LAUSR

This study was conducted with an aim to assess the status of ecotourism in terms of tourism demand, tourist characteristics, and strength, weakness, opportunity, and threat (SWOT) analysis. For this, the study was conducted in Bhadaure-Tamagi village of the Panchase Protected Forest Area of Gandaki Province, which was planned to be developed as an important tourist destination for tourists visiting Pokhara because of its cultural and natural importance. Mixed-method research approach was implemented in this research for data collection and analysis. One hundred and twenty-two tourism stakeholders (30 hoteliers, 40 homestay owners, and 52 tourists) were surveyed for quantitative data collection and analysis along with seven key informant interviews (KII) for qualitative data collection and analysis. It was observed that the current demand for accommodation facilities in the Bhadaure-Tamagi village was 23,390 bed nights per annum. The tourism demand in terms of tourism revenues estimated through this study amounted to a total of US$10,763.67 per year. The occupancy rate of accommodation facilities at Bhadaure-Tamagi village was a mere 20%, which is well below the national and international average. Despite outstanding ecotourism opportunities and a necessary regulatory framework in place, the SWOT analysis revealed that the tourism sector development is not satisfactory. In the current situation, Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) had adversely affected the ecotourism in the area. So, tourism promotional activities need to be focused by following appropriate health, hygiene, and safety measures.