites into spe-cial packages (Table 5.1). Whereas, activities within the WHSs and the medieval city Madhyapur Thimi can be designed as per the nature of attractions the visitors want to enjoy. By nature itself, the packages designed for his-torical and cultural sites will be a little time consuming, which in turn will help in extending the stay of tourists in these sites. Management practices with fair trade deal-ing and providing better services including local guide facilities should be the overall objective of all tour opera-tors.


Table : 5.1 Tourism sites to be included in packages in Bhaktapur and Madhyapur Thimi

Bhaktapur Thimi

A. Tourism sites:1. Erotic Elephants temple2. Ugrachandi and Ugrabhairab3. Char Dham4. Rameshwor temple5. Badrinath temple6. Gopinath temple7. Kedarnath temple8. Hanuman statue9. Narshingha statue10. National Art Gallery (Malati

Chowk)11. King Bhupatindra malla's Col-

umn12. Vatsala Devi temple13. Tagogan (Big Bell)14. Khicha Kho Gan15. Lu Dhwaka (Golden gate)16. Nyaynyapa Jhya (55 Window

Palace)17. Chayslin Dega18. Yaksheswor Mahadev19. Siddhi Laxmi temple20. Vatsala temple21. Fasi Dega (Tahacho Dega)22. Balakhu Ganesh23. Tadhunchen Bahal

B. Tourism sites around Ta mari (Taumadi Square)

1. Nyatapola temple2. Char Ganesh in the four corners

of Nyatapola temple3. Bhila-Deo (Bhairab nath Tem-

ple)Lu: Hiti4. Til Mahadev Narayan temple5. Narshinga Dega6. Kumari Deo Chhen

C. Tourism sites around Tachupal Twa (Dattatraya Square)

1. Dattatraya Temple2. Bhisin Dega (BHimsen Temple)3. Pujari Math4. The Wood Carving Museum5. The Bronze and Brass Museum6. Salan Ganesh7. Nava Durga temple8. Wakupati Aryan temple

A. Prospective Tourist spots of Thimi

1. Balkumari Square2. Hembarna Mahabihar (Loke-

shwor Mandir)3. Layekoo Durbar (Old Palace)4. Bakachhen Mahadev (Oldest

temple of Thimi)5. Inaya Square6. Digu Square7. Gunakriti Mahabihar8. Siddhi Kali Square9. Gunga Chibaha (Square of

several Stupas)10. Pati Vihar (where the tallest

copper statue of Buddha of Nepal is established)

11. Pottery Squares12. Green vegetable farms of Thi-

mi (Prospect of Agro-tourism)13. Akha Chhen - Cultural Mu-

seum14. Shankhadhar Chowk

B. Places around ThimiAll these places are located inside Madhyapur Thimi municipality.

1 Nagadesh1.1 Dyo Chhen1.2 Siddhi Ganesh Square

2. Bodey1. Mahalaxmi temple2. Narayan temple (Bishnu Ghat)3. Narayan temple (Lachhitole)4. Neel Barahi5. Tigani6. Divyashwori temple (Lokanthali)

D. Major Buddhist Monuments in Bhaktapur

1. Dev Nani (Mul Dipanker Bihar)

2. Pasu Mahabihar (Prasanasil Mahabihar)

3. Wang Baha (Manjubarna Ma-habihar)

4. Vishwa Baha

5. Tung baha (Aadipadma Mahabi-har)

6. Indrawart Maha Baha (Indra Barna Mahabihar)

7. Ina baha (Dharma Uttar Maha-bihar)

8. Khusi Baha (Shakarawart Bi-har)

9. Bahal Chhen (Tadhi Chhen/Cha-trubramha Mahabihar)

10. Akha Baha (Akhandshil Mahabi-har)

11. Jetbarna Baha (Lokeshwor Ma-habihar)

12. Niwa baha (Jetbarna Mahabi-har)

13. Yang Baha (Dharmakirti Bihar)

14. Jesthbarna Mahabihar

15. Sukudhoka Baha (Lubarna Ma-habihar)

16. Jahur Baha (Mangal Dharmadip Bihar)

17. Thathu Bahi (Jaya Kirti Bihar)

18. Khuthu Bahi (Baudhasamakrit Bihar)

E. Major Ghats

1. Hanuman Ghat

2. Chuping Ghat

3. Ram Ghat

1. Mangal Ghat

2. Kalighat

C. Important Monuments of Thimi

1. Dyo Chhe (House of Gods)

2. Krishna Mandir (Stone tem-ple)

3. Nityanath Mandir (Temple of God of Music and Dance)

4. Gaurishankar Mandir (Shikhar-style temple)

5. Bisweswar and Bhawani Mandir (Temple surrounded by Pati)

6. Monumental Chaityas

7. Manjushree Shrine

8. Sumeru Chaityas

While designing packages, a careful assessment of all the attractions needs to be done. There is also a need to pay due attention to other major attractions in the neighbor-ing districts of Kavrepalanchowk, Kathmandu and Lal-itpur. Future packages should include attractions of all these districts as well (Table 5.2).


Table 5.2: Potential tourism packages in Bhaktapur and neighboring districts

Tourism Products Tourism activities Potential areas and routes

Cultural and Pil-grimage products

Shiva pilgrimage circuit trail

Susil Bhairahav-Anantalingeshwor-Subarnesh-wor-Suryabinayak-Doleshwor-Ashapureshwor-Chittapole Mahadev-Latarameshwor-Bageshwori-Balmikeshwor-Jyotirlingeshwor

Buddhist circuit- Thimi and Bhaktapur (19+ Vihars(monasteries)

Traditional water spout circuit Bhaktapur, Thimi and Changu Narayan

Sacred pilgrim-age sites visit

Dattatraya, Suryabinayak, Anantalingshwor, Ma-hamanjushree, Doleshwor, Chittapole Mahadev (108ft.)

Eco-Tourism Products

Wilderness/for-est walk

Kushum Community Forest Eco Trail (2.5km), Nagarkot

Suryabinayak- Ghyampedanda -Gundu Frest Eco-Trail

Changu Narayan-Telkot-Chhayabasti Eco Trail

Rhododendron walk

Suryabinayak-Ranikot- Lakuribhanjyang-Kailash Danda- Anantalingshwor Rhododendron Trail

Orchid trek Nagarkot, Bageshwori, Suryabinayak

Bird watchingNilbarahi, Suryabinayak forest, Chhaling forest, Sudal Bhanjyang, Bageshwori, Nagarkot, Kakra-bari forest, Ranikot.

Adventure Tourism Products

Day Hiking and biking

Thimi-Nagadesh-Saraswotikhel-Duwakot-Besigo-an-Sangdanda-Changu Narayan

Nagarkot – Telkot – Changu Narayan – Neel Barahi – Bode – Thimi

Reviving Mandev trail (Brick slaved):Changu-Sangdaha-Gelalgoan-Kulpakot-Jhaukhel-Byasi-Khasyangkhusung-Bhaktapur

Nagarkot-Mahadev Pokhari-Thakalmath-Bagesh-wori-Muhan Pokhari- BDS

Nagarkot-Mahadev Pokhari-Thakalmath-Saras-wotikhel-Jitpur- BDS

Nagarkot-Mahadev Pokhari-Sudalbhanjyang-Ha-lalgaon-Nalachhap-Tukuchanala-Latarameshwor-Chittapole Mahadev (143ft.)

Bhaktapur-Mahamanjushree-Nala-Nagarkot

BDS-Suryabinayak-Doleshwor-Mal igaon- Kakrabari-Ashapureshwor- Sanga

BDS-Suryabinayak-Ghyampedanda-Ranikot-Patibhanjyang-Ashapureshwor-Kakrabari-Sanga

BDS-Suryabinayak-Ghyampedanda-Ranikot-Lakuribhanjyang-Kailashdanda-Anantalingsh-wor-Gundu

BDS-Suryabinayak-Katunje-Gundu-Anantaling-shewor-Kailash danda-Bindhyabasini-Chitrapur-Thimi road

a) Nagarkot – Telkot – Changu Narayan – Byasi (through Jhaukhel) or Bode/Thimi (through Neel Barahi)

b) Nagarkot – Lapsiphedi – Sali Nadi – Sankhu

c) Nagarkot – Sankhu (shortest route from Nagarkot to Sankhu)

d) Nagarkot – Lapsiphedi – Chisapani – Sundarijal (For other way round overnight required)

e) Nagarkot – Naya Gaon – Sipaghat – Mandan Danda – Dolalghat (overnight at Sipaghat)

f) Nagarkot – Anekot – Chandeswori Temple – Banepa

g) Nagarkot – Panchkhal – Hokse – Palan-chok Bhagvatisthan

Rock climbing Muhan Pokhari, Bageshwori

Canyoning Muhan Pokhari, Bageshwori

Paragliding Telkot, Nagarkot, Sudalbhanjyang, Lataramesh-wor, Lakuribhangyang, Ranikot

Jeep safariBhaktapur Ringroad, Bhaktapur-Changu-Telkot-Nagarkot, BDS-Ghampedanda-Ranikot, BDS-Bageshwori-Sudalbhanjyang-Nalachhap

Pony trek (horse riding)

Changu Narayan/Sankhu-Nagarkot, Nagarkot-Nalachhap, Suryabinayak-Ranikot

Soft trekking

BDS-Ghyampedanda-Ranikot-….Phoolchowki

BDS-Ghyampedanda-Ranikot-Godabari

BDS-Ghyampedanda-Ranikot-Ashapureshwor-Panauti

Sankhu Bajrayogini-Maha Manjushree- Ugrachandi Nala–Banepa-Namo Buddha- Pa-nauti-Lakuribhanjyang –Godavari

Rural Tourism Products

Home-stay experiences

Accommodation at the typical Newari, Tamang and Chhetri/Brahmin houses; observing village lifestyle, village walk, temple visits, participating in daily life activities, fair and festivals, cultural performances, visiting culture centres and muse-ums, observing live craftsmanship, pottery mak-ing, observing the production process and buying local products like Tikani Baji, Juju Dhou, etc.

Agri-tourism activities

Studying, observing and participating in tra-ditional farming practices like rice, wheat and vegetable cultivation and harvesting, using pure organic products during home-stay

Village tour package as part of hiking

Visit of model village and settlement, visit temple, Vihars and water spouts as part of short hiking and biking


Taking into consideration the current trend of visitors in Bhaktapur who tend to stay for short periods only and the construction of the 6-lane road to the Suryabinayak area, there should be a focus on encouraging local tour-ism entrepreneurs and tour operators/agencies to estab-lish a direct linkage to Kathmandu and overseas based tour operators.

5.1.7. Integrating tourism with the local economy

Bhaktapur has always been considered as one of the most unique tourism destinations of Nepal. Bhaktapur Durbar Squire, Changu Narayan and Nagarkot have over the years gained national im-portance. Without a visit to Bhaktapur, a travel to Kathmandu is considered incomplete. The heritage sites of the city have great importance on the social and economic life of the people. The introduction of an entrance fee for tourists has made the city more prosperous. The monuments have been repaired and rehabilitated and Bhak-tapur has established itself as one of the cleanest towns in the country. The income from tourism has changed people’s behavior and attitude too. At present, one can hardly see pigs on the streets and people washing clothes with dirty water in the ponds. A majority of the houses have toilet facilities and a piped water supply system.

Bhaktapur district has more urban population than rural population. Only 45.3% of the total population of Bhaktapur district resides in rural areas. There are several VDCs which have already begun the process of urbanisation. So the actual figure of the rural population is far less than what is mentioned above. Population growth in Bhak-tapur municipality is 1.67% which is very low as compared to the national urban average of 3.44% but Thimi municipality has a different pattern with a growth of 4.1% which is very high as com-pared to the national average (CBS, 2001).

Till date, the benefits derived from tourism have been enjoyed by only some small segments of the urban population. It is necessary to bring tourism products to the rural areas also to improve the economic condition of the rural population. To boost the local economy in Bhaktapur district,

tourism activities can be developed and man-aged in an integrated approach with local initia-tion and participation. The modular approaches which have been suggested are as follows:

1. Develop village tours and sightseeing packages inthe surrounding villages/toles of Bhaktapur Dur-bar Square (BDS) and the core areas of Thimi todiversify and expand the existing tourism prod-ucts. This has to be focused on:

a. Urban home-stay opportunities for experiencingNewari culture

b. Local agricultural practice and on-farm activities

c. Dafa (devotional) bhajan and other folk songs

d. Observing live rituals and traditional activities

e. Observing traditional domestic art and architec-ture

f. Observing live craftsmanship including potterymaking, mask making, metal craft making, etc.

g. Visiting various temples and vihars of religiousimportance

h. Participating in cultural programs

2. Developing community based rural tourism pack-ages including:

a. Home-stay tourism package in potential villageslike Nangkhel, Bode, Maligoan, etc.

b. Village tour/walk activities as part of hiking andtrekking activities

c. Stop-over facilities and services such as teahouse,resting places, etc.

d. Cultural program/package

e. Cooperative model as and when applicable

3. Create opportunities for tourism related jobs andservices for locals. This can be done by:

a. Encouraging locals to establish travel, tour andtrekking agencies in Bhaktapur

b. Training locals as local tour and trekking guides


c. Engaging locals in hospitality related jobs likecooks/chefs, waiters/waitress, housekeepers,front office management, etc. This issue is morepertinent in the Nagarkot area.

4. Develop other feeder value chain products andservices such as:

a. Develop and sell local handicrafts like woodencraft, metal craft, pottery, ceramic and other ter-racotta products, woolen crafts, Sukul, Gundri(carpet), bamboo products, etc.

b. Produce organic products and substitute the im-port of vegetables, fruits and food grains includ-ing off season vegetables from outside the district

c. Upgrade, brand, package and sell unique Bhakta-pur products such as Bhadgaule cap, Tikani Baji,Chitrapur Baji, Juju Dhou, Bhaktapur Khuwa,Thimi Gudpak, etc.

d. Introduce other potential products such as straw-berry plantation and plum plantation in Mali-goan, Kakrabari, Thakalmath, Tathali and Chit-tapole areas.

e. Improve harvesting methods and packaging withunique brand for lapsi and plum jam.

For further details of the modular approach please refer to Annex 35.

5.2 Program Implementation

For the effective implementation of the activities de-signed in the TDMP, it is expected that various institu-tions at the district and local levels will be responsible in undertaking the activities suggested within and after the planned period.

5.2.1 Tourism Section at the DDC and Local Tourism Development Committees

The TDMP will be implemented by establishing various types of tourism institutions at the DDC, municipality and VDC levels. While forming various institutions and enhancing their capacities, lessons learned and best prac-tices from the TRPAP project will be followed (TRPAP, 2007; MoCTCA, 2060 BS). The institutions that need to be established and made functional at the meso (dis-trict) and micro (local) levels will be as follows:

Table 5.3: A Framework for developing and institu-tionalising Tourism Institutions at different levels (meso and micro)

S. N

Level What type of organization/

section?

Who will be repre-senting?

What will be the main functions?

Remarks

A. Meso level1. District-

levelDistrict Tourism Coordination Committee (DTCC)

Note: At present the BTDC could play this role provided that it is reorganised as a district-level inclusive organization.

DDC chair, TDC secretaries from the DDC and 2 municipalities, municipalities, some representatives (reps) from VDC TDCs, other govern-ment officials, FNCCI/NGO reps, reps of different entrepreneurs’ groups

Coordination,avoiding resource duplications, monitoring, policy formu-lation, forward linkages, etc.

As per the STDF Guide-line, MoTCA/TRPAP 2060 BS

2. At the DDC Office

Tourism Devel-opment Section (TDS)

The Tourism officer (designated by the DDC) will lead the section with at least two other staff with extensive orientation on tour-ism and resource mobilisation

Plan imple-mentation, co-ordination, resource generation and sharing, networking, policy execu-tion, technical guidance to municipalities/VDCs in close coordination with NTB/MoTCA, and monitoring

B. Micro Level

3. At the Munici-pality

Tourism Development Sub-Committee (TDSC)

To be led by a member of the municipality, other members to be brought from other sectors: FNCCI/NGOs, tourism entrepreneurs, religious commit-tees, etc.

Preservation of heritage, planning, executing the plans, monitoring, resource generation, encouraging local participa-tion, address-ing the issues of benefit sharing, etc.


4. At the VDC(in all 16 VDCs)

Tourism Development Sub-Committee (TDSC)

To be led by a member of the VDC, other members to be brought from other sectors: NGOs/active CBOs, FUGs, tourism entrepre-neurs, local religious committees, etc.

5. At the tourism site (specific product-site)

e.g. Trishul Danda. At major potential destina-tions: Jal-padevi, Maha-man-jushree, Anan-talin-geshwor, Doleshor etc.

Conservation and Manage-ment Committee (CMC)

(e.g. ‘Trishul Danda Con-servation and Managament Committee’, Anantalingesh-wor CMC, etc.)

Making the tradi-tional committees more systematic, inclusive, transpar-ent and active with outside linkages too.

Other key roles would be: preserva-tion, conserva-tion, planning, developing, developing codes of conduct, manage-ment of local resources, linkages, representing in the VDC/ municipality level tourism committees, etc.

5.3 Program Monitoring

The DTCC, TDSs at DDC and municipalities and TDSC will be responsible for the implementation and monitoring of the TDMP at different levels as indicated in Table-5.3. The DTCC will watch over matters related to DDC/TDS’ works and its coordination mechanisms and facilitate the DDC in the execution of the TDMP tasks by formulating relevant policies/guidelines and taking appropriate decisions. The DTCC will also hold its meetings at least half-yearly to review the achieve-ments of TDMP.

Field-based monitoring visits

Similarly, a mechanism will also be developed to organ-ise field-based monitoring visits of the DTCC members on a Chaumasik (4-monthly) basis. Bhaktapur DTCC

will have the privilege of being able to visit all the VDCs within a couple of days because every VDC has access to roads and are close to the district-headquarters too.

Annual Review:

An annual review and reporting system will be imple-mented at all levels, which will ensure timely reflection and revision of the annual plan, and programs following the development indicators set.

Development indicators:

While monitoring the programs, basic targeted indica-tors and achieved indicators of tourism development and its associated impacts will be emphasised on. The results and impacts should cover the main themes, such as tour-ist arrivals, expenditure, employment creation, income generation by the poor and disadvantaged, participation of marginalised people in local tourism, etc.

Monitoring by TDS/DDC:

The DDC’s TDS will make regular visits (at least 2 times a year) to the tourism sites/VDCs to observe the developments, and to provide feedback, etc. While mak-ing such visits, participation of the VDC secretary will be a must. Similarly, the TDS will make efforts to hold regular networking meetings (on a quarterly basis) of the TDSC’s chairpersons and secretaries of the concerned areas (e.g. cluster of 4 VDCs). The TDS will produce a quarterly report and share it in the DTCC meetings.

Monitoring by TDC:

The TDCs at the municipalities will regularly report to the Mayor/ Executive Officer and produce 3-mothly progress report to the Board. The reporting system will also follow the provisions made in the Local Self-Gover-nance Act/ Regulation.

Similarly, the VDC-level TDSCs will meet bi-monthly and review their progress. Problems and opportunities should also be discussed in each ‘Networking Meeting’ of the cluster VDCs (4 clusters, e.g.: Central landscape, Northern landscape, Eastern landscape and Southern landscape).


For Bhaktapur district the capacity to finance the development process of tourism in the district is contingent on increased revenues from tourism and other sources, or from the development grant from the centre. There are many contingencies involved in the preparation of the TDMP, and providing an additional five-year perspective for the development of tourism is fraught with uncertainties. Under the present circumstances the TDMP is largely anchored on:

• a coordinated operational working mechanismbetween DDC, municipalities, VDCs, localentrepreneurs, local tourism managementcommittees and Bhaktapur Tourism DevelopmentCommittee

• enhanced capability of the local entrepreneurs tooperationalize the district Tourism Developmentand Management Plan

• improvement of the linking roads in all VDCswithin the district and linking them with thedistrict headquarters of Bhaktapur

The disturbances in the traffic movement from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur Durbar Square may be the most influential deterrent in the flow of tourists at present due to the construction, and narrow and graveled roads linking all cultural and pilgrimage sites to this district. At a time when retaining the existing market segment itself is turning out to be a daunting task, attracting a new market segment for diversified tourism products is indeed going to be difficult if the road conditions and other infrastructure are not improved. What is proposed is therefore a perspective built on expectations that the proposed programs for the 2016-2020 period will be largely implemented.

The broad directions for the development of tourism in Bhaktapur in the 2016-20 period can be envisaged as follows:

6.1 Diversification of Tourism Products/Trekking Routes

By 2015, a more targeted marketing strategy needs to be put into effect in order to further build on earlier

6CHAPTER SIX

6. Perspective andPriority Programs for 2016-2020


initiatives and present a picture of Bhaktapur district “with a difference”. By adding new products, Bhaktapur should be able to attract new market segments, including natural as well as cultural domestic visitors to Bhaktapur district. Focus should also be laid in standardizing tourism products by adding more value to the existing products. This can be done further through:

• Developing cultural, MICE and resort activities

• Developing additional facilities in the north andsouth hills

• Developing theme parks to meet the demandsfrom the growing urban (Kathmandu valley)population

6.2 Consolidation and elaboration of Tourism activities

By 2015, the basic infrastructure and human resources that are required to establish Bhaktapur as a primary tourist destination will have been in place. Intensive promotion of nature trails, exploration of new trails, interpretation about nature and culture, village tours, focus on cultural festivities, experiencing the changing livelihoods of local communities, etc., will be the areas which could contribute to the elaboration of primary tourism experience. There should also be an emphasis in linking the development of tourism with the development of basic facilities for the host communities.

6.3 Inter-district tourism

The prospects of inter-district tourism will pretty much depend on the status of the completion of the ongoing 6-lane road-link to the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and the completion of the highway connecting the eastern part of Nepal (Banepa Bardibas Highway), and Terai Fast Track road connecting Nijgadh of Bara district. This could provide equal prospects for all the other neighboring districts as a convenient transit route for tourists to enter other districts and vice-versa. Short tours and cultural experiences could enhance the experience of western tourists coming from abroad and packages could be developed to take advantage of these inter-district tourists.

6.4 Cultural and Pilgrimage Tourism

Pilgrimage to religious and cultural sites within the district are restricted to barely a few days. Though a better event management and promotion process will attract larger number of pilgrims, the activity period will still be fairly short. Promoting different cultural sites as prime attractions for different times and periods will help other destinations in further developing packages. Guided and adequately informed (interpreted) “cultural journeys”, would be one way in making these sites further attractive and will need to be highly promoted and marketed.

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54. TRPAP (2007). Nepal’s Experience ImplementingSustainable Tourism Development Models,UNDP/Tourism for Rural Poverty AlleviationProgram, NEP/99/013, MOCTCA/UNDP/DFID/SNV

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http://www.catmando.com/bkt-municipality/intro.htm

h t t p : / / w w w. g o o g l e . c o . u k / s e a r c h ? h l = e n & q= h o t e l s + b h a k t a p u r & r e v i d = 1 3 7 0 3 9 7 6 7 5 &e i = J p f _ S 7 f B H 4 G z r A f s o 4 j a D g & s a = X & o i= r e v i s i o n s _ i n l i n e & r e s n u m = 0 & c t = b r o a d -revision&cd=3&ved=0CFYQ1QIoAg

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/nepal/around-the-kathmandu-valley/bhaktapur

http : / / w w w.vi s i tn ep a l .c om / trave l er s _ g u i d e /sightseeing_kathmandu_valley.php

http ://www.nepalvillagetrekking.com/trekking/remote-region/mahabharat.htm

http://planetnepal.org/wiki/Category:Bhaktapur_(District)

http://bhaktapurkhwopa.com/

http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/121/

Tod Management Plan Of Bhaktapur District 952010 – 2014

TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT PLAN OF BHAKTAPUR DISTRICT

Annexes Volume II

Submitted toDistrict Development Committee, Bhaktapur / Nepal Tourism Board

Final Report

2012 – 2016


Page No.

Annex 1 : List of Participants during Interaction at various VDCs 1

Annex 2 : List of Participants for one day extensive Workshop at Bhaktapur 7

Annex 3 : List of Participants for one day extensive Workshop at Madhyapur Thimi 9

Annex 4 : List of Participants for Draft Tourism Plan Presentation and Discussion Program 11

Annex 5 : Heritage sites of Bhaktapur and Madhyapur Thimi Municipalities 15

Annex 6 : Tourism Resource Potentials of Bhaktapur District 27

Annex 7 : Heritage sites of Bhaktapur District excluding Bhaktapur and Madhyapur Thimi Municipalities 30

Annex 8 : Natural and rural based tourism potentials matrix of Bhaktapur district 45

Annex 9 : Indices of Tourist Arrival in Nepal by Continents (1998 – 2009) 46

Annex 10 : Tourist Arrival by Month (1998- 2008) (Excluding Indians) 46

Annex 11 : Indian Tourist Arrivals by Months (1998- 2009) 47

Annex 12 : Tourist Arrivals in Nepal by Gender (1998 – 2009) 47

Annex 13 : Tourist Arrivals in Nepal by Age Group (1998 – 2009) 48

Annex 14 : Purpose-wise Distribution of Tourist in Nepal (1998-2009) 48

Annex 15 : Trend of Tourists Arrival by Mode of Transport (1998-2009) 49

Annex 16 : Actual Length of Stay by Major Nationality (1995 – 2009) 49

Annex 17 : Scenario of International Tourists Flow and Receipts (1998-2009) 50

Annex 18 : Status of Nepal in World Tourism and Receipts (1998-2009) 50

Annex 19 : World’s Top Tourist Destination and Tourism Earners (2008) 51

Annex 20 : International Tourism Receipts by Region (2000-2008) 51

Annex 21 : Gross Foreign Exchange Earning in Convertible Currencies (1998 – 2009) 52

Annex 22 : Percent Share of Foreign Exchange Earning in different Sectors of the Economy (1997/98-2008/09) 52

Table of Contents

Annexes Volume II

An

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s V

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Annex 23 : Convertible Foreign Exchange Income by different Tourism Sources (1997/98 – 2007/08) 53

Annex 24 : Tourist Arrival by Country of Residence (1998 – 2009) 54

Annex 25 : Total Tourists Arrivals in Bhaktapur City (Non SAARC) 54

Annex 26 : Total Tourists Arrivals in Bhaktapur City (Only SAARC) 55

Annex 27 : Total Tourists Arrivals in Bhaktapur City 56

Annex 28 : Inventory of Accommodation Facilities in the Major Tourism Areas of Bhaktapur 57

Annex 29 : Inventory of Accommodation Facilities in Changu Narayan 59

Annex 30 : Inventory of Restaurant Facilities in Nagarkot 60

Annex 31 : Output of Kharipati (Shreekrishna School) Workshop (SWOT Analysis) 61

Annex 32 : Output of Bhaktapur City (BCCI Hall) Workshop 63

Annex 33 : Output of Madhyapur Thimi Workshop 69

Annex 34 : Activities that could have greater socio-economic impacts from tourism in Bhaktapur 72

Annex 35 : Schematic Plan Including Bus stop and Terminal Building 75

Annex 36 : Amount required for the development of all the tourist spots in Bhaktapur District 76

Annex 37 : Maps of Bhaktapur District showing tourism potentials 79

Annex 38: Glimpses of Photographs taken during the planning process 108


Bhaktapur Tourism Development & Management Plan’s Field VisitInteraction Program, Duwakot , 14 Baisakh 2067

S.N Name Address/Organization Contact No.

1. Murari Pd Neupane Ward No.4 6613267

2. Prakash Amle Ward NO. 3 6616052

3. Hari Bd. Khyaju Ward No. 2 6611653

4. Binod K.C 9741090917

5. Shyam Awal Ward No.8 6631646

6. Shivahari K.C Ward No. 9 9841718757

7. Indra Pradhan Ward No. 2 9841431814

8. Bharat Kumar Shrestha Ward No.9 9841369435

9. Madav Pd. Neupane Ward No.4 9841218022

10. Shankhar K.C Ward No.3 9841288670

11. Basudev Lamichhane BTDMP Secretariat 9841520575

Bhaktapur Tourism Development & Management Plan’s Field VisitInteraction Program, Telkot, 15 Baisakh 2067


1. Ramchandra Lamichhane Nagarkot V.D.C 9841358731

2. Jib Raj pokhrel Lubhu Lalitpur 9851024241

3. Kiran Pd. Dhungel Kupundol , Lalitpur 9841437488

4. Dhan Bd. Lama Nagarkot Naldum Tourism Development committee 9841411789

5. Nani Ram Giri Nagarkot 1 9808079310

6. Nabin Lama Nagarkot 5 9841306308

7. Ganesh Pd. Timilsina Nagarkot V.D.C 9841257105

8. Purushottam L. Shrestha Dudhpati, Bhaktapur 9841268609

9. Udhav Raj K.C Nagarkot 1 9803056884

10. Pujari Gyanendra 9741192407

11. Raja Bhakta Bhaju Bhaktapur 6610874

12. Ram Chandra Sedai BTDMP Plan 9741017257

13. Rajendra Kumar K.C President of Ashram 9841849830

14. Basudev Lamichhane Secretary, Steering Committee 9841520575

15. Rabi Jung Pandey Kathmandu, NTRSC 9851038783

List of Participants during interaction at various VDCsAnnex 1:


Bhaktapur Tourism Development & Management Plan’s Field VisitInteraction Program, Nagarkot Naldum , 15 Baisakh 2067

S.N Name Address/Organization Contact No.1. Gopal Karki Hotel Snowman Pvt. Ltd 66801462. Deep Bhartal Nagarkot 8 98035150913. Prem Bd. Lama Shubha Niwar Sang 9808724894. Pradeep Lama Hotel Belle bhayu 98416201685. Som Bd . Tamang Baluwapati Depur 98416177866. Bishnu Tamang Nagarkot 97510110337. Shanta Maya Shrestha Nagarkot 98418931178. Nani Ram Giri Nagarkot 1 9800793109. Kumar Tamang Nagarkot Art Gallery 668019510. Raju Adhikari Nagarkot Pesho Pvt. ltd 668011911. Raja Bhakta Bhaju Bhaktapur 661087412. Ram Chandra Sedai Member , Planning Team 974101725713. Kali Maya Katike 98083660014. Kumar Pakhrin Katike 980840221115. Chalan Tamang Katike 980846270216. Suntali Muktang Katike 984912796917 Surya Tamang Katike 980341399718. Buddha Lama Young Star Youth Club 980379882719. Raj Kumar Malla Naldum Baluwapati , Kavre-7 975101276220. Bahadur Tamang Naldum Baluwapati , Kavre-8 984934342221 Dipendra Shrestha Naldum Baluwapati , Kavre-8 984133424122. Dambar Tamang Naldum Baluwapati , Kavre-8 984141019023. Bhakta Lama Deupur , Kavre-7 984191774224. Dadhilal Dhakal Naldum Baluwapati , Kavre-7 980359911525. Yogendra Sapkota Deupur , Kavre-6 984151172726. Nabin Lama Nagarkot 5 98410630827. Ram Shanka Naldum V.D.C 98510105728. Naresh Bhakta Shrestha Naldum V.D.C 985103252429. Om Dhakuri Nagarkot 984902154430. Sebhanat Sundar Hotel Eco Home 985108368831. Kamal Thapaliya Adhyan Toli 984143371632. Ram Chandra Lamichhane Nagarkot V.D.C 984135873133. Ganesh Pd.Timilsina Nagarkot V.D.C 984125710534. Ram Chandra Nagarkot Kusum Samuha 984143955235. Santa Bd.Shrestha Mountain Everest Youth Club 984160422536. Bijaya Tamang Nagarkot Samuha 984160422537. Kiran Pd. Dhungel Kupondol , Lalitpur38. Sonam Pakhrin Nagarkot -339. Chet Nath Kanel Kathmandu 984144809940. Giriraj Gyawali D.D.C , Bhaktapur 984181738541. Ramesh Thapa Shrestha NWPP District President 974112014042. Prabha Pandey D.D.C, Bhaktapur 985103128143. Som Mishra District Secretary NCP-UML 984137472044. Rameshor Dhungel Nepali Congress 984133465245. Shyam Kayastha NNTTC46. Purushottam L. Shrestha Dudhpati, Bhaktapur 984126860947. Jib Raj Pokhrel Lubhu,Lalitpur 985102424148. Rabi Jung Pandey NTRSC, Kathmandu 985103878349. Karma Waiba Walamhendo , Sanskritik Samuha 984163782450. Dipak Lamichhane NNTDC 985102699851. Dipak Nepal Bhaktapur 984140340252. Mohan Raj Chapagain Bhaktapur 984123704753. Ram Pd. Pathak C.E.O, Thimi Municipality 985102756654. Basu dev Lamichhane Secretary, BTDMP Secretariat 9841520575


Bhaktapur Tourism Development & Management Plan’s Field VisitInteraction Program, Shree Saraswotisthan

16 Baisakh 2067


1. Badhri Koirala Secretary ,Bageshowri V.D.C 9841257106

2. Babu Kaji Nyaju Bageshowri-8 9741021193

3. Ram Prashad lamichhane Bageshowri-5 9851004065

4. Raju Pd. Adhikari Bageshowri-2 9841885104

5. Govinda Pd. Lamichhane Bageshowri

6. Radha Krishna Lamichhane Bageshowri-3 9841131901


8. Ramesh Adhikari Bageshowri

9. Fabindra Pd. Dahal Sudal , V.D.C Secretary 9841257107

10. Madhav Pd. Dhakal Sudal -7 9841479590

11. Laxman Pd. Timilsina Sudal -6

12. Datta Pd. Timilsina Sudal -6

13. Shankra Raj

14. Devnarayan

15. Dinesh Timilsina

16. Keshab Pd. Timilsina

17. Basudev Lamichhane Secretary, Steering Committee & Chief Executive Officer BTDC 9841520575

Bhaktapur Tourism Development & Management Plan’s Field VisitInteraction Program, Dadhikot 17 Baisakh 2067


1. Raju Gautam Dadhikot,V.D.C 9841257114

2. Adip Kumar Khadka 9841385671

3. Basudev Lamichhane Secretary, BTDMP 9841520575

4. Kiran Pd. Dhungel Kupondol , Lalitpur 9841437488



7. Sita Khadka Dadhikot 9803849213

8. Hari Bahadur Basnet Dadhikot -9 9841114199

9. Kamal Thapaliya Genesis 9841433716

10. Chet Nath Kanel Kathmandu 9841448099

11. Jib Raj Pokhrel Lubhu,Lalitpur 9851024241

12. Rabi Jung Pandey NTRSC, Kathmandu 9851038783

13. Ram Chandra Sedai BTDMP 9741017257

14 Basudev Lamichhane Secretary Steering Committee & Chief Executive Officer BTDC


Bhaktapur Tourism Development & Management Plan’s Field VisitInteraction Program Maligaun , Sipadol V.D.C

28 Baisakha 2067


1. Ram Bd. Tamang Maligaun

2. Aaite Tamang Maligaun

3. Lal Shing Tamang Sipadol -4 9741001465

4. Nani Ram Thapa V.D.C Secretary ,Gundu

5. Sabita Shrestha Sipadol 6 9803656596

6. Sudeep Lama Sipadol 9803656596

7. Bishnu Maya Tamang Sipadol

8. Santabir lama Sipadol 9808194144

9. Bhim Bd. Tamang Sipadol

10. Bishal tamang Sipadol 9808023600

11. Kiran Prashad Dhungel Lalitpur 9841437488

12. Surya Bd. Khaiju Sipadol 9841605051

13. Tulsi Pd. Sipadol

14. Gita Lohala Sipadol

15. Shesh Raj Dahal Sipadol 98411431546

16. Lal Shing Tamang Sipadol 9841001475

17. Ajay Tamang Sipadol 9808344446

18. Bir Bd. Lama Sipadol

19. Suryaman Lama Sipadol

20. Jit Bd. Tamang Sipadol

21. Basudev Lamichhane Secretary Steering Committee & Chief Executive Officer BTDC 9841520575


Bhaktapur Tourism Development & Management Plan’s Field VisitInteraction Program Bageshowri, Nagarkot & Chaling V.D.C

7 Jestha 2067


1. Manita Ban Chaling V.D.C 9808472430

2. Parwati Ban Chaling V.D.C 9849173251


4. Kiran Pd. Dhungel Kupondol , Lalitpur 9841437488


6. Kamal Thapaliya Genesis 9841433716

7. Chetnath Kanel Kathmandu 9841448099

8. Jibraj Pokhrel Lubhu,Lalitpur 9851024241

9. Rabi Jung Pandey NTRSC, Bhaktapur 9851038783

10. Ram Chandra Sedai BTDMP 9741017257

11. Ganesh Pd.Timilsina Nagarkot V.D.C 9841257105

12. Ram Chandra Lamichhane Nagarkot V.D.C 9841358731

13. Nabin Lama Nagarkot 5 984106308

14. Nani Ram Giri Nagarkot 1 980079310

15. Kumar Tamang Nagarkot -3 9841791036

16. Emana Thein Nagarkot 9851001270

17. Gopi Krishna Lamichhane Bageshowri -2 9849245608

18. Arjun Bd Gurung Sudal -5 9803646817

19. Babu Kaji Nyaju Bageshowri-8 9741021193

20 Ram Prashad lamichhane Bageshowri-5 9851004065

21. Raju Pd. Adhikari Bageshowri-2 9841885104

22. Radha Krishna Lamichhane Bageshowri-3 9841131901

23. Yadav Pd. Adhikari Bageshowri-3 9841272313

24. Sugham K.C Shree Krishna H.S.S 9841898811

25. Prem Pd. Kafle Bageshowri-7 6614641

26. Puskar Lamichhane Bageshowri-2 9841395151

27. Badhri Koirala Secretary ,Bageshowri V.D.C 9841257106

28. Mira Timilsina Bageshowri- 9841733563

29. Parwati Shrestha Bageshowri- 9849327949

30. Jayanti thapa Chaling -4 Gangarani 9841849967

31. Kopila Thapa Chaling -4 Gangarani

32. Rajkumar Ban Chaling

Bhaktapur Tourism Development & Management Plan’s Field Visit


Interaction Program Changunarayan , Duwakot , Jhukhel V.D.C 7 Jestha 2067



2. Bal Krishna Bajgai Changu-6 9841225880

3. Rajiv Koikel Changu -2 9841708496

4. Maheshowr Neupane Duwakot 9841590131

5. Sankhar K.C Duwakot-3 9841288670

6. Khagendra Dahal Duwakot 9841257101

7. Madav Pd. Neupane Duwakot 9841218022

8. Kiran Bd Makaju Jhaukhel 8 9849220327

9. Ramprashad Dhakal Duwakot

10. Hem Bd. Malla Jhaukhel -6

11. Kishor Bd. Makaju Jhaukhel -8 9849183181

12. Manoj K.C Shree Ganesh Youth Club , Duwakot 9841514733

13. Dhurba Bd. Shrestha Changu , V.D.C 9841257103

14. Dhana Mani Pokhrel Jhaukhel , V.D.C 9841257102

15. Keshab Baniya Jhaukhel 9841236470

16. Som Pradhan Duwakot 9851094430

17. Binod K.C. Duwakot 9741090917


Tourism Development and Management Plan of Bhaktapur DistrictOne Day Extensive Workshop

25th May 2067 (11th Jestha , 2067)

S.No Name Organization/designation Contact Email

1 Bijaya Pradhan Dream Nepal Travels 9851037866 [email protected]

2 Janani Pd Mool Art of cultural Mahaghothi Vice President 6613248

3 Rameshwor Dhungel N.C.Rep. DDC. Bkt 9841334652

4 Rajendra Pradhananga GTZ 4464767 [email protected]

5 Uttam Maharjan Himalayan Bank 4467193 [email protected]

6 Giriraj Gyawali DDC Bkt 9841817385 [email protected]

7 Roshan Shilpakar Image Channel 9841300704 [email protected]

8 Ram Chandra Sedai BTDMP preparation Team 9741017257 [email protected]

9 Uttam Karmacharya T.U.Professor ADB con 6610680 [email protected]

10 Raj Kumar Joshi Katunje 9841621635

11 Rajendra Bakhunchhe Katunje 9841664068

12 Prakash Dhungel Katunje 9841240384

13 Mohan Dhungel Katunje 9849173085

14 Shyam Bd. Kayastha 6680097

15 Bishnu Kumari Bhattarai Cottage and Small Industry office 6617696 [email protected]

16 Siddhi Bir Karmacharya Professor 9841257353

17 Jiba Raj Pokharel Consultant Planning Team 9851024241

18 Kiran Pd. Dhungel Consultant Planning Team 9841437488

19 Rabi Jung Pandey Consultant Planning Team Leader 9851038783 [email protected]

20 Chet Nath Kanel Consultant Planning Team (HRD) 9841448099 [email protected]

21 Anish Joshi Consultant Planning Team 9851041757 [email protected]

22 Kamal Thapaliya Consultant Planning Team 984143378 [email protected]

23 Ramesh Thapa Shrestha Nepal Workers and Peasant Party 6610026 [email protected]

24 Lekhanath Bhattarai VDC Secretary, Katunje 6610638

25 Rajan Dhaubhadel BCCI Programme Officers 9841453005 [email protected]

26 Radha Krishna Dhaubhadel Steering committee member 9803034599

27 Raja Bhakta Bhuju Steering Committee member 6610874

28 Subin Sitikhu BTDC 9841432075 [email protected]

29 Rabindra Hyaunmikha NCTTM 9841368094 [email protected]

30 Purushattam Lochan Prof.T.U 9841268609 [email protected]

List of Participants for one day extensive Workshop at BhaktapurAnnex 2:


S.No Name Organization/designation Contact Email

31 Tanka Lama BTDC Secdretary 9851078195

32 Diwan Dhaubhadel BTDC President

33 Pradeep Shrestha BACSI, Bhaktapur 9851068465 [email protected]

34 Dhurba Bd.Shrestha Secretary,Changu VDC 9841257103

35 Tejeswor Babu Gongal 9841590019 [email protected]

36 Nawal Kishore Rajbhandari IP President, BTDC 9851021315

37 Ram Sharan Gautam Secretary Gundu VDC 9841257113

38 Raju Bajracharya BCCI 6614851 [email protected]

39 Bal Krishna Bajgai Changu 9841225880 [email protected]

40 Rajiv Kuinkel Changu 9841708496 [email protected]

41 Kapil Pokhrel Changu 9841764108 [email protected]

42 Shyam S. Dhaubhadel Bhaktapur 9851048129

43 Ukesh Raj Bhuju Conservationist 9841292829 [email protected]

44 Uttam Pd.Vaidya BCCI 9851025532

45 Dev C. Bajracharya Bkt FM / Kikampa cultural academy 9851057383 [email protected]

46 Neel K. Tamrakar BTDC 9851026888

47 Ram Krishna Khayamali TOYOS 9849128751 [email protected]

48 Balram Koirala DADO 9741068134 [email protected]

49 Chudamani Kayastha BCCI 9851013605

50 Laxman Gwachha BACSI 9851072778

51 Santa Maya Shrestha DFO, Bhaktapur 9841893117

52 Shobha Devi Kharel W.D.O 9841646051 [email protected]

53 Sunil Yakami Bhaktapur 9751009925 [email protected]

54 Sunil Sharma NTB 9841388882 [email protected]

55 Badry Tamrakar B.K.S 9841468461

56 Shridhar Pakwan 9849173048

57 Kedar Subedi 9851096216

58 Binod Charan Raya District Sports Committee 9851033117

59 Som Sharma Samaya Samaaj Weekly 9841621088

60 Makkar Shrestha Kantipur 9841478784

61 Aruna Nakarmi Monument Conservation and Palace Caretaker Office( DoA)

6610144

62 Basudev Lamichhane Secretary Steering Committee & Chief Executive Officer BTDC

9841520575 [email protected]

63 Sarita Kapali BTDC 9803947702 [email protected]

64 Sumita Daibagya BTDC 9841358663 [email protected]

65 Janette Engler BTDC 9849296560 [email protected]


Tourism Development and Management Plan of Thimi MunicipalityOne Day Extensive Workshop

26th May 2067 (12th Jestha , 2067)

S.N Name Organization/designation Contact

1 Ram Pd Pathak Madhyapur Thimi Municipality 9851027566

2 Diwan Chandra Dhaubhadel Bhaktapur Tourism Development Committee 9841249518

3 Sushil Napit Samyokta Mahila Uthan Samuha 9841511199

4 Ram Chandra Sedai Planning Team Member 9741017257

5 Bijaya Pradhan Discover Nepal 9851037866

6 Chet Nath Khanel Planning Team Member 9841448099

7 Raja Bhakta Bhaju Steering committee member 9741009496

8 Rabi Jung Pandey Planning Team Member (Team Leader) 9851038783

9 Aruna Nakarmi Monument Con. & Palace Supersion Office 984135395

10 Shree Gopal Prajapati Madhyapur Thimi Municipality 6630836

11 Ram Krishna Shrestha Madhyapur Thimi Municipality 14 9841348407

12 Om Prakash Shrestha Past Ward President ,Thimi Municipality 9841218077

13 Dil Bhakta Jayaban Madhyapur -1 bode 9841394537

14 Kailash Shrestha Madhyapur -4 Nagadesh 9841233868

15 Padmananda Shrestha Madhyapur Thimi Municipality 14 9841439629

16 Tulsi Bhakta Takko Madhyapur Thimi Municipality 9841285525

17 Kamal Thapaliya Baneshore 9841433716

18 Ram Pyari Dhaubanjar Nikosera 5639212

19 Krishna Adhikari Sanothimi 17 NSCEH 9841257364

20 Dr. Madav Adhikari Sanothimi 17 NSCEH 9841257364

21 Shree Krishna Prajapati Madhyapur Thimi Municipality 9841334422

22 Asta Ram Prajapati Madhyapur Thimi 10 9851008674

23 Ram Krishna Shabdev Madhyapur Thimi 9841334382

24 Chandra Gopal Shrestha Madhyapur Thimi

25 Ganesh Ram Lachhi Madhyapur Thimi Municipality 8 9841202361

26 Sudhan Pd. Acharya Madhyapur Thimi Municipality 15 9841393509

List of Participants for one day extensive Workshop at Madhyapur ThimiAnnex 3:


27 Abhayandra Ranjit Madhyapur Thimi Municipality 12 9841311502

28 Ram Sundar Shrestha Ward Office, Bode 6631357

29 Hari Krishna Dupokha ward-12

30 Shiva Ram Malla Nagadesh Ward No.4 9841300467

31 Basudev Lamichhane Member Secretary Steering Committee BTDMP &CEO-BTDC 9841520575

32 Nanudevi Shrestha Aama Samuha 6632329

33 Maiya Aama Samuha

34 Krishna Maya Kayastha Balkumari ward no-13 6613165

35 Nani Maiya Nakarmi Balkumari Aama Samuha 13,14 9841115424

36 Tilak Swori Napit Balkumari Aama Samuha 13,14

37 Chandra Maya Digul 11 6634382

38 Saraswoti Aama sadigutul 11

39 Raju Man Bajracharya BCCI 6614851

40 Krishna Bhakta Prajapati Nikosera 6634621

41 Chudamani Kayastha BCCI 6611323

42 Dhan Krishna Shrestha Madhyapur Thimi Municipality 9841432634

43 Gita Karki Bode Samudhayik Mel Milap Samiti

44 Bishnu Maya Prajapati Bode

45 Jagat Laxmi Chakradhar Bode

46 Madan Krishna Shrestha Madhyapur Thimi Municipality 9851001812

47 Ishore Kaji Khaiju Anapurna Post 9841273000

48 Kamal Mishra Nepal Samacharpatra 9849463284

49 Anjali Shrestha Madhyapur Thimi Municipality 9841394443

50 Sana Bahadur Madhyapur Thimi Municipality 10

51 Gautam Lasiwa Bhaktapur Municipality 9751017300

52 Kiran Pd Dhungel Consultant 9841437488

53 Pancha Krishna Madhyapur Thimi Municipality

54 Ramesh Thapa Shrestha g]dlskf 6610026

55 Shree Ram 011-662631

56 Pancha Krishna Prajapati Nepal Ceramic Co-operative 6633755

57 Dilip Thapa Magar NTV 9851050224

58 Keshab Shilwal Madhyapur Thimi Municipality 9841247003


Tourism Development and Management Plan of Bhaktapur DistrictDraft Tourism Plan Presentation and Discussion Program

Bhaktapur, 13th September 2010 (28th Bhadra 2067)

S.N Name Address/Organization Contact No. Email

1 Deepak Raj Nepal CDO , DAO

2 Prabha Pandey LDO,DDC Bhaktapur

3 Lok Bahadur Thapa Sirutar V.D.C 9841257115

4 Padma Nanda Shrestha Thimi 9841439629

5 Shiva Bhakta Thapa Shrestha Representative Nepali Congress 9841285045

6 Babu Kaji Shrestha Madhyapur Yatayat Sewa Samiti 9841219347

7 Kailash Bhakta Pradhananga Ex-Ward-Chairman 9841233868

8 Chet Nath Kanel Consultant (Planning) 9841448099

9 Rajendra Rajthala Governing Council 9841394753

10 Shyam Manandhar Thimi -13 9851061497

11 Bindu Psd. Guragain DDC- 9851016539

12 K.G. Prajapati Bhaktapur Municipality 9841285236

13 R.S Sagar Bhaktapur Municipality

14 Prabin Paudel NETIF 9841554241

15 Binod Shah Mt. Everest Youth Club 9803763297

16 Damodar Suwal B.M.P

17 Om Prasad Dhaubhadel Bhaktapurt Municipality 9841271850

18 Om Shrestha 9841218077

19 Krishna Lal Shrestha Ex-Governing Council Member 9841691271

20 Krishna Kumar Prajapati Shree Siddhi Ganesh Sec. School 9841488329

21 Chandra Gopal Shrestha NCP(M-L) 9803034486

22 Bijaya Pradhan Chairman 9851037866

23 Krishna Pd. Osti DFO,Bhaktapur 9841319790

24 Diwan Dhaubhadel BTDC,President 9841249518

25 Rabindra Hyaunmikha NCTTM 9841368094

26 Chudamani Bd. Kayastha BCCI 9851015605

27 Shyam Krishna Koju Madhyapur , Thimi 9841764623

28 Raja Bhakta Bhaju Bhaktapur 6610874

29 Hari Shyam Shrestha Vice President BTDC 6612383

30 Shiva R.Malla Nagadesh-4 9841300464

31 Purushottam L.Shrestha Bhaktapur 9841268609

32 Nabin Shrestha Madhyapur -12 9849370665

33 Arun Shrestha NETIF 9851041448

List of Participants for Draft Tourism Plan Presentation and Discussion ProgramAnnex 4:


34 Bijay Gautam Chhaling V.D.C 9841257104

35 Lekhanath Bhattarai Katunje V.D.C 9841257112

36 Mohan Tamrakar BCCI 9851002982

37 Kedar Raj Subedi Follow Committee 9851096216

38 Om charan Amatya 6612928 [email protected]

39 Adip khadka 9841385671

40 Sunil Sharma Nepal Tourism Board 4256909 Ext +140 [email protected]

41 Keshab Silwal Madhyapur Thimi Municipality 9841247003 [email protected]

42 Suresh Kafle VDC, Gundu 9841257113

43 Dil Bhakta Jayona Madhyapur Thimi -2 9841394537 [email protected]

44 Raju Gautam Dadikot V.D.C 9841257114

45 Panch Krishna Shrestha R.P.P 9841377476

46 Pushpa Raj Koirala Chittapol V.D.C 9841257109

47 Ishwor Kaji Khaiju Annapurna Post 9841273000 [email protected]

48 Pankaj Adhikari DDC,Bkt, 9841268790

49 Madhav Pd. DDC,Bhaktapur 974109926

50 Deepak Lamichhane NNTDC, Secretary 9851026998 [email protected]

51 Shyam S.Dhaubhadel SMF

52 Bharat Jangam 9851049385

53 Dil Krishna Chapacho Comminuty 6630570

54 K.B.Ghaju Nagadesh Madhyapur 9841295697

55 Phanindra Pd. Dahal Sudal V.D.C 9841257107

56 Jiba Raj Pokharel Consultant P.P

57 Ramesh Giri RSS/News 24 TV

58 Makar Shrestha Kantipur Daily

59 Naniram Thapa Duwakot

60 Birendra K.C Bhaktapur Fm / Nbex T.V 9841369059

61 Khagendra Pd.Dahal V.D.C. Sipadol 9841257111

62 Shridhar Pakwan 9849173048

63 Kumar Raut V.D.C Chittapole 9841543613

64 Dhan Bdr. Lama NNTDC 9841411789

65 Surendra Pd. R.P.P 9841055254

67 Kiran Pd. Dhungel

68 Ramesh Thapa Shrestha VDC Changu 9841257103

69 Mukunda Pd.Ranjit DDC.Bkt 9841560557

70 Shyam Pariyar 9841244482

71 Shree Krishna Prajapati Steering Committee Member 9841334422

72 Basu dev Lamichhane Member Secretary Steering Committee(BTDMP) & CEO BTDC 9841520575 [email protected]

73 Sumita Daibagya BTDC 9841358663 [email protected]

74 Sarita Daibagya BTDC 9803947702 [email protected]


Draft Tourism Plan Presentation and Discussion ProgramBhaktapur MUNICIPALITY, 6th OCTOBER 2010 (20th ASWIN 2067)

S.N Name Position Address/Organization

1. Prem Suwal Former Mayor (Elected) Bhaktapur Municipality

2. Gautam Lasiwa Incharge Tourist Information Center –Bhaktapur Municipality

3. Krishna Gopal Prajapati Conservation Engineer Architect Engineer Heritage Section -BM

4. R.A Sagar Heritage Section

5. Ambika Dhaubhadel Bhaktapur Municipality

6. Diwan Chandra Dhaubhadel President BTDC

7. Rabi Jung Pandey Team Leader/ Tourism Expert Nepalese Tourism Research and Service Center

8. Dr.Jib Raj Pokhrel Physical Planning Expert

9. Chetnath Kandel HRD Expert

10. Kiran Dhungel Socio-Economic Analyst

11. Dr. Purushottam Lochan Shrestha Cultural Expert

12 Basudev Lamichhane Member Secretary –Steering Committee and CEO -BTDC

13 Dil Bhakta Jayana Architect Engineer –Planning Section

14 Damodar Suwal In charge Tourist Information Center –Bhaktapur Municipality

15 Ganesh Lal Phoju Legal Officer Bhaktapur Municipality

16 Prabas Chalise Tax Officer Bhaktapur Municipality

NATIONAL LEVEL FINAL SHARING ON BHAKTAPUR TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010 - 2014

NEPAL TOURISM BOARDBHRIKUTI MANDAP, KATHMANDU

26th OCTOBER 2010 (9th KARTIK 2067)

S.N Name Position Organization Contact No.

1 Prabha Panday Local Development Officer BDDC/SC 9851031281

2 Dipendra Purush Dhakal Coordinator Technical Advisory Com-mittee - 015520974

3 Hikmat Singh Ayer Director NTB 9851059054

4 Laxman Gautam Manager PR & Publicity NTB 9851099137

5 Sunil Sharnu Manager - RPM NTB 4256909 Ext 140

6 Giriraj Gnawali Planning officer DDC, Bhaktapur -

7 Uttam Raj Karki President SOTTO - Nepal 9851082876

8 Rajendra Rajthala Member Governing Coulcil ( CPN- UML) 9841394753


9 Ram Prasad Pathak CEO Madhyapur Thimi Municipality 9831027366

10 Hare Ram Baral President TURGAN 9851034225

11 Neel Tamraker Member Technical Advisory Committee/Founder PresidentBTDC BTDC 9851026888

12 Diwan Dhaubhadel President BTDC 9841249518

13 Radha Krishna Dhaubhadel Steering Committee Member Handicraft Sector 9851034599

14 Uttam Prasad Vaidya President BCCI 9851025537

15 Laxmi Awal BTDC Board Member BTDC 9841210576

16 Hari Shyam shrestha Vice President BTDC 9841271974

17 Tanka Lama Secretary BTDC 9851098195

18 Yogi Kayastha President BKT 9751010358

19 Adip Khadka Member Governing Coulcil CPN (ML) 9841385671

20 Dhungel Rameshwor Member Governing Coulcil Nepali Congress 9841334652

21 Raja Bhakta Bhaju Member Steering Committee BTDC 9741009496

22 Kiram Dhungel Consultant (Socioeconomic) BKT 9841437488

23 Dr.Purushottam Lochan Shrestha Consultant (Culture) BKT 9841268609

24 Dr. Jiba Raj Pokhrel Consultant (Physical Planning.) 9851024241

25 Rabi Jung Pandey Consultant (Team Leader/Tourism Expert) NTRSC 9851038783

26 Chet Nath Kanel Consultant (HRD Expert) NDC, KTM 9841448099

27 Ram Chandra Sedai Consultant (Comm. & Eco Tourism) CEST Nepal 9741017257

28 Kamal Thapaliya Consultant (GIS.) Genisis Cons. 9841433716

29 Bisnnu Kuman Bhattarai District Ccottage & Small Industries Office 9841337932

30 Krishna Prasad Osti Member Steering Committee District Forest Officer DFO Bhaktapur 9841319790

31 Raju Man Bajracharya Executive Officer Bhaktapur Chamber of Commerce and Industries 6614859

32 Basudev Lamichhane Member Secretary Steering Committee & CEO BTDC BTDC 9841520575


(A) HERITAGES OF BHAKTAPUR TOWN

Bhaktapur, the heart place of the richest Newar culture of Nepal Mandala (Nation) is a well planed ancient town having legend, history, tantric tradition and fabulous religious practices, art and architecture of different schools i.e. Hindu, Buddhist and secular, traditional dwellings, typical fairs and festivals which are still observed elsewhere and within the community in this town.

Bhaktapur, the cultural capital town still led the religious and cultural life, rites and rituals, fairs and festivals, was the political and administrative centre (capital) for more than six centuries during the medieval Nepal as well. Of course, she became enriched in all aspects in those golden days. She was highly decorated and beautified by finest architectural monuments particularly during the eighteen century A.D. Hence, somewhat if merely viewing her face she still seems beautiful (Durbar square, Taumadhi square, Dattatriya square and so on) in her own pristine form. She was the centre of tantric Shaktism during its high days. The still residing paramount Shakta deities of Bhaktapur Durbar viz. the Taleju, the Manesvori and the Dumaju are the best examples of this actuality. Other best known examples are the living deities i.e. the Eakanta Kumari, the Gana Kumari and the corporal Navadurga Gana. Bhaktapurians consider them as the protector deities of the country in particulars and their fellow countrymen in general. They are commonly adored by both Hindus and the Buddhists which show the religious harmony and cultural oneness. In the case of the Navadurga Gana, the town was planned and constructed in about 12th century A.D. installing the nine mother goddesses in each corner and the middle of the town in the shape of a Sri-yantra. The Durbar not only stands as a royal residential place, but still stands as a sacred shrine as well as the cultural heartbeat of the inhabitants in the town.

Bhaktapur, the home town of medieval art and architecture is the open-air museum as well. In every turn of the street and lanes, one can view the monumental masterpieces. In this regard, it is unjust to say that Bhaktapur is predominantly a Hindu town. In fact, it is unjustifiable. Because both the Hindu and the Buddhist religions as well as their art and architecture,

rites and rituals, fairs and festivals in this town have flourished side by side in a harmonious atmosphere since ancient time. Some remarkable heritages of this town are as follows:

A 1. BHAKTAPUR DURBAR SQUARE

As Rome, so as Bhaktapur Durbar was not built in a day. Tripur Rajkul was the first royal palace which was established around 12th century A.D. A few years later one next palace was built in the vicinity of the former which was known as Yuthunimam Rajkul. Although, they disappeared in the course of time but appear to have survived more than three centuries. It is to be known that in the royal residential complex of Yuthunimam, there emerged different buildings one after another, annexing one part of the building with the next one having the courtyards by particular names in different times and eventually known as ‘Khwopa Layaku’ (Bhaktapur Rajdurbar) comprises ninety-nine courtyards. At present, only a few courtyards are surviving. Jamadwar-chok, Beko-chok, Mulchok, Bhairav-chok or Sadashiva chok, Ganesha or Jiswan-chok, Jarhanchok, Mahadeva chok, Malati chok, Bhandarkhal chok, Kumari chok, Dumaju chok, Nrityanath chok, Laxmivilas chok, Tunthi-chok, Sundhara chok and Siddhi chok are the instances of still breathing courtyards. The Golden gate (Lun-dhwaka) is the main entrance of Bhaktapur Durbar which was built in 1754 A.D., during the reign of Ranajit Malla, the last king of the Malla period. Perhaps the Golden gate still memorizes the central-symbol of Shakta tantric religion and culture, royal court and administration.

Bhaktapur Durbar is a monumental masterpiece, famous for mural paintings, wood work, sculptural art and the medieval durbar-architecture and so on. Some notable monuments of this square are: Char Dham (Jagnnath, Gopinath, Badrinath, Kedarnath and the substitute one: Ramesvor), Bhandarkhal Pokhari, stone images of Bhairav and Bhagvati, Simhadhoka Durbar (It now houses the National Art Gallery Museum. This Museum includes Miniature paintings, Scroll paintings, sculptures and stone tablet inscriptions etc.), long Sattals, Gold gilded statue of Bhupatindra Malla,

Heritage sites of Bhaktapur and Madhyapur Thimi MunicipalitiesAnnex 5:


Big bell, Stone temples of Annapurna-Vatsla Devi and Siddhilaxmi, Yakshesvor Mahadeva temple (identical to Pashupatinath temple), Chayasilan-mandap, Dhungedhara, Phasi dega (composite, doomed temple, identical to Nilkanthesvor:Muktinath), Vatsala temple (single roofed red temple), Chatubrahma Mahavihar, Sundhara, Fiftyfive window palace etc. Interestingly, one hundred and forty-seven figurines along with the names of classical Rag-Raginis have recently been discovered from the wooden niches of this Durbar. In this regard, this Durbar can be considered as a Musical palace as well. Hence this Durbar is unique for (1) beautifully carved fifty-five windows (2) Mural paintings (3) recently discovered Rag-Raginis including the figurines. This Durbar was built in 1708 A.D.

A2. TAUMADHI SQUARE

Nyatapola: The tallest multi-roofed temple of Nepal. Believe it or not, but the wonder is that the construction-work of this temple was completed within eight month. The contemporary records which are preserved in the National Archives are the testimony of this fact. It was built in 1702 A.D. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Siddhilaxmi.

Bhairavnath temple: Lord Bhairvnath is the supreme deity of Bhaktapur and he resides in a three-tired rectangular temple. Initially, it was a single-tired temple, built in N.S. 667 (1547 A.D.). Later, in 1718 A.D., King Bhupatindra Malla enlarged it adding two more roofs on it.1

Inside the courtyard of this temple is a stone image of Umamahesvor (around 7th century A.D.) and remarkably a stone vessel having a Lichchhavi inscription dated 88 (664 A.D.) which mentions ‘Laditmahesvor’. These evidences help us acquire an important information that the present Taumadhi square was one of the important sacred Shaiva shrine and Lord Shiva was popular by his particular form and name, later due to the impact of Tantrism, the former pacific Shiva also appeared in a terrifying dangerous form that popularly known among the people as ‘Bhairavnath’. He is particularly known as Kasi-Viswonath/ Akasha-Bhairav. The temple complex also includes a nice water conduit having the wonderful nine figurines of the astral deities i.e. ‘Navagraha’ It was built in about 15th century A.D.

Tilmadhavnarayana temple: On the south of the Taumadhi square comes into view the fence like recent

houses and behind them is this temple. Lord Vishnu of this two-tired temple is known as ‘Tilmadhavnarayana’. This temple seems to have built around 11th century A.D.

Nearby the north of the aforesaid temple is a three-tired Umbrella shaped stone temple as well. The uniqueness of this peculiar temple is that it stands on a single stone pillar. There are altogether 24 encircled niches in which 24 incarnate images of Lord Vishnu are demonstrated. The three encircled tire of this temple symbolize the Nether world, terrestrial land and Heaven. Hence this temple is called ‘Bhugol-mandir’ (Globe-temple). It was built around 15th century A.D.

A 3. DATTATREYA SQUARE

The square is called ‘Tachapal’ and it was named after a largest ‘chapli’ (rest-house) which is but somehow still surviving. It is indeed an internationally far-famed Shaiva shrine because of the most honored Dattatreya temple is in this square. The Indian pilgrimages visit this shrine every year in the auspicious moments of Shivaratri. Furthermore, there are a number of thirteen Shaiva maths around Bhaktapur town and interestingly among them this square comprised of seven maths. Even among them, Pujari Math is the most renowned. This Math is famous for its unique wood work having the world famous Peacock window and Pancha-Jhyal respectively. The Woodcarving Museum is housed in this Math.

Dattatreya Temple: Built in about 15th century A.D., is the main attraction of this square. Dattatreya is the mythological combination of three supreme gods – Brahma the Creator, Vishnu the Preserver and Shiva the Destroyer. Iconographically Dattatreya is represented as a three headed god who is also viewed in this temple evidently. It is said that the temple was built with the stem from a single wood.

Besides, Some weighty heritages of this square are: Wane Layaku(the initial Taleju shrine, 14th century A.D.), Bhimsen Temple (very strong, protector god of merchants and traders, 16th century). Salan Ganesha Temple (Initial Ganesha, 12th century A.D.), Wakupati Changunarayana Temple (17th century) etc.

Some other remarkable heritages and distinations in the surrounding of this square are: Pottery Square, Chyamhasimha, Garudakunda, Brahmayani Shrine, Navadurga god house, Yatubahar etc.

1 Yogesh Raj, More information about the Historicity of Bhairavnath temple (in Nepali), Suthan, Bhaktapur, 2061 V.S., pp 5-11.


Besides, there are innumerable heritages here and there in Bhaktapur town. Religiously and culturally important water conduits including a number of east facing nine Gupu hiti, ponds i.e. Siddha Pokhari, Na-pukhu, Vajya pukhu, Kaldaha, Aancha pukhu, Khancha pukhu (one can view the reflected image of Nyatapola from the water space of this pond), wells, as well as the nine

shrines (both the open shrine and the god house) of the Nine Mother Goddesses accompanying with the eight Cremation Ghats (amongst, Hanuman Ghat is the best known where the largest Shivalinga of Nepal is located), the Ganesha temples, Mangalesvor Mahadeva temple (at Nasamana), The open theatres viz. Dabu / Dabali etc.


(B) THE HERITAGES OF MADHYAPUR-THIMI MUNICIPALITY

Thimi, and Bode are predominantly the ancient Newar settlements of the Nepal Valley as well. They were initially called ‘Themring’ and ‘Bosing’ during the ancient Nepal Valley. In an inscription of Vimal Sangha at Deopatan Pashupati shrine with date 407 (485 A.D.) during the reign of the first historical ruler manadeva I, the earliest names have been ever mentioned for the first time viz. Bosinggram and Themringgram respectively.1 Hence it is quite evident that the entire region of present Madhyapur Thimi including another important historic place Nagadesa was also the old settlement. Another Lichchhavi inscription of Nilvarahi has mentioned the place names viz. Yapringgram, Lunsri Pradesh, Dupranggram, Vaidyamgudi.2 These epigraphic evidences clearly show that there were also well-known developed rural habitants somewhere around the ancient Bosinggram even before the Lichchhavi period. Geographically, even at present day Madhyapur Thimi lies in the heart of the Valley. Due to this reason, the region was also called Madhyapur during the medieval period. It was a headquarters of the kingdom of medieval Bhaktapur as well. The ‘Layaku’ (palace) of Thimi, Bode and Nagadesh also prove this actuality. Although, the Layakus have lost their political and administrative importance, however they are still glorifying as the centre of religious and cultural activities. Thimi, Bode and Nagadesa or to say in general the entire regions of Madhyapur-Thimi in the medieval times was strategically very important. Therefore the boundary areas of the very settlements were surrounded by great walls and strong gates. Amongst these, At least two gates have recently been restored. There are adequate images of Ganesha in this region. Popular belief is that the settlement is surrounded by Asta Ganesha (the eight Ganesha) which also supports this fact. Overall, at present; Madhyapur-Thimi Municipality includes Lokanthali, Nagadesha, Bode, Chapacho and Balkumari. What fascinate us when we take a round inside the heritage world of this Municipality are the still surviving age old traditional private houses with beautifully carved wooden windows, lanes (Galli) and streets, courtyards (Nani /Chuka), sculptures, a large number of Dhungedharas, Patis, Sattals, temples and god houses, Stupas, Chaityas and the Vihars and last but not the least the busy potters producing the potteries are come to our view as well.

(B1) THE HERITAGES OF THIMI

Dolkha Bhimsen: (Domed temple)Location: Chapacho, Bahakha Bajar, Ward.No.8Religkion: Hindu/Buddhist

Deity: BhimsenRecords/ estimated time: 17/18th century A.D.Description: Bhimsen is the god of the merchant and traders. The countrywide famous Bhimsen of Dolkha is the main and the oldest than other Bhimsen images of the Valley. It seems that the prototypes of the main deities of different remote places begun to be installed having the same name, during the 14th century and onwards.

There is a Water Conduct (17-18th Century) nearby the Dolkha Bhimsen temple which comprised of the stone images of Mahadeva and Parvati.

Panchayan Sivalaya Mandir(Domed, Brick temple)Location: Chapacho, Bahakha Bajar, W.N.Religion: HinduRecords / Estimated time: 18/19the century A.D.Deity: Panchayan ShivalingaDescription: A group-icons consists five gods viz. Shiva, Ganesha, Maheswori, Surya and Vishnu headed by Lord Shiva is simply called ‘Shiva Panchayana’.

There are the stone images of a Nandi (seated bull), Vishnu, Ganesha, Surya, Laxminarayana, Amoghasiddhi and other including the Water conduits nearby the very Shrine.

Tagha Hiti (Water Conduit)Location: Chapacho, Bahakha BajarRecords / Estimated time: 18/19thcentury A.D.Description: This artistic shaped Dhungedhara is also decorated by a small stone temple above its spout where the images of Laxminarayana with Garuda are viewed.

Pati-ViharLocation: Chapacho, W.N.3Religion: BuddhistDeity: Lord BuddhaReconstructed: 1991A.D.Records: Late medieval stone pillar inscription (17th century)Description: There is a small stone pillar in the courtyard of this Vihar in which an inscription is depicted. The text

1 Shyamsundar Rajvamsi, ‘Deopatanko Vimal Sanghako Avilekh’, ROLAMBA, Millenium Issue, Vol. 20, 2000 A.D., pp.180.2 Dhanavajra Vajracharya, Lichchhavikalka Avilekh, up.cit pp 431


is not in a readable condition as it has been rubbed out. It is interesting that a minute form of Chaitya is on the top of the pillar. The chaitya was in a burred state and the shrine was used as a garbage place. Around a decade ago, the local people rediscovered the Chaitya. Then after they restorted the chaitya in 1991 A.D. In the same year they also built a Stupa in the courtyard of Pati Vihar.

Paco Ganesha(Single-tired Temple)Location: Pacho, W.N.8Deity: GaneshaReligion: Hindu/BuddhistConstructed: around 17th cnnturyDescription: Paco Ganesha is also known as ‘Putra Ganesha’. In front of this Ganesha temple is a Pati. The Pati consists of erotic wood carvings.

Gunga Chaitya(The nine Chaityas)Location: Chapacho, W.N.Religion: BuddhistDeity: The five BuddhaConstructed: around 17th centuryDescription: A massive Chaitya is existed in the centre which is surrended by eight little chaityas. Hence they are collectively called the ‘Gunga Chaitya’: (nine chaityas). The shrine is known as ‘Gunga Chuka’. Their appear the stone sculptures of the Buddhist deities i.e Pragyaparamita, Manjushree, Bhairab as well as a single roofed temple dedecated to Mahankala.

Digu Dhyo(Two-tired temple)Location: Chapacho, nearby Swonga pukhu, W.N.8Deity: Istadevata (Clan deity) and BhairabReligion: HinduConstructed: around 17th century. Description: There appears a Chaitya and the shrines of Ganesha and Nrityanath nearby this temple.

Jiswan Vaha(Vihar)Location: Chapacho, W.N.8Deity: Akshobhaya BuddhaReligion: BuddhistRecords: N.S.834

Description: The Vihar is enriched by sculptural art as well as the woodwork. Stone image of Moudgalyana and a Jaladroni (small water tank) are also viewed in the Vihar complex. This Vihar also includes an Agama where tantric rites and rituals are performed.

Jetvan MahaviharLocation: Chapacho, W.N.8Deity: LokesvorReligion: BuddhistRecords: N.S. 832Description: This Vihar consists of little chaityas and the stone image of Mahankala.

Chapacho Ganesha temple(Two-tired temple)Location: Chapacho, W.N.8Deity: GaneshaReligion: Hindu / BuddhistRecords: N.S.774Description: Chapacho Ganesha of this temple is also known as ‘Viswovinayak’. In front of this temple is a small Chaitya.

The NanisTraditionally, a developed Newar town inevitably consists of several Nanis having different names. An open courtyard in the residential area is generally called ‘Nani’. There are a number of Nanis at a single ward no. 10 of Chapacho, viz. Jalan-nani, Tul-nani, Baku-nani, Kuma-nani, Bramhu-nani, Nasa-nani. Precisely, The nanis give us the glimples of the spatial implications of the socio-cultural status of different caste-group in the bygone age.

Hernilvarna MahaviharLocation: Chapacho, 6Deity: LokesvorBuilt: around 17/18th centuryDescription: This Vihar includes a Chaitya and the image of Lord Buddha.

Herasuvarna MahaviharLocation: Chapacho 8Deity: Padmapani LokesvorRecords: N.S.936Description: The Vihar consist the images of eight armed Pancharaksha-mandal, four armed Ganesha as well.


Siddhikali-Ganesh Temple(Two-tired temple)Location: Chapacho, 8Religion: Shiva/Shakta/BuddhistRecords: N.S. 822, 955, 949Description: This two roofed temple is decorated by wood carvings including erotic postures. In the vicinity of the very temple include dome-shaped temples where the residing deities are Shiva (lingam having four faces), Saraswoti and Bhairab respectively. Likewise, in the complex are viewed a water conduit which comprised the images of Radha and Rukminiu, Kamadeva, Ganga, Chaitya etc.

Sima-Dhwaka(Boundry gate)Location: Madhyapur, 10Reconstructed: N.S. 1121Description: This is a western gate to enter the town. The gate appears to have been built around 16/17th Century A.D.

Mandap-Pati(Roofed-style)Location: Thimi, 10Constructed: Around 18th century A.D.Description: This Pati can be considered as one of the best and the rare specimens of the secular architecture of Nepal. It has a single roof enclosed by a nice pinnacle on the top. Normally, it looks like a roofed temple.

Pun-hiti(Water conduit)Location: Thimi, 11Built: around 16th century A.D.Description: ‘Pun’ is a Newari word which means a painter by caste. Local belief is that as the hiti was built by the puns, it was named after their caste. The hiti involve a chaitya (16th century), the icons of Buddha, Uma Mahesvor, Laxminarayana, Kumari as well.

Balkumari Temple(Three-tired temple)Location: Thimi, 14Religion: Hindu / ShaktaDeity: BalkumariRecords: N.S. 778, 796, 802, 850, 851, 1001, and 1961 V.S.

Description: Balkumari is a Shakta tantric deity which popularity seems to have been prevailed since around the thirteen century A.D. Her three stored temple is the heartbeat of the religious and cultural activities. She is the most honored paramount deity in this region. Her highly evolved ritualistic festival and dance prove this fact as well.

Besides, there are other wonderful heritages which come to our view everywhere in this region. Among them some instances are scheduled as follows:

Gorakhnath temple, Nrityanath temple, Ganesha temples, visnuvi temple, Narayana temple, Digu-dhyo (clan deity) temple, Jagannath temple, Mahadeva temple, Gunavakya Mahavihar, Hanuman temple, Radhakrishna temple, Shivaparvati temple, Indrayani temple, Layaku (palace where Taleju resides inevitably), the house of Gangarani, Hemvarna Mahavihar, Krishna temple, the temples of Brahmayani and Indrayani, Bhairab temple, Ajima-dhyo (the great grand-mother goddess) temple, Bhairab& vrihaspati temple, Gunakirti Mahavihar, Raghuvirasvor Mahadeva temple, Hatti mahankala, Padmapani Lokesvor, Gun-mata, Water conduts, Patis, Sattals and important historical inscriptions of different times and so on.

(B 2) THE HERITAGES OF BODE

As we have mentioned above, Bode: one of the oldest cultural point is also enriched by her tangible and intangible heritages. Bode’s ‘jivro chedane jatra’ (tongue boring ceremony) ‘Nilvarahi Naach’ and the ‘Mahalaxmi Jatra’ are specifically far-famed throughout the kingdom of Nepal. The well managed age old Toles (i.e.Khapala-tole, Dhyobu-tole, Lachi-tole, Khansi-tole, Nachu-tole,Tigani) Nanis (i.e.Dathu-Nani, Brahma-nani, Kutijhwo-Nani, Mu-Nani,) and Gallis, traditional dwellings, Pattis, Dhungedharas, Temples and Chaityas and moreover, the Layaku-chen in the heart of the habitant, beautiful sculptures and historically important inscriptions all show the glimpses of the past-glory which are still surviving. Some significant heritages of Bode are listed below:

Mahalaxmi-temple (Two-tired), Ganesha-temple, Nrityanath-temple, the shrine of Nilvarahi, images of Uma-Mahesvor and Garuda, Mahadeva-temple, images of Ganesha, Narayana, Mahankal, Dhyobu-Narayana-temple, Shiva-lingums, images of Dhartimata (mother earth), Saraswoti and Manjusri, Kalika temple of Visnughat (the wooden struts of this temple are carved by erotic postures), Gorakhnath-Dhungedhara, Pancho-Ganesha temple, image of kalkinarayana, Narayana temple, Krishna temple, Nasa-dhyo temple, Narayana temple (Shikhara-style), Bhimsen shrine etc.


(B3) THE HERITAGES OF NAGADESH

Nagadesh appears to have been highly evolved since fourteenth century. It is also a cultural point in spite of Thimi and Bode. She also has possessed and exhibits her tangible and intangible heritages. During the festive days of Bisket, Nagadesh also represents her own cultural attraction by celebrating the ‘Siddhi-ganesh-jatra’ which is very famous in the Valley. Overall, some important heritages are listed below:

Three-tired Siddhiganesha-temple of Nhuchhen tole;Lachi which wooden struts are depicted by erotic carvings, Layaku, stone image of Panchimukhi Hanuman nearby Layaku, other images of Ganesha, Krishna, Amoghasiddhi, Lokesvor, Mahishamardini Bhagavati, Amitav, Ratnasambhav, Akshobhaya in the premises of Siddhiganesha temple. Chatrehiti-Dhungedhara, Sattal, Bhagvan-Chaitya, beautiful images of Mahankala, Saraswoti, Narayana, Jalasayana-

Narayana (Visnu lying asleep on a bed of snakes), Sichukohiti and Gahiti, The hiti include the nice images of Uma-Mahsevor, Nandi, Yaksha, Sridhar, Viswopani-Bodhisattva, Saraswoti-temple, Siddhiganesha-god house, images of Dwadasha-Narayana etc.

Suggestion: Usually, the heritages need conservation and preservation. Due to the ill management and lack of public awareness, they are unsecured. Therefore, proper action should be carried out immediately. Unless we should have to loose them for ever.

Lokanthali is also an important place. The remains of the age old big stone nails are still lying in this area. In Newari, a stone nail is called ‘Lwoha-ki’. This feature caused the name of the place as ‘Lokanthali’. The Divyasvori temple of this place is a famous Shakta shrine.


Tourism Resource Potentials of Bhaktapur DistrictAnnex 6:

Thimi: Attraction: Historical monuments, shrines, Fairs and Festivals, Music and Dance etc.Specific: Balkumari and her Jatra, Naach, Sindur JatraTRP: Sufficient (Feasible)Preferred type: Cultural and Pilgrimage Tourism

BodeAttraction: Historical monuments, Shrines, Fairs and Festivals, Music and Dance etc. Specific: Nilvarahi and her Jatra and Naach, Mahalaxmi Jatra, Jivro Chedne Jatra (Tongue boring ceremony)TRP: Sufficient (Feasible)Preferred type: Cultural and Pilgrimage Tourism

NagadeshAttraction: Historical monuments, Shrines, Fairs and Festivals, Music and Dance etc.Specific: Siddhiganesh shrine and Siddhiganesh JatraTRP: Sufficient (Feasible)Preferred type: Cultural and Pilgrimage Tourism

DuwakotAttraction: Historical monuments, Fairs and Festivals, Shrines etc.Specific: Archaeologically important site, Tripurasundari Shrine, Phaidhoka Ganesh, Saraswoti ShrineTRP: feasible (Domestic)Preferred type: Cultural and Pilgrimage Tourism

Changunarayana Attraction: Historical monuments, Shrines, Festivals etc. Specific: Changunarayana temple, Chinnamasta temple and Kilesvor temple. Archaeologically and historically important.TRP: excellent (Highly feasible)Preferred type: Pilgrimage and Cultural

NagarkotAttraction: Historical monuments, Religious shrines etc.Specific: Mahadeva Pokhari, Jalpa Devi, Kalikasthan, Mahankal, Chamero Gufa, Archaeologically important siteTRP: excellent (Highly feasible)Preferred type: Cultural and Pilgrimage


ChaalingAttraction: Religious shrines, Historical monuments etc.Specific: Telkot Gadhi, Panchakanya shrine, Brahmayani shrine, Siddhiganesha, Mahankaldevi and so onTRP: advantageous (Moderately feasible)Preferred type: Cultural and Pilgremage

BagesvoriAttraction: Religious shrines, Historical monuments etc.Specific: Archaeologically important site, Baghhiti, Valmikesvor TRP: excellent (Moderately feasible)Preferred type: Pilgrimage

SudalSpecific: Lhasapaka Saraswoti shrine and the cave, Gokhuresvor, Bhrhmayani shrineTRP: advantageous (Moderately feasible)Preferred type: Pilgrimage

TathaliAttraction: Historical monumentsSpecific: Three massive rocks having dated rock edicts and rock line drawings, Caves and Fortresses, Archaeologically important siteTRP: Hopeful (Moderately feasible)Preferred type: Archaeological Tourism

JhaukhelAttraction: Religious shrines, Historical monuments, Specific: Jyotirlingesvor shrine, the seven natural pools, recenty discovered Lichchhavi Chaityas accompanied by a Lichchhavi stone inscription, Archaeologically important siteTRP: Advantageous (feasible - domestic)Preferred type: Pilgrimage

ChittapolAttraction: Religious shrines, Historical monumentsSpecific: Fortress, Sallaghari, Dirghamuktesvor, Natarambhesvor, Gufa- Danda, newly built huge image of Lord ShivaTRP: Hopeful (Feasible – Regional)Preferred type: Pilgrimage

SipadolAttraction: Historical monuments, Religious ShrinesSpecific: Dolesvor, Ranikot Gadhi, Baghbhairav, Ashapuresvor, Mali Gaon Cultural Village (Tamang)

TRP: Advantageous (Feasible – Regional)Preferred type: Pilgrimage and Cultural

NangkhelSpecific: Nandikesvor Shrine, Archaeologically important site, Typical Ethnic Newar SettlementTRP: Hopeful (Moderately feasible)Preferred type: Cultural

GunduAttraction: Historical monuments, ShrinesSpecific: AnantalingesvorTRP: Advantageous (Feasible)Preferred type: Pilgrimage

KatunjeAttraction: Historical monuments, ShrinesSpecific: Suryavinayak, Suvernesvor, Sushil-bhairavTRP: Hopeful (Feasible)Preferred type: Pilgremage

DadhikotAttraction: Historical monuments, ShrinesSpecific: Charakhendesvor, Rajganesh, DakshanvarahiTRP: Hopeful (Moderately feasible – domestic)Preferred type: Pilgrimage

SirutarSpecific: SomalingesvorTRP: Hopeful (Moderately feasible – domestic)Preferred type: Pilgrimage Tourism

BalkotAttraction: Religious ShrineSpecific: DharmesvorTRP: Feasible (Moderately feasible – domestic)Preferred type: Pilgrimage

Bhaktapur townAttraction: Historical monuments, Religious shrines, Fairs and Festivals, Music and dance, Art and Architecture etc.Specific: Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, Dattatreya Square, Golmadhi Square, Potary Square and soTRP: Excellent (Highly feasible)Preferred type: All types of Tourism


(A) THE HERITAGES OF DUWAKOT

Geographically, Duwakot lies in the lap of the archeologically and historically important Changunarayana region. However, due to this adjoining situation, it’s archaeological and historical

value can not be ignored. The name ‘Duwakot’ itself is an evidence to prove this fact that it was a fortified zone in the ancient past as well. The local belief is that there was a Durbar in Duwakot. There are some stone sculptures of Vaisnava pantheon and the remains of Dhungedharas scattered in this area which also indicate the antiquity of this area.

Hence it is to be known that Duwakot was not only important from the strategic point, but also was the religious and cultural point in the bygone days. It is interesting to mention here that there is a traditional type of one stored but fragmented part of a private house located at ward no. 7 which present condition is very bad. The locals told us that the house was built at the same time when the world famous five stored

temple was constructed. It was a massive and very beautifully decorated house with artistic windows. But they all ruined in the course of time. Whatsoever, as this region is archeologically important, exploration and excavation should be carried out.

Some significant heritages of this region are: Saraswoti shrine (w.n.8) which comprised of other deities viz. Bhairab, Uma-Mahesvor, the Ganesha temple, Lingam, Peacock-stone pillar etc. Another shrine is Phaidhoka-Ganesha temple (W.N.1). Likewise the Tripurasundari-shrine is also remarkable. The Narayana temple no longer stands, lost during the massive earthquake of 1934 A.D. but the image of chatur-vyuha Vishnu (four-faced-vishnu /12th century) is still surviving. There are a few dilapidated monuments lying in this site.

(B) THE HERITAGE OF CHANGUNARAYAN

The ancient shrine Changunarayana is located on a high hilltop that is popularly known as ‘Dolagiri’ or ‘Changu’. This shrine is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The people asserted special reverence to him and this sacred shrine. Therefore it is the goal of the pilgrimages through the centuries. This hilltop shrine was also practiced as a castle and a military post in the past. It also demonstrates the highly enhanced sculptural art and architecture and that can be regarded as the pristine masterpiece of basic Nepalese design.

The two-storied Changunarayana temple is one of the oldest temple of Nepal that is said to have been built during the first quarter of the fourth century A.D. and is considered that Hari Datta Varma founded it.

Heritage sites of Bhaktapur District excluding Bhaktapur and Madhyapur Thimi MunicipalitiesAnnex 7:

Phaidhoka Ganesha

Saraswoti Mandir Tripurasundari

Changu Narayana


The stone pillar inscription (464 A.D.) of the first historical ruler Manadeva has highly increased the historical importance of this shrine. It is the earliest and dated inscription known in Nepal. Remarkably, Nepal’s authentic history starts with it. There are other historical records of the later times and by those records it is known to us that the temple was reconstructed in different periods.

There are excellent stone sculptures of great antiquity viewed around the Changunarayana courtyard. The splendid stone images i.e. Garuda, Garuda-Narayana (Vishnu on Garuda), Visworupa Vishnu (universal form of Vishnu), Vishnu-vikranta / Vaman (fifth incarnation of Vishnu), Nrisimha (fourth incarnation of Vishnu in the man-lion form) are some of the best examples.

There are other two important temples in the Changunarayana courtyard viz. the two-tired Kilesvor Mahadeva temple and a gilt copper single roofed rectangular shrine dedecated to the Astamatrika. The shrine is called Chinnamasta.

Besides Changunarayana, Kilesvor and Chinnamasta also are the important deities. These three main deities have their annual celebrations which also prove their popularity. Some outstanding ceremonies are: Vamsagopal Jatra, Bhujaya Jatra, Changunarayana-Kilesvor-Chinnamasta ratha jatra, Kalasa jatra, Laxminarayana jatra, Changu-mela etc.

A few distance far from Changunarayana their lies ‘Devi than’ a beautiful spot for natural scene. It is on the hilltop. The place is called ‘Chaap gaon’. In this spot, a pile of massive rocks comes to our view that seems historically as well as archaeologically significant. Underneath the rocks, there are a few non-iconic stones which are revered as ‘Devi’ by the locals. There is a massive rock above it. It is important to note that on that rock a half-faced head is depicted. It looks like a warrior and below this figure is merely inscribed the Date in Newari-script ‘779’

(C) THE HERITAGES OF NAGARKOT

Nagarkot has been highlighted only as the most far-famed hill resorts of Nepal. It is not sufficient. It is also

enriched by cultural heritages and has been inherited as a goal of the pilgrimages since time immoral. It is archaeologically and historically important too, because it was practiced as a citadel in the remote past. Prithvinarayana Shah also utilized Nagarkot / Naldum as a citadel to conquer Bhaktapur. As it was a prominent transit point from the various reasons and so visualizing its importance, he had remarked it as the ‘eastern gate of the Valley’. Some significant heritages are as follows:

Jalpadevi shrine (that includes Dattatreya, Pati and pond, Bhairab Shivalinga, Saraswoti, etc.), Gita temple, Chesko Devi, Panchakanya temple, Kalidevi and Mahakali shrines, Phulchoki temple, Nandadevi, Mahankal temple and as well as the most revered sacred shrine Mahadeva Pokhari. Besides, there is a cave known as ‘Chamero-gufa’ in Nagarkot which seems archaeologically and historically important.

The Lama-nach, the Jhankri-nach, the Damphu-nach and the Khinjadi-nach are some of the instances of traditional dance of this region.

(D) THE HERITAGES OF CHAALING

The next heritage site of course is Chaaling. This is a historically important place as well. The historic fortress known as Telkot also includes in Chaaling. One can easily viewed the remains of the age old fortress existed on the hilltop of Telkot forest which is archaeologically

Chinnamasta devi Kilesvor

Jalpadevi Mahankal Temple

Mahankaldevi


important. Besides, there are culturally and religiously important monuments in this region and among them, some remarkable heritages are:

Mahankaldevi temple, Betavinayak, Visweswor Mahadeva, Mahankal, Dhyousi-ganesha, Bhimsen, Siddhiganesha, Madhhenarayana temple, Bhaju-bhairab, Radhakrishna, Brahmayani temple and the newly built Panchakanya temple etc.

(E) THE HERITAGES OF BAGESWORI

Culturally, Bageswori is one of the richest rural places of Bhaktapur district. It is also asserted as the sacred place and the goal of the Buddhist as well as the Hindu pilgrimage-throng since the remote past. It is the earliest Buddhist shrine throughout the district as is known from the Lichchhavi inscription which has clearly stated the Udhyotak-vihar’. The very rare stone-inscription lies in the Bagh-hiti complex. Incredibly, it has raised the religious importance of the entire district. Bageswori also possess the religious glory through Shaivism. There are significant sculptures and shrines belonging to this pantheon. Overall some remarkable heritages of this region are:

Baghhiti: includes an oldest water conduct from which the fresh water is still flowing since the remote past. The place name ‘Baghhiti’ was named after this Dhungedhara. Beside the Dhungedhara are Jalasayana-Vishnu and a fascinating three-concentric tired Shivalinga and the images of some subordinate deities. There is a Ganesha temple in this shrine too.

Valmikesvor or Vagesvor temple is another important pilgrimage site of Bagaswori. Valmikesvor is the main deity of this site. Besides the temple complex there comprise of a Narayana temple, five faced Shivalingum (Panchamukha-linga), a historic pond, Umamahesvor, composite image of Shiva and Parvati (Ardhanarisvor), Ganesha and Bhairav, a Sattal etc. It is regrettable to mention here that a few months ago the beautiful image of Ardhanarisvor was stolen.

(F) THE HERITAGES OF SUDAL

A naturally resourceful landscape including the rivulets is generally called ‘Dol’ and ‘SU’ means nice or good in

a sense. In this regard, the meaning of SUDAL seems apparent. Indeed it has the richest landscape as well as is rich in cultural heritages. Bageswori and Sudal are the adjoining areas where ample of historic monuments are to be viewed. They also have been revered with great esteem by the religious and cultural life of the Valley since the remote past. It was also a pilgrimage-transit point for the Indian and Tibetian Buddhist travelers to spread Tantric Buddhism (Vajrayana) especially in the early medieval period. The shrine of Lhasapaka saraswoti that includes the Cave of the great Tibetian Guru (preceptor) Milarepa is the best instance to prove this fact.

Lhasapaka saraswotithan is the most revered open shrine for both Hindus and the Buddhist devotees. The Buddhists called it ‘Mahamanjusri’ and the cave behind her is called ‘Mahamanjusri-gufa’ where as the Hindus exclaimed the very deity as ‘Saraswoti’ and the very cave as ‘Saraswoti-gufa’ as well. Every year on the festive day of Sri-panchami, thousands of pilgrimages thronged the shrine.

Sudal is dominated by the green jungle and in the ravine of the jungle is existed a doomed-shrine dedicated to goddess Brahmayani. The Newar inhabitants of Bhaktapur called it as ‘Brahmayani Navadurga-jwonla’. Religious belief is that this is the initial place of the corporal Navadurga Gana.

Beyond the above mentioned two, Sudal is surrounded by various shrines like Gokhuresvor-Mahadeva, Thakalmath-Mahadeva, Vindhyavasini, Siddhi-Ganesha, Radhakrishna, Mahili-Brahmayani, Manikarjika-ghat etc.

(G) THE HERITAGES OF TATHALI

Particularly for the first time, the Tathili VDC has been witnessing Rock edicts of Nepal which have recently been discovered from Halal-gaon and Nalachaap. There are two massive rocks lying at Halal-

Baghhiti Valmikesvor Temple Complex

Mahamanjusri Ghufa


gaon known as ‘Thulo-dhunga’ and ‘Vasuki-dhunga and a single massive rock at Nalachaap which is also called ‘Thulo-dhunga’. These three historic rocks are depicted fifteen dated rock edicts issued by the Malla kings and the sculptors of different periods. Besides, the Thulo-dhunga of Halal-gaon is also depicted by the rock paintings in which a lion, an elephant, a horse and the fighting bulls are viewed. Evidences show that Tathali site was an active battlefield for more that two centuries in the medieval period. The scholars have regarded the discovery as a great achievement.1

Indeed, Tathali is a historically and archaeologically important area as a Neolithic micro-tool has also been found from the enclosing hillside of Halalgaon whicha is called ‘Aietavera-samudaika-ban’. Moreover; there are four historic gadhis (citadels) on the hilltop of this Ban.

Tathali is religiously important as well. There are temples/shrines in this region. Himadevi-than, Bhairab-mandir, Chundevimandir, Ban-devi, Hanuman-mandir, Siddhivinayak-ganeshamandir, Vindhyavasini-mandir are some of the other remarkable heritages of this area.

(H) THE HERITAGES OF JHAUKHEL

There is the legend behind the naming of this place.

1 Prof.Dr. Purushottam Lochan Shrestha, ROCK EDICTS AND OTHER HERITAGES, ibid.

Besides, from the linguistic point of view, it is to be speculated that the prefix ‘Jhau’ simply means burnt into ashes and ‘Khel’ means the ground. Hence, having the huge and attractive ground or plane-lands is the main feature of this area which in the past days may have such burning-ritualistic connection with the native life that caused the nomenclature of this area.

Jhaukhel, also an ancient settlement lies in the vicinity of Changunarayana. It served as the conduit pipe between Bhaktapur town and Changu including other northern regions in the enhancement of cultural and religious activities. It was the main route for the way farers and the celebrators to reach Changu and Sankhu and so. The ruins and the remaining of Sattal, Patis, Dhungedharas, Kuwa including some sculptures and historical records (inscriptions) still represent the past glory. Indeed it was also the goal of the pilgrimages. Some significant heritages of this area are as follows:

The shrine of Jyotirlingesvor Mahadeva is the most important heritage site which lies in Kolpakot of Jhaukhel. A doomed-temple is dedicated to Jyotirlingesvor Mahaveva and He seems to have been popular even during the post ancient period. Inside the temple, there viewed some important stone plate inscriptions of the late medieval period as well as the stone images (Bhairab, Sriyantra, Laxminarayana, Chaturbahu narayana etc.) of ageless beauty.

The Jyotirlingesvor shrine is surrounded by some other monuments viz. The Seshanarayana Pokhari, Annapurna Kalasa, the sixty-four shivalingas, Bhajan-pati and a newly built three-tiered temple dedicated to Ram-janaki which is known as ‘Ram-janaki-mandir’. In the nearby east bring to view a holy river-confluence known as Silu, Tilu and Champak. The confluence comprises a burning ghat at the river’s edge where dead are burned to ashes.

Some other remarkable monuments of Jhaukhel are: Kotdevi, Chundevi, Setidevi-mandir, Taleju-dhara, Tula-mahadeva-mandir, Vatsala-mandir etc. A natural pool is called ‘Daha’ which is regarded as a holy shrine. There are a number of such seven sacred Dahas lies in the different spots of Jhaukhel as well as in the Changunarayana VDCs respectively. They are as follows:

1. Gwal-daha2. Naga-daha3. Pig-daha4. Pang-daha5. Sang-daha6. Syal-daha 7. Bang-daha.

Thulo Dhunga

Jyotirlingesvor Mahadeva


(I) THE HERITAGES OF CHITTAPOL

The region is culturally as well as historically important. There is a dense pine forest at a village section of Chittapol VDC which is culturally important. The pine tree is inevitably brought from here to fashion a ritual pole representing of either Lord Indra of Kathmandu or Lord Viswonath Bhairab of Bhaktapur town for the celebration of Bisket jatra and Indrajatra respectively.

The ruin of an age-old fortress is on the hilltop of Chittapol, ward no.7 shows the archaeological as well as the historical importance of the very place. A few meters down of the hilltop is a Shiva shrine known as ‘Natarambhesvor /Lataramvesvor’. Another attraction of Chittapol is the newly constructed huge image of Lord Shiva which is one hundred and eight feet long. It is claimed that it is the tallest image throughout Asia.

The rest outstanding heritages of this region are Dirghamuktesvor, Gufa-danda-mahadevamandir, Kalikamandir and so on.

One of the adjoining areas of Chittapol is Sanga which lies in the middle of Kavre and Bhaktapur District. Sanga is predominantly an ancient Newar settlement. It was one of the four transit points to get assess into the Nepal Valley in the ancient and medieval period. It was an important commercial point in those days. Therefore due the various significances, it evolved the richest Newar culture, art and architecture as well. Specimens of sculptures, wood work, traditional houses etc. are seen elsewhere in Sanga as well.

(J) THE HERITAGES OF SIPADOL

Like other ‘Dol’ areas of Bhaktapur District, the landscape of this region also holds the same naturally resourceful features i.e. the land with the rivulets. The most renowned heritage of this area is the Dolesvor shrine. It is one of the Shiva-pilgrimage sites since the ancient time. Lord Dolesvor and his shrine are popularly known as ‘Sipare-maha-dhyo’ among the

Newar inhabitants of the Valley. It is important that the ‘Sipadol’ was named after ‘Sipare’. A doomed temple is dedicated to Sipare-Mahadeva which is situated in the bank of the holy river-confluence known as ‘Vimalodak-tirtha’ / ‘Vimal-Ganga’. Religious belief is that the Shiva-lingum is a self-erected one. There are other monuments in the temple complex. Identically, the Dolesvor has recently been re-consecrated or re-declared as that of the ‘head’ of the famous Kedarnath of India. Whatsoever, it has enhanced its religious importance throughout the

country and beyond the southern boundaries of the neighboring country i.e. India.

Ranikot-gadhi, the nature’s beauty is a high hill mountain situated just above Sipadol from where the panoramic view of the northern Himalayas are observed as well as the highly crowed towns and rural areas of the Valley. It was used as a strong fortress in the past. Its archaeological remains are still lying there.

The wonder that was the union of nature and culture is of course Baghbhairav. An immense natural-stone looks like an aggressive tiger who appears in a seated position to attack on its pray is situated just behind the southern cliff of Ranikot-gadhi. The religious people therefore called it as Baghbhairav and begin to worship with high esteem since the remote past. Every year in the full moon days of Bhaisakh and Mansir, the devotees throng this sacred shrine.

A best known religious shrine is the Ashapuri Mahadeva that is situated in the bank of a holy river, surround by the high hills. A doomed temple is dedicated to Lord Ashapuri Mahadeva. Religious belief is that he fulfills the wishes of his devotees. There is a Chorten (a kind of Chaitya which was the outcome of Lamaism) and a residential type of Gumba across the river as well. Their witnessed a few stone tablets which are depicted with the fine figures of the tantric deities and mandals belonged to Lamaism, are attached on the wall of the Gumba. In this regard, it is apparent that this is a common sacred shrine for both Hindu and Buddhist followers.

Lord Shiva Lataramvesvor Mahadevsthan


(K) THE HERITAGES OF NANGKHEL

Predominantly a traditional Newar settlement, ‘Nangkhel’ is apparently named after Nandikesvor Mahadeva the most renowned deity. Hence it is a popular pilgrimage site as well. Besides, this site is prehistorically important too, as a Neolithic hand-axe found from the Nandikesvor complex in course of repairing of the temple, few years ago. It is said that some Lichchhavi coins were also found from the very site.

(L) THE HERITAGES OF GUNDU

The name ‘Gundu’ is of geographic one. As it was a jungle (Gun) dominated as well as comprising of the ‘Dol’ areas, therefore called ‘Gundu’. The place appears to have evolved even before the advent of the Lichchhavies. The ancient Shiva shrine is still in existence i.e the Anantalingesvor. It is the best known pilgrimage site since the ancient time. Anantalingesvor temple complex includes ancient and medieval heritages i.e. the stone images, a holy pond, stone inscriptions etc.

A rivulet flows through the heart of Gundu which is called ‘Budhi-gandiki. Lekhanarayana, Tindhare, Bhaktamuktesvor, Kalbhairabthan, Duble-ganesha, Gokulesvor and the Ghat, Bhuvanesvori, Tarakesvor, Kailesh, Kasi-visesvor (located in between the outskirt of Bhaktapur and Lalitpur) in the south are some the other significant monuments of this region.

(M) HERITAGES OF KATUNJE

It is said that in the bygone days, as the ‘Kottapal’/’Katuwal’ a powerful Government officer governed this fortified area, it was called ‘Katunje’. There is a hilltop, called ‘Katunje-kot’. It is interesting that according to a local legend, running competition was popularly held in those days and the hilltop was the goal of it. He who reaches the goal first, was declared the ‘One day king’. Some notable heritages of this region are as follows:

The shrine of Suryavinayak, Suvernesvor Mahadevathan, Susilbhairav temple, Panchakanya and Krishna temple, Muktivinayak temple, Panchayana temple etc.

(N) THE HERITAGES OF DADHIKOT

It was a main ‘Kot’ (citadel) in the past. The prefix ‘Dadhi’ appears to have the name of a great seer. It was almost a busy battlefield in the late Malla period. There is a section in this V.D.C., which is still called Mul-Dadhikot and this proved the aforesaid fact. It is notable that the present Dadhikot was a highly developed town in the ancient period known as ‘Hamsagrihadranga’. It is known to us from the epigraphic and other historical evidences.2

Mul-Dadhikot (Gamcha), Chamarel-Danda, Gundu, Tarkhagal, Kalitar, Pataletar, Pakandol, Hayandol, Charakhandidol, Kondol, Khukundol, Chyasinga, Kisigaon, Kiwachook, Iedol, Hinchok, Chopuli (Chitrapur) and Dakshin-Varahi are some of the historically important traditional places of the Dadhikot V.D.C. These places include famous shrines and other monuments. Some notable heritages among them are listed below:

Anantalingesvor, Panchakanya, Radhakrishna temple, Pisachesvor Mahadeva, Charakhendesvor shrine, Rajganesh temple, Dakshinvarahi temple and the cremation ghat Hinchookbhairav etc.

(O) THE HERITAGES OF SIRUTAR

It is a religiously as well as a historically important place. Somalingesvor is the famous deity of this area since the ancient period. The place-name ‘Sirutar’ appears to have named after the Lord of this territory

2 Dr.Purushottam Lochan Shrestha, Anantalingesvor, Aman Lochan Shrestha, Bhaktapur: 2064 V.S., pp 123-133.

Jyotirlingesvor Mahadeva


i.e. Somalingesvor. He is mentioned in the religious texts as well as in the historical documents.

(P) THE HERITAGES OF BALKOT

Dharmesvor Mahadev is the paramount deity of this region. He is mentioned in the religious text known as Himavatkhanda. It seems according to that text, as he had assumed the form of a ‘Balaka’ (crane) in this place, it was called ‘Balkot’. Besides, this place has its own historical importance as it was a strong citadel in the medieval past.

(Q) BUDDHIST VIHARS AND BAHIS

(BUDDHIST MONASTRIES AND COURTYARDS)

Bhaktapur is a Buddhist town as well. Almost in every section of the town boasts Baha and Bahis. Although Lichchhavi remaining Udhyotak Vihar as well as the Vichhuni Sangha at Chamhasimha no longer survived. It has recently been known that the remains of the Vihars were found from the Jhaukhel region just a few days ago. Whatsoever the existing Vihars of this town appear to have flourished during the Malla period. Among them are listed below:

Dipankar Mahavihar / Dhyo Nani Baha / Ajudhyo Baha

Location: Kwathandau ToleDeity: Dipankar Tathagat, Akshyobhaya, Pragyaparamita, Namasangiti,

Sadakshari Lokesvor, Vajrasattva, Prist: VajracharyaRemarks: Dipankar, the principal of the five Dipankars of Bhaktapur. The oldest Vihar which appears to have built around 10th century A.D. Nearby south of this Vihar is the God house of Akanta Kumari.

Prasannasil Mahavihar / Pasu Baha / Pashupati MahaviharLocation: Kwathandau ToleDeity: Akshobhaya, Pragyaparamita, Avalokitesvor, Kwapa DhyoPriest: Vajracharya and Shakya

Viswovihar / Biku BahaLocation: Kwathandau ToleDeity: Padhmapani LokesvorPriest: Vajracharya

Adipadhma Mahavihar / Ta BahaLocation: Suryamadhi ToleDeity: Padhmapani Lokesvor, Vairochan, Kwapa dhyoPriest: Vajracharya, Shakya and LamaRemarks: It also boasts a Akshobhaya-Gumba

Manjuvarna Mahavihar / Wom BahaLocation: Bekhal ToleDeity: Lokesvor, Mahamanjusri, Mahavairochan, Pragyaparamita,

Indravarta Mahavihar / Inacho BahaLocation: Inacho ToleDeity: Akshobhaya, Pragyaparamita, Sadakshyari Lokesvor, KwapadhyoPriest: Vajracharya

Dharmauttam Mahavihar / Muni BahaLocation: Inacho ToleDeity: Dhyani Buddha

Mangaldharmadwipa Mahavihar / Jhour BahiLocation: Golmadhi ToleDeity: Dipankar, KwapadhyoPriest: Shakya and Lama

Somalingsvor


Lun Vihar / Lun BahaLocation: Sukuldhoka ToleDeity: Bhimsen

ChatuBrahma Mahavihar / Tarichen BahaLocation: Sakotha (Bhaktapur Durbar Square)Deity: Dipankar (Ajajudhyo), Kumari, Karunamaya, Kwapadhyo, Padhmapani Lokesvor, ViswokarmaPriest: Vajracharya

Akhandasil Mahavihar / Akha BahaLocation: Bolachen ToleDeity: Mahavairochan, Kwapadhyo, LokesvorPriest: Vajracharya

Lokesvor Mahavihar / Laskadhyo BahaLocation: Tapalachi ToleDeity: Red Matsyandranath / Annapurna LokesvorPriest: Vajracharya

Sukravarna Mahavihar / Thathu BahiLocation: Itachen ToleDeity: Dipankar, Pancha-Buddha, Kwapadhyo, Akshobhaya,Priest: Vajracharya and Shakya

Jayakirti Mahavihar / Kuthu BahiLocation: Varvacho ToleDeity: Dipankar, KwapadhyoPriest: Vajracharya and Shakya

Jetvarna Mahavihar / Ni BahaLocation: Tekhacho ToleDeity: Kwapadhyo, Lokesvor, ViswokarmaPriest: Vajracharya

Punyajetvan Mahavihar / Tankone BahaLocation: Itachen ToleDeity: Akshobhaya, KwapadhyoPriest: Buddhacharya and Vajracharya

(R) Existing JAME-MASJID and vanished CHURCH the hidden heritages

There is an age old Jame-Masjid that lies in the south-eastern outskirt from the proper town, on the way to Hanumanghat. Indeed this heritage also shows the religious richness of Bhaktapur and testifies the harmonious behavior which practically secularized among the socio-religious life in general. It appears to have established around the late Malla Period. Another example is the vanished Church. According to the local hearsay, there was a Church which was built during the end of the Malla Period. As Ranajit Malla the last Malla king of Bhaktapur granted permission to the Christian Missionaries to stay in his kingdom and to propagate their religion legally.3 In this regard, they seem to have built the Church in the vicinity of the Royal palace. Whatsoever, from the above point, it can be considered that it was the first historic Church in the Valley.

3 Baburam Acharya, Prithvinarayana shahko Samchhipta jJivani, Vol.2, Press Secretariat, Royal Palace, Kathmandu: 2024, pp.218


Natural and rural based tourism potentials matrix of Bhaktapur District Annex 8:

VDC/Location Attractions

Tourism Potentials Potential Market

Eco T

ouris

m

Adve

ntur

ous

touris

m

Rura

l tour

ism

Recre

ation

and

Enter

tainm

ent

Medic

al, Sp

a, Yo

ga

Educ

ation

/ Re

sear

ch

MICE

Acti

vities

Dome

stic

Inter

natio

nal

Thimi

Balkumari Forest √ √ √ √Nilbarahi forest √ √ √ √ √Bode village √ √ √ √Manohara Agr. Field √ √ √ √ √Pottery squares √ √ √ √ √

BhaktapurSallaghari √ √Various Lakes √ √ √Chundevi/ Nalinchowk √ √ √

Duwakot Saraswotikhel √ √ √Jhaukhel Jhaukhel Landscape √ √

Jhaukhel Village √ √

ChangunarayanChangu Forest √ √ √ √ √Changunarayan √ √ √ √ √Changu Village √ √ √

ChhalingChhaling forest √ √ √ √ √ √Trishuldanda forest √ √ √ √ √ √

NagarkotNagarkot forest √ √ √ √ √ √ √Nagarkot village √ √ √

BageshworiMuhan Pokhari forest √ √ √ √ √Bageshwori forest √ √ √Bageshwori village √ √

SudalThakalmath √ √ √ √Mahamanjushree √ √ √ √ √ √Sudalbhanjyang √ √ √ √ √ √

TathaliHalalgoan and Basukikhola √ √ √ √Banmali village √ √Nalachhap √ √ √ √ √

ChittapolChittapole village √ √ √Chittapole Mahadev √ √ √ √ √Latarameshwor √ √ √ √ √

NangkhelLakuribhanjyang/Kakrabari √ √ √ √ √Ashapureshwori √ √ √ √Nangkhel √ √ √ √

SipadolRanikot √ √ √ √ √ √Maligoan √ √ √ √ √Doleshwor √ √ √

Sipadol/Katunje Suryabinayak forest √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √Katunje Ghampe Danda √ √ √ √ √ √ √

GunduGundu forest √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √Gundu village √ √ √ √

DadhikotAnantalingshwor √ √ √ √ √ √ √Kailash Danda √ √ √ √ √ √Dadhikot landscape √ √ √


Year North America Central & S. America

Western Europe

Eastern Europe Africa Asia Australia &

Pacific Others Not Specified Total

1998 430389.3%

59371.3%

15107032.6%

67411.5%

17950.4%

24046051.9%

146353.2%

80.0%

--

463684100.0%

1999 469109.5%

60961.2%

16491333.6%

67231.4% 18750.4% 249793

50.8%152073.1%

50.0%

--

491504100.0%

2000 4903210.6%

60761.3%

15932534.4%

69921.5%

20400.4%

22453248.4%

156413.4%

80.0%

--

463646100.0%

2001 3912010.8%

46341.3%

13166136.4%

62011.7%

15960.4%

16498945.7%

130363.6%

00.0%

--

361237100.0%

2002 212657.7%

27931.0%

8791231.9%

52761.9%

11320.4%

14867054.0%

84203.1%

00.0%

--

275468100.0%

2003 229926.8%

22620.7%

9516228.1%

64511.9%

16120.5%

20004559.2%

96082.8%

00.0%

--

338132100.0%

2004 255056.6%

43731.1%

11650530.2%

76612.0%

11610.3%

21838756.7%

109472.8%

00.0%

7580.2%

385297100.0%

2005 228536.1%

35590.9%

9804626.1%

82632.2%

13020.3%

23028261.3%

83172.2%

00.0%

27760.7%

375398100.0%

2006 245664.7%

47640.9%

9727818.5%

106132.0 %

11250.2 %

23181244.0%

97631.9%

00.8 %

40051.0%

383926100.0%

2007 371807.1%

64861.2%

14063026.7%

166343.2%

13500.3%

30422557.8%

145062.8%

21770.4%

35150.7%

526705100.0%

2008 382087.6%

67451.3%

13746127.6%

115722.3%

49520.1%

27835555.3%

161953.3%

67891.4%

40070.8%

500277100%

2009 406977.98%

26181351.34%

176443.46%

17284633.9%

60431.2%

509956100%

Source: MoTCA - Tourism Statistics, 2009. NTB (2010)

Indices of Tourist Arrival in Nepal by Continents (1998 – 2009)Annex 9:


Year Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May. June. July. Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. Total

1998 201246. 2%

278558.6%

307910. 3%

289979.9%

156474.8%

111953.4%

157245. 0%

263878. 2%

292419.1%

4978716.0%

3858712.0%

238147.4%

320455100%

1999 205545.8%

292598.4%

3815810.8%

296378. 5%

223056. 5%

127313.6%

167824.7%

294028.4%

336509. 5%

54915. 5%

3883511.0%

254317. 3%

350843100%

2000 210925.7%

339399. 3%

38910. 5%

3643010.0%

186585.0%

120363. 2%

168424. 5%

272057. 3%

346439.4%

5110014.0%

45812. 3%

315098. 5%

367731100%

2001 251588. 5%

3276311.0%

4068414.0%

3221111.0%

174066.0%

89293.0%

139655.0%

216587. 2%

261327. 3%

3719813.0%

257959.0%

150185.0%

296917100%

2002 131806. 3%

169608. 2%

2510212.0%

168778.0%

117516.0%

83384.0%

99624.7%

155157.4%

187689.0%

3025114.4%

24411. 5%

179438. 5%

208691100%

2003 156596. 3%

193217.6%

222608.8%

203038.0%

152886.0%

78353. 2%

136075.4%

191497.6%

225779.0%

38015. 2%

3175012.6%

25010. 3%

251769100%

2004 229477.7%

287439.7%

3546812.0%

262799.0%

155815. 3%

97763. 3%

170705.7%

276579. 3%

218297. 5%

3810413.0%

2933010.0%

221877. 5%

294971100%

2005 195317. 2%

170616. 2%

258479. 2%

183116. 5%

154385. 5%

111704.1%

149215. 3%

261199. 3%

274139.8%

40314. 5%

3477812.4%

2782210.0%

278964100%

2006 211267. 2%

213207. 3%

3016910.4%

184356.4%

135174.6%

118414.1%

150665. 2%

249668.6%

263279.1%

4302614.8%

3740213.0%

270099. 3%

290204100%

2007 258576.0%

331337.7%

4802211.1%

327947.6%

232965.4%

189374.4%

261606.1%

376588.7%

388139.0%

6574515.3%

4682210.9%

334587.8%

430695100.0%

2008 30,473 40,334 51,364 31,952 19,619 12,922 18,097 32,084 33,870 60,938 47,467 29,980 409,100

2009 23969 34594 45950 34938 20362 17078 19942 36121 36241 65592 48667 32618 416072

Source: Nepal Tourism Statistics Annual Statistical Report 2008 & 2009, – MoTCA- Government of Nepal.

Tourist Arrival by Month (1998- 2009 excluding Indians) Annex 10:


Year Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Total

1998 86986.0%

101017. 1%

82415.7%

120908. 5%

2016714.1%

1798612. 5%

121718. 5%

97876.8%

104237.4%

127008.8%

88166.2%

120498.4%

143229100%

1999 91986. 5%

88756.4%

80605.7%

111378.0%

2040714. 5%

1831813.0%

104117.4%

90476.4%

104677.4%

124448.8%

100307. 2%

122678.7%

140661100%

2000 42154. 4%

50205. 2%

59856. 2%

72057. 5%

970510.1%

1489715. 5%

76388.0%

74657.8%

88809. 3%

80958.4%

76758.1%

91359. 5%

95915100%

2001 52968. 2%

59179. 2%

60259. 3%

687210.6%

1093917.0%

41016. 5%

43646.8%

36645.7%

50387.8%

40476.4%

44877.0%

35705. 5%

64320100%

2002 39966.0%

37085. 5%

37135.6%

43766.6%

813612. 3%

888013. 3%

665910.0%

55788. 3%

49847. 4%

50217. 5%

46797.0%

4 7 1 0 . 5%

66777100%

2003 55566. 5%

50285.8%

54776. 3%

55486.4%

74168.6%t

1251614. 5%

905410.4%

84199.7%

61477. 2%

74198.6%

66487.7%

71358. 3%

86363100%

2004 80419.0%

68887.6%

88229.8%

72358.0%

1122112.4%

1001711.1%

77908.6%

55056.0%

36674.1%

52695.8%

70517.8%

88209.8%

90326100%

2005 59466. 2%

32773.4%

40284. 2%

51035. 3%

1010310. 5%

1143811.8%

90759.4%

1079111.2%

86539.0%

94511. 3%

67277.0%

1034810.7%

96434100%

2006 76438. 2%

44084.7%

67047.1%

35483.7%

935310.0%

1436915.4%

1011710.8%

81848.7%

70357.6%

66447.0%

67177.2%

90009.6%

93722100%

2007 73357.6%

68017.1%

67007.0%

81488.5%

1255813.1%

1237912.9%

92779.7%

70257.3%

67597.0%

48995.1%

54515.7%

86989.1%

96010100.0%

2008 6,440 6,341 7,371 6,523 10,791 11,427 7,330 7,927 7,752 5,483 4,932 8,860 91,177

2009 5309 6023 3617 8399 9675 14671 10490 8053 6530 6930 5756 8431 93884

Source: Nepal Tourism Statistics, 2009: Government of Nepal, Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation.

Indian Tourist Arrivals by Months (1998- 2009)Annex 11:


Year Male % change Female % change Total

1998 26787157.8% 6.6 195813

42.2% 14.8 463684100.00%

1999 28616158.2% 13.8 205343

41.8% 20.4 491504100.0%

2000 26693757.6% -6.7 196709

42.4% -4.2 463646100.0%

2001 21346559.1% -20.0 147772

49.9% -24.9 361237100.0%

2002 17471063.4% -18.1 100758

36.6% -31.8 275468100.0%

2003 20473260.5% 17.1 133400

39.5% 32.4 338132100.0%

2004 25530366.3% 24.7 129994

33.7% -2.6 385297100.0%

2005 25797268.7% 1.0 117426

31.3% -9.7 375398100.0%

2006 21881857.0% -15.17 165108

43.0% 40.6 383926100.0%

2007 29068855.2% 32.8 236017

44.8% 42.9 526705100.0%

2008 28698357.4

21329442.6

500277100%

2009 28815556.5 0.4 221801

43.5 4.0 509956100%

Source: Nepal Tourism Statistics 2007 and 2008, Government of Nepal (MoCTCA)

Tourist Arrivals in Nepal by Gender (1998 – 2009)Annex 12:


Year 0 - 15 16 - 30 31 - 45 46 – 60 61 & Over Not Specified Total

1998 267635.8%

12210326.3%

15184632.7%

12119026.1%

417829.0% - 463684

1999 309676.3%

15030730.6%

15598531.7%

11331423.1%

409138.3% - 491504

2000 191364.1%

11981625.8%

14806331.9%

12514027.0%

5149111.1% - 463646

2001 146084.0%

9580126.5%

11567832.0%

9362125.9%

4152911.5% - 361237

2002 124254.5%

6777424.6%

9962236.2%

6701724.3%

2863010.4% - 275468

2003 160564.7%

7835723.2%

9974029.5%

8575325.4%

5822617.2% - 338132

2004 3873410.1%

8412521.8%

12826733.3%

9692025.2%

372519.7% - 385297

2005 304298.1%

5711515.2%

11410330.4%

10607728.3%

6767418.0% - 375398

2006 374339.8%

7562619.7%

12354132.2%

9526024.8%

5206613.6% - 383926

2007 388707.4%

11287921.4%

16448831.2%

13075624.8%

6992713.3%

97851.9% 526705

2008 425818.5%

10659621.3%

15017130.0%

12138724.3%

6053112.1%

190113.8% 500277

2009 8489199.4%

14080532.1%

141955-5.5%

99197-18.3%

39638-34.5%

3470-81.7% 509956

Source: Nepal Tourism Statistics 2009 Government of Nepal (MoTCA)

Tourist Arrivals in Nepal by Age Group (1998 – 2009) Annex 13:


Year

Holid

ay

pleas

ure

Trekk

ing an

d mo

untai

neer

ing

Busin

ess

Pilgr

imag

e

Offic

ial

Conf

eren

ce

Rafti

ng

Othe

rs

Not S

pecif

ied

Total

1998 261347(56.4%)

112644(24.3 %)

24954(5.4 %)

16164(3.5 %)

22123(4.8 %)

5181(1.1%) - 21271

(4.6 %) - 463646(100 %)

1999 290862(59.2 %)

107960(22.0 %)

23813(4.8 %)

19198(3.9 %)

24132(4.9 %)

5965(1.2%) - 19574

(4.0 %) - 491504(100 %)

2000 255889(55.2 %)

118780(25.6 %)

29454(6.4 %)

15801(3.4 %)

20832(4.5 %)

5599(1.2%) - 17291

(3.7 %) - 463646(100 %)

2001 187022(51.8 %)

100828(27.9 %)

18528(5.1 %)

13816(3.8 %)

18727(5.2 %)

0(0.0) - 22316

(6.2 %) - 361237(100 %)

2002 110143(40.0%)

59279(21.5%)

16990(6.2%)

12366(4.5%)

17783(6.5%)

0(0.0) - 58907

(17.9%) - 275468(100%)

2003 97904(29.0%)

65721(19.4%)

19387(5.7%)

21395(6.3%)

21967(6.5%)

0(0.0) - 11758

(33.1%) - 338132(100%)

2004 167262(43.4%)

69442(18.0%)

13948(3.6%)

45664(11.9%)

17088(4.4%)

0(0.0) - 71893

(18.7%) - 385297(100%)

2005 160259(42.7%)

61488(16.4%)

21992(5.9%)

47621(12.7%)

16859(4.5%)

0(0.0) - 67179

(17.9%) - 375398(100%)

2006 145802(27.7%)

66931(12.7%)

21066(4.0%)

59298(11.3%)

18063(3.4%)

0(0.0) - 72766

(19.0%) - 383926(100%)

2007 215815(41.4%)

101320(19.2%)

24487(4.6%)

52594(10.0%)

21670(4.1%)

8019(1.5%)

65(0.0%)

78579(14.9%)

22156(4.2%)

526705(100.0%)

2008 148,180 (29.6)

104,822 (21.0)

23,039 (4.6)

45,091 (9.0)

43,044(8.6)

6,938 (1.4)

243 (0.0)

99,391(19.9)

29,529 (5.9)

500,277(100.0)

2009 40992(8.0)

132929(26.1)

22752(4.5)

51542(10.1)

24518(4.8)

9985(2.0)

285(0.1)

186849(36.6)

40098(7.9)

509956(100)

Source: Nepal Tourism Statistics, 2009 MoTCA

Purpose-wise Distribution of Tourist in Nepal (1998-2009)Annex 14:


YearTotal

Growth Rate Number

By Air Number % of Total

By Land Number % of Total

1998 463684 398008 86 65676 14

1999 491504 421243 86 70261 14

2000 463646 376914 81 86732 19

2001 361237 299514 83 61,723 17

2002 275468 218660 79 56808 21

2003 338132 275438 81 62694 19

2004 385297 297335 77 87962 23

2005 375398 277346 74 98052 26

2006 383962 283819 74 100107 26

2007 526705 360713 68 165992 32

2008 500,277 374,661 74.9 125,616 25.1

2009 509752 378712 73.1 131040 26.9

Source: Nepal Tourism Statistics, 2009 MoTCA, and NTB (2010)

Nationality 1995 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Australia 17.6 17.5 17.2 12.4 9.7 13.5 8.8 10.2 10.0 20.48 18.21

Austria 11.5 13.4 13.5 7.9 9.7 14.1 9.5 9.8 13.6 16.59 15.84

Canada 15.3 17.0 16.5 10.9 10.7 12.6 10.0 11.7 16.2 19.18 16.77

Denmark 18.1 19.1 16.7 12.8 9.6 12.8 9.4 11.8 16.1 16.89 14.38

France 11.0 12.6 12.9 8.9 10.6 11.7 10.8 11.9 15.9 16.25 14.74

Germany 13.4 15.6 16.2 9.8 9.6 14.1 10.4 11.7 15.4 17.67 15.83

India 6.7 7.2 7.2 6.3 9.9 11.4 6.4 6.8 6.4 6.90 9.15

Italy 8.7 10.5 10.6 6.0 11.0 12.7 8.4 8.6 10.7 12.83 12.19

Japan 10.6 10.0 10.3 8.1 9.2 13.8 8.2 8.6 8.2 10.07 12.07

Netherlands 14.0 14.9 16.5 11.4 10.7 13.8 10.4 10.9 15.8 17.21 13.92

Switzerland 13.7 16.1 16.5 10.4 9.0 16.0 11.1 8.7 15.3 10.36 15.68

Spain 7.6 9.6 9.8 5.4 9.5 15.3 8.0 8.7 9.2 4.30 10.38

Sri Lanka - - 8.0 6.7 6.9 21.8 15.0 11.8 3.8 18.39 6.92

U.S.A. 13.0 14.2 12.9 10.0 9.4 13.6 9.1 11.1 14.3 14.45 13.43

U.K. 16.0 16.3 15.5 10.7 10.1 11.2 10.0 10.9 16.2 15.79 1409

Other 11.0 11.9 11.3 7.7 8.8 15.8 10.9 12.5 14.0 11.21 10.29

Average 11.8 11.9 11.9 7.9 9.6 13.5 9.1 10.2 11.9 11.78 11.32

Source: Tourism Statistics of Various Years, MOTCA, (2006, 2007. 2008 and 2009)

Trend of Tourists Arrival by Mode of Transport (1998-2009)Annex 15:

Actual Length of Stay by Major Nationality (1995 – 2009)Annex 16:


Year World Visitors in Million

Annual Growth Rate in %

(World Tourism Visitor) Index

Receipts US$ in Billion

Annual Growth Rate in %

(World Tourist Receipts) Index

1998 625 2.3 136.5 445 2.1 165.1

1999 652 4.3 142.5 559 25.6 207.4

2000 697 6.9 152.3 576 3.0 213.7

2001 680 -2.4 148.6 482 -16.3 178.8

2002 700 2.9 153.0 482 0.0 178.8

2003 690 -1.4 150.8 524 8.7 194.4

2004 763 10.6 166.8 623 18.9 231.1

2005 803 5.2 175.5 676 8.5 250.8

2006 846 5.4 184.9 870 28.7 322.8

2007 900 4.1 859 9.2

2008 919 3.8 942 6.4

2009* 880 -4.3 853 -9.6

Source: Extract from World Tourism Organization (WTO), Tourism Highlight, 1999 -2009 Edition *UNWTO, World Tourism Barometer, Interim Update April 2010

Year World visitors in (000)

Visitors arrival in Nepal (000)

Share of Nepal in world visitors in %

Receipts US$ million in World

Receipts US$ million In Nepal

Share of Nepal in world Receipt in %

1998 625,000 464 0.07 445000 153 0.03

1999 652,000 492 0.08 559000 168 0.03

2000 697,000 464 0.07 559000 167 0.03

2001 680,000 361 0.05 576000 140 0.03

2002 700,000 276 0.04 482000 107 0.02

2003 690,000 338 0.05 524000 193 0.04

2004 763,000 385 0.05 623000 180 0.03

2005 803,000 375 0.05 676000 148 0.02

2006 846,000 384 0.05 870000 163 0.02

2007 900,000 526 0.06 859000 231 0.03

2008 919,000 500 0.05 942000 352 0.03

2009 880,000 509 0.06 853000 NA NA

Source: Nepal Tourism Statistics 2008. NTB - 2009

WTO, (UNWTO), Tourism Highlight, 2005 - 09

Scenario of International Tourists Flow and Receipts (1998-2009)Annex 17:

Status of Nepal in World Tourism and Receipts (1998-2009)Annex 18:


Rank Country Arrival (in Million) Rank Country US$ Receipts (in Billion)

1 France 79.3 1 USA 110.1

2 Spain 57.3 2 Spain 61.6

3 USA 58.0 3 France 55.6

4 China 53.0 4 Italy 45.7

5 Italy 42.7 5 China 40.8

6 UK 30.2 6 Germany 40.0

7 Ukarine 25.4 7 UK 36.0

8 Turkey 25.0 8 Australia 24.7

9 Germany 24.9 9 Turkey 22.0

10 Mexico 22.6 10 Austria 21.8

Source: World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Tourism Highlight 2009 Edition,

US$ Billions

Year Europe Asia & Pacific Americas Africa Middle East Total (World)

Amount % Change Amount % Change Amount % Change Amount % Change Amount % Change Amount % Change

2000 231.5 -31.6 87.6 2.3 136.0 24.9 10.7 -47.0 9.7 -21.8 475.9 -15.8

2001 222.3 -4.0 91.5 4.5 133.6 -1.8 14.0 30.8 8.9 -8.2 470.3 -1.2

2002 240.5 8.2 94.7 3.5 114.3 -14.4 11.8 -15.7 13.0 46.1 474.3 0.9

2003 252.9 5.2 94.9 0.2 114.1 -0.2 15.5 31.4 16.8 29.2 524.2 10.5

2004 326.7 29.2 125.0 31.7 131.7 15.4 18.3 18.1 21.0 25.0 622.7 18.8

2005 348.8 6.8 134.5 7.6 145.2 10.3 21.7 18.6 26.0 23.8 676.0 8.6

2006 374.5 7.4 152.6 13.5 154.0 6.1 24.3 12.0 27.3 5.0 733.0 8.4

2007 435.2 5.4 186.8 9.8 171.3 6.3 30.6 9.1 35.0 9.0 858.0 5.4

2008 473.7 1.7 206.0 2.7 188.4 5.0 29.1 -1.0 45.6 17.3 944.0 1.7

Source: Tourism market Trend East-Asia and the Pacific (1995)Pacific Asia Tourism Forecast (2004-2006)Tourism Highlights 2009

World’s Top Tourist Destination and Tourism Earners (2008)Annex 19:

International Tourism Receipts by Region (2000-2008) - Annex 20:


US $ in million

Year Average Income Per capita

Annual % Change in Aver-age Income Per Capita Total No of Tourists Annual % Change of Tourist

Arrival Average Length of Stay

1998 475.8 18.39 463684 9.91 10.76

1999 479.1 0.69 491504 6.00 12.28

2000 453.7 -5.30 463646 -5.67 11.88

2001 472.4 4.12 361237 -22.09 11.93

2002 512.0 8.38 275468 -23.74 7.92

2003 765.9 49.59 338132 22.75 9.6

2004 609.8 -20.38 385297 13.95 13.51

2005 532.0 -12.76 375398 -2.57 9.09

2006 561.0 5.45 383926 2.27 10.2

2007 535.0 -4.63 526000 37.0 11.96

2008 860.3 60.74 500,277 -5.0 11.782009 739.6 509956 1.9 11.32

Source: Nepal Tourism Statistics, 2009, MoTCA Economic survey 2007/08, GON, Ministry of Finance.

Rs. in million

Year Total Foreign Exchange Earning from Tourism

As % of total Value of Merchandize Export

As % of total Value of Export of Goods & Non-factors

As % of Foreign Exchange Earning As % of GDP

1997/98 9881.6 35.9 17.4 15.2 3.3

1998/99 12167.8 34.1 18.5 15.9 3.6

1999/00 12073.9 24.2 13.0 8.4 3.2

2000/01 11717.0 21.0 12.0 7.4 2.9

2001/02 8654.3 14.2 10.6 6.1 2.1

2002/03 11747.4 23.1 15.2 8.4 2.6

2003/04 18147.4 32.9 20.3 11.4 3.7

2004/05 10464.0 17.5 12.2 6.1 1.8

2005/06 9556.0 15.5 10.9 4.6 1.5

2006/07 10125.0 16.1 10.7 4.5 1.4

2007/08 18653.0 30.1 17.9 6.7 2.3

2008/09 27960.0 40.0 22.8 6.5 2.9

2009/10* 16767.0 40.0 23.1 6.0 NA

Source: Economic Survey 2008/09, Government of Nepal, Ministry of Finance. MoTCA - 2009*First Eight months

Gross Foreign Exchange Earning in Convertible Currencies (1998 – 2009)Annex 21:

Percent Share of Foreign Exchange Earning in different Sectors of the Economy (1997/98-2008/09)Annex 22:


(US Dollar in Millions)

F.Y. Tourism Sector Hotel Travel Agency Airlines Trekking /

Rafting Tourist Exchange Others Total% and US$ in Millions

1997/98 11.5%(15.1)

39.9%(52.3)

10.2%(13.3)

7.1%(9.3)

29.1%(38.1) 2.3% (3.0) 100%

(131.0)

1998/99 17.5%(30.0)

36.6%(62.7)

7.8%(13.4)

8.4%(14.4)

24.9%(42.7)

4.7%(8.2)

100%(171.4)

1999/00 12.7%(21.6)

40.5%(68.5)

12.4%(21.1)

6.4%(10.9)

23.0%(39.1)

5.1%(8.6)

100%(169.8)

2000/01 8.2%(13.3)

44.4%(72.1)

10.0%(16.3)

4.5%(7.3)

21.3% (34.6)

11.6%(18.9)

100% (162.6)

2001/02 9.6% (9.8 )

42.5% (43.2)

7.0 %(7.1)

4.6 % (4.6)

26.8% (27.2)

9.6% (9.7)

100%(101.6)

2002/03 6.01% (8.1) 37.11%(49.8)

10.9%(14.6)

5.9%(7.9)

29.9% (40.1)

10.2%(13.7)

100.0%(134.2)

2003/04* 5.5%(9.0)

37.3%(60.7)

8.4%(13.7)

5.3%(8.6)

34.5%(56.1)

9.0%(14.7)

100.0%(162.8)

2004/05 5.1%(599.3)

37.6%(4444.1)

5.8%(691.8)

4.6%(538.0)

39.2%(4635.3)

7.7%(906.4)

100%(164.4)

2005/06 5.9%(694.9)

28.3%(3309.3)

13.6%(1586.8)

6.9%(809.4)

34.0%(3986.4)

11.3%(1324.1)

100%(162.1)

2006/07 5.9%(743.7)

29.6%(3746.6)

13.4% (1693.4)

7.6%(961.5)

32.4%(4093.2)

11.1%(1407.4)

100%(181.2)

2007/08 4.6%(952.2)

22.3%(4529.4)

6.3%(176.2)

4.9%(1000.6)

54.3%(11040.8)

7.6%(1540.5)

100%(313.9)

Source: Nepal Rastra Bank –Complied and Analyzed by Research Unit, Nepal Tourism Board

Nepal Tourism Statistics 2005 - 08-Government of Nepal (MoCTCA)

(Figures in Italics are in NRS.)

Convertible Foreign Exchange Income by different Tourism Sources (1997/98 - 2007/08) Annex 23:


Country 1998 2000 2002 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Australia 11132(2.4)

12189(2.6)

7159(2.6)

9671(2. 5)

7093(1.9)

8231(2.1)

12369(2.3)

13846(2.8)

15270(2.9)

Austria 4603(1.0)

5221(1.1)

3140(1.1)

4341(1.1)

3007(0.8)

3474(0. 9)

4473(0.8)

3540(0.7)

3134(0.6)

Canada 7136(1. 5)

8590(1. 9)

3747(1.4)

4825(1.3)

4168(1.1)

4733(1. 2)

7399(1.4)

8132(1.6)

8862(1.7)

Denmark 4781(1.0)

4847(1.0)

2040(0.7)

2633(0.7)

1770(0. 5)

1956(0. 5)

3157(0.6)

3847(0.8)

4453(0.8)

France 21992(4.7)

24506(5. 3)

13376(4. 9)

18936(4. 9)

14108(3.8)

14835(3. 9)

20250(3.8)

22402(4.5)

22123(4.3)

Germany 23862(5.1)

26263(5.7)

15774(5.7)

16025(4.0)

14345(3.8)

14361(3.7)

21323(4.0)

18552(3.7)

19123(3.7)

India 143229(30. 9)

95915(20.7)

66777(24.2)

90326(23.4)

95685(25.5)

93722(24.4)

96010(18.2)

91177(18.2)

93781(18.4)

Italy 12864(2.8)

11491(2. 5)

8057(2. 9)

12376(3.2)

8785(2. 3)

7736(2.0)

11243(2.1)

7914(1.6)

7897(1.5)

Japan 37386(8.1)

41070(8. 9)

23223(8.4)

24231(6. 3)

18239(4. 9)

22242(5.8)

27058(5.1)

23383(4.7)

22189(4.3)

Netherlands 14403(3.1)

16211(3. 5)

8306(3.0)

11160(2. 9)

8947(2.4)

7207(1. 9)

10589(2.0)

10900(2.2)

10995(2.1)

Spain 8832(1. 9)

8874(1. 9)

5267(1 .9)

11767(3.1)

8891(2.4)

10377(2.7)

15672(3.0)

13851(2.8)

12998(2.5)

Switzerland 6644(1.4)

6230(1. 3)

3352(1. 2)

3788(1.0)

3163(0.8)

3559(0. 9)

5238(1.0)

5186(1.0)

5198(1.0)

Sri Lanka 11031(2.4)

16649(3.6)

9805(3.6)

16124(4. 2)

18770(5.0)

27413(7.1)

49947(9.5)

37817(7.6)

36537(7.1)

U.S.A. 35902(7.7)

40442(8.7)

17518(6.4)

20680(5.4)

18539(4. 9)

19833(5. 2)

29783(5.7)

30079(6.0)

31835(6.2)

U.K. 35499(7.7)

37765(8.1)

21007(7.6)

24667(6.4)

25151(6.7)

22708(5. 9)

32367(6.1)

33658(6.7)

35022(6.8)

Others 84388(18. 2)

107383(23. 2)

66920(24. 3)

11745(29. 5)

124737(33. 2)

121539(31.7)

176312(33.5)

171989(34.4)

53528(10.5)

Total 463884(100.0)

463646(100.0)

275.468(100.0)

385297(100.0)

375398(100.0)

383926(100.0)

526505(100)

500277(100)

509752(100)

Source: Nepal Tourism Statistics 2009, MoTCA and NTB (2010)

Tourist Arrival by Country of Residence (1998 – 2009)Annex 23:


NON-SAARC TOURIST RECORD

MONTH 054/55 055/56 056/57 057/58 058/59 059/60 060/61 061/62 062/63 063/64 064/65 065/66 Total

SRAWON 8505 9289 9096 10589 6038 3371 5132 6564 5877 5644 9426 6417

BHADRA 7714 8298 9700 8766 5485 3577 4929 5384 5478 4793 7702 6122

ASWIN 11874 15056 16333 15057 8979 5984 8046 7483 8545 8595 11734 11871

KARTIK 20156 24275 25467 26005 14329 8846 13609 13186 13015 13708 18571 20209

MANSIR 12295 13562 16123 16913 7744 5506 9539 7697 8601 8421 10590 11741

POUSH 9539 10400 9681 10304 4026 3910 6471 4677 5635 6100 7253 6545

MAGH 7892 8746 8844 8861 3213 3295 5883 3289 3404 5397 6616 5120

FAGUN 11578 13656 13818 13271 4782 4609 7839 4812 5524 8586 9758 8371

CHAITRA 13750 15625 14268 14540 6577 5907 9821 6001 5776 11500 11840 11087

BAISHAKH 10359 11436 15310 11489 4658 5465 8368 5202 3282 8893 10550 9645

JESTHA 4553 6031 5830 3567 2538 2180 3160 2493 2200 4330 4291 4172

ASAR 3135 3703 3647 1950 1331 1911 2117 1679 2074 3270 2634 3015

TOTAL 121350 140077 148117 141312 69700 54561 84914 68467 69411 89237 110965 104315


Total Tourists Arrivals in Bhaktapur City Annex 25:


SAARC TOURIST ONLY

MONTH 054/55 055/56 056/57 057/58 058/59 059/60 060/61 061/62 062/63 063/64 064/65 065/66 Total

SRAWON * 3083 2441 2589 1100 2072 2376 2215 2004 1762 2867 1834

BHADRA * 2587 2861 2571 1408 1943 1759 887 2496 1266 2537 1593

ASWIN * 5529 3972 5457 1583 1892 3787 1585 2949 3283 3578 5195

KARTIK * 7051 7151 6934 2639 2629 4300 1899 2559 3045 4352 4556

MANSIR * 3075 5063 2846 1521 1858 2248 1754 1773 1551 3297 2490

POUSH 1375 5920 4494 2866 800 2216 2652 1669 2062 2967 3350 3925

MAGH 2332 2926 1313 1638 815 1482 2191 962 1708 1530 2470 3636

FAGUN 2949 3875 1943 1803 943 1749 2093 547 1173 2719 1986 1970

CHAITRA 3000 3608 2096 2183 1194 1549 2207 626 897 2173 2499 2931

BAISHAKH 6093 5470 4941 4218 2349 2979 3422 1585 538 4257 2856 3251

JESTHA 9893 10162 9102 4565 4096 6335 4500 3053 2455 4854 4669 5404

ASAR 6238 4442 4387 1071 3652 3888 2590 2356 2305 2787 1919 2138

TOTAL 31880 57728 49764 38741 22100 30592 34125 19138 22919 32194 36380 38923


Total Tourists Arrivals in Bhaktapur CityAnnex 26:


TOTAL TOURIST RECORD

MONTH 054/55 055/56 056/57 057/58 058/59 059/60 060/61 061/62 062/63 063/64 064/65 065/66 Total

SRAWON 8505 12372 11537 13178 7138 5443 7508 8779 7881 7406 12293 8251

BHADRA 7714 10885 12561 11337 6893 5520 6688 6271 7974 6059 10239 7715

ASWIN 11874 20585 20305 20514 10562 7876 11833 9068 11494 11878 15312 17066

KARTIK 20156 31326 32618 32939 16968 11475 17909 15085 15574 16753 22923 24765

MANSIR 12295 16637 21186 19759 9265 7364 11787 9451 10374 9972 13887 14231

POUSH 10914 16320 14175 13170 4826 6126 9123 6346 7697 9067 10603 10470

MAGH 10224 11672 10157 10499 4028 4777 8074 4251 5112 6927 9086 8756

FAGUN 14527 17531 15761 15074 5725 6358 9932 5359 6697 11305 11744 10341

CHAITRA 16750 19233 16364 16723 7771 7456 12028 6627 6673 13673 14339 14018

BAISHAKH 16452 16906 20251 15707 7007 8444 11790 6787 3820 13150 13406 12896

JESTHA 14446 16193 14932 8132 6634 8515 7660 5546 4655 9184 8960 9576

ASAR 9373 8145 8034 3021 4983 5799 4707 4035 4379 6057 4553 5153

TOTAL 153230 197805 197881 180053 91800 85153 119039 87605 92330 121431 147345 143243

REMARKS : FOR NON SAARC - Rs 50. starting from 6th Srawon 2050 (21st July 1993). Rs 300.or $5. from 1st Srawon 2053 (16th July)Rs 375.or $5. from 1st Bhadra 2057 (17th August 2001)Rs750. or $10 from 17th Poush 2057 (1st Jan 2001).

FOR SAARC - Rs 30 from 17th Poush 2054 (1st Jan 1998)Rs.50. from 17th Poush 2057 (1st Jan 2001).

Source: Bhaktapur Municipality, Tourist Service Center (2010)

Total Tourists Arrivals in Bhaktapur CityAnnex 27:


Summary of Accommodation Enterprises

SN Name Type of accommodation Number of Room Number of Tourist Bed Conference Hall Restaurant

Star

Reso

rt

TH Lodg

e

HS MCL

Suite

s

Delux

e

Stand

ard

Norm

al

Dorm

itory

Suite

s

Delux

e

Stand

ard

Norm

al

Dorm

itory

Numb

er

Capa

city

No.

Cap.

1 Hotel Palanse and Resort X 4 12 5 17 1 15 1 50

2 Heart of Bhaktapur 1 45

3 New Beer Garden 1 60+

4 Hotel Sweet Home X 7 32 2 130+ 1 70

5 Bhadgaon Guesthouse X 18 17 28 32 1 80+

6 Café Garden Restaurant 1 120

7 Shiva Guest House X 2 14 7 6 28 12 1 50

8 Palace Restaurant 1 64

9 Pagoda Guest House X 2 2 2 2 4 4 1 30

10 Siddha Pokhari Guest House X 8 12 1 40

11 Peacock Restaurant 1 80

12 Nepal Family Home Guest House X 10 16 1 40

13 Farm House Restaurant 1 50 1 50+

14 Sunshine Restaurant 1 20 1 70

15 City Gaon Restaurant X 7 7 1 60 1 160

16 Ganesh Guest House X 7 8 1 20

17 Big Bell Restaurant X 5 7 1 44

18 Sea Bird Restaurant X 9 9 1 36

19 The Windows Restaurant 1 200

20 Araniko Village Resort 12 1 12 10 1 40 1 50

21 Khwopa Guest House X 10 14 1 30+

22 Hotel Gaunle Restaurant 2 2 1 10

23 Hotel New Valley and Resort X 2 14 2 14 1 30

24 New Highway X 5 5 1 25

25 Dattatraya Guest House und Café X 14 9 1 40+

26 Black Cup Coffe Bar 1 40+

27 Bhanjan Resort Pvt Ltd X 18 10 1 30+

28 Bhakatpur Guest House X 30 70 3 115+ 1 100

29 Unique Guest House X 4

30 De' Square Restaurant 1 100

Inventory of Accommodation Facilities in the Major Tourism Areas of BhaktapurAnnex 28:


31 Café de Mantra 1 50+

32 Dhanush Restaurant X 4 4 1 20

33 Typical Traditional Resort 4 4 1 150+

34 Hob Nob Restaurant 1 80 21 200+

35 Planet Bhaktapur X 7 5 14 10 1 35 1 40+

36 Tryst Fast Food Restaurant 1 55

37 Newa Guest House X 3 10 6 20

38 Siddhi Laxmi Guest House and Roof Top Café X 1 1 8 1 1 14 1 25

39 Le Café Nyatapola 1 90

40 Watshala Garden 1 100+

41 Newa Family Restaurant 1 40

42 You Me Restaurant 1 39

43 Café 'de Temple Town 1 100+

44 De Marco Polo Restaurant 1 35

45 Nepalica 'de Roof Top Café 1 80+

46 Greenland Guest House X 7 13 1 40 1 25+

47 Khwopa Garden Restaurant 1 60+

48 Hiotel Bhintuna X 13 23

49 Beer Garden Restaurant and Roof Top Café 1 150

50 Sunny Guest House and Café X 6 1 3 9 8 2 6 15 1 52

Note: TH: Tourist Hotel, MCL: Monastery/Community Lodge, HS: Homestay, Res : Restaurant


Summary of Accommodation Enterprises

SN Name Type of accommodation Number of Room Number of Tourist Bed Conference Hall

Restaurant

Star

Reso

rt

TH Lodg

e

HS MCL

Suite

s

Delux

e

Stand

ard

Norm

al

Dorm

itory

Suite

s

Delux

e

Stand

ard

Norm

al

Dorm

itory

Numb

er

Capa

city

No.

Cap.

1 Talkot Hill Resort X 4 4 1 30 1 60

2 Changu Narayan Guest House and Restaurant X 4 4 1 30

3 Changu Cottage Restaurant and Guesthouse X 3 3 1 40

4 Kaya Restaurant and Guest House

5 Changu Narayan now Hill Resort and Guest House X 5 5 1 40

6 Binayak Restaurant 40

7 Roof Top Restaurant 40

Note: TH: Tourist Hotel, MCL: Monastery/Community Lodge, HS: Homestay, Res : Restaurant

Source: Nepal Tourism Board/Secretariat For Bhaktapur Tourism Development and Management Plan

Inventory of Accommodation Facilities in Changu NarayanAnnex 29:


Summary of Restaurants (2010)

SN Name Address Date of Registration

Last date of Renewal

Institution Registering H/L

Types of ownershipTelephone/Fax

Single Multiple

1 Friends Cafe Tower Tukucha-5, Ngk. X 6680141/9841005657

2 Samber Khaja Ghar Nagarkot-7 X 9803659105

3 Ever Green Restaurant Nagarkot-6 X 6680034/9841654105

4 Sumnima Restaurant Nagarkot-7 X 9803638041

5 Tea House Inn Nagarkot-7 1991 2007 ACE Hotels and Resorts X 16680048

6 Nagarkot Khaja Ghar Nagarkot-8 19/08/2065 Bkt PAN X 016912057/ 9841042663

7 Nagarkot Khaja Ghar Nagarkot-7 X 9841439552

8 Everest Family Nagarkot-8 X 6680129/9841049490

9 the Berg House Café Naldum-8 X 6680067/9841399242

10 Nagarkot Food Home Nagarkot-8 6680027/9841430942

11 Nagarkot Gantabya Nagarkot-8 X 6680116/9841300839

12 Nargakot Restaurant Nagarkot-8 9841138676

13 Sumdima Restaurant Nagarkot-8 9841692840

14 Coffe Shop Naldum-8 6680170/9841791709

15 Chill Out Restaurant Naldum-8 9841987775

16 Sun Rise Restaurant Naldum 6680008/9841848474

17 Noritake Naldum-8 6680050/9841916129

18 Sun-Set Restaurant Naldum-8 9841477657

19 AC's Café Nagarkot-8 X 9841113949

20 Sun-Set View Naldum-8 9751010416

21 Paradise Restaurant Naldum-8 9803013918

22 Nice View Tea and Coffee Naldum-8 X 6680030/9841410190

23 Nagarkot Khaja Ghar Nagarkot-8 9841432135

24 Dandu Ghar Rest Point Nagarkot-2 X 6614635

Source: Nepal Tourism Board/Secretariat For Bhaktapur Tourism Development and Management Plan

Inventory of Restaurant Facilities in NagarkotAnnex 30:


SWOT AnalysisWorkshop held: 7th Jestha, 2067As presented by the Groups (1 to 4 respectively):

A. Strengths (S):Important religious/ tourism places at different (4) VDCs (Nagarkot, Chhaling, Bageshwori and Sudal):

Nagarkot Bageshwori Chhaling Sudal

• Gita mandir-1• Jalpadevi mandir-1• Mahankal mandir-3• Panchakanya mandir-3• Chamere gupha-5• Kalika mandir-6• Sundari mandir-8• Satighat• Gaikhureshwor Mahadev-3• Tamatol Gumba-4• Kot at Sunrise point

• Bageshwori Mahadev Sthan-7• Bagehitee Sthan -5• Ratna Chudeshwor Mahadev-6• Jageshwor Mahadev-3• Manikarnika Ghat (Sudal-5,

Bageshwori-9)• Nishkalankeshwor Mahadevs-

than-2• Padma Bhakteshwori Hitee

Dhara-5• Panchakanya Chahara-9• Rajkulo

• Trishul Danda-1• Machchhe Narayan mandir-5• Om Shanti Bhawan-6• Manakamana mandir-7• Ram mandir-7• Pancha Mahalaxmi mandir-9• Krishna mandir-7• Bhumesthan-7• Nateshwori-2• Beg Binayak mandir-3• Sansaridevi mandir-4

• Saya (100) Bangal-5• 9 Dhanu and 9 tale ghat-5• Jethi Brahmayeni-3, Maili Brhamayeni-9,• Bakumari Mishretar -9 (Guthali sahar)• Thakaleshwor Mahadev-8 (kalam-masee)• Sapaneshwor (Khawa Bhanjyang)d-..• Ganesh Dhunga (Punyamata Trishul

dhara)-8• Saraswoti mahamanjushree mandi Gupha-6• Gaukhureshwor Jhapra-7• Suryakunda• Haweli Devsthal• Chareli Bindabasini mandir• Bojeni (the origin of Sheelanadee and

Suvarna-nadee)• Jitpur dhara chaur• Jitpur Chela ganeshsthan• Radhakrishna Mandir/ Barpeepal• Gumba (Manjushree)

B. Weaknesses (W):1. Lack of tourism awareness, education and training2. Environmental problems, such as: a) deforestation b) lack of drinking water resources c) Land encroachment 3. Poor condition of rural roads/ trails4. No accommodation services in the rural areas for tourists5. Poor conditions of hygiene and sanitation6. Lack of timely maintenance of historic heritages/ temples etc.7. No recognition of ethnic diversities8. Lack of tourism promotion/ extension9. Problem of agricultural products marketing10. Less attention on local handicrafts (training, production, marketing of mainly bamboo-based items)11. Less focus of the government agencies to promote tourism in this area12. Ensured security of tourists lacking13. Tourism infrastructures are lacking14. Monopoly of some tourism entrepreneurs15. Less attention towards local jadibutis (medicinal plants)

Output of Kharipati (Shreekrishna School) WorkshopAnnex 31:


C. Opportunities (O):

SN Potential Product/ Tourism Route Potential Tourism Activities What should be done to improve?

1.Bhaktapur- Yatu Mahadev (Bageshwori 2)- Balmike-shwor (Bageshwori 7)- Bagehitee- Manedanda- Na-garkot

• Pilgrimage• Jungle Walk• Study of historical places• (possible)?: Jalabihar at Muhan Pokhari• Rock-climbing ? • Mass Awareness Programmes,

• Training,• Formation of Tourism Groups/

Committees,• Livestock farming,• Organic production,• Preservation and promotion of local

culture/festivals, traditions, dresses,foods etc.

• Jadibuti cultivation

2.Bhaktapur- Changunarayan- Chhaling/Trishul Danda- Jalpadevi- Tamang Gaun- Kafalchaur (new accom-modation management required), if not,- Nagarkot

• Pilgrimage/ Yoga• Study of historical place• Nature walk• Cultural exchange• Bird-watching

3. Bhaktapur- Bansbari-Manikarnika Ghat – Sudal ganesh mandir- Mahamanjushree- Nagarkot

• Agri-tourism• Cultural interaction• Pilgrimage• Nature walk

4. Bhaktapur- Baahal Phant- Mahadev Khola- Nagarkot• Agri-tourism• Cultural interaction• Nature/ Jungle walk

Expected benefits from tourism (as the locals mentioned): o More employment (Guide/cook etc.)/ business opportunitieso Enhanced marketing of local agricultural, animal and forest productso Improvement in the local handicraftso Preservation of local culture and traditions, etc.

D. Threats (T):(also Challenges to develop tourism in the area)

o Good ‘access’ problem in many placeso Accommodation problem in the rural areaso Food preparation and hospitality skills lacking in the local residentso No good toilets/ public toilets in the areao Parking facilities not availableo Skills in English (foreign) languageo Lack of sufficient tourism skills/ trainings in local peopleso No resting places on the way (trails) for touristso Historical and traditional infrastructures are loosing their originality, how to save?o How to preserve the traditional culture and societal values ?o Ensured supply of drinking watero Hygiene and sanitation problemso Locals are hardly getting expected benefits from the present tourism development, how to tackle this problem in the

future?o Massive encroachment of forest and public lands in Nagarkot and surrounding areas, how to control them?o Depletion of greenery and forest resources in many placeso Security of tourists in the rural/ jungle areas?


Workshop held: 11th Jestha, 2067

SWOT Analysis (District-level)

(Compiled version of the outputs from 4 groups)

Output of Bhaktapur City (BCCI Hall) WorkshopAnnex 32:

Strengths:1. Bhaktapur has 2 world famous “Heritage Sites” :

Bhaktapur city and Changunarayan

2. It has huge intangible heritages (culture/ traditions) and it has been already recognized in the national/international tourism markets

3. Rural tourism sites

4. Bhaktapur was awarded by the UNESCO as well

5. Many festivals throughout the year

6. Good transportation facilities in many areas

7. Excellent handicrafts

8. 108 ft. (143 ft including underground structures) Shiva at Chhittapol with yoga and nature-therapy facilities

9. Attractive scenes, forests, landscapes

10. Best and peculiar/ native pottery/ ceramic productions

11. Very good management/capable leadership of the Bhaktapur Municipality (an example!)

12. Three museums in Bhaktapur

13. More enthusiast, active, dedicated and optimistic populace/stakeholders for promoting Bhaktapur district as a ‘Tourism Distrct’ in Nepal

14. Akll the VDCs are also committed to allocate budgets for tourism development

15. Very near from the international airport

16. 6-lane road from Koteshwor to Suryabinayak

17. Unique and historical products of Bhaktapur: Jujudhau,3 (king-curd), Khuwa, Bhadgaunle topi, ‘Bhaktapure’ cucumber etc.

18. Conservation and renovation of historical monuments/ heritage sites

19. Received international organisations’ support and special focus on preserving the old heritages (e.g. GTZ, UNESCO, UNDP, etc.)

20. Religious tourism in Katunje VDC (Suryavinayak, Subarneshwor Mahadev, Sushil Bhairav etc.)

21. Ganeshman vatika (174 ropani of forest area allocated)

22. National Open Zoo at Suryavinayak (proposed)

23. Suitable for cycling/ biking/ mountain-biking

24. Madhyapur Thimi’s Dakshin Barahi to Neel Barahi could be a good tourism site mixing the urban and rural tourism flavors

25. Majority of the Bhaktapur people is educated/literate

26. Rich in culture, and many local cultural/ bhajan mandali groups have been in operation (good potential of mobilizing further)

27. Good places for sunrise/ sunset views, Himalayan views and other attractive scenes of the valley and surroundings

28. Suitable environment/ climatic condition of Bhaktapur (no cold, no hot !)

29. Good communication facilities

30. Good transportation facilities at main points of tourism

31. Bhaktapur is recognized as, comparatively, a ‘clean’ city

32. Some tourism-related institutions are also existing: e.g. Nagarkot Naldum TDC, and some local level Temple/ Gumba Management Committees

Weaknesses:1. Lack of standard hotels (at the city) and

accommodations in the south part

2. Haphazard openings of resorts/lodges/ restaurants

3. No overnight stay (especially in Bhaktapur and Changunarayan) due to the absence of ‘night’ (recreational) activities

4. Short duration of the tourists

5. Lack of easy access to many rural/ unexplored sites

6. Less community-based or community-led tourism development in Bhaktapur

7. Lack of sanitation and hygiene

8. Inactiveness of the local government units/ system

9. Lack of toilets in public places/ tourist routes


10. Internet facilities in the rural areas not available at present

11. Lack of direct international contacts/ promotions/ marketing, at present Bhaktapur tourism is totally dependent on Kathmandu entrepreneurs (travel/tour agents);

12. Less information/ promotion/ marketing tools adopted

13. Low media/ electronic media coverage of Bhaktapur tourism

14. The brochure of Bhaktapur municipality has covered insufficient information about Bhaktapur’s beauty and potentiality

15. Less infrastructures development and minimum efforts in identifying new areas/ potentials

16. Lack of TIC (tourist information centre) and signboards/ arrows at strategic places

17. Hawkers’ problem in main places

18. Duplicate materials are diminishing the values of ‘original’ things

19. Cut-throat competitions in tourism

20. Government’s monitoring system is useless/ ineffective

21. NTB was not effectively involved in developing and promoting Bhaktapur

22. Less efforts of local leaders/ bodies in bringing new donors/ projects from the Centre/ International arena

23. Less efforts in enhancing youth involvement in tourism-related activities

24. Lack of human resources with tourism management knowledge and skills

25. Impunity culture (no punishment to the destroyer?)

26. Unhealthy competitions among the entre entrepreneurs

27. Lack of professionalism in exhibiting the local culture/traditions to the tourists

28. Less expertise in managing music faculty and musical activities

29. Lack of skilled/ trained, as well as licensed, Local Tour Guides

30. Absence of quality tourism education and training institute(s) in Bhaktapur

31. Beggars problem

32. Traffic problem (in Bhaktapur city)

33. Lack of banking facilities , especially in Nagarkot

34. Increasing environmental problems: river pollution, brick-factories/ chimneys, unplanned urbanization, sewage, transportation problems/ parking, roadside encroachment, destruction of forest resources, etc.

35. Visual pollutions: un-systematic sign-boards/ hoarding-boards, posters, electricity and cable wires etc.

36. Lack of awareness in tourism, and in the conservation of cultural/ historical heritage sites/ monuments/ buildings etc. as many locals think (misconceive) that the ‘tourism and conservation’ is the responsibility of the ‘entrepreneurs’ only??

37. Theft & smuggling of historical/ archaeological things

38. Unsecured tourist security system, particularly in the Durbar square area and some rural areas (Bhaktapur has no ‘Tourist Police’ yet)

39. Poor coordination among travel agencies/ hotels and other stakeholders

40. The new Labor Act has discouraged the entrepreneurs to recruit new employees

41. Less tourist activities at present

42. Lack of experts/ expertise in local songs, dances and Daafaa

43. Lack of modern/ scientific research on traditional culture/festivals, songs and dances

44. No regular cultural programmes in major touristic sites

45. Absence of ‘Calendar of Events’ in Bhaktapur

46. Less attention/ poor efforts of the concerned (responsible) to develop tourism even in the highly potential sites/areas/ settlements;

47. Lack of water resources to fulfill the growing needs

48. Lack of proper place (dumping site) to manage wastes

49. Bhaktapur is lacking new and innovative tourism product development tactics

50. Low local benefits (particularly in the marginalized and disadvantaged families) and community participation

51. Less investment and concerted efforts of the government for Bhaktapur tourism development

52. Conflicts during special festivals (e.g. jibro chhedne jatra)

53. Some temples are not open for the tourists (so we are loosing potential incomes)


New Opportunities to develop tourism products and activities in Bhaktapur district 1. Bhaktapur can be developed as a “Complete” tourism

site, including cultural, natural, rural & urban, adventure etc.

2. Established 2 sites (Nagarkot and Bhaktapur) could ease developing new rural sites as additional tourism products

3. Nepal Tourism Year- 2011 is approaching, therefore, Bhaktapur Tourism can harness more opportunities from this national event

4. There are possibilities of attracting both Indian and Chinese tourists (for Indian: Doleshwor Mahadev, 108 feet Shiva at Chittapol etc.; for Chinese: Buddhist sites such as- Manjushree Bihar and other dozens of Bihars, etc.)

5. South part can be developed as Recreation/ Resorts centre

6. Open Zoo at Suryavinayak will have more opportunity to attract many Nepali and international visitors. This will also help promoting Ananta-lingeshwor.

7. Thimi could be developed as “Ceramic Village”

8. Home-stay tourism could be developed at: Nangkhel, Maligaun, Saraswotikhel etc.

9. A good school for “Music/Culture” could be established and promoted under KU (?)

10. Bhaktapur can be easily linked with other nearby tourism sites, for example, Sankhu, Dhulikhel, Nala/Banepa/Panauti, Lankuribhanjyang etc.

11. Possibility of establishing/ developing a new “Eco-tourism Trail”

12. Many products and activities for attracting domestic tourists.

13. Kathmandu metropolitan and other many municipalities are nearby from Bhaktapur and these places are rapidly growing and flourishing, thereby producing more ‘domestic tourists’

14. Good area for developing MICE tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions)

15. More employment opportunities can be generated through tourism in all 916) VDCs and 2 municipalities of Bhaktapur

16. Sports tourism in Bhaktapur (rock climbing, cycling/ biking, paragliding etc.)

Threats:1. Political instability, strikes etc.

2. Rapid urbanization/ population growth

3. Growing industrialization

4. Increasing environmental problems (smoke) and forest depletions

5. Pollution in the landscapes due to unplanned plotting and other (sand) mining

6. Haphazardly constructed narrow rural roads destructing the trekking/ hiking trails

7. Participation of local communities and benefit sharing

8. Bhaktapur has to compete with Kathmandu tourism !

9. Tourists are spending less as compared before

Critical Issues to be addressed by the Tourism Plan (suggestions):1. Strategies/policies to spread out the benefits of tourism

in the rural communities/ disadvantaged groups

2. Linking all religious sites of Bhaktapur for “Pilgrimage Tourism”

3. Appropriate institutional mechanisms to sustain tourism efforts in Bhaktapur

4. ‘One village (VDC) one product’ in real sense

5. Public toilets, rest houses at Kamalbinayak and Chyamasingh should get first priority

6. Model Home-stay (Village) tourism with traditional cultural and ‘architectural’ flavors

7. Alternative electricity system for each of the major tourism sites to ensure 24-hour electricity supply even in the ‘national load-shedding hours’


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1. Home Stay Programme

Community involved in this program can benefit from tourism directly. This concept has been successful for the distribution of tourism benefits to wider range of people. To make this program successful, It is necessary to work in collaboration with local hotels. If managed properly, hotels and home stay program can supplement each other. Community’s support in this sector can enhance the overall tourism development of the area. Broadly, community’s involvement in Home stay program will contribute to:

1 Keep the area clean.

2 Preserve the local heritages or monument or temples.

3 Preserve local culture and tradition.

4 Develop new activities for sale to the tourist.

5 Produce local handicrafts

6 Produce milk and vegetable products for their home – stay program and for the hotel.

7 Carryout organic farming.

If Home Stay program is run properly it will have benefits to both society and individuals, which can be listed as follows:

1 It can support on financial income to the families participated in the program.

2 Since the program need certain standards of cleanliness and hygiene participating family need to maintain minimum cleanliness of the house, kitchen, toilets and individual health and hygiene and environment of the home as a whole.

3 It is expected that the participating family in this program maintain garden as well as vegetable garden.

4 Guest and host family both are able to learn each other’s culture and they can adapt the good practices.

5 Family can have better food compared to others who are not participating in the program.

6 The relation in the community will be maintained properly since all the members work together.

7 It is not necessary that the family who will have guest room can only be benefitted from the program. There are many other activities where others can participate in the program. They could be laundry services, production of dairy product, supply of vegetable and fruits.

2. Cooperative approach

Cooperative can be an appropriate structure to make more people involved in the tourism program. This principle can benefit the local people where locals are not able to invest larger amount in alone. It is believed that a cooperative approach for tourism development can help locals to organize and operate activities very well and help them to share profits and distribute that among members equally. District Development Committee with the technical assistance from Cooperative Department could organize the training for the members, host families, and the other families involved in other supporting services. Some study tour for sharing experience from the community running home stay program is also needed prior to start the program.

It is necessary to provide detail information to the community who are interested to establish the home stay program in their villages. We have to accept that there are certain conditions where a village can host such program. The most important thing is that the village is interested to host the tourist and the there is a need of very dedicated families to make the program success. The uniqueness of the village, culturally or naturally is strong point to host the home stay program. Strong family support for the program is also essential condition for the program.

3. Revitalizing the name and the occupation ofthe villages

a. Tikani & Bitten Rice

In Bhaktapur there are some villages which hold great importance for their products. But, due to the introduction of new technology they have lost their importance. Bode Tikani and Chitrapur are

Activities that could have greater socio economic impacts from tourism in Bhaktapur Annex 34:


the two popular villages for the bitten rice. With the introduction of new machines to produce bitten rice the old tradition of producing bitten rice has been disappeared.

These two villages have good potential to revive the old product with traditional popular brand. It has to be done with some modern business approaches. The product quality and attractive packaging can play important role to market this product.

b. Bhadgaunle Cap

This product can be used as a soviour item. The earlier practices to provide every male tourist a Bhadgaunle Cap has to be revived. This practice can help rural people to get benefit from this traditional practice.

c. Thimi Ceramic

One of the Bhaktapur’s main products is pottery. In Bhaktapur especially Madyapur Thimi has a great potential to develop as a ceramic town. There are about 16 ceramic industries in Bhaktapur out of them 11 are in Madyapur Thimi alone. Ceramic wares produced in these areas are exported mainly to USA, Denmark, Japan and other countries. This product can equally hold importance as souvenir items for tourists.

This industry can be developed as one of the major industries for Thimi. Changing the traditional pottery making practices into ceramic could be one of the main economic activities for Thimi. This will add value to

their products directly benefiting more to the people involved in this occupation. Attracting new generation in this sector and following modern promotional and marketing activities could further enhance market both at national as well as in international sector.

d. Organic farming

Bhaktapur was the largest supplyer of fresh vegetable to Kathmandu city since long time. However, due to the urbanization proes the supply has been reduced. However, there are still plenty of opportunities to produce and sell organic vegetables which could help to boost the economic activities of this district.

4. Mainstreaming women in tourism activities

Helping women to participate in the overall tourism development process can boost the local economy. This can be ensured by helping women to:

1. Participate in tourism planning and development process and involving them in all tourism related institutions and decision making positions.

2. Work as a local tour guides

3. Develop home-stay accommodation packages

4. Train and engage in accommodation and hospitality related jobs like cook, housekeeping, waiters etc.

5. Train and capacitate in developing eco-tourism and tourism enterprises in community forest.

6. Participate in herbal farming and other cash crops


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S.No. Place Acce

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1 Nil Barahi + X X + X X X x x X X X X X20 2000 300 1000 500 10000 1000 1500 500 5000 1000 22820

2 Bode(Layaku) + X + + X X X x + X X X X X20 2000 100 1000 500 - - - 500 - - - 4120

3 Saraswati Mandir + X x + X X X x x X X X X X20 2000 100 1000 500 - - - 500 - 5000 100 - 9220

4 Phai Dhoka Ganesh + X x + X X X x x X X X X X10 1000 100 5000 500 - 500 500 500 - 5000 500 13610

5 Chatur Vyuha Vishnu + X x + X X X x x X X X X X50 500 50 5000 500 - 500 500 - - - - 500 7600

6 Changu Narayan + + + + + + + + + X + + + +- - - - - - - - - 500 - - - - 500

7 Trishul Danda + X x + X X + x x X X X X X50 500 - 200 500 - 500 1500 500 100 5000 500 500 9850

8 Jalpa Devi + X x + + X + x x X X + X50 - - - 500 - 500 - 500 500 - 100 500 2650

9 Pancha Kanya + X x x x X X x x x X x x X50 1000 500 500 500 - 500 1000 - 100 5000 100 500 9750

10 Chun Devi + X x x x X X x x x X x x X50 1000 500 500 500 - 500 1000 - - 5000 100 - 9150

11 Nagarkot + X + + + X + + + + + + + +- - - - - - - - 500 - - - - 500

12 Forest Walk + X + + + X + + + X X + +50 - - 500 500 - 500 - - 100 - - - 1650

13 Tower + X + + X X + + + X X X X- - - - 500 - - - 500 - - - - 1000

14 Gaikhureshwor + X x + X X X x x X X X X X50 - - 500 500 - 500 1000 - - - - - 2550

15 Maha Manjushree + X x + X X X x x X X X X X50 1000 - - 500 - 500 1000 500 100 5000 100 500 9250

16 Bage Hiti + X X + X X X x x X X X X X50 500 100 500 500 - 500 1000 500 - 5000 100 100 8850

17 Balmikeswore50 - 100 500 500 - 500 - - - 5000 - - 6650

18 Brahmayini Nava Durga Jwala

50 500 100 500 500 - 500 1000 500 100 - 100 100 395019 Sushil Bhairab + + x + X X X x x X X X X X

50 500 100 500 500 - 500 1000 500 100 5000 100 100 895020 Somalingeshwor + X x + + X + x x X X X X X

50 - - - 500 - 500 1000 - 100 5000 100 100 7350

Amount required for the development of all the tourist spots in Bhaktapur rictAnnex 36:


21 Ganeshman Park + X x + + X + x x X X X X X50 - - - 500 - 500 1000 - 100 5000 100 100 7350

22 Surya Binayak + X + + X X X + + X X X X X50 - - - 500 - - - 500 100 5000 100 - 6250

23 Ghyampe Dnada + X x + + X X x + X X + X X50 500 - - - - - - - 100 100 100 100 950

24 Bagh Bhairab + X x x X X X x x X X X X50 500 500 500 500 - 500 - - - - - - 2550

25 Rani Kot x X x x X X X x x X X X X1000 50 500 1000 500 500 - 500 1000 - 100 5000 100 100 10350

26 Charkhandeshor + X X + X X X x X X X X X X50 1000 500 500 500 - 500 1000 500 100 5000 100 100 9850

27 Chitrapur + X x + X X x x X X X X X50 1000 500 500 500 - - - 500 100 5000 100 100 8350

28 Anantalingeshwor + X x + X X X x x X X X X X50 1000 500 500 500 - 500 1000 - 100 - 100 100 4350

29 Kailash Dnada +50 1000 - - - - - - - - - - - 1050

30 Doleshwor + X x + + X X x x X X X X X50 2000 500 500 500 2000 500 1000 500 100 5000 100 100 12850

31 Mali Gaon + X + X X x x X X + X X50 - 500 1000 - - - - - - - - - 1550

32 Ashapureshwor + X x + X X X + + X X x X50 1000 500 500 500 - - - 500 100 5000 100 100 8350

33 Nangkhel50 1000 - - - - - - 500 100 100 100 100 1950

34 Bagiswori + X x + X X X x x X X x X X

35 Thimi + X + + X X X + + + X x X X50 - - 500 500 - - - 500 100 100 100 100 1950

36 Nagadesh + X + + X X X + + X X x X X50 - - 100 500 - - - 500 100 100 100 100 1550

37 Bhaktapur + X + + + + + + + + + + + +- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

38 Chitapol Mahadeo + x x + + + x x x X + x X

39 Latarameswor + x x x X x X x x x X x x X50 1000 500 500 500 - 500 1000 - 100 5000 100 100 9350

40 Jyotilingeshwor + x x + x x x x x x X x x X50 1000 500 500 500 - 500 1000 - 100 100 5000 100 9350

41 Halal Gaon + x x + x X x x x X x x X50 1000 500 1000 500 - 500 1000 500 100 5000 100 100 10350

42 Muhan Pokhari + x x + x x x x x x x x X43 Tigani + x x + x x x x x x x X

50 - 500 500 - - 500 - 500 - 5000 - - 7050Total 1000 1670 25000 8550 24800 16000 12000 13000 20000 11500 2700 105500 7800 5800 255320

Note: + Existing, x not existing


Maps of Bhaktapur D

istrict showing tourism potentials

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Glimpses of Photographs taken during the planning processAnnex 38:

Tourism development and management plan of bhaktapur district (2012 2016)

Government & Nonprofit

Transcript of Tourism development and management plan of bhaktapur district (2012 2016)