Study of the Potentiality of Ecotourism in Chhekampar VDC of Gorkha District, Nepal

Abstract

Tourism is the most important component to contribute the economy of many developing countries. Since 1953, Nepal was opened for international tourist. Nepal government has given more emphasis on the tourism development in the part of the country. Most of the tourism activities were concentrated to the remote areas for the natural and cultural beauties. The study area “Chhekampar” is located within the Manaslu conservation Area, Gorkha, situated at an elevation of 2959m. Study on Potentiality of Ecotourism in Chhekampar VDC of Gorkha was carried out by field observation and questionnaire survey. The main question addressed is whether the area can be the potential area for ecotourism and the evaluation of the carrying capacity for tourism so that promotion of the area for ecotourism can be better integrated for enhanced livelihood opportunities and for reduced vulnerability of the rural poor. The results of this study showed that the area had high potential to be the hotspot for tourism sector. The socio cultural uniqueness, sacred landscapes, past and present religious monuments in addition to the outstanding scenic beauty had increased the tourism potential of the area. The legal restriction of the area for tourism had shadowed the development of the area. Thus, the area should be promoted as the tourism destination. The carrying capacity of the area is one of the important aspects that should be looked into for the tourism development of any area. The carrying capacity of the area had been assessed through minimum data set for natural system, human system and tourism activities. The large influx of tourists should be checked so as to conserve the pristine environment of the area. The Chhekampar area also had the sound potential for tourism. The increased attention should be paid by the government organization and related agencies to the area. We should look forward to derestricted area for tourism and promote the tourism in the area for the economic development of the area and people.