TOURIST PERCEPTION ABOUT BHAKTAPUR AS A

TOURIST DESTINATION

BY

SANEEP SHRESTHA

PU Registration no:066-2-3-00233-2016

Kantipur International College

MHHM :Fourth semester

A thesis is submitted to the Purbanchal University, faculty of

Management in partial fulfillment for the Degree of Master of Hotel
&Hospitality Management (MHHM)

November, 2019

Kathmandu, Nepal
 DECLARATION
I, Saneep Shrestha, student of Kantipur International College of MHHM (semester iv)
hereby, declare that the thesis entitled “Tourist’ perception about Bhaktapur as a tourist
destination” is prepared by me as for the fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of
Master in Hotel and Hospitality Management (MHHM).

The data and findings from the report were collected for the requirement of the same and the
result will not be used for any other purpose. The recommendations are rather suggestive than
prescriptive.

I declare that thesis has been faithfully acknowledged, given credit and refer to the researcher
wherever there works have been sighted in the body of thesis.

I shall be ready to bear any type of charges and penalties if found any guilt or fraud in this
thesis.

Thank You

Sincerely,

….……………..
Saneep Shrestha
PU Registration No:066-2-3-00233-2016
Kantipur International College
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
This thesis could have never been completed without the precious contribution and guidance
of many helpful hands. I would like to show my gratitude to all those individuals who helped
me a lot to make this report exist.

First and foremost, I wish to express my sincere thanks and deep sense of respect to my
project supervisor Dr. Ghanashyam Bhattarai for his valuable supervision during my project
study, without whom this project report wouldn’t have been completed.

I would also like to express my gratitude to Dr. Narendra Kumar Shrestha, Principal of
Kantipur International College (KIC) for his invaluable guidance and support in helping me
to bring this thesis in this form.

Finally, I would like to thank my family and friends specially to Naresh Shrestha and Stuti
Shrestha who have involved directly/indirectly making this report fruitful. It will be my
pleasure and I shall consider it as my success if this report could be of any help to anybody
concerned.

Thank you,

Sincerely,

……………………………………
Saneep Shrestha
MHHM, 4th Semester, KIC
 TABLE OF CONTENT
DECLARATION...........................................................................................................ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS.........................................................................................iii
LIST OF TABLES.......................................................................................................vi
LIST OF FIGURES....................................................................................................vii
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY........................................................................................viii
ACHRONYMS / ABBREVIATIONS..........................................................................ix
CHAPTER ONE...........................................................................................................1
INTRODUCTION.........................................................................................................1
1.1 Background of the Study..........................................................................................1
1.2 Statement of the Problem.........................................................................................3
1.3 Objectives of the Study............................................................................................4
1.4 Research Questions..................................................................................................4

1.5 Significance of the Study............................................................................................4

1.6 Limitations of the Study...........................................................................................5

1.7 Organization of the Study........................................................................................6
CHAPTER TWO...........................................................................................................7
LITERATURE REVIEW..............................................................................................7
2.1 Conceptual Review..................................................................................................7

2.1.1 Concept of Tourism.................................................................................................7

2.1.2 Tourism in Nepal...................................................................................................10

2.1.3 Concept of Tourism in Bhaktapur..........................................................................13

2.2 Review of Previous Studies...................................................................................18

CHAPTER THREE....................................................................................................28
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY................................................................................28
3.1 Research Design.....................................................................................................28
3.2 Selection of Study Area.........................................................................................28
3.3 Sources of Data......................................................................................................29
3.4 Population and Sample...........................................................................................29
3.5 Sampling procedure...............................................................................................30
3.6 Data Collection Procedure....................................................................................30
3.7 Data Collection Tools.............................................................................................31
3.8 Data Analysis Method............................................................................................31
3.9 Data Interpretation Procedure................................................................................32
CHAPTER FOUR.......................................................................................................33
OBSERVATION, DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS................................33
4.1 Analysis of the respondent's perception regarding current situation of tourism
industry in Bhaktapur.....................................................................................34
4.2 Analysis of the respondent's perception regarding Bhaktapur as a potential tourist
destination.......................................................................................................35
4.3 Analysis of the records of tourist most visited heritages in Bhaktapur..........37
4.4 Analysis of Table showing visitors visiting surrounding places near Bhaktapur 38
4.5 Analysis of respondents answers on “what do you like most?”.....................40
4.6 Analysis of respondents answers on “what you dislike most?”.....................41
4.7 Analysis of Table showing was visit to Bhaktapur as expected.....................42
4.8 Analysis of Table showing tourist pattern in Bhaktapur................................43
4.9 Analysis of the respondents views on better year for tourism industry in Bhaktapur
since last 4 years.............................................................................................44
4.10 Analysis of respondent reason for the better inflow of tourist in Bhaktapur..45
4.11 Analysis of respondents views on the unfavorable year for the tourist industry in
Bhaktapur since last 4 years...........................................................................46
4.12 Analysis of the respondent's perception regarding current facility available at Bhaktapur
47
4.13 Reasons for bad inflow of tourist in those years.............................................48
4.14 Analysis of regions from where most travelers’ visit in Higher percentage. .50
CHAPTER FIVE........................................................................................................52
MAJOR FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS....................52
5.1 Major Findings................................................................................................52
5.2 Conclusion..............................................................................................................58
5.3 Recommendations..................................................................................................59
REFERENCES...........................................................................................................62
WEBSITES.................................................................................................................64
APPENDIX-I................................................................................................................1
APPENDIX-II...............................................................................................................3
 LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: Distribution of the respondents' perception regarding current situation of tourism

industry in Bhaktapur...........................................................................................34

Table 2: Distribution of the respondent's perception regarding Bhaktapur as a potential tourist

destination............................................................................................................35

Table 3: Distribution of records of tourist most visited heritages in Bhaktapur..........37

Table 4: Distribution of Table showing the visitors visiting surrounding places near
Bhaktapur.............................................................................................................38

Table 5: Distribution of respondents answer on what do you like most......................40

Table 6: Distribution of respondents answer on what you dislike most?.....................41

Table 7: Distribution of Table showing tourism pattern in Bhaktapur........................42

Table 7: Distribution of Table showing tourism pattern in Bhaktapur........................43

Table 8: Distribution of respondent views on better year for tourism industry in Bhaktapur
last 4 years............................................................................................................44

Table 9: Distribution of the respondent region for the better inflow for tourist in Bhaktapur.
..............................................................................................................................45

Table 10: Industry in Bhaktapur since last 4 years......................................................46

Table 1: Distribution of the respondents' perception regarding current facility available at

Bhaktapur.............................................................................................................47

Table 11: Reasons for bad inflow of tourist in those years..........................................48

Table 12: Distribution of the respondents of the regions that most travelers come from49

LIST OF FIGURESY
Figure 1: Synergism Model for rural tourism and agricultural development in Bhaktapur 23

Figure 2: Statistic Presentation of Data for current situation.......................................34

Figure 3: Statistic presentation of data for Bhaktapur’s potentiality...........................36

Figure 4: Statistical representation of Tourist most visited heritages in Bhaktapur....38

Figure 5: Statistical representation of Visitors visiting surrounding places near Bhaktapur 39

Figure 6:Statistic presentation of Data for respondents’ like.......................................40

Figure 7: Statistic presentation of data for respondents’ dislike..................................41

Figure 8: Statistic Presentation of data as expectation of tourist in Bhaktapur............42

Figure 8: Statistic Presentation of data for tourism pattern in Bhaktapur Durbar Square. 43

Figure 9: Statics presentation of data for respondent views on better year for tourism industry.
..............................................................................................................................44

Figure 10: Statistic presentation of data for the better inflow tourist in Bhaktapur.....46

Figure 11: Statistical representation of Unfavorable year for the tourist industry in Bhaktapur
since last 4 years...................................................................................................47

Figure 2: Statistic Presentation of Data for current situation.......................................48

Figure 12: Statistical representation of data on reason for bad inflow of tourist in those years
..............................................................................................................................49

Figure 13: Distribution of the respondents’ region that most travellers come from....50

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Nepal is a beautiful country rich and diverse in natural and cultural resources which is in its
developmental phase and is full of potentiality in tourism sector. Tourism in Nepal acts as a
treasure hunt which is full of mysteries whilst providing pots full of golds and silvers during
the journey hoping one day it will find the greatest treasure of all. And Bhaktapur is one of
the famous tourist destination of Nepal as it is culturally rich destination with its
archeological beauties, ethnic people which symbolizes the history of city and the Kings.

This study is an attempt to explore the Tourists' perception about Bhaktapur as a Tourist
destination area. In this study it has been tried to explore the Tourists and service oriented
agencies like travel agents, hotels perception about Bhaktapur as a Tourist destination. The
main purpose of this thesis is to explore the tourism sector in the Bhaktapur. Specially, the
purpose of this research is to review tourism prospects in Bhaktapur, and to suggest
guidelines for the future promotion methods.

The data were collected from both primary and secondary sources. The primary sources of
the data were from the tourist, hotels and travel agencies. Field observations checklist,
questionnaires and personal interview were the tools for data collection. For validating the
information secondary sources like books, journals, articles and reports were consulted.

The data were analyzed and presented both qualitatively and quantitatively using charts,
tables and figures. The study found out that the hotels are taking serious considerations
regarding internal marketing as an important element for promoting tourism. Finally, the
study recommends that the Nepal tourism board and all the tourism related association should
take some initiative and organize program to build more effective way of increasing tourism
in Bhaktapur.

ACHRONYMS / ABBREVIATIONS

AIEST : Association of Scientific Expert in Tourism

BDS : Bhaktapur Durbar Square

BTDC : Bhaktapur Tourism Development Committee

CAAN : Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal

EIA : Environment Impact Assessment

GDP : Gross Domestic Product

KIC : Kantipur International College

MHHM : Masters in Hotel and Hospitality Management

MOTCA : Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation

NATA : Nepal Association of Travel Agents

NO. : Number

NRB : Nepal Rastra Bank

NTB : National Tourism Board

NTDB : Nepal Tourism Development Program

NTTR : Nepal Travel Tourism Research

P.U. : Purbanchal University

Pvt. : Private

PATA : Pacific Asia Travel Association

S.N : Symbol Number

TIA : Tribhuwan International Airport

UNESCO : United Nation Educational Social Cultural Organization

 CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a landlocked country in South
Asia and is also recognized the world's youngest republic. It is bordered to the north by the
People's Republic of China, and to the south, east, and west by the Republic of India while
Bangladesh is located within only 27 km (17 mi) of its southeastern tip and Bhutan is
separated from it by the Indian state of Sikkim. With an area of 147,181 square kilometers
and a population of approximately 28 million, Nepal is the world's 93rd largest country by
land mass and the 41st most populous country. Kathmandu is the nation's capital and the
largest city. Nepal is a multiethnic country with Nepali as the official language.

Nepal is a small but most beautiful country of the world. Tourism can be very important
industry for this country. Tourism is the largest industry in Nepal, and the largest source of
foreign exchange and revenue. Nepal is one of the highly destined countries in tourism
internationally. It is so because it is comparatively cheaper for travel, transportation, living
and entertainment. The reason behind people usually target it for tour is due to its unlimited
boundary for various kinds of activities tourists expect on the tour. For example, it consists of
adventurous ride e.g. world’s highest mountains and Himalayans climbing, paragliding,
bungee, trekking, sightseeing, etc. Also, the nation is rich in culture so people get to live with
local culture while enjoying the nature and wildlife too in cheaper cost.

World tourism organization has defined tourist in precise terms as “any person who travels to
a country other than that is which he/she has his/her usual residence, but outside his/her usual
environment, for a period of at least one night but not more than one year and shoes main
purpose of visit is other than the exercise of an activity remunerated from within the country
visited. This term includes people travelling for: leisure, recreation and holidays, visiting
friends and relatives, business and professional health treatment, religion and other purpose.”
(WTO 1996) Tourist can be domestic or international. Tourist has been categorized various
as of their purpose of visit. According to the statistics of 2017, most of the tourists comes to
Nepal for observing the pilgrimage sites and heritages sites of our country i.e. 70.3%, then
34.5% of them comes here at holiday for pleasure, 13.1% of them come here for
mountaineering and trekking and remaining 18.0% of the tourists comes here for official
activities, conferences, business etc.

Nepal having numerous cultural and historical sites as being a country full of devotees,
temples, kings and Palaces. The tourist destination has been chosen “Bhaktapur” as
Bhaktapur is one of the famous tourist destination , just 11.2 km away from the capital city
Kathmandu .To this date, is the living representation of how the entire Kathmandu Valley
would have looked like during the medieval periods. The city is celebrated for its glorious
architecture; sky-high temples built in pagoda style - which is believed to be the stairway to
the heaven, fine clay pottery, and massive royal courtyards whose existence date back to the
12th century, where devotees, still, celebrate their pre-historic festivals by equal amount of
gusto and passion. However, due to the destruction caused by the massive earthquake on
25th April 2015, its still suffering and rebuilding process is going on. Moreover, it is
recognized as a half-day sightseeing package by travel and tour operators. It lies on the way
to other various hot-spots as Nagarkot and Dhulikhel.

As tourist plays an important role in this region as tourism is an largest sector of economy
for the locals .Thus, the study focuses on tourist perception on tourism as it contains potential
cultural and social aspects in tourism. As there has been progress on tourism development but
it seems to be very slow, which can be due to various socio economic aspects. It is already
known that tourists come to Nepal not only to live adventurous moments of life but to study
culture and historical artifacts. Bhaktapur is one of unique case as it had been listed in World
heritage site by UNESCO in 1979. Despite of archeological and historical background it is
rich in culture and tradition. Furthermore, this dissertation considers the various aspects and
theories developed in the destination that can be applied to one particular destination
1.2 Statement of the Problem

Due to unawareness of Tourism power, Bhaktapur is not still able to take advantage of
tourism. At present, Nepalese tourism industry is surrounded by numerous problems when
the 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Nepal. There are lots of other problems regarding
tourism, which is summarized below:
a) Over the past few years, Nepalese tourism Industry faced the depression due to
political crises in the country. The instability of government was the major reason that
demoralized the tourism in Nepal.
b) Massive destruction of earthquake was on April , 2015 but still it is in construction
phase, due to the shortage of labors Durbar square is still surrounded by sign of
reconstruction, broken statues and construction materials.
c) Being in construction phase it is still open for the visitors , the labors and visitors can
been seen together which directly reflects problem to the workers and safety for the
visitors.
d) Most of the people who are engaged in the tourism sector are not so conscious about
the tourism, moreover they are illiterate or from other background.
e) Nepal has declared 2020 as visit Nepal . Bhaktapur is one of the most visited place,
but it seems the development and marketing has given low priority.
f) During the rainy season due to poor drainage and infrastructure people and places
become the victim of floods , which also affect for the accessibility to the destination.
g) Most of the tourism association is using the traditional way of marketing tourism .
h) Despite Bhaktapur being the beautiful place near in the Kathmandu valley, it is still
unable to capture the quality tourist for staying longer period.
i) Road traffic has been one major issue inside Bhaktapur as it was design in older days.
Narrow roads creates a traffic in near Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
j) The required information and facilities needed by the visitors seems lacking

Thus, there is a lack of authentic information on tourist perception and experiences regarding
tourism industry in Nepal. So Bhaktapur cannot be an exception.
1.3 Objectives of the Study

Any study is carried out with a definite objective; similarly, this study has its own objectives.
The general objectives of the study are mainly to evaluate Tourists' perception about
Bhaktapur as a Tourist destination .
The specific objectives are to:
a. To disclose the current situation of tourism industry in Bhaktapur.
b. To find out the visitors interests and preferences near Bhaktapur .
c. To find the tourist inflow at Bhaktapur.
d. To explore the expectation of tourist at Bhaktapur

1.4 Research Questions

The research focuses on the following research questions:

a. What is the current situation of tourism industry in Bhaktapur?
b. What is the visitors interests and preferences near Bhaktapur?
c. How is the tourist inflow at Bhaktapur?
d. Was the visit of Bhaktapur as expected?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This paper outlines the major aspects of tourism in Bhaktapur. The focus is to describe how
to increase tourism influences in the Bhaktapur. Bhaktapur is one of the famous tourist
destinations in Nepal. As it is just 11.2 km away from Kathmandu, it is recognized by travels
and tours operators as a half-day sightseeing package. Many tourists also prefer staying in
Bhaktapur as it is comparatively cleaner and more peaceful than Kathmandu. The fact that
Bhaktapur lies on the way to various other famous tourist hotspots such as Nagarkot and
Dhulikhel has also helped to increase tourism in Bhaktapur these are the places where tourist
are so much attracted towards Bhaktapur .Ones tourist visit Nepal that tourist always visits
Bhaktapur and goes back to his place. The image of Bhaktapur is always the same as it used
to be due to its culture, People also love Bhaktapur for its and is one of the most cultural
place in Nepal as it has Major attractions of Bhaktapur famous due to its cultural beauty and
natural beauty it is very popular and is also one of the among tourists include Taumadhi
Square, Durbar Square, Pottery Square, and Dattatreya Square. Besides, there are various
other places, which, if promoted, can become famous among tourists.

This research will focus on the facts and figure of current market of the tourism in the
Bhaktapur sector. I believe that nothing will be effective if good tourism methods are not
implemented. Weak tourism methods can lead to tourist disappointment and dissatisfaction,
loss of tourist. Accordingly, this research will help to answer the following terms:
 Finding the management of the environment and tourist satisfaction.
 Finding the societal effects (both positive and negative) caused due to the tourism
 Finding how tourism is directly involved in the country's economic condition, per
capita income of the people and the employment of the destination.
 This study deals with promotion in tourism in Bhaktapur sector.

1.6 Limitations of the Study

This research will be tried to carry out without any stain of errors. But it isn’t a fact in reality
because some errors may occur during the study. Almost all the research works are based on
samples, therefore sometimes sample may not present population. Every researcher tries to do
an error free study and so will be my target as well.
During the research, following errors has been expected. It has been tried to overcome the
shortcomings in this study. However, following limitations can be considered:
 There are no significant previous researches and articles on relevant topic so the prior
understanding and argumentation of subject via literature review can be limited.
 The information has been collected from Internet and all the resources are not reliable,
so it is necessary to collect information from reliable Internet source.
 It is not possible to collect data from entire tourism industry of Bhaktapur so it may
not be proper output to find out the observation of tourism.
 Tourism industry includes many industries like hotels, Restaurants, Transports,
Airlines, and trekking Agencies etc. so this research does not represent the data from
whole tourism industry.
  Study area is small and oriented to Bhaktapur.

1.7 Organization of the Study

This research document is organized into five chapters.

Chapter one consists of short introduction of Nepal, Bhaktapur, Tourist and tourism in
Bhaktapur , problem identification, objectives of the study with research, research questions ,
significance of the study and limitations of the study.

Chapter two provides extensive research reviews, which include concepts of tourism,
Tourism in Nepal and Bhaktapur, reviews of books, journals and articles that describes about
tourism.

Chapter three deals with research methodology, tools and techniques that are used to analyze
and interpret the findings. The study is based on primary data and it would be supported by
secondary data.

Chapter four is about the analysis and presentation of findings on primary data that were
taken from various sources.

The last part, chapter five provides summary of the whole research work, recommendation
based on the major findings and the conclusion.

CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Conceptual Review

2.1.1 Concept of Tourism

According to Dr. Ghosh (2000), “tourism is very difficult to describe. Some think of tourism
as an industry, and some say it is an activity. If an industry is defined as a number of firms
that produces similar goods and services, in competition with each other, then tourism cannot
be conceived as an industry, because it offers complementary service rather than competing
products and services i.e. the airlines, hotels and attraction industries which do not compete
with each other. So, it is better to call it an activity. It is an activity that takes place when
people move to some other place for leisure or for business and stay at least for twenty-four
hours. Tourism and travel are not synonymous. All tourism involves travel, but all travel is
not tourism.”

So far as tourism is concerned, some authorities have described tourism as a system. As a

system, it is viewed as consisting of inter/related parts. “The tourism system consists of four
parts e.g. market, travel, destination and marketing. First the individual makes a decision to
travel, then he thinks where, when and how to go. The second segment of tourism system
analyses those choices. The destination is the third part of the system which consists of
attractions and services used by the traveler and finally the destination encourages people to
travel through the process of marketing.” (Ghosh, 2000)

Tourism is travel for pleasure or business; also the theory and practice of touring, the
business of attracting, accommodating, and entertaining tourists, and the business of
operating tours. The World Tourism Organization defines tourism more generally, in terms
which go "beyond the common perception of tourism as being limited to holiday activity
only", as people "traveling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for not
more than one consecutive year for leisure and not less than 24 hours, business and other
purposes.

Tourism as a phenomenon involves the movement of people within their own

country or across the national borders. It is composed of three element, namely,
Man (the human element as the creator of the act of tourism)
Space (the physical element to be necessarily covered by the act itself), and
Time (the temporal element which is composed by the trip itself and the stay at
the destination).These elements constitute the essential conditions for the existence of the
phenomenon of tourism. There could be no tourism act without them.
The concept of ‘tourism’ can be analyzed by considering some of the published descriptions
and definitions. “Tourism has a connotation of leisure travel and tends to be synonymous
with holidays (vacations). This is also reflected in dictionaries, which commonly refer to
tourism as travel for pleasure. business usage, the language of those who earn their living
from serving tourists; most of them see tourism in terms of the products they sell and the
markets they serve.” (Medlik, 2003)

Tourism is relatively a young industry which is growing fast in the world. The history of
tourism is not more than167years old. The concept of tourism as developed in 1841 is the
effort of Thomas cook who is the pioneer as well as program framer of tourism of that period.
At first he, managed a tour program and sold that tourism business package to 570
passengers. He organized circular tour of Scotland carrying 5000 tourist from 1841-1863.

Travel for pleasure with an overnight stay appears to be the lowest common denominator of
most perceptions of this activity. Tourism, the act and process of spending time away from
home in pursuit of recreation, relaxation, and pleasure, while making use of the commercial
provision of services. As such, tourism is a product of modern social arrangements, beginning
in western Europe in the 17th century, although it has antecedents in Classical antiquity. It is
distinguished from exploration in that tourists follow a “beaten path,” benefit from
established systems of provision, and, as befits pleasure-seekers, are generally insulated from
difficulty, danger, and embarrassment. Tourism, however, overlaps with other activities,
interests, and processes, including, for example, pilgrimage. This gives rise to shared
categories, such as “business tourism,” “sports tourism,” and “medical tourism” (international
travel undertaken for the purpose of receiving medical care).

However, the final test of any definition cannot be its apparent harmony with its usage in
everyday speech or, for that matter, that the definition is confined to what one would exclude.
Moreover, most accepted definitions go beyond the concept of tourism as a leisure or holiday
activity. One of the principal findings that came out of conference resolutions of the World
Tourism Organization, (1991) was a definition of tourism as: “the activities of persons
travelling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for not more than one
consecutive year for leisure, business and other purposes not related to exercise of an activity
remunerated from within the place visited.” (Theobald, 1998)
The concept of ‘tourism’ and reported in 1976: Tourism is the temporary short-term
movement of people to destinations outside the places where they normally live and work,
and activities during their stay at these destinations; it includes movement for all purposes, as
well as day visits or excursions. The International Conference on Leisure, Recreation and
Tourism, held by the International Association of Scientific Experts in Tourism (AIEST) and
the Tourism Society in Cardiff in 1981 concluded that: “Tourism may be defined in terms of
particular activities selected by choice and undertaken outside the home environment.
Tourism may or may not involve overnight stays away from home. Hence, there is general
agreement that tourism involves travel away from home for pleasure. This is an extremely
inclusive definition that must inevitably include jobs that can be seen as serving tourism

Furthermore, Tourism as a socio-economic phenomenon comprises the activities and

experiences of tourists and visitors away from their home environment and serviced by the
travel and tourism industry and host destination. The sum total of this activities experience
and services can be seen as the tourism product. The tourism system can be described in term
of supply and demand. Tourism planning should strive for a balance between demands and
supply. This requires an understanding not only of market characteristics and trends but also
of the planning process to meet the market needs. The supply and demand side can be seen to
be linked by flows of resources such as capital, labor, goods and tourist expenditures into the
destination, and flows of marketing, promotion, tourist artifacts and experiences from the
destination back into the tourist generating region.

Tourism is a medium or portal via which people around the globe can share the ideas and
knowledge whilst creating an understanding amongst themselves. Tourism provides an
opportunity to understand the different societies, cultures, tradition, foods and life style of
various countries around the world. Tourism doesn’t just help generate income but it also
helps to maintain the economic stability in the country. Tourism helps people by providing
them with employment directly and indirectly. People working on tourism industry are the
direct beneficiary but the people working on agriculture, airlines, hospital, hotels are the
indirect beneficiary. The products from the indirect beneficiary can be promoted via tourism
and get to the international market as well. It helps people to understand each other and
respect each other which helps to maintain the peace in the country and the world.
Moreover, the tourism industry is both dynamic and complex due to many factors linked to it
and because of the existence of many sectors contributing to its success. These factors and
sectors are linked to the provision of the tourist experience and generation of tourism revenue
and markets. The dynamic nature of tourism system makes it imperative to scan the external
and internal environment of the destinations on a regular basis so as to makes changes when
necessary to ensure a healthy and viable tourism industry. Thus, it is now an accepted fact
that tourism development can no longer work in isolation of the environment and the local
communities, nor can it ignore the social and cultural consequences of tourism.

2.1.2 Tourism in Nepal

Nepal is a small landlocked country which lies in between India on east, west and south and
China on north. Nepal is Federal Democratic Republic country which is a sovereign state
located in South Asia. Packed in a tiny area of Nepal, lies the best and iconic natural beauties
of the world such as Mt Everest which is the tallest mountain on the earth as well as cultural,
traditional and religious heritages such as Lumbini which is the birthplace of Gautam
Buddha. Nepal covers just 0.03% landmass of the whole earth and 0.3% of Asia. Nepal is a
Hindu country with more than 80% people following Hinduism followed by Buddhism,
Islam, Kiratism, Christianity and animism. Nepal is a developing country with a low income
economy with many people being illiterate and unemployed. Most of the people reside in the
remote or rural areas of country where the infrastructural developmental things are not in
adequate manner.

Tourism is a recent phenomenon and travel is an ancient phenomenon. Tourism is not a new
thing for Hindus. In Sanskrit literature, there are three terms of tourism known as Paratayan
(it means going out for pleasure and knowledge), Deshatan (it means going out of the country
primarily for economic gains), Tirthatan (it means going to places of religious merits). Travel
means the movement of people from one place to another. (Bhatia, 1982)

Modern day tourism in Nepal began after the dawn of democracy in 1951 A.D when the
country was opened to the outside world. Successful climbing of Mount Annapurna in 1950,
Mount Everest in 1953 and the coronation ceremony of the late King Mahendra in 1956 with
the assembly of a large number of foreign dignitaries exposed Nepal as potential tourists‟
destination in the international community. Tourism Development Board was then
constituted in 1957 under the Ministry of Industry and Commerce and a full-fledged
Department of Tourism in 1959; which in 1962 came under the Ministry of Public Works and
Transport .(NTB 2000)

In Nepal, where the whole landmass is covered with natural and cultural beauty and people
with no high income, tourism plays a crucial role in terms of creating a job opportunity and
providing them with an opportunity to earn for their livelihood. Tourism in Nepal is
extremely important in context of economic stability of the country as well. Tourism is the
backbone of Nepal. Depending upon where tourists visit or go, different form of tourism can
be found throughout Nepal. People who love to seek thrill and adventure can go for the
extreme tourism activities and people who are into wildlife can visit the national parks of
Nepal or go hiking into the woods. That is why it is important for Nepal to preserve the
natural and cultural beauty that they have in order to attract as many as tourists it can. For this
purpose, the government of Nepal and the tourism industry of Nepal should focus on opening
new tourism activities and renewing the tourism policy to regulate the activities in efficient
and systematic manner.

In the economically backward but country like Nepal with huge amount of natural beauty,
tourism plays a vital role in keeping the balance of economy of country. Tourism acts a way
for other businesses to survive in the country. Tourism provides the country with foreign
currency and help earn lots of money as well. It also helps in creating a job opportunity for
the people in huge number directly or indirectly. The potentiality of tourism in Nepal is huge.
Around 1 million tourists visit Nepal each year. Tourism helps to motivate government to
build new infrastructures and develop or upgrade the existing ones. This doesn’t just help
tourists but the whole country itself. Manjushree, who is believed to come from either China
or India, is said to be the first tourists to visit Nepal. As per the legend, he made a valley by
cutting a hill on Chovar side with his sword letting the water to flow away. Modern tourism
started in Nepal since 1950 after the advent of democracy. With this, Nepal started to develop
its social, economic and political life. Since then, tourism has flourished even further.
Tourism in Nepal began with mountain tourism. Out of 8 of the 5 world’s 10 tallest peaks, 7
of them were successfully scaled i.e. Mt. Annapurna I, Mt. Everest, Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt.
Makalu, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Dhaulagiri in 1960 only.
Annapurna I which is over 8000 meters was first ascended by Maurice Herzog and Louis
Lachenal of France in June 3, 1950. The highest peak of the world, Mt. Everest, was
ascended in May 29, 1953 by Tenzing Norgay Sherpa of Nepal and Sir Edmund Hillary of
New Zealand. Nepal became member of UNO in 1955, member of Non-aligned Countries’
Group since its beginning and member of different international agencies which made it
easier for Nepal to be introduced to the whole world and flourish its tourism industry even
further.

In the year 1955, the famous Thomas Cook brought over 60 tourists in Nepal for Nepal tour
for the first time. This opened the door for tourists in Nepal officially and it led to formation
of tourism management committees in Nepal. In effort to make a concrete tourism
development, Tourism Development Board was formed in 1957 AD culminating to the
establishment of Nepal Tourism Board in 1998. Since 1962, Tourism Department started
keeping the statistics of tourist visiting Nepal. Shortly after, Nepal Tourism Development
Committee was formed in 1969 which helped formulate the tourist policy as well as plan a
future development of tourism in Nepal. After the formation of Nepal Tourism Board in
1998, government of Nepal decided to dissolve Tourism Department handing the
responsibility of formulating new policies and plans to Tourism and Civil Aviation Ministry.

Hence, Tourism is one of the important factors in economic sector of Nepal which doesn’t
just create employment opportunities and income generation but also in foreign currency
income which shows that the tourism industry’s development could lead to the end of
economic crisis in this country. Tourism is important not just for people but for country itself.

2.1.3 Concept of Tourism in Bhaktapur

Located about 20 km east of Kathmandu in the Kathmandu Valley, Bhaktapur is known as

the 'City of Devotees', the 'City of Culture', the 'Living Heritage', and 'Nepal's Cultural Gem'.
It is one of the 3 royal cities in the Kathmandu Valley. The others are Kathmandu, the capital
of Nepal, and Patan..

Bhaktapur is filled with monuments, most terra-cotta with carved wood columns, palaces and
temples with elaborate carvings, gilded roofs, and open courtyards. The city is dotted with
pagodas and religious shrines.
 Lying along the ancient trade route between India and Tibet, Bhaktapur is surrounded by
mountains and provides a magnificent view of the Himalayas. Some of the Facts of
Bhaktapur are:- (source: bhaktapur.com )
 Also called Bhadgaon and Khwopa (in the native tongue).
 Religions: Hindu 92%, Buddhist 7%
 Castes: Newar 63%, Brahman 10%, Chettri 18%, Tamang 5%
 Bhaktapur's population is approximately 225,000.
 Main agricultural production: paddy, wheat, corn, pulse, millet, citrus, guava, pears, junar,
haluwabed, cauliflower, peas, beans, cucumber, and pumpkin.
 Bhaktapur depends on tourism for about 60% of its revenues.
 No cars are allowed in Durbar Square; no heavy vehicles in central Bhaktapur.

History
Founded in the 12th century by King Ananda Malla (according to various chronicles),
Bhaktapur was the capital city of the Greater Malla Kingdom until the 15th century and was
an independent kingdom from then until the 18th century. The last three Malla rulers of
Bhaktapur were Jitamitra Malla, Bhupatindra Malla, and RanjitMalla. These rulers played
key roles in building the palaces and temples of Durbar Square. In 1744, Prithivi Narayan
Shah, descendent of Dravya Shah, who was the founder of the Gorkha dynasty, began a
conquest march in the Kathmandu Valley, capturing and unifying Kathmandu, Patan,
Bhaktapur, and the smaller towns of the Valley under one rule.

After a period of instability and a bloody coup in 1846, Jang Bahadur Kunwar Ranaji took
control of Nepal. His Rana dynasty ruled Nepal until 1951, when the Congress Party formed
a new government. In 1960, King Mahendra took control, banned political parties, and
instituted land reforms. Political turmoil continued throughout the late 20th century. In 1934,
a major earthquake destroyed over 2,000 houses and severely damaged over 2,000 more
homes. Over 1,000 people died in this quake. Restoration of many buildings was undertaken
over the years, including efforts funded by West Germany in the late 1980's and by the U.S.
in the 1990's.

Culture
Bhaktapur is filled with Hindu and Buddhist religious sites and art. Although the population
is primarily Hindu, there are nineteen Buddhist monasteries (Vihars). At Indra Varna
Madavihar, built in 1671 and located between Durbar Square and Dattatraya Square, visitors
can see two lion statues, a PatingaHiti (water spout), Tantric wood-carved windows, and
prayer wheels.

There are also many Buddhist monuments and shrines, including Lokeswor Mahavihar,
Prasannasheel Mahavihar, Chatu Brahma Mahavihar, Jaya Kirti Mahavihar, Sukra-varna
Mahavihar, Dipanker Mahavihar.

Many festivals are celebrated throughout the year to mark the seasons, pay tribute to Gods,
and remember historical and legendary events. A few of these are:
Dashain is the longest festival of the year, lasting 15 days. This festival honors the goddess
Devi Durga, who is said to have slain the demon Durga, son of Ruru. Celebrants perform
many pujas (offerings) during this festival, including thousands of animal sacrifices.
(September/October)

Gai-Jatra, the Cow Festival, focuses on families in bereavement. Every family who lost a
relative in the past year participates in a procession with a cow or a young boy dressed as a
cow. The cow, it is believed, helps the deceased reach heaven. (July/August)

Bisket-Jatra, the Nepalese New Year celebration, in which chariots are pulled through the
streets and ultimately a tug of war over them, determines who will be blessed with good
fortune in the coming year. This celebration is also observed with picnics and other private
get-togethers. (April)

Tihar, the festival of lights, honors Laxmi, the goddess of wealth. The Nepalese light up their
homes with candles, oil lamps, and other lights to invite the goddess Laxmi in.

They also worship crows, dogs, and cows during this festival and set aside one day to honor
brothers. The Mha puja, a day of revering one's own body and life, is celebrated on one day
of this festival. (October)
Handicrafts 
Tourists can watch potters create works of art in the Pottery Squares. Indigenous (Newar)
handicrafts include paubha scroll paintings, papier-mâché masks, cotton cloth, woodcarvings,
metalwork, jewelry and ceramic products, haku-patasi (black sari), black caps and Juju-dhau
(yogurt).

Tourism
Bhaktapur is rich in architectural beauty, filled with ancient Hindu and Buddhist religious
sites, and palaces and courtyards where tourists can easily spend days absorbing the traditions
and culture of the Newars.

Bhaktapur's Durbar ('Royal') Square was added to the list of World Heritage Sites by
UNESCO in 1979.

Highlights & Features of the City and Surroundings

Durbar Square
Almost 1/3 of the ancient temples, monasteries, and other ornate buildings were destroyed in
the earthquake of 1934. Yet many gems remain.
In Durbar Square, tourists will find the 55-Window Palace, which served as the seat of
royalty prior to 1769. The palace has elaborately carved windows and doors and houses the
National Art Gallery, with Buddhist Paubha scroll paintings, palm leaf manuscripts, and
stone carvings.

Just outside the palace, at the entrance to the Taleju Temple Complex is the Golden Gate,
built in 1756, a splendid example of Repoussé metal work. There also lies the Royal Bath,
with its Golden Faucet.Durbar Square is also home to the Big Bell, built by the last Malla
king of Bhaktapur, RanajitMalla in the 18th century. It was rung to pay homage to the
Goddess Taleju and to harken the public to town meetings. Today it is rung twice a day as a
tribute to the Goddess Taleju. Next to this bell is the Barking Bell, so named because dogs
bark to its ring.

Also in the Square lies the Yaksheswor Mahadev Temple, built by Yaksha Malla in the 15
the century. It was modeled after the Pashupatinath temple in Kathmandu and was designed
with ornate wooden struts decorated with erotic carvings.

Other sites in and around the square include the octagonal Chyasin Mandap, Siddhi Laxmi
Temple, Shiva Temple (Fasi-dega), Vatsala Temple, Bhandarkhal Complex, Chatu Brahma
Mahavihar, IndrayaniTemple, Balakhu Ganesh Temple, Tripura-sundari Temple and the Char
Dham symbolizing the four greatest Hindu pilgrimage sites.The PhasiDega Temple,
dedicated to Lord Shiva, affords expansive views of the entire city.

Taumadhi Square
The Nyatpol (or Nyatapola) Temple, dedicated to the Goddess Lakshmi, lies in this square.
Built in 1702 with 5 stories, this is Nepal's tallest pagoda temple. It's struts, doors, windows,
and tympanums are decorated with carvings of divine figures, including a pair of 2 m high
stone statues of the legendary Rajput wresters-Jaimal and Pata; a pair of elephants, a pair of
lions, a pair of griffons and a pair of tantric goddesses known as Singhini and Toyahagrini.

The Bhairavnath Temple, which was destroyed by an earthquake in 1934 and subsequently
rebuilt, houses a gilded bust of the terrifying Bhairav, considered either a manifestation of
Lord Shiva or a deity that guards his home.

Also here are a Pottery Square and the Temple of Jeth Ganesh, dating back to the 14th
century.

Dattatraya Square
 In this square, lie many of Bhaktapur's Hindu monasteries, called maths, as well as
temples and museums. The three-story pagoda-style Dattatreya Temple,
 With statues of the Hindu trinity, was built by King YakshaMalla in 1428. It is
claimed that the building was constructed from a single piece of wood from one tree.
At the entrance are two large sculptures of the Jaiput wrestlers, Jaimala and Pata (as in
 the Nyatapola Temple), a “Chakra”, and a gilded metal statue of Garuda, a bird-like
divinity. Around the temple are wood carved panels with erotic decorations.
 During the Mohani (Dashain) festival, in the Wane Layaku complex, which lies just
southwest of the Dattatreya Temple, a rare Ghau-batacha (water clock) is displayed.
 The Pujari Math, which houses the Woodcarving Museum and dates back to the early
15th century, is adorned with the intricately carved Peacock Window.
 The Chikanpha Math, across the street, houses the Brass and Bronze Museum, with its
collection of ancient Malla housewares and ritual metalware.
 In Dattatreya Square, lies a Pottery Square, where potters work and display their
handicrafts.

2.2 Review of Previous Studies

Socio-economic development is the process of social and economic development in a society.

Socio-economic development is measured with indicators, such as GDP, life expectancy,
literacy and levels of employment. Changes in less-tangible factors are also considered, such
as personal dignity, freedom of association, personal safety and freedom from fear of
physical harm, and the extent of participation in civil society. Causes of socio-economic
impacts are, for example, new technologies, changes in laws, changes in the physical
environment and ecological changes. (Fossati and Panella, 2012)

The role international tourism can play in the development strategy of Nepal is examined.
Special emphasis was given to determining how tourism contributes to national objectives of
employment generation, income distribution, regional development, and the earning of
foreign exchange and to analyzing the role of government in the development and promotion
of tourism. A major tool of analysis was a modified input-output matrix of the Nepalese
economy. One prominent modification was the approach of collecting input-output data for
only those industries directly or indirectly linked to tourism enterprises. Visitors were asked
to record and identify their expenditures in diary form. Tourists were classified into twelve
categories according to their purpose of visit, nationality, and class of hotel. A pattern of
expenditures and other relevant information was then established for each tourist category.
Analysis of the demand generated by tourism indicated that 64% of the value of goods and
services employed in the tourist sector was produced within Nepal while 36% had to be
imported. (Burger, 1978)
Tourism was found to be very capital intensive - three times more capital being required per
job than in the industrial sector. Public investments in an infrastructure to serve tourists were
estimated to be nearly half of the private investment in the tourism sector.

In contrast, expenditures of the government on current account were found to be balanced

by budget revenues. Tourism's impact on regional development appears to be very small, but
in this respect trekking tourism offers a much larger scope than pleasure tourism. There
are adverse cultural, social, and environmental aspects of expanded tourism, which should be
carefully monitored and controlled. However, since tourism in Nepal has been shown to be an
effective earner of foreign exchange it was concluded that tourism should be developed, to
the extent that it is consonant with foreign exchange requirements for development purposes.

There was no plan and policy regarding tourism in Nepal till 1950s. For the first time the
written study on tourism was made on the late 1950s.In Nepal, "General plan for the
Organization of tourism in Nepal "Prepared by French national George Lebrec, in 1959,was
the first tourism plan, which was prepared by the help of French Government. In this plan,
Lebrec has recommended to make brochures, posters, postage stamps depicting the
Himalayan peaks and Flora and Fauna and to use the films and documentaries prepared by
the mountaineering expedition for promoting tourism in Nepal and the establishment of
separate Nepal tourism Officers. Later, George Lebrec visited Nepal in 1964 and 1966 and
prepared two reports on tourism entitled "Report on the development of Tourism" and
"Report on Tourism in Nepal" respectively. In these reports, Lebrec had recommended that
tourism in Nepal had started growing at a faster pace.

According to Pandey and Pandey (2011), the study found that there had been significant
contribution on particular Bhaktapur’s economy, national income and GDP due to total
foreign exchange. Also, the study found out that there was significant rise and fall of tourists’
arrival in Bhaktapur due to various reasons. The major reason for fall of tourists’ arrival at
Bhaktapur was political instability during 2001-2003, which was applicable to entire Nepal
tourism. Pandey and Pandey (2011) also recommended that socio economic development
investments could possibly sustain the tourism development in future regardless of any
external environmental influences such as earthquake in 2015. These socio economic
development and investments included preservation and promotion of local culture of
Bhaktapur, destinations tours packages e.g. Newari Trails; good and safe hotels, travels, night
life and home stay activities, and so on. (Field survey, 2009) (MOTCA, 2008)

On the other hand, Bhaktapur being the multifaceted potential to generate attractive and
sustainable tourism, it can also include sustainable agro-tourism. As per Field Survey (2009)
of NTB, various responses from Bhaktapur local people and tourists have been collected,
which found out sustainable agro-tourism development plan can significantly attract tourists
e.g. local honey, greenery tourism, organic spices, agro-sites for tourists, etc.

Also, in 1972, with an aim to run tourism in a planned way and formulating policy the Nepal
tourism Master Plan(1972),a detailed and comprehensive document about Nepalese. Tourism
was prepared with a joint co-operation of Bundhesstelle Fur Entwicklungshilfe of Germany
and Nepal Government of Nepal. This Master plan defined the tourism development
programs and projects for ten years. The plan defined the tourism development programs to
be adopted and the market segments of Nepalese tourism were identified as organized,
independent "Nepal style "tourism, trekking and pilgrimage. The Primary markets for Nepal
were identified as USA, France, Scandinavia and Australia as secondary target market. In the
Master plan Kathmandu was seen as continuing to be the principal centre of tourism activities
in Nepal and to lengthen the average length of stay, tourists measures can be done by creating
resort areas and the provision of recreational attractions suited to the needs of international
tourism by around tours operated from Kathmandu with intermediate stops and short stays in
selected sites.

Thus, Kathmandu being the major hub for tourism in Nepal can provide opportunity for
Bhaktapur in terms of tourism development in Bhaktapur area. Again, it can be seen the
importance of socio economic factors to link the main Kathmandu city as a hub for tourism in
Nepal with Bhaktapur as potential tourism destination. For example, due to the huge eight-
lane road construction from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur has facilitated the travel and tourism in
that area. However, it has not been extended further, as that route to Nagarkot and Dhulikhel,
and further to Chinese border can further enhance the tourism in Bhaktapur. Yet, the
 infrastructural facilities are limited in that area but delivers potential opportunities if carried
on with socio economic development.

The Master plan had recommended for the establishment of a Ministry of Tourism and
culture of Archaeology, the department of culture, the department of forestry, the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs and the Immigration Office. This could definitely provide Bhaktapur with
widen opportunity to expose its speciality internationally.
"Nepal Tourism Strategy 1976-1981" started with the following premises:
 As the stay of tourists cannot be prolonged for now, the number of international visitors
should be increased substantially,
 Image of secondary destinations like Pokhara, Lumbini and Chitwan and primary destinations
like Bhakatpur, Lalitpur and Kathmandu should be built up.
 Nepal should become a gateway for South-East Asia.
 Nepal should become the starting point of any Asian tour, as it is the cradle of a religion and
culture that influenced the history and life of the major parts of Asia. In his report, Susnik has
suggested for the formation of Nepal tourism Marketing Committee as well as Nepal Tourism
Infrastructure committee with representation of private tourist office, which should
concentrate, on the marketing and promotional activities abroad with independent operational
budget.

'National Tourism Promotion Report 1983' was prepared by Nepal tourism Promotion
Committee of 1981, which can also benefit Bhaktapur as main center for accommodations
and understanding culture. Suggestions were also provided on marketing strategies and plans
for tourism. It reemphasized the need for promoting Nepal Style Tourism as mentioned in the
Nepal Tourism Master plan which would include sightseeing, trekking and wildlife adventure
and which would promote Nepal as a primary destination. The suggestions given from this
report are to develop resorts in the mountains to encourage tourists from India during the hot
Indian summer season, promotion in Europe be stepped up, special programs be designated
for Buddhist pilgrims from Asia countries and that similar pilgrimage packages be designate
for Hindu pilgrims from India, depute a person in the Embassies of Nepal for promoting
tourism, participate in various important trade fairs and to promote convention tourism.
While, defining the specified type of accommodations areas near Bhaktapur would be best
possible spots for tourists to stay mainly Nagarkot where Bhaktapur lies in between Nagarkot
and Kathmandu.

In Bhaktapur, the major private sectors involved in tourism are in hotels and restaurants
(BTDC, 2009). While, some small vendors and firms are involved in developing local
handicrafts, artifacts and shops those include local culture (BTDC, 2009). So, in regards to
another report entitled "Study and Recommendation for a Nepal Marketing Plan a Marketing
task Force Report (1983) prepared by PATA, in 1983, considered to be very effective
marketing plan of tourism. The main recommendation mentioned in this report are “The
establishment of an autonomous Nepal Tourism Promotion Board to recognize responsibility
by the private sector for all the overseas sales activity to engage overseas representation to
conduct ongoing promotion and publicity for Nepal and to organize a research section to
carry out the market research on visitors to Nepal”. Thus, in current scenario various local
products of Bhaktapur, those include organic food, biodegradable products, handmade
products, artifacts, etc., interest foreign buyers and are being sold in different countries
(BTDC, 2009).

According to Bhaktapur DDC (2002), land used pattern in Bhaktapur moreover consists of
agriculture, which is about 80% followed by forests including shrub of about 18%. While,
private and institutional land of 2% and water and others of about 0.5%. So, this can be
opportunity for the DDC for utilizing its key agriculture potentiality incorporating it with
tourism as mentioned in Field Survey (2009) of NTB. So, utilizing agro-tourism as a key
aspect of promoting tourism in Bhaktapur (Dangol and Ranabhat, 2007). This corresponds to
the various objectives of NTB as set on the Nepal Tourism Board Act, 2053. Those are given
below:
 To develop, expand and promote business whilst protecting and promoting natural and
cultural heritage and environment of the country.
 To establish Nepal's image in a high and designated way in the international tourism
community by developing Nepal as a safe, reliable and attractive tourist.
 To assist in establishing and developing necessary for tourism development
 To conduct functional research as per necessary for finding out ways to solve problems
encountered in tourism sector so as to provide qualitative services to the tourist.
Jean (2003) describes a model where social, economic and environmental mobilization
incorporating with political environment can enhance the tourism. This model can be used to
understand the optimized use of resources and its mobilization to develop tourism in
Bhaktapur. Based on Jean (2003) Synergism Model, social, economical, institutional capital,
cultural capital, infrastructural capital an human capital are the key resources for tourism as
well as agro-tourism development in Bhaktapur. The model is shown below:

Figure : Synergism Model for rural tourism and agricultural development in Bhaktapur
(Derived from Jean, 2003)

From the figure 1, it can be understood the necessity of economic and social
Mobilization to gain synergistic effects on tourism development, especially in Bhaktapur. So,
there seems to be a need for understanding of socio economic impact on Bhaktapur tourism
development, which is focused in this report.

Various empirical studies show that Nepal, particularly Bhaktapur in current scenario,
seek to have promotional strategies and plans in foreign market such as Visit Nepal
Campaign. Yet, NTB has also established internal promotion and tourism development
within the nation for better tourism experiences for tourists. For example, to make the,
mission fruitful, NTB has assigned some roles and responsibility by the NTB act 2053 as
mentioned below:
 To work towards providing quality, service to tourist visiting Nepal.
 To promote and develop institutions for promotion of tourism industry.
 To study the bottlenecks against the same by means of conducting research in
order to do away with these bottlenecks.
 To develop and introduce Nepal as an attractive destination in the international
marketplace.
 To promote the tourism industry in the country while working for the conservation
of natural, environment and cultural resources.

Thus, this has added wider dimensions to Bhaktapur tourism due to its involvement in
UNESCO world heritage. This kind of socio economic mobilization can develop the tourism
in Bhaktapur due to enhanced tourists’ experiences. So under such activities not only new
resorts, hotels and restaurants were enhanced but various events were also created such as
Mohatsab, street festivals, agro festivals and so on. (Bhaktapur DDC, 2002)

Nepal Rastra Bank (1989) carried out an economic study with an objective to study and
estimate the level and patterns of tourist expenditure in Nepal as it is not possible to
determine for only Bhaktapur. To estimate the vale-added and imports contents and thereby
not foreign exchange generation earnings from tourism sectors of Nepal tourist expenditure
was found to be highly sensitive with respect to exchange rates, but the sensitivity of tourist
arrivals to this variable was less. Country-wise time series regression for 14 countries gave
mixed results.
The basic tasks of 'Nepal Tourism Development Program' (1990) were:
 To review existing plans and policies and suggest modifications to provide a
longer-term strategy for using the countries tourism resources on a sustainable
basis, while satisfying on increasing number of visitors.
 To prepare tourism development action plans that included, the development of a
commensurate institutional capacity.
  'Nepal Tourism Development Program' consists of four reports. Product
development program and marketing strategies have been defined in this study,
which is based only for Bhaktapur rather than entire Nepal. For both trekking
tourism and sightseeing tourism, the strategy is to establish Nepal as a premium
product able to command the price of a premium product.
 The main strategies initiatives for Nepal mentioned in the report were:
 To establish Mount Everest and the Himalayas as a "must see" attraction for any
world tourist where Bhaktapur provides peaceful midway accommodation for the
travelers.
 To establish Kathmandu as the unique mystic city within a valley of exceptional
scenic appeal where Bhaktapur acts as the center point that links between Tibet to
Kathmandu.
 To establish and promote a series of outstand excursions for the ordinary
sightseeing travel.

“However, Today tourism revolution is sweeping the globe, a revolution promising much and
delivering a great deal. It has emerged as the most profitable business of the world, having
tremendous potentiality for earning foreign exchange, yielding tax revenue, promoting
growth of ancillary industries, generating income and employment and in the development of
industrially backward region through its various linkages effects” (Singh, 1975).

Kunwar (1997) says that from tourism a country not only earns foreign currency and provides
jobs and employment. It also provides lots of basic needs comfort and modern amenities to
locals and corrects regional disparities by developing various infrastructures for tourism.
Beautiful roads, efficient communication, air services, health, postal service, cleanliness and
hygienic and fresh air gear up the process of tourism development in any country. Apart from
a type of tangible gain, this smokeless, time- honored industry indicates public and
government a new kind of education that opens their eyes in the field of conservation of
natural and cultural heritage.

The Ecotourism Society (Ceballos – Lescurain, 1996) describes ecotourism as “a responsible

travel to natural area that conserves the environment and sustains the wellbeing of local
people.” The IUCN Ecotourism program has focused environmentally responsible travel and
visitation to relatively undisturbed natural areas, in order to enjoy and appreciate nature and
any accompanying cultural features that promote conservation, has low visitor impact, and
provide for beneficially active socio-economic involvement of the local populations.

From the review of various literatures above, it has been understood that active market
promotion was the most important factors for the tourism development in Bhaktapur. The
major program of Bhaktapur tourism promotion includes:
 Developing a systematic concept of promotional in tourism,
 Participating in selected tourism trade fairs,
 Expanding the tourism possibilities
 Establishing a Bhaktapur-style tour package,
 Directing sales to tour operators from the country of origin without middleman
from India,
 Expanding the trekking possibilities.

Also it urged for focusing on improving the capability of the ministry of tourism to assume its
responsibilities in tourism, institutionally, administratively and technically. As also going
through the Tourism development and Management plan of Bhaktapur district , there is less
exercise done for finding the impacts of Tourism in the living standard and day to day
activities. There is also very less exercise for the Environmental Impact Assessment of the
Bhaktapur Durbar Square. So in this report the effects of tourism and those activities should
be carried before implementing the plans for having the sustainable tourism development has
been carried out.

The charts given in this fieldwork report about the environment and the effects of the tourism
are based on the questionnaire interview with the tourism entrepreneurs, local service vendors
and the local people around the Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

Hence, Tourism is considered as an infinite industry that has potential to improve further as
the tourism industry is developed gradually.
 CHAPTER THREE

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Research Methodology is the important aspect of the research work. Reliable and relevant
study can be possible only by applying scientific method. Hence, the primary purpose of this
chapter is to discuss and design the framework for the research, different procedures have
been followed:

3.1 Research Design

The main intension of this research is to collect the information, which initiates the
sustainable tourism in Bhaktapur. For this purpose, survey is conducted. Survey is non-
experimental research design, classified as either descriptive or exploratory, although there is
no difference in classification; they can be designed to obtain detail information from sample
population. Survey is conducted to obtain information existing variable by either structure
questionnaires or structured (or unstructured interviews).Collected data is simply explored by
using some statistical tools. I have undertaken the following things:
 Problem Identification of the reason for selection of the topic
 Review of previously published literature
 Clearly describe the data is to be obtained
 Method of Analyzing the data
 Research Report

3.2 Selection of Study Area

As far as study for area is concerned, the role of tourism in Bhaktapur was selected as main
topic of study. As Nepal tourism Board is the actor of marketing and promotion of Nepalese
tourism, the operational model of such activities were studied.

3.3 Sources of Data

3.3.1 Primary Sources

The present study has been completed mainly with the help of primary data. The primary data
were collected via interview and questionnaire survey with tourists hotels, travel agencies,
restaurants, which is located in Bhaktapur and nearby places of Bhaktapur. Apart from this,
some information is collected through unstructured interview with concerned personnel.

3.3.2 Secondary Sources

The secondary data were collected from literature reviews, NTB, articles, books and other
relevant reports related with tourism.
3.4 Population and Sample

A sample is generally selected for study because the population is too large to study in its
entirety. In order to review the tourism in Bhaktapur, it is necessary to identify and examine
tourist coming to Bhaktapur, which is immense and difficult to define. There are many
tourists who come to visit Bhaktapur. In order to narrow the parameters of this study to a
manageable scale and to obtain meaningful and comparable information convenient random
sampling technique is used.

As there are huge numbers of small, medium and large firms involved in tourism industry in
Bhaktapur. Among the huge population, 120 samples size is approached, out of which 60
include tourist and visitors where as other 60 include travel and tour agencies, tourism service
providers and entrepreneurs from Bhaktapur and nearby places of Bhaktapur. These
respondents represent the overall tourism industry in Bhaktapur in this study.

3.5 Sampling procedure

In this research, researcher has used purposive sampling method as researcher has relied on
his own judgement when choosing members of population to participate in the study. And it
is not only the best method to generalize the result but also it is highly effective, fast in speed
and has low cost.

3.6 Data Collection Procedure

As it has already been there are two type of data required to be collected for research doing.
Those are primary data and secondary data. Primary data are usually the new information
discovered from the research and studies while the secondary data are the findings or the
information from the already available researches, articles, books and various others source
of information. So, there are procedures to collect both types of data for research doing. Each
of the them are discussed below.
Primary data are the newly discovered information from various sources such as survey,
experiments, field observation and so on. For this research, survey questionnaire is done to
collect primary data. For that purpose, questionnaire is formulated and the answers to these
questionnaires contribute in determining answer to the research questions and hence leading
to the accomplishment of research objectives. So, a set of questionnaire is formulated and
distributed among the research sample respondent. After that, these information are analyzed
quantitatively via mathematical calculation, which further derived to qualitative analysis
leading to conclusions and recommendations. Thus, this research and its findings can be
taken as literature for review and source of secondary data collection for future new
researches in similar field.

These are usually collected from the literature review of the research. Literature review
allows the researcher to discuss on the subject matter and the research topic for better
understandability. So the review provides opportunity for the researcher to collect secondary
data which can be used to accompany the information collected from various surveys and
various primary data sources.

3.7 Data Collection Tools

As the research is exploratory in nature, both qualitative and quantitative methods are used
for data collection that means it is a mixed method (Saunders, 2007). This research is based
on qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis. It is already discussed that the
qualitative data are collected primarily from literature review. While quantitative data are the
most important as it is exploratory in nature where quantitative data are used for further
qualitative discussion and conclusion.

This research will explore the research topic in alignment with research objectives, research
questions and research aim. So, it is necessary to collect primary data that should match the
research topic and the research methods design. There are various tools for collecting data
such as field survey, experiments, observation, case study, etc. (Saunders, 2007). Since, the
research study needs to collect information, which is based on tourists and tourism associated
personnel’s’ viewpoints and opinions based on their experiences in the field. Thus, the best
suited data collection tool is field survey where tourists and the tourism personnel are
approached to collect new information. These information are further analyzed quantitatively
and qualitatively to reach the research questions and goals. (Raithelet al., 2012)

Furthermore, to collect data via field survey, questionnaire is developed, which is shown in
the appendix. The questionnaire is designed with close end questions with multiple choices. It
is so because the received information can be cascaded for quantitative analysis and further to
qualitative understanding. Answers to these questions provide information to answer research
questions and meet research objectives. (Gill and Johnson, 2010)

3.8 Data Analysis Method

The Primary and the Secondary data collected are classified under the appropriate heading
and analyzed. These data are analyzed as frequency of visiting, age factor of visitors, tourism
effects, pollution and many more. The outcomes of the analysis are presented by using
various modes such as tabular formats, bar graphs, line graphs, pie charts, etc. The discussion
is done according to the outcomes of the data.

During the data processing work, the filled questionnaires are carefully checked to remove
errors and inconsistencies, if any. Data processing program such as Microsoft Access and
Microsoft Excel are used to record and process the collected data. These software are felt to
be sufficient in analyzing the data.

Once, small application is developed in MS-Access in order to computerize the data

systematically. All the opinions or data collected through questionnaires are then recorded to
computer by suing the application. The collected data is transferred to Microsoft Excel and
stored out. Thereafter, data is analyzed by using different tools of MS Excel for example,
chart tools MS-excel is used to present the data in graphs.
3.9 Data Interpretation Procedure

As it is mentioned above, the study is fully descriptive type. Descriptive Research is a

process of accumulating facts. Id does not necessarily seek to explain relationships, test
hypotheses, make predications or get at a meaning and implications of study. So, as per the
nature of research, no hypothetical tools are used to analyzed and interpret the data. Only
some statistical tools are used to explore the data. Main tools used in this study are:
 %(Percentage): To show the percentage of respondents on a particular question or
opinion
 Chart: Different charts like pie, bar, column, etc. to show the graphical presentation of
data.
 CHAPTER FOUR

OBSERVATION, DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS

The study is fully descriptive type. Descriptive research is a process of accumulating facts
(Saunders et al., 2009). It does not necessarily seek to explain relationships, test hypothesis,
make predictions or get at a meaning and implications of the study. So, as per the nature of
research; no hypothetical tools are used to analyze the data. Only some statistical tools are
used to explore the data. There were several steps to analyze findings of the research. The
steps referred to questions and helped to find out the tourism prospects practiced in tourism
sector.

This chapter examines the perception regarding tourism situation in Bhaktapur as well as
overall Nepal tourism sector, problem for not efficiently implementing it as a promotional
tool and the major problem that the sector is facing at present. Any study is carried out with a
definite objective; similarly, this study has its own objectives. From the topic, tourists'
perception about Bhaktapur as a tourist destination,
the thesis can be assumed the natural resources and environment are the fundamental fabric
upon which the tourism of Nepal is based. Today tourism industry hosts employment to the
largest number of people of the nation and relatively helps to bring large number of tourist to
the nation. As there is the large number of tourists flow in the country it directly relates to the
environmental degradation. The living standard of people, societal environment, countries
economy, job opportunity etc. is directly affected by the tourism. So the basic objective of the
study as mentioned earlier are addresses with the questionnaire sand the information gathered
from them. These information are further analyzed quantitatively and presented qualitatively
to derive recommendations for Tourists' perception about Bhaktapur as a Tourist destination.

The questions were objective, ranking and subjective types. The respondent's views are
analyzed using the statistical tools such as:
 Data analysis,
 Tabulation,
 Presentation and
  Pie chart.

4.1Analysis of the respondent's perception regarding current situation of

tourism industry in Bhaktapur

Table : Distribution of the respondents' perception regarding current situation of tourism

industry in Bhaktapur.
Current Situation of tourism Industry in Respondents
Bhaktapur Numbers %

Poor 0 0
Satisfactory 52 86.67
Good 8 13.33
Very Good 0 0
Total 60 100
Source: Field survey, 2018

Poor
Satisfactory
Good
Very Good

Figure : Statistic Presentation of Data for current situation

In the above table and graphs, the respondents’ perceptions are given about current situation
of tourism industry in Bhaktapur. There were in majority of 52(86.6%) respondents who
thought the condition is satisfactory, 8(13.33%) think the condition is good and non of the
respondents thought the situation is either poor or very good. It seems that the condition of
tourism industry in Bhaktapur is at its developing stage till 2018. The effect of the
earthquake has been still on the situation but of Visit Nepal 2020 the tourism is the
destination has been highly expected in coming years by locals and the tourism board .
However, in regards to that expectations, the current situations might be satisfactory. Yet, it
can be expected for further improvement of tourism in Bhakatapur due to promotion and
development.

4.2Analysis of the respondent's perception regarding Bhaktapur as a

potential tourist destination

Table : Distribution of the respondent's perception regarding Bhaktapur as a potential tourist

destination
Bhaktapur as Potential Destination for Respondents Numbers %
Tourist

Low 0 0

Medium 10 16.67

High 38 63.33

Very High 12 20

Total 60 100

Sources: Filed survey.

Bhaktapur as a potential Tourist destination

 Low
medium
High
Very High

Figure : Statistic presentation of data for Bhaktapur’s potentiality.

Out of total respondent i.e. 60 there were 38(63.33%) respondent who thought that Bhaktapur
is highly potential tourist destination, there were 12(20%) respondent who thought that it has
very high potential as a tourist destination where only 10(16.6%) rated Nepal as a medium
potential destination and non of the respondent related Nepal as a low potential tourist
destination. It seems that Bhaktapur was rated as a high potential tourist destination due to its
archeological beauty, rich culture and tradition.
Tourist believes Bhaktapur as a antique tourist destination and purely shows the royal
environment of the past.
4.3Analysis of the records of tourist most visited heritages in Bhaktapur

Table : Distribution of records of tourist most visited heritages in Bhaktapur.

Places No of visitors Percent

Durbar Square 16 26.92%

Taumadhi Square 15 25.00%

Pottery Square 11 19.23%

Dattatraya square 10 17.30%

Hanuman Ghat 4 5.76%

Museums 3 3.84%

Others 1 1.95%

Total 60 100%

Source: field survey

The records of tourist most visited heritages in Bhaktapur

Durbar Square
Taumadhi Square
Pottery Square
Dattatraya Square
Hanuman Ghat
Museums
others

Figure : Statistical representation of Tourist most visited heritages in Bhaktapur.

The percentages calculated above are the number of respondents ranking particular heritages
as the most visited by the tourists in Bhaktapur. The respondents ranked Durbar square as the
highly visited while others small monuments are least visited. Bhaktapur Durbar Square – a
world heritage site is the major attraction for visitors (27%) in Bhaktapur. But there is equal
importance given to other squares of Bhaktapur city like Taumadhi Square (25%), Pottery
Square (19%) and Dattatraya Square (17%). Bhaktapur city is full of attraction and visitors
are really hypnotized by every cultural aspect and the monuments of architectural values.
Below table gives the details of the data on Places Visited in Bhaktapur. It seems that
Bhaktapur Durbar Square attracts major Tourist. It might be because tourists visiting
Bhaktapur are highly interested on Nepalese history, artifacts and culture.

4.4Analysis of Table showing visitors visiting surrounding places near

Bhaktapur

Table : Distribution of Table showing the visitors visiting surrounding places near Bhaktapur
Places in the surroundings of Bhaktapur No of visitors Percent

Nagarkot 21 34.61%

Changu Narayan 11 17.30%

Dhulikhel 7 9.61%

Suryabinayak 2 5.76%

Thimi 2 5.76%

Others 17 26.92%

Total 60 100%

Sources: field visit

Visitors visiting surrounding places near Bhaktapur

 Nagarkot
Changu Narayan
Dhulikhel
suryabinayak
thimi
others

Figure : Statistical representation of Visitors visiting surrounding places near Bhaktapur

Similarly, in the surrounding of the Bhaktapur core city most visitors have visited Nagarkot, a
hill station that gives extreme natural views of sunrise and the sunshine reflecting in the
mountain ranges. Changu Narayan, a world heritage site is another proper attraction for the
visitors. So, even though the visitors are targeting Bhaktapur as their major tour destinations,
Nagarkot is also highly visited due to its features of living in nature and peace. That means, it
can provide information that Nagarkot can be possible living destinations for tourists
travelling not only Bhaktapur but also Kathmandu city. So, it is necessary to develop
Nagarkot as holiday destination.
4.5Analysis of respondents answers on “what do you like most?”

Table : Distribution of respondents answer on what do you like most

Responses (what do you like most?) No of visitors Percent

Cultural heritages 15 25.00%

Monuments 14 21.15%

Better Environment 11 19.23%

Hospitable People 11 19.23%

Arts and Architecture 9 15.38%

Total 60 100%

Sources: field survey

What do you like most?

Cultural Heritage
Monuments
Better Environment
Hospitable People
Arts & Architecture

Figure :Statistic presentation of Data for respondents’ like.

Visitors in Bhaktapur have different likes and dislikes. It is quite obvious that everybody
prefers better environment with good quality of air and proper facilities for their convenience.
Beside these, visitors in Bhaktapur mostly liked the cultural heritages, monuments, profound
arts and architecture along with the hospitality of the local host community.
4.6 Analysis of respondents answers on “what you dislike most?”

Table : Distribution of respondents answer on what you dislike most?

Response (what you dislike most?) No of visitors Percent

Environmental Problems 21 34.61%

Hawkers 14 23.07%

Traffic in the squares 9 15.38%

Beggars 6 9.61%

High Entrance Fee 6 9.61%

Local guides 4 7.69%

Total 60 100%

Source: Field survey

What you dislike most?

Environment Problem
Hawkers
Traffic in the squares
Beggers
High Entrance Fee
Local guides

Figure : Statistic presentation of data for respondents’ dislike.

Visitors in Bhaktapur have different dislikes. The basic dislikes include the poor sanitation
and pollution. Though it is bit clean than Kathmandu, still the environment problems are the
major issue regarding the dislikes of the visitors in Bhaktapur. Likewise, hawkers and the
beggars who disturb them during their visit and the higher entrance fee collected by the
Tourist Service Counter under Bhaktapur Municipality is mentioned by some of the visitors
as they found poor quality of services.

4.7Analysis of Table showing was visit to Bhaktapur as expected

Table : Distribution of Table showing tourism pattern in Bhaktapur

Expectation of tourist No of tourist Per cent

Below Expectation 36 60%

As Expected 18 30%

Above Expectation 6 10%

Total 60 100%

Sources: Field survey

Below expectation
As expected
above expectation

Figure : Statistic Presentation of data as expectation of tourist in Bhaktapur.

After interviewing the tourist during the survey, the data shows that 60% people coudn't be
satisfied as they found the place quite crowded by the locals and they feel the place unsecure.
Due to the destruction of earthquake on 2015,the monuments are still in construction phase
30% visitors seems to be satisfied and found as expected whereas 10% visitors believed the
site was better than their expectation.

4.8Analysis of Table showing tourist pattern in Bhaktapur

Table : Distribution of Table showing tourism pattern in Bhaktapur

Tourism Pattern in Bhaktapur Durbar Square No of Agency Per cent

Seasonal 6 60%

Regular 3 30%

Ad-hoc 1 10%

Total 10 100%

Sources: Field survey

Seasonal
Regular
Ad-hoc

Figure : Statistic Presentation of data for tourism pattern in Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

As interviewing the local tourism service vendors, tourism entrepreneurs and the people who
are related with the tourism around the B.D.S about the tourism in Bhaktapur most of there
answers were seasonal, whereas also the answers were regular and ad-hoc too.
4.9Analysis of the respondents views on better year for tourism industry in
Bhaktapur since last 4 years

Information was collected from the question to find the favorable year for tourism industry in
Bhaktapur since last 4 years. After collecting the data the following responses were analysis.
Table : Distribution of respondent views on better year for tourism industry in Bhaktapur last
4 years
Year Respondent Number %
2014-015 8 13.33
2015-016 5 8.33
2016-017 20 33.33
2017-018 27 45

Total 60 100
Sources: field survey

2014-15
2015-16
2016-17
2017-18

Figure : Statics presentation of data for respondent views on better year for tourism industry.

Table 4.8 and Figure 4.8 shows the better year for tourism industry in Bhaktapur since last 4
years. There were 60 respondents out of 60 respondent 27(45%) thought 2017-018 has the
better year for tourism industry. Similarly, 20(33.33%) respondent thought 2016-017 had
been the better year, 5(8.33%) respondent 2015-016 had been better year where as 8(13.33%)
respondent that 2014-015 had been better year. It seems that 2015-016 were the unpleasant
year for the tourism sector in Bhaktapur. People believe blockade effect very negatively for
tourism in respective year. Thus, the statistics shows 2017-018 has been a jolly year for
tourism.

4.10 Analysis of respondent reason for the better inflow of tourist in

Bhaktapur

Table : Distribution of the respondent region for the better inflow for tourist in Bhaktapur.
Region for the better inflow of tourist in Bhaktapur Respondent %
Number

Government promotion campaign(G.P.C) 22 36.37

Government policy(G.P) 2 3.33

Better environment(B.E) 26 43.63

Private sector own promotional effort(P.S.P.E) 10 16.67

Total 60 100

Source: Field Survey

Reason for inflow of tourist

 government promotion
campagin
Government policy
Better environment
Private sector own
promotional effort

Figure : Statistic presentation of data for the better inflow tourist in Bhaktapur.

In the above table and graphic, the respondents’ perception regarding better inflow of tourist
is given. There were 60 total respondents. Out of 60 respondents there were 22 who thought it
was due to government promotional campaign. Similarly 2(3.33%) thought that it was due to
government policy.
Whereas 26 agents thought it was due to better environment of the country and only
10(16.67%) thought it was due to private sectors' own promotional effort.

4.11 Analysis of respondents views on the unfavorable year for the tourist
industry in Bhaktapur since last 4 years

Table : Industry in Bhaktapur since last 4 years

Unfavorable year for the tourist industry in Bhaktapur Respondent %
since last 4 years Number
2014-015 20 33.33
2015-016 30 50.00
2016-017 5 12.5
2017-018 5 12.5
Total 60 100
Source: field survey
Unfavorable year for the tourist industry in Bhaktapur since last 4 years
 2014-015
2015-016
2016-017
2017-018

Figure : Statistical representation of Unfavorable year for the tourist industry in Bhaktapur
since last 4 years.

The above table and graph, shows the unfavorable inflow to tourist industry in Bhaktapur
since last 4 years. Among 60 total agents there were the 20(33.33%) respondents who thought
2014-015 were the worst year for tourism industry , 30(50%) thought 2015-016 had been
worst year because of blockade. Only 5(12.5%) respondents thought that 2016-017 and 2017-
018 had been worst year . It seems that 2015-016 were unfavorable years for tourism industry
in Nepal.

4.12 Analysis of the respondent's perception regarding current facility

available at Bhaktapur

Table : Distribution of the respondents' perception regarding current facility available at

Bhaktapur.

Current facility available at Bhaktapur Respondents

Numbers %

Poor 0 0

Satisfactory 52 86.67

Good 8 13.33
 Very Good 0 0

Total 60 100

Source: Field survey, 2018

Poor
Satisfactory
Good
Very Good

Figure : Statistic Presentation of Data for current situation

In the above table and graphs, the respondents’perceptions are given about current facilty
available at Bhaktapur. There were in majority of 52(86.6%) respondents who thought the
condition is satisfactory, 8(13.33%) think the condition is good and non of the respondents
thought the situation is either poor or very good.It seems that the condition of tourism
industry in Bhaktapur is at its developing stage till 2018.

4.13 Reasons for bad inflow of tourist in those years

Table : Reasons for bad inflow of tourist in those years

Reason for bad inflow of tourist in those years Respondents Number %

Internal factors 43 71.67

External factors 3 5

Both 14 23.33
 Total 60 100

Sources: filed survey

Reason for bad inflow of tourist in those years

Internal factors
External factors
Both

Figure : Statistical representation of data on reason for bad inflow of tourist in those years

In the above table and graph, the respondents' perception regarding the bad inflow of tourist
is given. There were 60 total respondents. Out of 60 respondents there were 43(71.67%) who
thought it was due to internal factors, whereas 14(23.33%) respondents thoughts it was due to
both internal and external factors and 3(5%) respondents thought that it was due to external
factors only.
It seems that tourism industries were badly hampered by internal problems rather than
external problems rather than external problems.
 4.14 Analysis of regions from where most travelers’ visit in Higher
percentage

Table : Distribution of the respondents of the regions that most travelers come from
Region Respondent
Number %

Asia 24 40

European 34 56.67

North America 2 3.33

South America 0 0

Total 60 100

Source: filed survey

Distribution of the respondents’ region that most travelers come from

Asia
European
North America
South America

Figure : Distribution of the respondents’ region that most travellers come from.

The above table and graph show that, Asian and Europeans were the major tourist visiting in
this part of the world. Among 60 respondents, there were 34(56.67%) respondents that favor
the European as the frequent visitor similarly24 (40%) Respondent favor Asian as the second
most frequent visitors whereas, 2(3.33%) Respondent favor the North America as likely
visitors. Thus European and Asian were most influence by the beauty if this country and from
those reason most travelers come to visit Nepal.
 CHAPTER FIVE

MAJOR FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND

RECOMMENDATIONS

The research questions based on field survey and analysis are summarized below. Regarding
the issues stated in conclusion, some suggestions are explained in detail in the
Recommendations section. This chapter is the conducing parts of this thesis. It’s the research
report on Tourism in Bhaktapur. The study area was located in Bhaktapur valley only. A total
of 120 respondents were randomly selected which include Tourist and visitors in Bhaktapur,
and also travel agencies from Bhaktapur and few from nearby places of Bhaktapur. Another
important feature of this study is to suggest appropriate recommendation regarding how
tourism can be promoted though Internet.

5.1 Major Findings

According to the local people and the tourism entrepreneurs the major problems seem the
Water and the security problem with majority of 35%. As to them they say that water facility
in B.D.S and the surroundings was good few years before, now days the water is supplied
very limited by the Bhaktapur water Supply Corporation. The households are compelled to
manage their livelihood by the limited sources of water. They also say that there was water
every were in Bhaktapur and the people have not to be depended upon the water supply by
the corporation, but now even the water sources have extinct and there is very less sign of
underground water. They blame that there is no preservation of water and the construction of
the households and the planning are being rapidly which had let to the extinct of the water
resources.

Security is also the main concerning of the durbar square. Usually the visitors are frequently
coped with the slang words by the Hawkers and the local young generation people. The
research shows that it is mostly found when visitors are around the area for experiencing the
lifestyle and on the way of buying some pledge of Nepal.
In this time visitors should walk through the small and bricks paved way between the giant
houses. The way seems scary as their silence and nobody. Visitors feel alone and feel lack of
security and safety in this time, but according to the municipality, service desk and police no
such incidents have been found till now.

The other major problem seems the management of the B.D.S and the surroundings. There
are only limited no of dustbins available in Durbar Square as well as the surrounding. It is in
the entrance and in the side of the monuments. There is also huge gap between the dustbins.
In the context of surrounding area there is no enough dustbin and the local people are
compelled themselves to throw the dust outside their house or any other open places. These
have made the area dirt smelly and the people should cover their nose while passing through
it. There is a lot of noise pollution in Durbar Square in the daytime (usually from 9am - 9pm).
In the previous days the bike and cycles were let to pass through the Durbar Square. It had
caused more difficult for concentrating the visitors on the specified topic. With the honking
of the bikes and cycles visitors feel annoyed and irritating. Several visitors had also
complained about the noise pollution to the Tourism service desk in Durbar Square. But now
the planning committee had blocked the way for the bikes and cycles to durbar square still the
surrounding is suffering from the high speeds and the beeps of horns.

Visitors are surely dissatisfied when they found the thing mismanaged which they came by
paying their valuable money. These are not only the complaints of the visitors but also felt by
the local people and the tourism entrepreneurs. The mismanagement of the heritage sites, the
unpreserved looks of the monuments and the discolored walls, windows and the doors.
Visitors will be really shocked when they find out the Nepal's most popular and the world
heritage sites in that condition. As per the interaction with local people, they say that the
originality, arts and architecture and the monuments should be saved for future and should be
sustainable. They also say that the decoration and the perseverance of the durbar square are
like once in a blue moon. They say that there is no full utilization of the entrance fees
collected from the visitors.

Hawkers and beggars are the other challenging side of the B.D.S. Hawkers annoy and follow
the visitors and compel visitors to buy their products. Although Government started the
campaign of No begging in public places. Large number of beggars has been decreased but
some of the child still can be found in the area. Hawkers and beggars vary from ages, there is
no certain age, and they are from child to the old age people. Hawkers compel visitors to buy
products showing their various problems like health, the reason of handicap, etc. It's not only
the problem of B.D.S it is also the problem of the biggest cities of Nepal.

Now days a numerous people are seen in the durbar square, not only visitors but also the host
people. They present themselves in a large group in Durbar Square and chat, which had let in
the noise pollution, irritation and the irresponsibility of the hosts. It is widely being taken as a
dating spot as well as junction. The local people and the municipality are trying to eliminate
it and make the destination peaceful and favorable for the visitors.

Transportation is also one of the emerging major problems. Many tourist come on the
package with the guide and transport, also there are some tourist who like to explore the city
and the beauty on their own. They are fully dependent upon the local transportation, which
are not found frequently. There are only few routes and limited buses in Bhaktapur. They are
congested and difficult for them to get as they are in the new city. Not only tourist but also to
the local people they are suffering from the same problem. The population is increasing and
the transportation is being tight every day. They should have to change more than on buses to
go to the different destination. So if the bus route is linked with various tourist cities of
Kathmandu then the accessibility would play vital role for the betterment of tourism in
Bhaktapur.

Here the analysis of the respondents’ perception is all analyzed from the above charts and
flowcharts. The respondents’ analysis regarding current situation of tourism industry in
Bhaktapur (86.67%) perception was satisfactory where as 13% respondents perception was
Good. Whereas the analysis of respondent’s perception regarding Bhaktapur as a potential
tourist destination (63.33%) was high. That means, even if there is an emergent situation in
Nepal due to earthquake and political crisis, Bhaktapur is taken as major tour destination
where tourism institution are promoting it as safe place and assuring security.

Again the analysis of the records of tourist most visited heritages site in Bhaktapur is Durbar
Square, which is about (26.92%). The analysis of visitors interested visiting surrounding
places near Bhaktapur most was Nagarkot, which is about (34.61%). Analysis of
Respondents answer on “What do you like most?” most of the respondents replied Cultural
heritages (25%) respondents. Analysis of respondents answer on “What you dislike the
most?” most of the respondents replied Beggars & High Entrance Fee (9.61%). Now analysis
of showing the tourist pattern in Bhaktapur is seasonal (60%) the highest percent. That
means, selecting Bhaktapur as a major destination of cultural heritage can promote the places.
While, Nagarkot being near to Bhaktapur can also be promoted as best place to live for
tourists visiting Bhaktapur area.

The analysis of the respondents view on better year for tourism industry in Bhaktapur since
last 4 years is 2017-2018, which is the biggest year for tourism in Bhaktpur since 4 years.
Analysis of respondents’ reason for better inflow of tourist in Bhaktapur is Better
Environment(B.E) (43.63%) out of 60. While analyzing, the respondents view on the
unfavorable year for the tourist industry in Bhaktapur since Last 4 years was 2015-016
(50%). The analysis of reason for bad flow of tourist in those years, was Internal factor (71%)
it seems internal problems were more affecting tourist flow rather than external. Analyses of
region most travelers come from are from European country(56.67%). From the survey of
analysis of respondent regarding the tourist expectation, it shows the expectation was below
of what they have assumed. Only very few who has been to Bhaktapur multiple times and
seen the progress of Nepal, thinks the visit to Bhaktapur was above expectation in these days.

With the various questionnaire to hotels, Bhaktapur municipality community, Nepal tourism
board members regarding the present problem that the sector is facing at present. Every
respondent including tourist and travel agencies pointed out the same problem as
management failure, beggars and hawkers, law and order situation, rumors that the
international media has been spreading regarding Nepal as an unsecured destination for
tourist. Hoteliers confessed that rooms gets shortage some days and somedays not enough
because of short length of stay of guest. Walk-in guest arrives more than from the conform
booking guest.. Some respondents also included about the road traffic as one big problem.
Respondents are also worried on their safety and security. These problem that had been
demoralizing the tour operators in Nepal it seems that if this problem will be rectified and
effective majors is undertaken the tourism industry in Nepal can be benefit a lot.

Tourism is travel for recreation, leisure, religious, family or business purposes, usually for a
limited duration. Tourism has become a popular global leisure activity. Tourism can be
domestic or international, and international tourism has both incoming and outgoing
implications on a country’s balance of payments. Today, tourism is a major source of income
for many countries, and affect the economy of both the source and host countries, in some
cases being of vital importance. We know that tourism plays a significant role in the
development of the country as well as helps the country earn more GDP. In the developing
countries like Nepal tourism plays a vital role. There are numerous examples of households
that are directly linked with the tourism. They may be in different forms like shopkeeper,
waiter, service vender, driver etc. Many population of the country is directly linked with
tourism. It is also said that when one tourist enters the country in average 7 peoples get the
job, and this tourism is possible only when there are tourist. Tourists are in the search of new
places and destination where they can spend their vacation. They prefer the places, which are
affordable, pollution free, good environment, having good facilities, hospitable people and
other as according to their needs. Environment also plays vital role for selecting their
destination. They get all these information from various sources like Internet, travel
brochures, from their relatives and friends. After collecting all the information they choose
the destination.

With all reference to the data, research and analysis of the Bhaktapur we came to point that
tourism and environment are parallel. Without one the other is very hard to take and for the
satisfaction all the people of the community and the area should give equal hand. It cannot be
only fulfilled by the government neither only by the local people. All of them should try to
keep the environment of the destination clean and healthy both physically as well as
mentally. Physically the environment can be kept clean by eliminating the pollution of noise,
air, water etc. These can be done with both the help of government as well as local people.
They can take the help of the expertise and conduct different programs for the sustainability
of the destination. While talking about the environment and tourism the facts like
sustainability tourism development of the destination which are being sold, carrying capacity
of the destination, environmental degradation, re-use, re-cycle and the environmental impact
assessment can be conducted before implementing the program.

The mental environment should also be fine of the tourism vendors, entrepreneurs, and the
local people. They should be hospitable and always helping the others in their needs. The
local should always be in the situation of apathy, where the guests are welcomed and the
mutual contraction between the local people and the guests take place. The most dangerous
phase is irritation and antagonism. They should try to emit these phases as these conducts bad
reputation and misunderstanding between the local people and the visitors. Safety and
security also plays the vital role in the environment of the tourism. Safe and secured place is
always preferred where as unsafe and unsecured place is always ignored. For maintaining the
safe and security both government and local people should give their hands. For having the
better environment the training of hospitality and moral education can be provided.

Now days a numerous people are seen in the durbar square, not only visitors but also the host
people. They present themselves in a large group in durbar square and chat, which had let in
the noise pollution, irritation and the irresponsibility of the hosts. It is widely being taken as a
dating spot as well as junction. The local people and the municipality are trying to eliminate
it and make the destination peaceful and favorable for the visitors.

Transportation is also one of the emerging major problems. Many tourist come on the
package with the guide and transport, also there are some tourist who like to explore the city
and the beauty on their own. They are fully dependent upon the local transportation, which
are not found frequently. There are only few routes and limited buses in Bhaktapur. They are
congested and difficult for them to get as they are in the new city. Not only tourist but also to
the local people they are suffering from the same problem. The population is increasing and
the transportation is being tight every day. They should have to change more than on buses to
go to the different destination. So if the bus route is linked with various tourist cities of
Kathmandu then the accessibility would play vital role for the betterment of tourism in
Bhaktapur.

The majority of survey respondents reported that the current situation of travel and tourism
sector in Nepal is satisfactory (86.67%). In additional, 13.33% respondents seem happy with
the current situation of travels and tourism industry in Nepal. A majority of 63.33%
respondents considered Nepal as high potential tourist destination. Regarding better year for
tourism industry since last 4years, the majority of respondent (45%) thought, 2017-18 were
the better year for tourism industry and reason for the good inflow of the tourist in those year
where due to the better environment of the country (43.63%) respondents responded. A
majority of 50% respondents considered 2015-16 as the unfavorable year for tourism industry
since last 4 years and reason for the bad inflow of tourist were due to the internal problem of
the country(71.67%) respondents responded. There were comparative view about the region
from where most tourist come to Nepal, 56.67% respondents believe that they come from
Europe and 40% respondents believe it from Asia.

It is crucial to note that there were no significant differences between the responses provided
by respondents (any level of organization) for the most of the question throughout the survey.
Therefore, tourism is one of the most important elements that help to boost the economic
condition of the least developing country like Nepal.

5.2 Conclusion

Bhaktapur is one of the oldest Newar city also called Bhadgaon with lots of historic
background, It is considered as the living heritage and tourism can easily be promoted by the
presence of abundance of historic, artistic and uniquely architecture monuments; cultural
riches, festivals, dances, music art, life style with in Bhaktapur city, and beyond has attracted
millions of tourists since then. It has played a very important role in promotion of tourism in
Nepal.

Tourism industry plays an inevitably important role in Nepalese economy. So the permanent
cultural heritage conservation and tourism promotion is required. But the existing market
situation and the prevailing passive economic activities after the drastic fall in foreign visitors
to Nepal due to national and international political causes have proved the fact to its maxim.
In Bhaktapur itself, tourism most probably is the next major economic source after
Agriculture. Bhaktapur depends on tourism for almost 60% of its direct financial sources
(tourist service fee). Thus it is beyond doubt that for the overall development of Bhaktapur,
tourism development is important. Moreover economic potentials in Bhaktapur should be
exploited with central cultural distinct and decentralization of tourism promotion activities.

Development of tourism activities has helped created market for local handicrafts and gift
items. With it the local traditional craft and craftsmen are getting opportunities to preserve
and promote their ancient skills that have been handed down generation by generations.
According to NTB, 60% of the tourists coming to Nepal come for pleasure or as cultural
tourists. Hence it is evident that there is still an immense possibility of tourism development
in Bhaktapur and if planned properly, over 90% of the tourists visiting Nepal can be expected
to come and visit Bhaktapur, stay longer and spend more. There were comparative view
about the region from where most tourists come to Bhaktapur, Travel agencies and service
providers said that 56.67% of tourist come from Europe and 40% from Asia. The linkage
between tourism and environment in Bhaktapur can be identified by the cleanliness of
Bhaktapur Durbar Square with comparison to other durbar square in valley. Bhaktapur
Durbar Square definitely has greenery and the basic fulfillment of the water, fresh air and less
noise. Tourism development should ensure environmental sustainability as tourism can
generate financial resources for conservation of the natural environment; raises awareness
about environmental conservation and promotes waste management, recycling and
biodiversity conservation. Uncontrolled tourism may generate negative externalities as a
result of pollution, congestion and depletion of natural resources.

5.3 Recommendations

Bhaktapur has been doing a lot in preserving historic monuments and cultural heritage. It has
changed once the filthiest city in the valley to the cleanest city today. Still there are more
things to be done for promoting tourism in Bhaktapur. Bhaktapur itself is a very historic place
it has so many secrets so many palaces. Still there are so many things to be done in
Bhaktapur. Even people have understood and keep the city clean. Even the government has to
work out with Bhaktapur area. Its value culture norms are equally very important for local
peoples so both has to be maintained equally. There still hasn’t been done a proper research
in this area. To exploit the tourism potentials of Bhaktapur to the fullest for the economic
uplifting of its inhabitants, the following measures are to be considered.
 Quality Man-power
 Security
 Comfortable and pleasant access
 Basic facilities like parking, toilets, information about DO'S & DON’TS
 Standard accommodation and communication facilities
 New tourism products
Moreover, for the optimal benefit sharing with the local community through tourism
development, certain specific environmental enhancement programming can be applied. It
includes:
 Taking the knowledge of EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment)
 Knowledge before commencing any types of tourism activity.
 Planning the Sustainable tourism development program.
 Maximization of local people in tourism and helping the society make clean and
hospitable.
 Giving and implementing the knowledge of cleanliness, greenery, fresh air etc.
 Conduct awareness program about environment and tourism and make local
community aware environmental degradation.
 Formulate policies of ownership by local government, participation of local people
and benefit sharing approach for prompt development and promotion of tourism in
Bhaktapur
 This research has been limited to budget hotels, sites within some places of Bhaktapur
only. I would recommend other researchers to cover more areas of study so that the
findings can be generalized.
 Organizing the campaign to promote the tourism in Nepal.
 The Nepal tourism board should take more initiatives to promote the tourism in
Nepal.
 The Bhaktapur municipality community should also be more future oriented to
develop the tourism industry in Bhaktapur.
 There should be proper management of beggars and hawkers so that the tourist would
not be disturbed by them.
 REFERENCES

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 APPENDIX-I

QUESTIONNAIRE TO TOURIST AND VISITORS

This questionnaire is prepared in order to collect the data for research work to undertake in
the partial fulfillment of MHHM programs, Purbanchal University. Please take a moment of
your time to fill this simple form. All information written will remain confidential.

Name: Age:

Location: Sex:

1) What is your perception regarding current situation of Bhaktapur ?

A)Poor B) Satisfactory C) Good D) very good

2) What is your perception regarding Bhaktapur as a potential tourist destination?

A) Low B) Medium C) High D) Very high

3). Which of the following Heritage sites of Bhaktapur did you visit?

A) Durbar square B) Taumadhi square C) Pottery Square

D) Dattatraya Square E)HanumanGhat F)Museums G) Others

4). Which of the nearby places of Bhaktapur have you visited?

A) Nagarkot B) Changunarayan C) Dhulikhel D) Suryabina

E)Thimi F)Others

5. Which of the following things of Bhaktapur you liked the most?

A) Cultural heritages B) Monuments C)Better environment

D)Hospitable people E)Arts& Architecture
6. Which of the following things of Bhaktapur you didnot like?

A) Environmental problems B) Hawkers C)Traffic in the squares

D)Beggars E)High entrance Fees

7. What is your perception regarding current facility available at Bhaktapur ?

A)Poor B) Satisfactory C) Good D) very good

8. Was your visit to Bhaktapur as expected ?

A)As expected B) Above expected C) Below expected

 APPENDIX-II

QUESTIONNAIRE TO TOUR AND TRAVEL AGENCIES, SERVICE PROVIDERS

AND ENTREPRENEURS

This questionnaire is prepared in order to collect the data for research work to undertake in
the partial fulfillment of MHHM programs, Purbanchal University. Please take a moment of
your time to fill this simple form. All information written will remain confidential.

Name of Company:
Location: Bhaktapur

1) What pattern of tourist visiting was seen in Bhaktapur?

A)Seasonal B) Regular

2) Which year can be viewed as the best year for tourism in Bhaktapur since last 4 years

A) 2014-015 B) 2015-016 C) 2016-017 D) 2017-018

3) What is the reason for the inflow of tourist in those years?

A)Government promotion campaign B) Government Policy

C) Better environment D) Private sector own promotion effort

4) For the tourism industry, which year being marked as unfavourable year?

A) 2017-018 B) 2016-017 C) 2015-016 D) 2014-015

5) What factors were being seen for bad inflow of tourist in those years?

A) Internal Factors B) External Factors C) Both

6) Tourists of which country are seen visting Bhaktapur in highest proportion?

A) Asia B) European C) North America D) South America E) Others