Women Tourism Entrepreneurs promote Eastern Nepal’s hidden destinations

Kathmandu: The Women Tourism Entrepreneurs Network has carried out a promotional tour across Koshi Province to introduce new and lesser-known destinations in eastern Nepal to wider tourism markets.

The campaign was organized in collaboration with the Nepal Tourism Board and brought together women tourism entrepreneurs, local government representatives, tourism businesses, homestay operators and community members. Discussions focused on destination promotion, infrastructure development, local entrepreneurship, tourism challenges and ways to strengthen sustainable tourism.

During an interaction program held at Shree Antu in Ilam, network Chairperson Jaya Baral said Koshi Province has strong potential in natural, religious, cultural, historical and adventure tourism. She stressed that tourism development should be planned carefully and connected with local agriculture, traditional food, culture and rural lifestyles.

Baral said agri-tourism could play an important role in strengthening village economies by helping visitors experience local farming, food, products and everyday rural life. She also encouraged local governments to identify unique attractions in their areas and create integrated tourism packages.

Participants said better promotion of lesser-known destinations could help spread tourism benefits beyond major cities and reach rural communities. They also called for stronger cooperation among local governments, tourism businesses, hotels, homestays, transport operators and tourism-related organizations.

Representatives from Shree Antu said the area is already known for sunrise views and now offers accommodation for different types of travelers, including affordable homestays and higher-level hotel services. They also highlighted the need for more investment in roads, trails, destination protection and tourism facilities.

The promotional journey started from Kathmandu and covered major locations including Koshi Barrage, Jhapa, Ilam, Shree Antu and Barahakshetra. Along the route, the team held discussions on community tourism, border tourism, local enterprise, destination marketing and infrastructure needs.

According to the network, such campaigns can help connect local tourism products with national and international visitors while supporting women-led businesses, local income, rural tourism and sustainable development. The organization said it plans to continue similar promotional programs in other provinces as well.
Photo : Subash Thapa