The locals started upgrading traditional houses into lodges after they found keen interest of foreigners on traditionally built houses. They are adding amenities and improving interiors to attract more tourists.[break]
Kashinath Rai, secretary of Bandipur Tourism Development Committee, said locals were spending millions of rupees to upgrade their houses into lodges.
“Tourists visiting Bandipur prefer traditional and cultural touch in their accommodation,” Rai said.
Locals, however, are keeping external look of the houses intact. They have invested between Rs 1 million and Rs 8 million for upgrading, according to Rai.
Meanwhile, the number of hotels and lodges in Bandipur has increased to nearly three dozens from less than 20 about a couple of years ago.
Raju Baniya recently converted his six decades old house into Green View Lodge with an investment of Rs 1 million. His lodge can accommodate 25 guests per night.
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