Rural Tourism in Nepal (A Case Study of Home Stay Program of Lwang Ghalel Settlement Area of Kaski District, Nepal)

Abstract

This study is based on both primary and secondary data. More specifically, it is based on primary data collected using questionnaire through field survey in the study area. Based on the study, it is found that Lwang Ghalel VDC lies in north part of the tourism city Pokhara, Kaski district. This place is going to famous for domestic as well as international tourist from its potential for the tourism development, the local people are seen to be more interested and aware on the development of this area jointly as tourist destination. The study area has several aspects of tourism products. The study has regarded potential for the promotion of village tourism because the area is rich in natural and cultural heritage. The Gurung people with their unique culture, tea garden, ACAP area and beautiful seen of Annapurna range plays significant role in tourism cultural products of the Gurung community are better understanding of tourist attractions. According to the LHDC personnel more than 0.03 % of the tourists visited Lwang Ghalel village among the tourists who come to Pokhara. The average length of stay of tourists was only 1 day before 2 years but now it has been increasing. According to home stay owners now days the average stay of tourists in Lwang ghalel village is 1.5 days. The arrivals of tourists in 2067 (63) and 2068 (156) are fluctuating in Lwangghel. The majority of tourists arriving Lwang Ghalel by purpose of visit was the following: cultural study 35%, Night camping 23%, pleasure 27% and 15% for others in 2067. The majoring of foreigners visiting Lwang Ghalel on the age group 16-30 years of age 44%, followed 32% percent on 31-45 and 46-60 years group are 24 percent. The 60 percent of total tourists were found to stay for 1 day, 20 percent were found to spend 2 days, and during survey period.12 percent 3 days and 4 and 5 days were 4 percent respectively. Most of the home stay owner in Lwang ghalel told that the number of tourist is increasing every year.