Impact Analysis of Mountain Tourism in Nepal A Case Study of Khumbu Region

Abstract

The exotic mountains ranges, especially high Himalays are the pride ofthe nation. It has not only glorified the national prestige but has alsoestablished an unparalleled recognition in the world’s tourism endeavor.Mountaineering and trekking are the pioneer from of tourism activity inNepal since 1950s as the first visitors had came for the purpose ofscaling Mount Annapurna. Heavily inhabited by the poor but bravepopulation who are normally excluded from the developmentmainstream of the nation, the mountain areas are environmentally fragileand culturally rich. Serious attention on up keeping of the mountainenvironment is essential as Nepali mountains also represent most of thewatersheds in the country. The role of mountain tourism is very significant in the over all tourismsector. In fact tourism in Nepal began with mountain tourism. Khumburegion is famous for unique culture, recreation, scenic beauty andworld’s topmost touristic destination. Not only that, the crown of theworld Mount ‘Sagarmath’–the highest peak of the world also situatedin here. Because of difficult accessibility and underdevelopedconditions, Khumbu region is rich in biological, cultural and naturalresources. Better life in the mountain ispossible only when the mountainresources such as forests, watersheds, and other biological resources areconserved, sustain ably utilized and benefit is shared among thecustodians. Mountain tourism plays vital role in Khumbu area in order tooverall development of this region. Comaratively mountain tourism hasbeen created many positive results in Khumbu; preserving ofbiodiversity, increasing awareness, progressing economic status,preserving cultural norms and values etc. rather than negative impacts.