The Sagarmatha region is once again bustling with activity as the spring season brings a wave of tourists. On Monday alone, 694 visitors were recorded entering the Khumbu region, according to the Sagarmatha National Park Office in Namche.
Ranger Bibek Shrestha confirmed that hotel occupancy is high, fueled by the influx of tourists. Of the total visitors, 608 were foreign nationals, while 86 were domestic tourists.
Renowned Sagarmatha climber Temba Chhiri Sherpa noted that tourist numbers have surged with the onset of spring, making it difficult to secure good accommodation in the area.
The improved weather has also led to an increase in flights to Lukla. Tara Air’s Lukla station in-charge, Amrit Magar, said they have added more flights to accommodate the growing number of tourists. “With clearer skies, we’re seeing a spike in arrivals. Hotel reservations are also filling up quickly,” he added.
Tourism entrepreneurs are optimistic. Karma Sherma, Senior Vice Chairman of the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal, said, “The region is finally coming back to life after the Covid-19 slump. The rise in tourist arrivals has been a huge morale boost for everyone involved in the industry.”
The surge in visitors is also creating more job opportunities for locals. Hotels in Lukla and Namche are reportedly packed, according to Sherpa.
Most tourists come to visit Sagarmatha National Park, contributing significantly to the region’s revenue. Park authorities stated that the entry fee for SAARC nationals is Rs 1,500, for other foreign nationals Rs 3,000, and for Nepalis Rs 100.
