At an interaction on 'Surmasarobar-Saipal Trekking Trial Opportunities and Challenges' organized in Kathmandu on Sunday, Kishor Khadka, general secretary of IFWDC requested Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) to conduct technical study of the route which holds immense potential for tourism development. He also called upon the tourism ministry to develop necessary infrastructures along the trail and Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) to promote the trail in the international market.
The exploration team has suggested two itineraries of 15 and 22 days to trek in the region. The 15-day trek begins with a flight to Dhangadhi from Kathmandu and passes through Bhadya, Bajhang, Mumla, Thakule Danda, Dautal, Dhateli, Jaljala, Surmasarobar/ Niksari Patan, Aaffre Gufa (5 hours), Raja Ko Paal Halne Danda, and Swil (7 hours) before concluding at Chainpur. The 22-day itinerary takes trekkers to the Saipal Base Camp.
Autumn is the best season to travel in the area, according to Khadka.
Speaking at the program, Govinda Bahadur Karkee, director general of Department of Tourism, said development of new tourism products and services are important for product diversification.
According to the exploration team, the area lacks proper trails, signage, bridges and lodges, among others facilities. "If we want to develop tourism there, we need apprise local people of the benefits of tourism so that they become ready to welcome guests. Similarly, we also need to develop skilled human resources such as guides, porter and cooks among others," said Khadka.
Far-western region is often described as a virgin tourism destination as the region's reach tourism potential has not been exploited yet. The region has beautiful landscapes and is rich in biodiversity and culture. It offers majestic view of mountains and Himalayan ranges.
Tourism stakeholders of far-western region have urged the tourism ministry to develop needful infrastructures in the area and also monitor and evaluate the progress made in the area when they disburse budget for development of the area.
Similarly, they have requested NTB to make a tourism master plan for the development of Surmasarobar-Saipal area and promote it in the international market.
Related story
Kerala Tourism’s first STREET project inaugurated in Maravanthu...
