Two-Day Weekend Boost Gives New Momentum to Chitwan Tourism

Tourist destinations in Chitwan have seen an encouraging influx of visitors following the government’s implementation of a two-day weekly holiday, according to tourism entrepreneurs in Sauraha.

The flow of tourists has increased significantly in recent weeks compared to the past, with the rise particularly noticeable since the government introduced a two-day weekend—Saturday and Sunday—effective from April 6.

Sauraha has also become a preferred venue for seminars, weddings and receptions. Regional Hotel Association Vice Chair Gunaraj Thapaliya noted a steady growth in tourist arrivals, especially on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

During weekends, domestic tourists outnumber international visitors, while on other days, foreign tourists account for around 70% of total visitors. This marks a notable increase from last year, when foreign tourists made up only about 40%.

Tourism entrepreneurs believe that improving road conditions connecting Chitwan with Kathmandu and Bhairahawa would further boost tourist arrivals, as the current routes fall short of expectations and standards.

Ramesh Silwal, proprietor of Hotel Vista Sauraha, said tourist numbers are naturally expected to rise during holidays.

Similarly, Dipendra Khatiwada, chair of the United Elephant Safari Operation Cooperative Ltd, said visitors often have to wait for their turn for elephant rides during peak holiday periods. The cooperative operates 25 elephants, providing rides to tourists in the mornings and evenings in Sauraha.

Khatiwada, a former chair of the Restaurant and Bar Association, added that tourist arrivals have increased compared to last year. Sauraha currently hosts 148 hotels with a total capacity to accommodate 7,200 guests. The area has attracted an investment of over Rs 40 billion, generating direct employment for 6,400 people and indirect employment for more than 12,000.

However, tourist flow tends to decline during the rainy season, which begins in one month.