Ecotourism in the Forests/Grasslands of Royal Chitwan National Park, Nepal

by King Mahendra Trust for Nature Conservation

Partners:

King Mahendra Trust for Nature Conservation (KMTNC) World Wildlife Fund (WWF-US)

1997 Update

Although huge strides have been made, the project has had to overcome major obstacles. Today, the work of KMTNC/BCN program is cited as an example of successful community based conservation by both the local and national governments. Tourism started in Baghmara in October of 1996 and now they are successfully generating cash locally. The Baghmara UGC has generated NRs. 427,255 ($7,800 US) in this year and totaled its income to NRs. 1,709,176.24 ($32,000 US). Similarly Kumrose, where the Baghmara model is replicated has generated NRs. 478,564 ($8,700 US) within a year and totaled its revenue to NRs. 848,478 ($15,400). A machan (wildlife viewing tower) has been constructed in the regeneration area of Kumrose community forest to increase tourism revenue.

A large number of projects from various parts of the country as well as from neighboring countries are visiting Baghmara and Kumrose to gain first-hand information and to learn from the User Group Committee (UGC) of Baghmara. Baghmara has also been the focus of the media. Numerous news and articles have been published and also several documentary films made by national and international television companies.

At the local as well as at the national level, government has appreciated the work and wants to extend the program. Now, all 36 Village Development Committees (VDC) on the edges of the park are forming User Group Committees to assess and implement their own opportunities. The Chitwan experience has been one of success breeding success through replication.

Successes and Challenges

"OK...So What?"

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