Koshi Province to observe 2082 BS as ‘Visit Koshi Year’

By Kokila Dhakal,Ilam, Nov. 24: Koshi Province is making preparations to declare upcoming 2082 BS (mid-April 2024 to mid-April 2025) as 'Visit Koshi Year' to promote tourism in the region. 

Minister for Economic Affairs and Planning of Koshi, Ram Rana, informed about the upcoming scheme of the province while addressing the inauguration of a 'Food Festival' in Ilam on Saturday. 

Minister Rana said the initiative aims to highlight Koshi Province as a prime tourist destination.

According to him, the provincial government plans to identify 200 sites across the region as tourist destinations, with facilitation for visitors at 85 locations directly managed by the province.

Likewise, Minister Rana also revealed plans for two major events within next year: the Koshi Province Investment Summit in mid-January next year and an International Tea Conference round mid-April. "The investment summit will focus on attracting investment in tourism, hospitality, agriculture, hydropower, and water transport in Koshi Province," he said. 

The provincial government is also devising special strategies to attract international tourists to the Himalayan districts -- Taplejung, Sankhuwasabha, and Solukhumbu. 

"We recognise the need for additional plans and development in religious and tourist areas across the mountains, hills, and plains. Developing infrastructure in Himalayan regions will pave the way for foreign currency inflow, particularly through tourism," he said.

Meanwhile, the Food Festival will continue until Sunday. The event features 16 food stalls showcasing dishes from various communities, including Rai, Limbu, and Newar, according to Devi Paudyal, President of the Hotel Association Ilam. 

Coinciding with the festival, the Hotel Association Koshi Province is also conducting its annual convention.