Eco-Tourism in Nepal: A Case Study of Phewa Lake Area, Pokhara

Abstract

Development problems of Nepal are unique and challenging because of its mountainous topography, geo-political situation as a buffer state and rural life style but Nepal is often described as Shangri-La for its scenic beauty. Nepal has an unequaled ecological and natural environmental variation ranging from the Teraiplains to Mountains and High Himalayas representing richness in biological and cultural diversity. Tourism can play a major role in Nepal’s overall development. In fact, eco-tourism might turn out to be a blessing for Nepal. Past to now cultural impressions and reconciliatory heritages have remained note worthy and a great treasure.Opportunities for development and social transformation centered on participatory biological diversity conservation are endless. Individuals, community, society and the government can focus on attracting foreign tourists and promoting tourism business for the development of Nepal. In view of the promotion of eco-tourism, this study examines the potentiality and essentiality of eco-tourism in Phewa area. In this context, this study focused on environmental Natural and cultural socio-economy condition on Phewa area in Kaski District. In short, Phewa Lake appears as if a celestial body fallen on earth from heaven but its loosing beauty is standing as a serious problem for Nepal and Nepalese. This study integrates environmental dimension in tourism development together and addresses development issues, management concerns and conservation needs in order to develop a framework for eco-tourism. Results of the study suggest that there is great potentiality of eco-tourism and essentiality of environmental conservation in the area. The values and principles ofeco-tourism are very essential to apply in the area not only for the foreigners but also equally to the locals especially who live in adjacent to the Phewa Lake.