Kathmandu, September 18
The local government has set an entry fee for tourists trekking in the Manaslu Conservation Area. Previously, this kind of fee was introduced by Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality of Solu Khumbu.
Now, Chumnubri Rural Municipality in Gorkha has decided to charge international tourists Rs 1,000 per person as an entry fee.
Domestic tourists will have to pay Rs 200 per person.
The rural municipality made this decision by exercising the authority granted by the Local Government Operation Act of 2017, as mentioned in the local government’s decision.
The municipality has committed to using the fees for the protection and development of the Manaslu Conservation Area.
The local government stated that the funds would be used for tourist safety, waste management, fire control, new and alternative trail construction, and the building of roads and bridges.
In addition, the municipality plans to spend on constructing water supplies, shelters, rest stops, signposts, and maps, as well as providing tourism-related training to locals.
The funds will also be directed towards rescue and relief efforts, environmental conservation, lake conservation, monastery repairs, and promoting homestay businesses.
There are concerns that tourists may face the burden of double fees as different local governments impose separate entry charges.
Tourists are already required to obtain permits and pay certain fees when entering various national parks and conservation areas.
