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

Abstract

Development problems of Nepal are unique and challenging because of its mountainoustopography, geo-political situation as a buffer stateand rural life style but Nepal is oftendescribed as Shangri-La for its scenic beauty. Nepal has an unequaled ecological andnatural environmental variation ranging from the Terai plains to Mountains and HighHimalayas representing richness in biological and cultural diversity. Tourism can play a major role in Nepal’s overall development. In fact, eco-tourism mightturn out to be a blessing for Nepal. Past to now cultural impressions and reconciliatoryheritages have remained note worthy and a great treasure. Opportunities for developmentand social transformation centered on participatory biological diversity conservation areendless. Individuals, community, society and the governmentcan focus on attracting foreigntourists and promoting tourism business for the development of Nepal. In view of the promotion of eco-tourism, this study examines the potentiality and essentialityof eco-tourism in Phewa Lakeside area. In this context, this study focused on environmentalproblems on Phewa Lakeside area in Kaski District. In short, Phewa Lake appears as if acelestial body fallen on earth from heaven but its loosing beauty is standing as a seriousproblem for Nepal and Nepalese. This study integrates environmental dimension in tourismdevelopment together and addresses development issues, management concerns andconservation 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 ofenvironmental conservation in the area. The values and principles of eco-tourism are veryessential to apply in the area not only for the foreigners but also equally to the localsespecially who live in adjacent to thePhewa Lake.