Exploration team departs for feasibility study on Kathmandu-Rara tourist bus service

KATHMANDU: A special exploration team under the initiative of Tourist Bus Association of Nepal (TBAN) has departed from Kathmandu to conduct a feasibility study on operating tourist buses between Kathmandu and Rara Lake in Mugu district. Tourism entrepreneurs set out today from the premises of Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) to assess road conditions and overall travel feasibility.  

Senior Director at NTB, Hikmat Singh Ayer, stated during the farewell programme that the campaign to establish a direct road connection between Kathmandu and Rara had commenced. "I am very happy that the campaign to connect Kathmandu with Rara has begun. We are confident that this effort to convey the message that tourists can reach Rara in Karnali from Kathmandu via road transport will be successful," he said.  

Ayer further mentioned that the visit aims to promote domestic and regional tourism by demonstrating that Rara is not far from Kathmandu.  

TBAN President Bhishma Neupane remarked that the journey would serve as a valuable study on the feasibility and management of travel between Kathmandu and Rara. "The condition of the road and physical infrastructure appears simple and convenient. We will proceed in a more planned manner after a detailed study of the difficulties and possibilities that may arise during this journey," he said.  

Former TBAN President Krishna Acharya stated that travelling to Rara by road is entirely feasible. "This is the ideal season to travel to Rara from Kathmandu. If we can take tourists to Rara by bus from Kathmandu and create additional packages for this, the number of tourists in Rara will increase," he said.  

The exploration team comprises tourism entrepreneurs and representatives from relevant bodies. Preparations are reportedly underway to begin regular tourist bus services following the study.  

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