'Tourist destinations in eastern Nepal safe'

ILAM, June 22:

Tourism entrepreneurs in eastern region are making plans to attract tourist saying that the region is intact and untouched by earthquake.

Speaking at an interaction on 'Situation of Tourist Destinations in Eastern Region and Tourism Potentials', local entrepreneurs said tourism infrastructures in the region have not sustained any damage.

"Though some destinations in Kathmandu, Annapurna Region and Khumbu have been damaged, all the tourist destinations in the eastern region are safe. Tourists should plan their next holiday in eastern Nepal," Dharma Gautam, who is active in tourism sector, said, adding that highways, hotels, lodge and tourist homes and pilgrimage sites in the region are safe.

Devi Gautam, tourism entrepreneur of Sunsari, said tourists should plan their next trip in eastern Nepal as the area is safe and relatively safe compared to other tourist areas of the country.

Speaking at the program, Dharan-based tourism entrepreneur Basu Baral suggested making attractive packages to attract tourists in the region. "Stakeholders should join hands to promote tourist destination in the region and bring domestic as well as foreign tourists here," he added.

Krishna Shah, who is working for tourism development of Ilam, said locals of Ilam living abroad should spread the message that eastern region is safe and request them to visit Ilam.

Similarly, Sadikchhya Karki, director of Mechi Hilly Tourism Promotion Development Committee, said eastern region is easily accessible as it has good roads and flight connectivity. "We need to develop attractive packages and put focus on Indian market," she added.

2016 to be celebrated as 'Visit Eastern Nepal Year'

ILAM (REPUBLICA): Local tourism stakeholders have announced to celebrate 2016 as 'Visit Eastern Nepal Year'.

They have formed a committee to design program for the year-long tourism promotional campaign. Sushila Sapkota, president of Ilam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has been named the coordinator of the committee. Similarly, Bijay Rai is the assistant coordinator, Devi Gautam is the general secretary and Devi Paudyal is the secretary of the committee.

"We will make specific plans and programs to invite tourists to visit eastern Nepal," added Sapkota.

Source: Republica