TTDP - Trail Based Tourism Development Project

Domestic tourism has increased by more than three times compared to international tourism in the last 5 years. These statistics together put up a picture that, domestic tourism is indeed in rapid rise in Nepal.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on Nepal´s tourism sector. Although it is expected to slowly recover once international tourism resumes in 2022, the rate of recovery of domestic tourists is expected to be much faster. Investment in domestic and regional tourism could prove to be a lifesaver for the industry and hence poverty reduction.

Realising dreams of prosperity and not falling back into conflict again in Nepal can only be guaranteed by successful implementation of the Constitution which largely rely on the degree of cooperation, coordination and coexistence among all spheres of government. Tourism demands of such cooperation in order to realize its vast potential. The models developed by the project can provide momentum in the implementation of the Constitution. 

The project aims to directly benefit 100,000 people of which 85,000 are from discriminated groups (including 40,000 women) and 18,000 are poor. Both provincial and local institutions will benefit from enhanced capacities to implement trail based tourism projects. Micro and small enterprises in the project area will also directly benefit from the project.

The project aims to indirectly benefit additional 50,000 people residing in cities in the vicinity.

Outcome 1: The Province Government collaborates with the Local Governments and the Federal Government to develop culturally rich environment friendly trail-based tourism destinations in Province 1.

Outcome 2: Community members, micro-entrepreneurs, and small and medium enterprises engage in culturally rich and environment friendly trail-based tourism.

Expected results:  

1.1 The Province and Local Governments endorse regulations, policies, and standards in relation to trail-based tourism and conservation of culture

1.2 The Federal Government builds on existing policies, regulations, standards, and frameworks to support trail-based tourism

1.3 The Province and Local Governments implement environment friendly trail construction works

1.4 The Province and Local Governments promote trail-based tourism

2.1 The local people, especially the disadvantaged groups construct and rehabilitate the trails in an environment friendly manner

2.2 Community members, micro-entrepreneurs and other private sector actors are able to offer safe and environmentally sound tourism services with distinct cultural identity

Results from previous phases:  

• Joint programming and budgeting from the Federal, Provincial and Local Governments are not available for trail based tourism initiatives
• Policies and incentives in conservation of local architecture and culture are not available in project areas
• Project areas are not promoted by the three spheres of governments

Enhanced Skills for Sustainable and Rewarding Employment (ENSSURE)

Investment and Innovation for Economic Development (IIED)

Province Support Programme (PSP)