Bhaktapur Welcomes Over 221,000 Tourists in FY 2082/83, Tourism Revenue Declines

Bhaktapur Durbar Square, one of Nepal’s most iconic cultural heritage destinations, welcomed 221,976 tourists during the fiscal year 2082/83, according to data from the Bhaktapur Municipality Tourism Information and Service Center.

Known for its UNESCO-listed heritage sites, traditional Newari architecture, ancient temples, festivals, local cuisine, and vibrant cultural lifestyle, Bhaktapur continues to remain one of Nepal’s major cultural tourism destinations.

The city attracts visitors with landmarks such as the Five-Story Temple, 55 Window Palace, Vatsala Temple, Dattatreya Square, Changunarayan area, traditional pottery communities, handicrafts, and authentic Newari dishes including Juju Dhau, Bara, and Yomari.

Tourist Arrivals Decline by 9.35 Percent

According to municipal statistics, Bhaktapur recorded 221,976 tourist arrivals in FY 2082/83. In the previous fiscal year 2081/82, the number stood at 244,868.

Compared to the previous year, tourist arrivals decreased by 22,892 visitors, representing a decline of 9.35 percent.

Among them, 111,445 were non-SAARC international tourists, which is a decrease of 17,936 visitors (13.86 percent) compared to the previous year.

Similarly, arrivals from SAARC countries and China totaled 110,531, showing a decline of 4,956 visitors (4.29 percent).

Decline in Tourism Revenue

The decrease in visitor numbers has also affected tourism revenue generated through entrance fees.

In FY 2082/83, Bhaktapur Municipality collected NPR 275 million 63 thousand 500 and USD 23,190 from tourism entry fees.

Compared to the previous fiscal year, revenue decreased by approximately NPR 11.86 million and USD 7,620.

Global Events Affect Tourist Flow

The municipality has attributed the decline in international tourist arrivals to various global and regional factors, including geopolitical tensions such as the Iran–US conflict, economic slowdown, the incomplete recovery of the tourism sector after COVID-19, international conflicts, competition among destinations within Kathmandu Valley, and limited global promotion.

Focus on Sustainable Tourism Development

Bhaktapur Municipality has been prioritizing domestic tourism promotion through cultural festivals, heritage walks, tourism activities, and promotional campaigns.

The municipality is also focusing on heritage conservation, improving tourism services, digital promotion, local product promotion, and developing tourist-friendly infrastructure to enhance visitor experiences.

Currently, the municipality collects tourism entrance fees through 14 different checkpoints. From FY 2082/83, the entrance fee for non-SAARC tourists has been revised from NPR 1,800 to NPR 2,000 per person, while the fee for SAARC and Chinese tourists remains NPR 500.

Bhaktapur: A Living Museum of Culture and Civilization

Bhaktapur is not only a historic city but also a living museum of Nepal’s art, culture, traditions, and civilization.

With continued heritage conservation, quality tourism services, and effective international promotion, Bhaktapur has strong potential to become an even more significant cultural tourism hub of Nepal.