KATHMANDU, Feb 11: With longer daylight and higher temperatures, the visiting hours at Dharahara have been extended by one hour. The extension took effect on January 28, following its reopening to the public on November 24 after reconstruction.
Until January 27, visitors could buy tickets only until 3:15 PM. Now, they can purchase tickets until 4:15 PM and climb the tower until 5:00 PM, said Prakash Aryal, the acting director of the Dharahara project. In less than three months of operation, Dharahara has collected Rs 15.2 million in revenue from entrance fees.
Since its official reopening on November 24, ticket sales have reached this amount as of February 6, Aryal stated. Authorities close Dharahara every Wednesday, but on other days, it welcomes around 1,200 visitors daily.
Recently, more tourists from neighboring countries have started visiting Dharahara. Authorities have set the entrance fee at Rs 200 per person, offering a 50 percent discount to students, senior citizens, children, and persons with disabilities.
SAARC tourists must pay Rs 500 per person, while those from non-SAARC nations are charged Rs 1,000, Aryal said. The Special Structures Operation and Management Development Committee Formation Order, 2024, regulates Dharahara’s operation and entrance fees. The Cabinet, in its November 21 meeting, approved the reopening and fee structure.
Authorities have set parking fees at Rs 20 per hour for four-wheelers and Rs 10 per hour for two-wheelers. Visitors must pay Rs 50 to enter the Dharahara premises. Advertising on the tower, a national landmark, costs Rs 5,000 per hour. Additionally, commercial video shoots require a fee of Rs 5,000 per hour, while photography costs Rs 1,000 per hour, Aryal added.