strategy for sustainable tourism development in dolpa

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Strategy for Sustainable Tourism Development in Dolpa, Nepal By: Linda Bezemer February 2009 To: SNV-Nepal

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Page 1: Strategy for sustainable tourism development in Dolpa

Strategy for Sustainable Tourism Development in

Dolpa, Nepal

By: Linda Bezemer

February 2009

To: SNV-Nepal

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Table of contents Acronyms 5 Executive Summary 6 Introduction 12 1. An analysis of Dolpa and its natural and cultural resources 13 1.1 Dolpa and Dolpo; an explanation 13 1.2 Some facts about Dolpa 13 1.3 Accesssibility 15 2. Tourism in Dolpa 16 2.1 Tourism facilities in Dolpa 16 2.2 People in Dolpa working in tourism 17 2.3 Institutions related to Sustainable Tourism Development in Dolpa 18 2.4 An overview of stakeholders in Dolpa 20 3. Analysis of tourism demand in Dolpa 25 3.1 Quantitative analysis: Facts and figures about tourism in Nepal and in Dolpa 25 3.2 Qualitative analysis of tourism demand in Dolpa 28 3.2.1 Types of tourists visiting Dolpa 29 4. Impacts of tourism 31 4.1 Economic impacts 31 4.2 Sociocultural impacts 33 4.3 Environmental impacts 34 4.4 Infrastructural development 34 5. Carrying Capacity of Dolpa 35 6. Different product market combinations and SWOT analysis for Dolpa 36 6.1 Products 36 6.2 Markets 36 6.3 Product market combinations 37 6.4 Competition and SWOT analysis per product market combination 38 7. Conclusions tourism potential Dolpa 42 7.1 Issues 42 7.2 Potential 42 7.3 Tourist profile 43 8. Strategy for sustainable tourism development in Dolpa 44 8.1 Introduction 44 8.2 Vision and objectives 45 8.3 Results and activities 46

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APPENDIXES Appendix 1: Literature 70 Appendix 2: Dolpa at a glance (information from SNV) 71 Appendix 3: Map of Dolpa District 73 Appendix 4: Stakeholders involved in sustainable tourism development in Dolpa 74 Appendix 5: Statistic figures of tourism in Nepal 79 Appendix 6: Research after tourists visiting Dolpa 84 Appendix 7: Net economic results per tye of tourist in Dolpa (in euros) 86 Appendix 8: Logical Framework for Sustainable Tourism Development in Dolpa 90

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Acronyms AsDB - Asian Development Bank ACAP - Annapurna Conservation Area Project BZC - Buffer Zone Council CBO - Community Based Organizations DDC - District Development Committee DESERT - Dolpa Educational, Social, Environmental Reservation Team DPP - District Partners Programme DNPWC - Department of National Park and Wildlife Conservation FIT - Free Independent Traveller HMG - His Majesty’s Government ICIMOD - International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development ICS - Improved Cook Stoves MRGRP - Marjan Rens Gompa Renovation Project MAP - Medicinal and aromatic plants NMCP - Northern Mountains Conservation Project NTB - Nepal Tourism Board PDTDMP - Participatory District Tourism Development and Management Plan SPNP - Shey Phoksumdo National Park SPNP BZ - SPNP Buffer Zone SPNP BZ MP - SPNP BZ Management Plan STD - Sustainable Tourism Development TRPAP - Tourism for Rural Poverty Alleviation Programme VDC - Village Development Committee WWF - World Wildlife Fund

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Executive Summary The objective of this document is to present a sustainable tourism development strategy for Dolpa District. It is based on an assessment of the tourism potential for Dolpa. Assessment tourism potential Dolpa District is an isolated and very poor area, more than half the population lives below the poverty line. People mainly live from agriculture. Additional sources of income are few, due to the inaccessibility of Dolpa. Tourism could be the opportunity looked for to create additional sources of income. The spectacular landscapes and authentic Buddhist culture is appealing for hikers. However, at present tourist arrivals in Dolpa are low, less than 1000 a year and virtually all tourists come in fully supplied camping groups. As a result, up till now local people in Dolpa hardly benefit from tourism. In Nepal tourism is seen by both the government, NGOs as the private sector, as one of the ways to contribute to poverty alleviation in remote areas. Since 2000 plans have been developed for Dolpa to increase the benefits for the local population from tourism, while at the same time maintaining the cultural and natural heritage. Unfortunately however, up till now tourism hasn’t shown the benefits hoped for. This is mostly due to the Maoist conflict. Now the conflict has ended, the time is there to re-evaluate the plans made for Dolpa and adapt them to the present situation. The unique selling points of Dolpa are the combination of:

High diversity in natural landscapes. From narrow, deeply incised river valleys to wide Trans Himalayan valleys, the Trans Himalaya Mountains and spectacular high passes. Shey Phoksumdo National Park, with inside the Phoksumdo Lake (crystal clear lake, surrounded by snowcapped peaks) and other high altitude lakes. High biodiversity: over 30 species of mammals, including endangered animals like snow leopard,

musk deer and blue sheep, 196 species of birds, diverse vegetation, with over 400 species of medicinal and aromatic herbal plants. Diversion of culture: Hinduism in lower parts of Dolpa; authentic Tibetan culture with Buddhism (Nyingmapa) and Bon (or Bonpo) religion in the higher parts of Dolpa. Especially the Buddhist and Bon cultures are very appealing to Western tourists. These cultures have very few extern

influences due to their remoteness. This remoteness is at the same time Dolpa’s biggest weakness. Tourists have to fly in and out or make a very long trek. Flights are subject to cancellation due to bad weather. The low number of flights that Juphal Airport can handle, could become a bottleneck for tourism growth. There are some good opportunities for Dolpa. Since peace established in Nepal, tourist arrivals are growing. Worldwide, a growing demand for eco-tourism and nature-based holidays can be seen. Besides, more people are looking for deeper experiences and authenticity during their holidays. Dolpa can benefit from the plans of SNV and ICIMOD of developing and branding the Great Himalayan Trail of which it is part. However, at the same time, there is a growing supply of destinations who are trying to use tourism as a means of poverty alleviation, so competition is growing. One can conclude that there is definitely a potential for tourism development, but due to the remoteness and difficult access, Dolpa has to concentrate on niche markets and growth numbers will probably not be very high. At the same time Dolpa has to define beforehand how many tourists it wants to attract, as the carrying capacity (especially the cultural carrying capacity) sets limits to growth as well.

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Dolpa should concentrate mainly on Western markets (Western Europe, USA, Australia), interested in authentic trekking products. Besides, a growing interest in trekking on Asian markets is noticed. Further, Nepalese travellers (trade people, pilgrims, people visiting friends and relatives, cordycep mushroom harvesters) could be an interesting market too. Further research is needed to get insight in these markets. The Western tourism markets for Dolpa consist of dedicated to hard-core adventurous tourists, both organized by a foreign touroperator and backpackers who book their trip to Dolpa in Kahtmandu. They are called dedicated, because they are committed (dedicated) to the quality and preservation of nature and culture of the places they visit. The quality of the experience is more important than comfort and convenience. For these types of tourists authenticity is very important. They don’t like things that are “touristy” or meeting many other tourists on their travels. They are prepared to pay the high price to get to Dolpa, with respect to money, effort and harsh conditions, because of the authenticity perceived. These groups tend to have an extensive cultural capital, which means they are highly educated and have a large general knowledge. Besides they tend to be in the higher income classes. Up till now, almost only organized camping groups are coming to Dolpa. However, recently small guesthouses and homestays are being developed between Juphal and Phoksumdo Lake . This makes this part of Dolpa also interesting for individual travelers (FITs, Free Independent Travelers). Sustainable tourism development strategy The tourism development should contribute to the achievement of the objectives of the different stakeholders involved. This has to be reflected in the vision for sustainable tourism development. Besides, the vision should be market oriented, it has to be appealing to the target groups. The following vision is suggested: Vision Dolpa will be the authentic Himalaya destination for international trekkers who want to experience pure Buddhism culture in a stunning, untouched high mountain landscape with optimal opportunities for the local population to benefit from tourism, without affecting the natural and cultural heritage, by 2015. To put the vision in practice, the following objectives are proposed: Objectives 1. To develop tourism infrastructure in such a way that it offers an authentic and high quality

experience to the tourists and maximum benefits to the local population, without affecting and where possible even improving the natural and cultural heritage of Dolpa 2. To organize local supply chains in such a way that Dolpa offers an authentic and high quality experience to the tourists and maximum benefits to the local population, without affecting and where possible even improving the natural and cultural heritage of Dolpa

3. To develop additional ways to maximize the positive impacts and minimize the negative impacts of sustainable tourism development on the the natural and cultural heritage of Dolpa 4. To develop a marketing strategy directed at the target markets Objective 1 To develop tourism infrastructure in such a way that it offers an authentic and high quality experience to the tourists and maximum benefits to the local population, without affecting and where possible even improving the natural and cultural heritage of Dolpa As the aim of the development of tourism is to provide extra income opportunities for the local population, it is evident that they should be involved in the planning, management and monitoring of tourism development. To achieve this, they have to be organized in Community Based Organizations.

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According to reports and key persons consulted, CBOs indeed have been formed, but are not really active at the moment. Therefore CBOs should be revitalized. Besides the local population, other stakeholders should be involved in the tourism development as well. Trail and bridge maintenance is needed to improve the quality and safety of the trek. At the same time, local people benefit directly from this as well. Upgrading the airport of Juphal is very important, in order to improve the capacity of the airport and to increase the reliability of the flights. Due to the location, flights will always be subject to weather conditions. However, currently the airstrip is made of grass. A black top airstrip would improve the accessibility of Dolpa to a high extend. Besides, it is important to lobby with airlines and government offices to have and allow direct flights from Pokhara. Lobbying to get permission to have FITs on the whole Dolpa Circuit is very important as well. Up till now, FITs are allowed in the stretch between Juphal and Phoksumdo, but not in the whole Dolpa Circuit. This excludes a potential large market segment from the tourist market. To control the tourism development and avoid negative impacts on the cultural and natural heritage, zoning is essential. Zoning is already proposed in the Management Plan 2004-2008 for Dolpa, but it is not yet implemented. Two zoning schemes are proposed. The first is a plan for zoning Shey Phoksumdo National Park and the buffer zone, the second for whole Dolpa. It is advised to make an estimation of the carrying capacity for each zone. It is very important to keep to these zoning plans, not only because of the ecological and cultural sensitivity and needs of the area, but also because of the importance of authenticity to the target markets. The health and safety of the tourists should be guaranteed as much as possible. A study to evaluate the current situation with respect to health and safety and how this could be improved, should be executed. Already in the Sustainable tourism plan of 2001 the wish to establish multiple use visitor centers has been expressed. During TRPAP period (till 2006) one visitor information centre was opened, which doesn’t function anymore. The District Development Committee established a District Information and Documentation Center (DIDC) in Dunai. The possibility to give this centre a tourist function could be investigated. I don’t recommend building many visitor centers, as this is a costly affair, and a website will provide lots of tools for interpretation and visitor management as well. Objective 2: To organize local supply chains in such a way that Dolpa offers an authentic and high quality experience to the tourists and maximum benefits to the local population, without affecting and where possible even improving the natural and cultural heritage of Dolpa A local supply chain is the part of the production process of the tourism product (transport, accommodation, food and beverage, activities, shopping, services, etc.) that takes place at the destination. Ways should be searched to maximize the benefits for the local population from the local supply chain, without affecting the natural and cultural heritage. A homestay and campsite program has to be developed. It is recommended to concentrate future investments in accommodation in homestays and campsites only to maintain the authenticity. An additional advantage of homestays is that women tend to run the homestays and look after the guests more than men, which will give them a better position in the family. To have more women integrated, the possibility to have a community campground run by women could be investigated too. Applying for micro credits is recommended to get the necessary funds. Besides, small teashops and small restaurants can be built. This should be restaurants which a small local card, with for example only Tibetan noodlesoup (thukpa) and/or momo’s. It is not recommended

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to start restaurants with extensive menu’s, like in Everest Region or Annapurna Region, as this would have a negative effect on the experience of authenticity. A noodlesoup and momo shop would probably appeal as well to local people and Nepalese travelers, which makes these restaurants less dependent on international tourist arrivals. Here as well, applying for micro credits is recommended to get the necessary funds. A local food supply chain should be established. Up till now, trekking groups have been almost entirely self catering as they think they can’t rely on having the food provided in Dolpa. Good information vise versa about the needs of the trekking groups and the ability to fulfill those needs is needed to change this. The NGO Drokpa recently introduced greenhouses, which enable local communities to lengthen short growing seasons and produce more and more different vegetables. With the introduction of greenhouses, farmers have more opportunities to contribute to the supply of the trekking groups. A “win win situation”, as it is cost saving for the trekking agencies to bring in fewer supplies by air. Organizing excursions for the tourists creates opportunities for the local population to earn some extra money. Besides it creates possibilities to increase the quality of the experience of the tourists and have a better interpretation of the cultural and natural heritage. Souvenir selling is another way to increase the income from the local population from tourism. An extra advantage is that souvenir production is back stage, the maker of the souvenirs doesn’t have to be the same person selling them. This is a big advantage, regarding the fragile culture and low cultural carrying capacity. Another advantage is that by souvenir production traditional products and skills will be conserved or even revived. It is recommended to make an audit of existing souvenirs and see if it is possible to diversify the offer, based on the local culture and the skills of the local population. Market access for the souvenirs has to be created: investigate where and how the souvenirs can be sold. This can be a special shop, a display/room in a lodge, homestay, local restaurant, or a local market (among others). What has to be kept in mind is that the tourists are looking for an authentic experience. It is recommended to keep it low key, and offer excursions and excursions in villages on the Dolpa circuit only. At this moment, most porters, cooks and guides are brought in by the Nepalese trekking agencies. However, Dolpa people received training to become porter, cook or guide. Cooperation with Nepalese trekking agencies should be looked for to make more use of porters, cooks and (assistant-) guides from Dolpa. Besides, all camping gear of tented treks is flown in. The option to store camping equipment in Dolpa and charge for this should be discussed with trekking companies. Besides storage, other services can be offered, like cleaning and maintaining the equipment. This is a “win win situation” as fewer supplies have to be brought in by air. This storage could be built in Juphal or Dunai. Objective 3: To develop additional ways to maximize the positive impacts and minimize the negative impacts of sustainable tourism development on the the natural and cultural heritage of Dolpa A good waste management should be implemented, on base of the 4 R’s – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Replace strategy. The waste management system needs good management and has to be communicated to trekkers, trekking agencies and the local population. Sanitation is another problem that needs attention. There are still many households without toilets in Dolpa. Awareness programs and building programs are important and need to be included in the tourism strategy. Possibilities of composting toilets (eco-bio toilets) which don’t need water should be investigated. For cooking, heating and lighting fuel wood is mostly used. Increased tourism means increase pressure on scarce wood, especially because tourists use far more energy/wood than local people. An alternative energy plan has to be implemented. New technologies include improved Cooking Stove (ICS, stove with chimney), back boilers in lodge, solar cookers, solar panels, water energy/micro

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hydropower plants, biogas and briquettes (cooking bricks made from waste). Camping treks have to carry their own fuel needs, for both trekkers as guides and porters. Funds for conserving the cultural heritage should be increased by raising entrance fees for monasteries, promoting foundations that contribute to the restoration of gompas and applying for government funds or funds of international NGOs. The code of conduct for trekkers with environmental and socio-cultural do’s and don’ts has to be evaluated implemented. The way tourists behave determines greatly the level of impact tourism has on both the environment as on the lives of local people. As many of the porters and guides are still from outside Dolpa and are Hindu, it is recommended to make a Nepali version of the code of conduct as well. It is important to lobby with the government for lowering the Restricted Area Fee charged by the government and which is not spent in Dolpa. This would help to increase the number of tourists visiting Dolpa. Another possibility is to apply a return system, by which part of the Restricted Area Fee is returned to Dolpa, preferably around 50 %. A Dolpa Development Fund (DDF) could be created, to be spent on social and environmental projects. Money can be raised by a Dolpa development tax paid by tourists in guesthouses, homestays and campsites and/or by charging a Dolpa Development Fee of plus minus US$ 50 to international tourists. The Dolpa Development Fund is the only way to ensure that all people in Dolpa benefit from tourism. Not every region could just establish a fund of US$ 50. But in this case, Dolpa can benefit from its uniqueness and authenticity. People know they are contributing directly to a fragile natural and cultural heritage. With the growing popularity of fair trade and responsible travel the market seems to be ready for this kind of fee. Besides DDF, the feasibility of raising a foundation, like Friends of Dolpa, for people who want to contribute to the development of Dolpa, should be investigated. Tourists can become a friend of Dolpa by donating a certain amount of money (for example minimum € 5 a month). Objective 4: To develop a marketing strategy directed at the target markets It is important to clearly define the target markets. As seen before, the most important target group is: dedicated and hard-core international trekkers, looking for an authentic experience. They can be divided further into group trekkers, FITs and special interest tourists (Buddhism, Bonpa culture, snow leopard, medicinal plants, researchers, etc). For the special interest groups, cooperation with a trekking agency could be established to develop special tours. An example is a tour for people with a special interest in Tibetan Buddhism, with more in-dept explanations and opportunities to meditate together with Buddhist monks or a special meditation class from a Buddhist lama. It is very important to know how you can reach your target markets and what is important for them in their holiday experience. Therefore, it is recommended to do research after tourists who are already coming to Dolpa. Besides, a benchmarking study with Bhutan as an example of best practices with respect to promoting a destination could be executed. Bhutan is very successful in promoting itself as the last Shangri-La. Bhutan doesn’t want too many tourists, and people who visit Bhutan have to pay US$ 200 a day. Many people are prepared to pay this high fee, as they are curios after this hidden paradise. Bhutan is able to provoke curiosity. You can learn from how they do this. It is important to create a clear concept of Dolpa. A concept is based on the USPs and sense of place and time. Dolpa is able to evoke a sense of mystery; with its remoteness and rugged natural beauty and the well preserved Buddhist and Bonpo culture, it is seen as a last Shangri-La. This is the sense of place of Dolpa. Besides, Dolpa can provoke a sense of nostalgia to times where life was more authentic and not that complicated and fast as life in modern society is now. This is the sense of time

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of Dolpa. Sense of place and time deal with the atmosphere of Dolpa, they describe the magic of Dolpa and are unique selling points as well. A good concept has instant recognition (brand value), makes people dream and enhances the distinctiveness of a destination. The concept communicates “the spirit of the place”. The concept proposed is: “the authentic Himalaya trekking region to experience spectacular, remote landscapes and ancient cultural traditions of Tibetan Buddhism”. Based on the concept, storylines can be used. A storyline is a theme, a tool for interpretation which brings the site to life, as it appeals to the imagination. Storylines like, “The last Shangri-La”, “The secrets of the hidden Buddhism cultures of Dolpa”, “How a unique people knows how to survive in a harsh climate” and “ Dolpa, the forgotten land of the snow leopard” can be used. At this moment few people know Dolpa. Even many people who saw the movie Himalaya, don’t know it was filmed in Dolpa. Knowledge among International trekkers of Dolpa as an authentic trekking destination should be increased. There are several ways to increase the knowledge among the international public. Dolpa can benefit from the plans of SNV and ICIMOD to develop and strongly brand the Great Himalayan Trail, of which Dolpa is part. A logo for Dolpa should be developed, which enables quick recognition. Printed information should be prepared for trekking agencies, international touroperators and FITs, based on the concept of Dolpa. Networking with trekking agencies in Kathmandu, journalists and writers of guidebooks is important. An event could be organized, for example an evening for Nepalese agents, representatives of international touroperators (tourleaders) and national media. During the event a (digital) slide show could be presented which offers a good representation of the natural and cultural heritage, the trekkings that can be made, the homestays and other accommodation, the excursions, etc. The slide show should show as well how the visits of the tourists benefit the people of Dolpa. Events like this can also be organized on a smaller scale for tourists staying in Kathmandu. A good website is a very important marketing tool, may be the most important of all. More and more people look on the internet to find information about their holiday. It is an important tool in the decision making process of where to go. Next to a site for promotion, the website is also a tool for visitor management. For example, by the way the trails are described, the site can direct trekkers to the parts with higher carrying capacity, so visitor flows are managed. It is recommended to invest money to have a well structured and user friendly site, with up to date information. Besides, it should have maximum opportunities to score high on google and other searching machines. To get agencies and international touroperators really interested in Dolpa as a destination, they have to experience it themselves. Therefore a FAM trip can de organized for Nepalese agencies, international touroperators and journalists (especially journalists of travel or outdoor magazines and travel programs on television). This should be done in cooperation with NTB and if possible a branch organization, like TAAN and NATTA and/or a trekking agency which is already going to Dolpa. It is recommended to organize an evaluation meeting at the end of the FAM trip, to get direct feedback about the trip: what do they appreciate and what could be improved. For this, representatives of CBOs, lodge- homestay and campsite owners, NGOs and SPNP authorities should be invited as well.

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Introduction Dolpa District is an isolated and poor area. It is part of the Trans-Himalaya, the arid mountain range beyond the Greater Himalaya (where the Mount Everest is). People live mainly from agriculture. Due to the arid ground, in big parts of Dolpa yields are low. Additional sources of income are few, due to the inaccessibility. The spectacular landscapes and authentic Buddhist culture is appealing for hikers. However, up till now, tourist numbers are low and tourists mainly come in organized camping treks. The local population of Dolpa hardly benefits from tourism. In Nepal tourism is seen by both the government, NGOs as the private sector, as one of the ways to contribute to poverty alleviation in remote areas. SNV (Netherlands Development Organisation) wants to stimulate a sustainable tourism development in Dolpa. 2 management plans have been developed for Dolpa, in both plans SNV has been involved (1,2):

Sustainable Tourism Plan for Shey Phoksundo NP, Bufferzone and Tourist Access Routes 2002-2007, submitted to DNPWC (Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation) Participatory District Tourism Development and Management Plan 2004-2008. Dolpa District, made by TRAP (Tourism for Rural Poverty Alleviation Programme ) in 2003

Unfortunately, due to the Maoist conflict, which affected Dolpa heavily, these plans are only partly executed, and sustainable tourism development which benefits the local people is still in a very early stage. Sustainable tourism development should have maximal positive and minimal negative impacts for the 3 p’s: people, planet and profit. It is a type of tourism development which maximizes the economic benefits to local communities and minimizes negative impacts on natural and cultural resources. The purpose of this study is to investigate if and how this could be realized in Dolpa. The objectives of this study are: 1) Assessment of the tourism potential for Dolpa: a. Investigate the current situation of Dolpa district and the role tourism plays in Dolpa b. Investigate which organisations are involved in tourism development, what are the stakeholders of

tourism development in Dolpa and what is their attitude towards sustainable tourism development c. Analyse the sustainability of the current tourism development. What are the impacts of tourism? d. Investigate the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats for Dolpa with respect to tourism development e. Investigate at which tourism markets Dolpa should aim 2) Design a sustainable tourism strategy for Dolpa a. Design a vision on sustainable tourism development in Dolpa b. Formulate objectives for sustainable tourism development in Dolpa c. Formulate results which have to be achieved to achieve the objectives and the vision d. Formulate the activities to achieve the results, objectives and vision The first part is presented in Chapters 1 till 7. The second part is presented in Chapter 8. In appendix 8 the Logical Framework for sustainable tourism development is presented. Study methode and limitations of research This report is based on an extensive literature study of documents about Dolpa and documents about sustainable tourism development in general. I haven’t been in Dolpa myself. The strategy proposed is a suggestion, based on the above literature study, combined with my ample experience in tourism. 1. SNV/DPP and WWF Nepal (2001): Sustainable Tourism Plan for Shey Phoksundo NP, Bufferzone and

Tourist Access Routes 2002-2007, submitted to DNPWC (Draft) 2. TRAP (2003): Participatory District Tourism Development and Management Plan 2004-2008. Dolpa District

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1. An analysis of Dolpa and its natural and cultural resources 1.1 Dolpa and Dolpo; an explanation In different books, reports, etc. the term Dolpa and Dolpo is used more or less arbitrary. However, there is a difference in meaning. Dolpa is the name of the district. It is formed by the lower valleys of Suligad, Thuli Bheri and Jagdulla rivers, Tichu-rong valley and the Dolpo region. Dolpo is a part of Dolpa District and refers to a geographical and cultural region south of Tibet which is isolated from the lower valleys of Dolpa District. The culture is distinctively Tibetan with steppe terrain typical of the trans-Himalaya. Dolpo is also known as Upper or Inner Dolpo/Dolpa. For Dolpo foreigners need a special permit (Dho-Tarap valley however, is part of Dolpo, but still within the Lower Dolpa permit regulations). (1) 1.2 Some facts about Dolpa Dolpa is the largest of 75 districts in Nepal covering 5.36% (7,889 sq. km.) of Nepal’s landmass. With, a population of almost 30,000 the population density is one of the lowest in the country. The elevation in Dolpa ranges from 1,525 to 7,381 meters, the summit of the Churen Himal, the highest peak in Upper Dolpo. The district borders Tibet (China) in the north and northeast, Jumla and Mugu districts in the west, Myagdi, Jajarkot and Rukum in the south and Mustang in the East. As the monsoon rain is cut off by Dhaulagiri Range as it heads west, most of Dolpa’s climate is dry. The landscape consists of wide glacial valleys, steep slopes and high ridges. The scenery of Upper Dolpo in particular, is extremely dramatic, with limestones and sandstones, moraine deposits, rock headwalls and several high peaks above 6,000 metres. The climate in this part is arid with sparse natural vegetation. The majority of the population lives in the river valleys of Lower Dolpa, where there is more rainfall and vegetation and forest, with a high degree of biodiversity. Limited seasonal cultivation and animal husbandry are possible in these areas. (1 and 2) Poverty situation: It is estimated that around 57% of households live below the poverty line (defined as having an income of less than $1 per day), and the district is ranked the 70th lowest of the 75 districts of Nepal in terms of poverty and human development. The literacy rate is 36.36%, among the lowest in Nepal. For women it is only 20 %. 90 % of the economically active population works in agriculture, livestock or forestry, 2.24% in manufacturing and industry and 7.08% as professionals, technicians, administration, sales and service. Due to its remoteness, Dolpa has very few modern amenities. Only about 35% of the population has access to electricity, 6% have solar cells for lighting. Only 36% of households have piped water and 15% have a toilet. Very few households have access to a radio. Until recently telephone connection was limited to a small area in and around the district headquarters of Dunai, due to cellular phones this situation has improved a bit. (2 and information provided by SNV. Appendix 2 gives more facts about Dolpa) Community Based Organizations are limited. Social work and communal matters are mostly handled through the monasteries or by VDC (Village Development Committee) representatives. (1, 3) Agriculture: The most important crops are corn, potato, millet, wheat and buckwheat, Tibetan barley and high altitude rice. The southern part of Dolpa has dry valleys, with olives, apples, walnuts, apricots and pomegranate. Marketing and transport form a problem to sell these products. As most families have only a small plot of land, animal husbandry is a very important economic activity, with the number of animals owned indicating the wealth, and thus status, of a family. Domestic animals include dzo (hybrid of a yak and a cow), yak, sheep-goat and horses which are used for their wool, milk, meat and skins. Besides their stock and farmland, the locals engage in small trade for which they undertake long travels. (1 and 2)

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Cordycep mushroom: Since halfway the nineties of last century, another source of income is growing in importance: the harvesting of the cordycep mushroom (yarshagumba in Tibetan). This is a fungal species that produces a kind of mushroom on (and inside) their insect larva host. It is attributed aphrodisiac properties and many powerful effects on health. For a long time trade was illegal, and trade was dominated by the Tibetans. Government is now in a process of legalizing. In 2004 the estimated revenue for Dolpa was US$ 2.5 million, which is US$ 86 per person living in Dolpa. During harvest time an estimated 30.000 - 40.000 people are concentrated on a relatively small fragile harvest area, which is a source of concern for conservationists. Harvesters are from Dolpa, the neighboring districts and Tibet (Information provided by Dolpo Institute). Position of women: People in Dolpa live in a male dominated society. Most of the women in Dolpa don’t have decision making power. They have a workload which is much higher than that of men. They are mainly involved in agricultural and household activities. In agriculture, women are much more involved than men. Still many families think that education for girls is less important than for men, especially because after marriage they are going to live with the family of the husband. The health of women is sometimes at risk, especially during time of pregnancy, as they always eat after the other family members have finished and the quantity of food left is sometimes low (4). Religions: The main religions practised in Dolpa are Hinduism, Buddhism and Bon/Bonpo, a more animistic/shamanistic form of Buddhism. Hinduism is more dominant in the southern parts of Lower Dolpa. Buddhism and Bon are more apparent further north and into Upper Dolpo (where most trekkings are), which reflects the proximity and cultural links with Tibet of these areas. Dolpo is well known in the Tibetan Buddhist world for its rich religious traditions and auspicious places. To this day, pilgrims travel great distances to see many sacred places in Dolpo, like caves and other natural wonders. Dolpo has more than 130 gompas (Buddhist monasteries), of which 25 are major institutions, many older than 700 years. The most famous one is Shey Gompa. (2) Shey Phoksumdo National Park: Almost 36 % of the area of Dolpa is protected by the Shey Phoksumdo National Park (SPNP). It was formed in 1984, named after Shey Gompa and Phoksumdo Lake. Phoksumdo Lake and the access routes were opened for tourism in May 1989. SPNP is the main tourist attraction in Dolpa district. It is the largest and the only trans-Himalayan national park in Nepal. It was proposed for the declaration of a World Heritage site by the Nepalese government for its outstanding natural diversity of global importance (1,3). The main attractions for tourists in Dolpa are (1, 2, 3): Natural resources Physiographic diversity: high diversity in natural landscapes (from narrow, deeply incised river

valleys to wide trans Himalayan valleys like the valley of Dho-Tarap and the Trans Himalaya mountains that divide these valleys (among which the Kanjiroba Range) Shey Phoksumdo National Park, with inside the Phoksumdo Lake, crystal clear lake without any aqua life, surrounded by snowcapped peaks, and other high altitude lakes spectacular high passes over 5000 meter sparse human habitation over 30 species of mammals, including endangered animals like the snow leopard, musk deer, grey wolf and blue sheep 196 species of birds diverse vegetation, including over 400 species of medicinal and aromatic herbal plants, most of them used in traditional Tibetan medicine Hot springs at Sahartara and Rupghad

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Cultural resources villages and settlements with untouched, authentic Tibetan culture Buddhism (Nyingmapa) religion Bon (or Bonpo) religion; Dolpa has the largest Bon population in Nepal Amchi (Tibetan medicine man) practices still in use High cultural diversity: Hinduism in lower parts of Dolpa, with important Balla Tripura Sundari Temple Ancient Buddhist monasteries (especially Shey Gompa) Chortens (Buddhist shrines), maniwalls (walls with Buddhist prayers) and other Buddhist religious features Cultural (Buddhism and Bon) festivals

Other attractions in Dolpo are the holy Crystal Mountain, the Tiserong valley, which is notable for its unique Tarali culture and the use of the Kaije language, which is only spoken in this region (1,2). In general: Dolpa is rugged, unspoiled and far less trammeled by tourists compared to other trekking areas in Nepal. The lack of contact with the outside world has left a fascinating traditional culture and lifestyle, which is largely untouched. Dolpa has a spectacular landscape, unique ecology and wildlife, combined with a rich religious heritage and history. 1.3 Accessibility Dolpa doesn’t have road access. The only direct access to Dolpa is by air to Juphal, a village 3 hours walk from the district headquarters of Dunai. It’s a simple dirt airstrip. The flight goes from Nepalgunj, in the western Terai (plains in the south of Nepal). It is a 30-minute flight in a little 18-seater aircraft. Due to the location, geography, weather (wind), etc flights to Juphal are only possible before 10 AM. Unfortunately flights are often cancelled due to bad weather. Only Royal Nepal Airlines (RA) and Yeti Airlines fly to Juphal, mainly for cargo. Private companies can also charter aircrafts, depending on availability. (2 and information by mail from Dolpo Institute) Another gateway to Dolpa is flying into Jumla, to the west of Dolpa. Jumla has an asphalted airstrip (Juphal not!) and more operations of different airlines. Planes fly into Jumla until it gets dark. These flights also go from Nepalgunj. There are regular and abundant flights between Pokhara and Jomsom to the east of Dolpa. This makes Jomsom an alternative to fly in or out. The trek between Juphal and Jomsom takes around 15 days. It’s a beautiful trek which also goes through Lower Mustang, but the trail is very bad at some points. One can conclude that accessibility is a bottleneck for Dolpa. A trip to Dolpa requires effort and planning, and the willingness to wait, sometimes for days, for the right weather conditions. Besides, tourists have to be prepared to pay the airfare. For example Kathmandu-Nepalgunj vv is around US$ 198 and Nepalgunj-Jhuphal vv US$ 144, so all together US$ 342. 1. Nagendra Budhathoki (2002), Detail Study on Possibilities for "Pro-poor sustainable tourism

development" along Charka Trail (Jomsom to Dho-Tarap) 2. Dr Nambyal Rinpoche (2005), Dolpo the hidden land, SNV Nepal 3. TRAP (2003): Participatory District Tourism Development and Management Plan 2004-2008. Dolpa District 4. SNV/DPP and WWF Nepal (2001): Sustainable Tourism Plan for Shey Phoksundo NP, Bufferzone and

Tourist Access Routes 2002-2007, submitted to DNPWC (Draft)

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2. Tourism in Dolpa Tourism in Dolpa consists almost entirely of trekking expeditions. Foreigners couldn’t enter Dolpa until May 1989 when the southern part was opened for tourism. Upper/Inner Dolpo was opened in October 1992 for organized trekking groups (if you go further north from Phoksumdo Lake to Shey Gompa, you enter Inner Dolpo). Each tourist has to pay a high Restricted Area Fee of US$ 500 for ten days and thereafter US$ 50 per additional day (This has just been lowered, it used to be US$ 700 per ten days and thereafter US$ 70 per day). Until recently tourists had to be accompanied by a Government Liaison officer, at the expense of the trekking party. For the rest of Dolpa the trekking permit is US$ 10 for the first 2 weeks and after that US$ 10 for each additional week. The entrance fee to the Shey Phoksumdo National Park is NPR 1,000 (US$ 14) (1) In Lower Dolpa the trekking season is from April till November, but the best months are June till October. For Upper Dolpo the trekking season is from June to October only, as you have to cross high passes. The summer season is a good time for visiting local gompas (monasteries) as well, as many festivals are held during this period. The used trekking routes are (for orientation you can find a map of Dolpa in Appendix 3): 1. The Dolpa Circuit, fly in and out to/from Juphal - Phoksumdo Lake - Dho-Tarap- Dunai –Juphal (the most popular trekking route) (14 days). 2. Same as 1, but from Phoksumdo Lake continue to Inner Dolpo; Shey Gompa and beyond to

Saldang and Yongjer Gompa (24 days) 3. Fly in to Juphal - Phoksumdo Lake- Dho Tarap- Chharka -fly out from Jomsom- (15 days) 4. Same as 3, but from Phoksumdo Lake continue to Shey Gompa in Inner Dolpo (21 days) 5. Entering Dolpa from Pokhara via Beni (4 hrs drive from Pokhara) - Phoksumdo Lake - fly out from Juphal (21 days) 6. Same as 5, but with Dho Tarap (26 days) and/or Shey Gompa (28 or more days) 7. Fly in to Jumla (to the west of Dolpa) via Nepalgunj - Phoksumdo Lake - Dho Tarap – fly out from

Juphal (18 days) 8. Same as 7, but with Inner Dolpo/Shey Gompa (24 days) Trekking routes 3-8 are rarely used. However trekking route 5 and 6 and 7 and 8 are offered by a Dutch Touroperator (5 and 6 Himalayan Trekking, 7 and 8 Snow Leopard), but these trips only go once or twice a year at a maximum. SNV (Dutch Development Organization) and ICIMOD (International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development) (see stakeholders for more information) initiated the development of the Great Himalayan Trail: a trail from West-Nepal (Humla/Mount Kailash) to East-Nepal (Taplejung/Kanchenjunga). They want to develop a strong brand for this trail and attract tourists to less visited areas. Trails 3, 4 and 7,8 would be part of the Great Himalayan Trail. 2.1 Tourism facilities in Dolpa There are very few and only very basic tourism facilities in Dolpa. Most of the trekkers come in organized groups which are self sufficient. Camping equipment, almost all food, fuel and porters are brought in from outside of Dolpa. The main items trekking groups buy in Dolpa are kerosene, some potatoes, vegetables and some local handicrafts as a souvenir. They sometimes hire yaks and mules for transportation. Dolpa suffered considerably from the conflict with the Maoist, and the region was considered unsafe by most of the tourists. Since peace has been restored (a peace contract was signed in 2006 and since April 2008 Maoists take part in the government) tourists slowly started coming again. As a consequence local villagers started to develop small guesthouses and homestays. Up till now, this is

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only in the area between Dunai and Phoksumdo Lake. It is a spontaneous development; a home stay program hardly exist. At this moment there are 10 (small to rather small) lodges in Juphal, 25 in Dunai, 5 on the route to Phoksumdo Lake, 2 in Tarabagar, 5 in Lashi Cap, 10 on the Jajarkot route and 10 on the Jumla route. There are homestays in Rigmo (close to Phoksumdo Lake, Dho and Saldang (source: SNV). Very few tourists actually stay in the villages, as almost all tourists come in tenting groups. In Dolpa there are excellent sites for campground development, but there are almost no equipped camping grounds with toilets and cooking huts for which a fee can be charged by the local population. Where they exist, they are of poor quality. Most of the campsites are in the SPNP and are overseen by the Park authorities. In many camping sites, tourists camp for free. The few teashops and restaurants that exist mainly cater for local people (porters, pilgrims, etc). Signboards with information related to the area are non-existent in the area or of poor quality. (1, 3 and information by mail about current situation from Dolpo Institute). In 2001 the Tourism for Rural Poverty Alleviation Programme (TRPAP) was initiated by SNV-Nepal, the Nepalese Government (Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA), the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC)), the British Department for International Development (BDID) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). TRPAP started in September 2001 and was completed by 31 October 2006. It was directed at the development of six poor districts, among which Dolpa. In partnership with the local District Development Committee, a Participatory District Tourism Development and Management Plan 2004-2008 was developed. Objective was to guide the development of natural and cultural resources for tourism, exploiting their potential to support improvements in the lives of the people of Dolpa and provide income-generating opportunities (2, 3 and information from SNV). Despite significant contributions of TRPAP to poverty reduction, tourism hasn’t delivered the substantial benefits to sustainable economic development hoped for. The most important reason is the negative impact of the political conflict on the number of tourist arrivals to Nepal in general and Dolpa specifically, as Dolpa used to be a conflict zone. According to information from the Dolpo Institute, TRPAP gave trainings in hotel and restaurant management, but tourist arrivals won’t be high enough for all those that were given training to actually invest in hotel and restaurants. A home stay program was initiated but in Dunai (district Headquarters) and not in villages where tourists would want to stay, like Dho village. TRPAP established a District Tourism Development Committee, a porter/guide organization and a multiple use visitor center, but none of them are active or functioning at the moment (information from the Dolpo Institute). 2.2 People in Dolpa working in tourism Unfortunately there is few statistical data available about people working in tourism. However, one can state that this is very few. Normally trekking groups are fully equipped tenting groups, which use porters from outside Dolpa. Recently people from Dolpa started buying mules from Jumla. With the rise of the number of mules available, more trekking groups started to rent those mules instead of using porters from outside. Besides, with better communication (Dolpa now has cell phone and internet connection) some tour operators hire porters, mules and even supplies from Dolpa, which is promising. In spite of the fact that many locals were trained by TRPAP for being a guide, there are almost no local guides with adequate (language) skills to give good information about natural and cultural resources, history, local folklore etc. to tourists. The trained locals don’t get the opportunity to guide for many reasons, like lack of English and not having contacts with tour operators in Kathmandu. Nagendra Budhathoki knows of only one Dolpa man working regularly as a guide, leading groups. The selling of locally made handicrafts is minimal.

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As mentioned before, some guesthouses and homestays are being developed. This is a recent development and up till now on a small scale. 2.3 Institutions related to Sustainable Tourism Development in Dolpa This chapter gives an overview of the most important institutions related to Sustainable Tourism Development (STD) in Dolpa. First of all, a list of most important government bodies, NGOs and private organizations, involved in STD in Dolpa is presented. This is followed by a Stakeholder Matrix. This matrix gives a comprehensive list of all types of organizations which are affected by STD development, the way they (could) benefit from STD in Dolpa and the way they can play a role in STD. Appendix 4 gives a brief description of the objectives and programmes of the institutions below and the other stakeholders related to STD. Government organizations International Asian Development Bank (ADB) ADB is an international development finance institution whose mission it is to help its developing member countries reduce poverty and improve the quality of life of their people. By the Ecotourism project, the ADB wants to support effective institutional arrangements and policy for ecotourism development as a tool for poverty alleviation and environmental conservation in designated project areas. Dolpa is one of the Bank’s project areas. Among others they aim to provide a package of hardware (improvement of airport and trails) and software (community development, training and awareness programs) (3). For more information, see: www.adb.org National Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA) The MoCTCA is responsible for policy development and supervision of tourism in Nepal. It is responsible for the laws and regulations concerning tourism businesses and travel related jobs (1). For more information, see: www.tourism.gov.np Nepal Tourism Board The aim of NTB is to make the tourism business more efficient by better addressing the needs of the industry. Its main tasks are: marketing and promotion, product development, research and monitoring, monitoring of tourism service standards (4). See: www.welcomenepal.com Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) DNPWC is responsible for managing 15 protected areas among which the SPNP and the buffer zone (4). See: www.dnpwc.gov.np National Planning Commission (NPC) The National Planning Commission works with the Ministries and sectors to develop five-year plans for Nepal. Tourism has been included as a major sector of the national economy. www.npc.gov.np Regional District Development Committee (DDC) Dolpa DDC Dolpa is the regional authority in Dolpa. It is responsible for infrastructure development work in and around SPNP (3).

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Shey Phoksumdo National Park (SPNP) The National Park authorities are responsible for the management of the park and conservation of its natural recourses (3). Buffer Zone Council A group of Buffer Zone Management Committees set by the SPNP, responsible for the management of the buffer zone of SPNP (3) . Local Village Development Committees (VDC) These are the local authorities in Dolpa and responsible for local issues (3). Buddhist monasteries In the Buddhism part of Dolpa, the part where most trekkings are, monasteries have quite a lot of local influence. NGOS SNV Netherlands Development Organization SNV is dedicated to sustainable development, by strengthening the capacity of local organizations. They are involved in the stimulation of the tourism sector in Dolpa through various programs. They provide technical and financial support, among others to DESERT and DAD-TAG (see below). See: www.snvworld.org The Dolpo Institute Mission: Economic growth and poverty reduction through proper utilization, management and conservation of natural resources and tourism. Tourism is seen as one of the main ways for development of Dolpa. This NGO is involved with all kind of activities to promote economic growth in Dolpa. DAD-TAG (Development Association of Dolpa -Tourism And Generation) This NGO is actively involved in sustainable tourism development. It is involved in social mobilization and community development activities (3). DESERT (Dolpo Educational Social and Environmental Reservation Team) This NGO is involved in education, natural resource management and conservation efforts in the buffer zone communities of SPNP. Like DAD-TAG it is involved in social mobilization and community development activities (3). Private Sector The private sector consists of accommodation in Dolpa, transport companies, touroperator, trekking- and travel agencies in Pokhara and Kathmandu. Guides and porters are mostly contracted throught the agencies in Pokhara and Kathmandu. In Dolpa very few guides and porters are contracted. You can find few souvenir sellers in the villages (informal sector). Local owners of guesthouses, homestays and camp sites Between Juphal and Phoksumdo Lake guesthouses and homestays are being developed. Together with the owners of campsites, they play a big role in the development of sustainable tourism. Airlines companies (most importantly Nepal Royal Airlines, Yeti Airlines) The only airlines flying to Juphal. Up till now, the amount of flights to Juphal is a very important factor which determines the amount of visitors going to Dolpa.

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The accommodations and touroperators are united in several Associations (information from the site of Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation www.tourism.gov.np and sites of respected associations) Trekking Agents Association of Nepal (TAAN) Umbrella organization for trekking agents, they work together to meet the common goals, like developing and promoting adventure tourism in Nepal. Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA) Umbrella organization for tour and travel agents to protect the interests of those engaged in the travel business. 2.4 An overview of stakeholders in Dolpa In order to achieve sustainable development of an area, it is important to involve all stakeholders; all types of organizations which are affected by the development. Tourism development should be integrated in an overall sustainable development, which means that many stakeholders have a role to play. It is recommended to make an analysis as well of the power of the various stakeholders: who make the decisions regarding development, who can make things done? Besides it should be clear if the stakeholders can cooperate well, and if they are trusted by the local population. Below, the most important stakeholders are presented in a stakeholder matrix. The stakeholder matrix makes clear what the objectives of the different stakeholders are and in which way they (could) benefit from sustainable tourism development. The information about the objectives is found on the websites of the organizations. The last column gives an idea of the role that the stakeholder could play in STD. This are my suggestions, based on the objectives and knowledge of the stakeholders and based on the activities mentioned in Chapter 8. During the process of tourism development tasks will be more specified and re-divided. In Appendix 4 you can find a more extensive description of the different stakeholders and their objectives. Stakeholder Matrix

Stakeholder (SH)

Goal/Activities of SH Benefits for SH from sust. tourism dev. in Dolpa

Role of SH in tourism Asian Development Bank

To help to reduce poverty and improve the quality of life of people. By the Ecotourism Project, the ADB wanted to support effective institutional arrangements and policy for ecotourism development as a tool for poverty alleviation and environmental conservation in Dolpa

Helping Sustainable Tourism Development (STD) is a goal of ADB

Provide financial and technical assistance for: improving trails and bridges improving Juphal airport improving accommodation renovating monasteries the institutional organization of

the local people (into CBOs etc) (3)

Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA)

To promote tourism and to encourage the private sector for their involvement and participation

Diversification of the tourism product in Nepal

Invest money in tourism infrastructure. Lobby for fee lowering and/or money of fees to be invested in development of Dolpa

NTB Supporting the tourism industry by marketing and promotion, product and skill development, research, monitoring and monitoring of tourism service standards.

Diversification of the tourism product in Nepal.

Skill building programs Be involved in STD in Dolpa Promotion of Dolpa on international markets Lobby for fee lowering and/or money of fees to be invested in development of Dolpa

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Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC)

Managing protected areas of Nepal. Responsible for the SPNP and the buffer zone.

By government rule: allocate 30% to 50% of the entry fee income for development projects in local communities in protected areas and buffer zone areas.

Contribute money for tourism development. Involved in skill building programs for nature guides

Nepal Government Treasury

Collecting money from taxes, fees, royalties, etc

More economic development means more tax revenue

Lower fee/Attributing at least half of the fee directly back to Dolpa.

Nepal Academy for Tourism and Hotel Management (NATHAM)

Major government institution concerned with tourism training. Gives a three-year Bachelor degree in Hotel Management. Offer licensing courses for tourist, trekking, local guides. Gives short courses in tourism awareness, language, housekeeping, cooking etc., both in house and on location.

They can offer trainings for guides, language, tourism awareness, housekeeping, cooking, etc on location

Be involved in development of skill building programs and offer trainings for guides, language, tourism awareness, housekeeping, cooking, etc on location

District Development Committee (DDC) Dolpa

Regional authority of Dolpa District. DDC Dolpa is responsible for infrastructure development work in and around SPNP.

In the District Development Plan of DDC Dolpa, sustainable tourism is mentioned as one of the means to develop the district.

They are leading organization for developing ST. Infrastructure development (trails, bridges, etc) Assistance in zoning Lobbying with national government for fee lowering and/or money of fees to be invested in development of Dolpa, etc

Shey Phoksumdo National Park (SPNP)

Management of SPNP More tourists means more income for conservation, payment of staff, etc

Develop information boards and signposts in the park Assistance in zoning Participate in establishing a code of conduct for tourists visiting Dolpa, Monitor impacts of visitors.

Buffer Zone Council

Responsible for the management of the buffer zone of SPNP

STD is regarded as a way of sustainable development of the buffer zone

Assistance in zoning Helping local people to organize themselves Participate in establishing a code of conduct for tourists visiting Dolpa

Regional authorities of neighbouring districts

Regional authority STD in Dolpa can contribute to STD in own district

Joint marketing

Village Development Committees (VDC)

Local authority, responsible for local development

Tourism is a way to contribute to village development

Helping local people to organize themselves Participate in establishing a code of conduct for tourists visiting Dolpa managing and monitoring the STD

Buddhist Monasteries

Religious institutions. Have lots of influence on communities

Tourism is a way to contribute to village development Tourism entree fees and/or donations benefit the (restoration of) monasteries

Participate in establishing a code of conduct for tourists visiting Dolpa

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SNV Netherlands Development Organization

A society where all people enjoy the freedom to pursue their own sustainable development. Strengthening the capacity of local organizations. SNV sees STD as a means of poverty alleviation. They are involved in the development of the Great Himalayan Trail.

Contribution to sustainable development and to poverty alleviation

Provide technical and financial support; support in managing and monitoring the STD Assistance in zoning Participate in establishing a code of conduct for tourists visiting Dolpa

WWF-Nepal Programme

To conserve the natural environment and ecological processes worldwide. In Dolpa WWF provides technical support to SPNP and is involved in community development activities of DESERT and DAD-TAG. WWF-Nepal implemented the Northern Mountain Conservation Project (NMCP) in the SPNP for conservation of biodiversity and improvement of socio-economic status and capacity building of local communities

More tourists means more income for conservation of SPNP. Tourism development is a way to give local people a more positive attitude towards conservation

Technical support Lobbying with national government for fee lowering and/or money of fees to be invested in development of Dolpa Assistance in zoning Capacity building

ICIMOD (International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development)

Enable equitable and sustainable well-being of the people of the Hindu Kush-Himalayas by supporting sustainable mountain development through active regional cooperation. One of their programs is directed to sustainable livelihood and poverty reduction of the mountain people. They are involved in the development of the Great Himalayan Trail.

STD is a way to achieve sustainable livelihood and poverty reduction of mountain people.

Provide technical and financial support; support in managing and monitoring the STD Assistance in zoning

Snow Leopard Conservancy (SLC)

Promoting innovative grassroots measures that lead local people to become better stewards of endangered snow leopards, their prey, and habitat.

One of the program objectives is to link snow leopard and biodiversity conservation with initiatives aimed at improving household incomes in environmentally friendly, socially responsible and economically viable ways. They look for ways to help villagers to see the snow leopard as the national treasure it is. STD is one of the ways to achieve this.

Assistance in zoning Participate in establishing a code of conduct for tourists visiting Dolpa, especially with respect to environment.

American Himalayan Foundation (AHF)

Helping the people and ecology of the Himalaya. In Dolpo they contributed to the restoration of some small but locally very important Bon Monasteries.

Tourism entree fees and/or donations benefit the restoration of gompas STD can improve lives of local people

Participate in decisions about fees for gompa’ s Participate in establishing a code of conduct for tourists visiting Dolpa and especially visiting gompas

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DROKPA (Nomad in Tibetan)

Implement grassroots development and catalyze social entrepreneurship, in partnership with pastoral communities in the Himalaya and Central Asia. They introduced greenhouses.

STD is a way to catalyze social entrepreneurship and economic development.

Function as contact persons with local villagers and help them to organize themselves. Participate in establishing a code of conduct for tourists visiting Dolpa. Help to establish links between tourism agencies and local people, to provide food cultivated in greenhouses

The Dolpo Institute

Economic growth and poverty reduction through proper utilization, management and conservation of natural resources and tourism. To develop Community Based Sustainable Tourism in Dolpa with maximum economic benefits and minimum negative social and environmental impacts.

It is one of the objectives of this NGO

Play a supporting role in the development of ST Planning, managing and monitoring the STD Play a catalyst role in joining different SH for STD Helping local people to organize themselves Participate in establishing a code of conduct for tourists visiting Dolpa

DAD-TAG (Development Association of Dolpa -Tourism And Generation)

Develop sustainable tourism in the buffer zone communities of SPNP

It is the main objective of this NGO

Organize local people in Community Based Organizations Planning, managing and monitoring the STD Participate in establishing a code of conduct for tourists visiting Dolpa

DESERT (Dolpo Educational Social and Environmental Reservation Team)

Education, natural resource management and conservation in the buffer zone communities of SPNP.

They are involved in social mobilization and community development activities: tourism is a way to realize this

Organize local people in Community Based Organizations Planning, managing and monitoring STD Participate in establishing a code of conduct for tourists visiting Dolpa

Marjan Rens Gompa Renovation Project (MRGRP)

Contribute to the restoration of gompas.

Tourism entree fees and/or donations benefit the restoration of gompas

Participate in Decisions about fees for gompa’ s Participate in establishing a code of conduct for tourists visiting Dolpa and especially visiting gompas

Airlines companies (most importantly Nepal Royal Airlines, Yeti Airlines)

Provide save air transport More business Investigate if more flights are available, if necessary. Lobby for improving (put asphalt) airport of Juphal.

Trekking Agents Association of Nepal (TAAN)

Assemble and create an umbrella organization; work together to meet the common goals, like developing and promoting adventure tourism in Nepal. Assist the government by providing suggestions to make trekking business a revenue generating industry Provide employment opportunity to the locals Mitigate mountain environmental stress

Diversification of the trekking product in Nepal

Lobby for fee lowering and/or money of fees to be invested in development of Dolpa Marketing and promotion of Dolpa Raise interest with members for Dolpa Participate in establishing a code of conduct for tourists visiting Dolpa

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Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA)

Protect the interests of those engaged in the travel business Safeguard the tourists from exploitation by unreliable agents Contribute to the healthy development of tourist industry and trade

Diversification of the tourism product in Nepal

Lobby for fee lowering and/or money of fees to be invested in development of Dolpa Marketing and promotion of Dolpa Raise interest with members for Dolpa Participate in establishing a code of conduct for tourists visiting Dolpa

Nepalese travel and trekking agencies, already coming to Dolpa

Offer travel and trekking arrangements to tourists and make a profitable business out of this

Diversification of the tourism product in Nepal Opportunity to offer different and high quality products. Showing involvement with STD can distinguish agency from competition

Be involved in planning and developing STD Marketing and promotion of Dolpa Participate in establishing a code of conduct for tourists visiting Dolpa

International Touroperatiors already coming to Dolpa

Offer travel and trekking arrangements to tourists and make a profitable business out of this

Diversification of the tourism product in Nepal Opportunity to offer different and high quality products. Showing involvement with STD can distinguish agency from competition

Be involved in planning and developing STD (at least as consultant) Marketing and promotion of Dolpa Participate in establishing a code of conduct for tourists visiting Dolpa

Local owners of guesthouses and homestays

Give accommodation and food service to tourists

Increased income Planning, managing and monitoring the STD Participate in establishing a code of conduct for tourists visiting Dolpa Marketing and promotion of Dolpa

Local population not engaged in tourism

Have a sustainable livelihood Increased income Be involved in planning, managing and monitoring the STD in CBOs Participate establishing a code of conduct for tourists visiting Dolpa

1. Nagendra Budhathoki (2002), Detail Study on Possibilities for "Pro-poor sustainable tourism development" along Charka Trail (Jomsom to Dho-Tarap) 2. Dr Nambyal Rinpoche (2005), Dolpo the hidden land, SNV Nepal 3. TRAP (2003): Participatory District Tourism Development and Management Plan 2004-2008. Dolpa District 4. Beun (2007): Preparatory Study Report on Sustainable Prctices of the Tourism Industry of Nepal, SNV

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3. Analysis of Tourism Demand in Dolpa This chapter gives an analysis of tourism demand for Dolpa. The first paragraph gives some facts and figures about tourist arrivals. The second paragraph is a qualitative analysis of tourism demand. It gives information about what types of visitors come to Dolpa, their expectations, satisfaction, etc. 3.1 Quantitative analysis: facts and figures about tourism in Nepal and in Dolpa Despite the natural and cultural attractions, foreign visitors to Dolpa -and especially Inner Dolpo -are few in number. One can assume that most are deterred by the complicated logistics (you have to organize the trip through a travel agency, you have to fly in and/or out, flights can be cancelled due to weather conditions), harsh conditions of the place (high altitude, cold, remoteness) and/or the high costs for the trek. Table 1 gives an overview of tourist arrivals in Nepal and table 2 of tourist arrivals in Dolpa. For Nepal, 2007 was the best year, which is promising. Until 2000 there was a steady growth of tourist arrivals. In 2001 arrivals dropped sharply because of the massacre of the royal family in 2001 and Maoist uprisings. Last year the new (unpopular) king had to step down and Nepal became a republic. Elections were finally held in April 2008, and Maoists form part of the Government now, introducing a period of peace. This is very promising for the future of tourism in Nepal and as a consequence in Dolpa as well. For Dolpa 2000 was the best year, but since the sharp decline in 2001, 2007 has the highest number of tourist arrivals. Unless stated otherwise, the figures in this chapter are derived from Nepal tourism statistics 2007, provided by NTB. In Appendix 5 you can find more statistical information about Dolpa. Table 1: Tourist arrivals Nepal

Year Total Growth Rate

Year Number % Index1962 6.179 .... 1001970 45.970 .... 744 1990 254.885 …. 4.125 1995 363.395 11,3 5.881 1999 491.504 6,0 7.954 2000 463.646 -5,7 7.504 2001 361.237 -22,1 5.846 2002 275.468 -23,7 4.458 2003 338.132 22,7 5.472 2004 385.297 13,9 6.236 2005 375.398 -2,6 6.075 2006 383.926 2,3 6.213 2007 526.705 37,2 8.524

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Table 2:Tourist arrivals Dolpa Treks

Lower Upper Total Growth/ % Growth/

Year Dolpa Dolpa Decline Decline Trek Trek 1997 414 199 613 1998 322 81 403 -210 -34 1999 645 214 859 456 113 2000 1069 121 1190 331 39 2001 488 119 607 -583 -49 2002 0 119 119 -488 -80 2003 0 369 369 250 210 2004 329 77 406 37 10 2005 200 81 281 -125 -31 2006 225 92 317 36 13 2007 419 198 617 300 95

If you compare the figures of tourist arrivals in Nepal and Dolpa as from 2001, you can see that the movement of the arrivals are the same: if tourist arrivals in Nepal drop, they drop in Dolpa as well and the other way around. The percentages of Dolpa are more dramatic, but that is also a consequence of small amounts: small fluctuations are relatively bigger. Table 3: Tourists in Dolpa per nationality (Source: District police office,Dolpa, Shey Phoksumdo national Park and Dolpa Guide Association, Dolpa, District development committee/Sustainable tourisum Development section, Dolpa, info from SNV) Nationalities Year

1996 Year 2006 Year 2007

* Australia 15 5 2 Austria 21 0 0 Canada 1 1 3 Denmark 24 0 4 France 210 120 121 Germany 122 30 11 India - 2 13 Italy 63 7 12 Japan 18 9 13 Netherlands 29 6 4 Spain 14 8 0 Switzerland 50 99 90 USA 43 7 11 United Kingdom

49 17 9 Others 76 25 33 Total 735 336** 326

*up to September 2007 ** I consulted two different sources for the statistical figures. For 2006 there is a small difference in amount of tourists between the figures provided by NTB (Table 2) and SNV (Table 3)

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Table 4: Percentage of nationality in trekking in Dolpa (source id table 2) compared with percentage of nationality in total trekking (source Nepal Tourism Statistics 2007, NTB) *up to September 2007 Nationalities % of total

Dolpa 1996

% of total Dolpa 2006

% of total Dolpa 2007*

% of total trekking 2007

Australia 2 1 1 3 Austria 3 0 0 1 Canada 0 0 1 1 Denmark 3 0 1 1 France 29 36 37 6 Germany 17 9 3 6 India 0 1 4 1 Italy 9 2 4 2 Japan 2 3 4 4 Netherlands 4 2 1 3 Spain 2 2 0 2 Switzerland 7 29 28 1 USA 6 2 3 4 United Kingdom 7 5 3 7 Others 10 7 10 58 Total 100 100 100 100 At this moment, tourists in Dolpa are mainly from Western Europe, where Switzerland, France and Germany together took 68 % of the arrivals in 2007. If you compare the division of the trekkers over the different nationalities in Dolpa with the division over de different nationalities of the total amount of trekkers that come to Nepal, you see some interesting differences. The most striking differences are the French (in 2007 37 % of the trekkers in Dolpa were French, while at the same time only 6 % of all the trekkers in Nepal were from France) and the Swiss (28 % of the Dolpa trekkers were Swiss, while only 1 % of all trekkers in Nepal were Swiss). Maybe the popularity of the French movie Himalaya plays a role, but Dolpa was relatively popular among the French already before the movie was published (1998). You can also look at the percentage of each nationality that visits Nepal that comes for trekking. Here it is interesting to know the absolute numbers as well. Table 5: percentage and absolute number of nationality that goes to Nepal for trekking

Nationality % of nationality Total Trekking & that goes for trekking Mountaineering

Australia 25 3.113 Austria 30 1.321 Canada 19 1.422

Denmark 22 692 France 29 5.780

Germany 29 6.095 India 1 892 Italy 17 1.882

Japan 15 3.928 Netherlands 27 2.816

Spain 13 2.099 Switzerland 28 1.446 Sri Lanka 38 19.157

U.S.A 15 4.411 U.K. 22 7.118

Others 22 39.148 Total 19 101.320

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19 % of the people who visit Nepal, go for trekking. Some countries show a relatively high interest in trekking, like Austria, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and surprisingly Sri Lanka, which also has the highest absolute number of trekkers. Japan has a relatively high absolute number of people that come for trekking. From both tables together, you can conclude that the most interesting markets for Dolpa are the Western-European countries (especially France, Germany and Switzerland), Australia, USA, Japan and Sri Lanka. The following information is based on a research published in 2001 by Buysrogge, part of which is used in the report of Nagendra Budhathoki in 2002 (1). Appendix 6 gives more detailed findings of this research. The trekking tours of which Dolpa is part take an average of almost 4 weeks (27 days). The average length of time spent in Dolpa is 20 days. The minimum duration of the stay in Dolpa is 12 days, the maximum 33. 85% of the tourists visiting Dolpa in 2000 perceived the length of their trip in Dolpa just right. 15% found it too short. For 42,1% of the tourists visiting Dolpa, it was their first time in Nepal. 57,9% of the tourists who visited Dolpa in 2000 had visited Nepal before. For only 16,7% of the tourists visiting Dolpa, their visit was part of a larger tour, which mostly included a combination with the Khumbu District and the Kathmandu Valley. The majority (83,3%) of the tourists visiting Dolpa in 2000, visited only Dolpa. I assume that most of the tourists who only visit Dolpa, come on a tour booked with a touroperator in their home country. The average age of the tourists visiting Dolpa in 2000 was 32 years old. The maximum age was 51 years, and the minimum was 17 years. 50% of the tourists visiting Dolpa in 2000 were female and 50% were male. The majority (75%) of the tourists visiting Dolpa normally go on holiday several times a year. Almost all travelers in Dolpa come in groups. However, the majority (85%) of the tourists visiting Dolpa normally travels individually. 10% normally travels in an organized group. 5% does both. 1. Nagendra Budhathoki (2002), Detail Study on Possibilities for "Pro-poor sustainable tourism development" along Charka Trail (Jomsom to Dho-Tarap) 3.2 Qualitative analysis of tourism demand in Dolpa Unfortunately, little information is available to make a qualitative analysis of the tourism demand in Dolpa. The information below is based on the same research of Buysrogge as mentioned above. The main interests of the tourists visiting Dolpa is culture in combination with nature and trekking. Interaction with the people of Dolpa is also mentioned. Aspects of Dolpa considered unique are: the duration of the holiday (long), the opportunity for solitude and contemplation and the harsh monsoon climate.

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40% of the tourists visiting Dolpa rated the overall travel itinerary as good, 30% as very good. Another 10% found it satisfactory. So, 80% was satisfied, of which 70% more than just satisfied. 15% of the tourists think improvements are necessary, 5% thinks major improvements are necessary. Suggestions were made about having more lodges along the route instead of camping sites and about the maintenance of the trail. 3.2.1 Types of tourists visiting Dolpa To get more information about the type of tourists visiting Dolpa, a classification made by Ton van Egmond in his research into motivation and behaviour of Western tourists visiting developing countries, is used (1). His research is focused at tourists from West, North and Central Europe and (to a lesser extend) North-America and Australia, as those countries dominate in international tourism (they generate more than 50% of international arrivals). The first classification is into organized tourists and backpackers (individual tourists). Organized tourists booked their holiday with a tour operator in their home country. You can determine:

1. Accidental tourists 2. Mainstream tourists 3. Dedicated adventurers 4. Hard-core tourists

Accidental tourists arrive accidentally, for example by booking an excursion at their hotel. They go to tourism highlights. This type of tourists you won’t see in Dolpa. For mainstream tourists the destination is part of the package. These tourists go to tourism highlights as well. Only some renounce comfort to some extend, visits to different areas are short. Authenticity is important but highly negotiable. These are the largest volumes of tourists. You won’t see these types of tourists in Dolpa with the present tourism infrastructure. For dedicated adventurers the destination is also part of a package (but purposefully chosen). Instead of only going to tourism highlights, they want to go into depth. They renounce comfort to some extent. They express a great desire to learn and connect, though the actual learning and interaction are mostly rather limited. Authenticity is important and is hardly negotiable. They claim to have deep experiences. Their visits are comparatively long. They are called dedicated, because they are committed (dedicated) to the quality and preservation of nature and culture of the places they visit. There are only small volumes of these tourists. You can find the more dedicated adventurers in Dolpa. Hard-core tourists have purposefully chosen the destination, and have very specific interests (in Dolpa e.g. Buddhism). They want to go into depth and renounce comfort to a large extent. They express a great desire to learn and connect and the actual learning and interaction are comparatively great. Authenticity is important and is not negotiable. They claim to have deep experiences. Their visits are comparatively long. There are only very limited volumes of these tourists. You can find these types of tourists in Dolpa, especially in Inner Dolpo. Backpackers come to Nepal independently. They are also referred to by FIT, Free Independent Travellers. For backpackers you can determine: 1. Hedonists 2. Mainstream backpackers

3. Dedicated bacpackers 4. Pioneers

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As tourism infrastructure is hardly made for individual tourists in Dolpa, almost all tourists travel in groups. Part of them do come as a backpacker to Nepal, and book their trip to Dolpa in Kathmandu, so they are an interesting target market as well. Hedonists seek places where the action is (parties) and have no experiences of culture or nature. It is obvious they won’t go to Dolpa. Mainstream backpackers stay on the beaten backpacker trek. They renounce comfort only to a certain extent. For them authenticity is important but highly negotiable. These are the largest volumes of backpackers. You won’t easily see these types of tourists in Dolpa. Dedicated backpackers try to go off the beaten track and are prepared to renounce comfort – to a certain extent. They express a great desire to learn and connect, and the actual learning and interaction are comparatively great. Authenticity is important and is hardly negotiable. They claim to have deep experiences. Their visits are comparatively long, they are mostly long-term backpackers. There are only small volumes of these tourists. You can find this type of tourists in Dolpa. Volunteers fall in this category as well. I don’t have information about the number of international volunteers that go to Dolpa at this moment. Pioneers go outside the backpacker circuit. They renounce comfort completely. They express a great desire to learn and connect and the actual learning and interaction is the greatest of all categories. Authenticity is important and is not negotiable. They claim to have deep experiences. Their visits are comparatively long, they are only long-term backpackers. There are only very small volumes of these tourists. These tourists can come to Dolpa, but not with a group. They are not interesting for tourism planning, as their volumes are extremely small and they prefer to go where there are no tourist facilities at all. It is obvious that only dedicated (organized and backpacker) tourists, hard-core tourists and pioneers visit Dolpa. As you have to pay a high price to get to Dolpa, with respect to money, effort and harsh conditions, people who come to Dolpa, and even more so Inner Dolpo, are dedicated travellers, looking for adventurous trekking in unspoilt landscape, interesting culture and unspoilt village life. All these groups tend to have an extensive cultural capital, which means they are highly educated and have a large general knowledge. Besides they tend to be in the higher income classes (The fact that in the research of Buysrogge of 2001 75 % of the tourists go on holiday several times a year confirms this). The quality of the experience is more important than comfort and convenience. For these types of tourists authenticity is very important. They don’t like “tourist things” and meeting many other tourists during their trip. (2). I had an interview with a Dutch tourist who went to Inner Dolpo in 2004. What he liked most about his trekking, is illustrating the above. It shows he is a very dedicated adventurous tourist (almost hard-core): 1. The stunning landscape and local villages 2. He didn’t meet any other tourists 3. There were no tourist lodges, no tourist restaurants, no souvenirs stalled out; not any modifications

in the villages because of tourists. Pure authenticity. 4. Local people were very friendly when they passed through their villages and were very curious. Cohen (1979) made a distinction based on the way tourists perceive their environment. (2). He developed 5 modes of tourist experiences: the recreational mode (tourism to recharge the battery), the diversionary mode (looking for entertainment to escape the boredom of everyday life), the experiential mode (searching for meaning of life in the life of others, observe other lifestyles), the experimental

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mode (seekers, try other lifestyles), the existential mode (the tourist sees the other world as the favoured world). You can state that most tourists going to Dolpa travel with the experiential mode. The experiential type sets out to discover “true, authentic life” elsewhere, which is absent in industrial societies. The experiential type is allergic to pseudo-events and tourists traps. He doesn’t like the fact that the arrival of tourists generates a process of adaptation to the expectations of the visitors. Nepalese travellers Nepalese travellers are most of all travellers who visit friends and relatives, who go on pilgrimage and traders. Besides you have the cordycep mushroom harvesters. They are mostly self supporting. However, as they also need a place to stay, food, etc, and have demands with are less high than those of international tourists, they can be an interesting target market for Dolpa as well. Unfortunately I don’t have any information about their numbers and needs. Research after the number and needs of Nepalese tourists in Dolpa is recommended. 1. Van Egmond (2007) Understanding Western Tourists in Developing Countries, Wallingford: CABI. 2. Van Egmond (2008), The tourism phenomenon, Past, present, future, Leiden: Toerboek 4. Impacts of tourism There are different types of impacts of tourism: economic impacts, sociocultural impacts and environmental impacts. Unfortunately there is very little information available about the impacts of tourism in Dolpa. Only some information about the economic impacts is available. Therefore I will give an overview of the impacts of tourism in mountain areas which have to be taken into account when planning tourism in Dolpa. Regarding the economic impacts I will also give a calculation of the different economic impacts in Nepal and Dolpa per type of tourist which is coming to Dolpa. 4.1 Economic impacts Examples of positive economic impacts are: tourism receipts, tax revenue, foreign exchange, employment (direct and indirect), training, income for supplying industry. Examples of negative economic impacts are: no receipts from tourists in the area, leakage, limited multiplier effects, seasonal jobs only, rising prices. In mountain areas tourism generates income through trekking fees, park entrance fees, mountain climbing permits and through lodging, guiding and porter services and the selling of food and souvenirs. (1) There is no government system by which part of the fee paid by tourists (US$ 500 for Upper Dolpa and U$ 10 for Lower Dolpa) is returned to Dolpa. The US$ 14 entrance fee for the Shey Phoksumdo National Park does have such a system: 50 % goes to the National Department of National Park and Wildlife Conservation and 50% is given to the Buffer Zone Council. Benefits for local population from tourism up till now are very few, as trekking groups that pass through Dolpa are almost completely self-sufficient and buy almost all their goods outside Dolpa. Sources of income in villages are (2): small donations made to the monasteries (depending on the group and individual from a few hundred rupees to a thousand, which would amount to rupees 10,000 (US$ 130) at most per year) food and other items sold to the porters hiring horses, mules or yaks for transportation campground fee

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accommodation employment of porters selling vegetables to camping groups selling milk and yogurt to camping groups selling souvenirs, such as blankets and sash As mentioned before, there is some home stay accommodation and lodges on the trek from Juphal (airport) to Phoksumdo Lake and back. But up till now, most tourists who come to Dolpa come in groups equipped for tent camping, there are almost no individual travellers (yet). In other parts tent camping is a must as in some parts there aren’t villages along the way. Trekking groups do buy some vegetables, milk and yogurt in the villages, but take almost all their food from Kathmandu and Pokhara as they claim they cannot rely on the food provided in the villages. In Appendix 7 a calculation of the economic impacts for Nepal and Dolpa of different kind of tourists that are visiting Dolpa and might visit Dolpa is presented. I distinguished:

1. organized dedicated adventurous tourists, who booked and paid for their trip in Europe 2. dedicated backpackers, who booked a tent trip to Dolpa in Kathmandu 3. dedicated backpackers, who go to homestays and small guesthouses 4. volunteers, who stay for 2 months in Dolpa and go on a tent trip, booked in Kathmandu

It has to be stressed that the amounts and leakage percentages of the calculations are estimations, based on information on the internet, guide books, information from travel agencies in Kathmandu and my own experience as a traveler and trekker in Nepal. Besides I used the examples given in “Understanding Western Tourists in Developing Countries” by Van Egmond (3) as a guidance. Pre-leakage is the part that doesn’t arrive in Nepal, like the airfare, overhead costs and profit of the European touroperator. Leakage is the import aspect of tourism, like salaries paid to foreigners, imported food, imported construction materials, etc. The net economic result is the result after deduction of all the leakages, taxes and savings. This is the part of visitor expenditure that generates economic activity within the local economy; it has a multiplier effect (3). I made a distinction between the economic results for Nepal and for Dolpa District. In case of Dolpa, imported means imported out of Dolpa. As with the current situation local people in Dolpa are hardly participating in tourism, the economic results of tourism in Dolpa are extremely low. Regarding the taxes and fees, there is no information about which part of the money paid in taxes and fees to get into Dolpa is actually spent in Dolpa. As mentioned before, there is only an official return system for the entrance of SPNP. To make the results more comparable, I chose for the same trek for each type, the most popular trek; the Dolpa Circuit. In case of a trek into Inner Dolpo, the price is a lot higher, but the differences between the different types of tourists are the same. More money comes into the Treasury because of the high fees, and more money will be paid to the agencies, as the trek is a lot longer. The money which stays in Dolpa will only be slightly more. From a dedicated adventurous tourist who pays € 2500 at the tour operator in Europe, only an estimated € 42 gets to Dolpa. With a dedicated backpacker on a tent trek it’s more or less the same amount. However if it’s a individual trekker, who uses a porter-guide from Dolpa and stays in homestays and guesthouses, almost € 300 stays in Dolpa, almost 7 times more. Volunteers are an interesting market, as they stay long and stay with a local family, whom they pay for accommodation and food. From the calculations, you can conclude that the money that stays in Dolpa is almost 14

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times more with volunteers than with regular trekkers. If the volunteer participates in a homestay trek instead of a regular tenting trek, this amount will be even higher. 4.2 Sociocultural impacts These are the impacts of tourism on local cultural traditions and values and on the social positions of local people. Positive impacts of tourism are for example: revitalization of local/regional culture, reinforcement of cultural awareness, opportunities for entrepreneurs, jobs and income, empowerment of women. Negative impacts of tourism are for example: irritation or antagonism, disruption of social structures (the growing distinction between people who do benefit and don’t benefit from tourism, which is seen by some experts as a source of ethnic and political tensions, particularly the Maoist revolt (4), commercialization of culture and staging of authenticity. It has to be taken into account that these impacts are difficult to assess. It is difficult to separate these impacts of tourism from other influences, like watching tv, internet, radio (available in Dunai, district Headquarter), traveling of local people themselves and globalization. (1). Up till now, socio cultural impacts as a result of tourism are very low, due to the low number of tourists that come to Dolpo. However, they are something to be taken into account. If the local population doesn’t really benefit from tourism, people might get irritated by tourism more quickly. According to Butler (1980), a destination goes through 6 different stages regarding the development in tourism (4) 1. Exploration stage: the first tourists (pioneers) come and are hearty welcomed 2. Involvement stage: mostly individual travellers come, basic facilities are developed 3. Development stage: tourism is a big opportunity, external investors become involved and the

region is included in the programs of foreign tour operators. The indigenous population loses its grip of the developments 4. Consolidation stage. No more rapid growth 5. Stagnation stage. No more growth, degradation of the area is noticed. 6. Next stage is depending on the area and the management: rejuvenation, declining growth,

stabilisation, degradation or rapid decline. You can combine this model with the Irritation Index, or Irridex, developed by Doxey in 1985 (4). In the exploration stage, tourists are warmly welcomed, there is euphoria towards the tourism. But when more tourists come, euphoria changes into apathy, and worse into irritation and antagonism. Tourists are looked upon as a walking wallet, instead of an interesting person to exchange ideas with. This is not only influenced by the number of visitors, but also by the amount of control and influence local people have. Besides it is influenced by the way tourists behave (do they respect local costumes). Despite the low visitor numbers, one can state that tourism in Dolpa is in the development stage of Butlers model. Tourism development is directed at tenting treks, organized by companies in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Local people are very much excluded from the tourism development, in spite of the training programs they attended. Because of this the Dolpa people could score higher on the Irridex than one might expect, regarding the low visitor numbers. Local people who benefit do have a positive attitude (information Dolpo Institute), but no information is available about the people who do not benefit. Research towards this is recommended. It is obvious that volunteers and backpackers who stay in homestays and guesthouses bring the most positive sociocultural benefits. Local people directly benefit, and interaction is big. There is a risk

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however of social disruption, as some families do benefit and others don’t. Other risks are negative cultural impacts due to to high level of interaction, like commercialization of culture. These risks have to be taken into account. 4.3 Environmental impacts Positive environmental impacts are: more money available for conservation because of money raised by tourism and more attention for conservation because of the tourism interest. Some negative environmental impacts which generally occur in mountainous areas are (1): littering of trekking trails and surrounded areas with plastic, (toilet)paper, bottles, etc., the amount of waste (biodegradable and non-biodegradable) is increasing, water pollution by unmanaged toilets, land-use change; more land is used to build lodges, camp grounds, etc., increase of use of firewood for cooking, heating, showering, etc In Dolpa tourism numbers are still low, which means that environmental impacts are low as well. Trekking groups use kerosene for cooking and showering is not possible. But Dolpa has a very fragile ecosystem, so it is very important to monitor the impacts. With the building of homestays and small lodges the impacts of course will become bigger. This development has to be planned and monitored. The environmental impact of volunteers will be little, but also depends on the information provided to minimize the impacts. 4.4 Infrastructural development Tourism can promote infrastructural development in remote areas like Dolpa, with the construction and improvement of trails, bridges, roads, etc. Besides tourists and/or (international) tourist agencies sometimes contribute to the building of schools, hospitals, etc. (1). Unfortunately I don’t have information about the infrastructural development as a result of tourism. 1. Kruk, Hummel and Banskota (2007) Facilitating Sustainable Mountain Tourism, Volume 1: Resource Book, Kathmandu: Hill Side Press Ltd. 2. Nagendra Budhathoki (2002), Detail Study on Possibilities for "Pro-poor sustainable tourism development" along Charka Trail (Jomsom to Dho-Tarap) 3. Van Egmond (2007) Understanding Western Tourists in Developing Countries, Wallingford: CABI. 4. Van Egmond (2008), The tourism phenomenon, Past, present, future, Leiden: Toerboek

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5. Carrying Capacity of Dolpa At the moment tourism numbers are very low and the carrying capacity of Dolpa doesn’t seem to be very important. Many organisations just want to attract as many tourists to Dolpa as possible. However, carrying capacity has to be taken into account while planning tourism, as it is the core of the concept of sustainable tourism. The UNWTO defines carrying capacity as: “the maximum number of people that may visit a tourist destination at the same time, without causing destruction of the physical, economic and sociocultural environment and a unacceptable decrease in the quality of the visitors’ satisfaction” (1). There are different types of carrying capacity. “Limits of Acceptable Change (LAC)” is often used with respect to carrying capacity (2).The carrying capacity or LAC is difficult to determine. Monitoring the different aspects of it however, makes it possible to take measures when necessary and before it is too late. The physical or ecological carrying capacity refers to the maximum LAC without irreversibly damage the area. It deals with effects of tourism on flora, fauna, soil, water, etc. Economical carrying capacity deals with the number of people an area can absorb before the economy is negatively affected, e.g. by price rises, scarcity, too much leakage, etc (1). The social carrying capacity refers to the LAC in the social structure of the area. What makes this difficult to assess, is that the local population is never a homogeneous group, but rather a collection of people with different interests (2). The cultural carrying capacity concerns the LAC in the culture of the host population. It cannot be measured, as what is acceptable depends on the perspective of the observer. However, the cultural carrying capacity is an aspect that is very vulnerable in Dolpa. The ancient cultural traditions of Dolpa have been able to survive and thrive in a context of seclusion and isolation and extremely limited interaction with the rest of Nepal and the world. Development influences the foundations of culture and provides new challenges of adaptation. Tourism often accelerates that process (3). Psychological or perceptual carrying capacity means the lowest level of satisfaction the tourist is willing to accept. Beyond that level, the LAC of the psychological carrying capacity are crossed. Feelings of crowding is an important example, and has to be taken into account in Dolpa. As unspoilt, authentic culture, is one of the attractions of Dolpa, too much tourism development could have a negative effect on the perception of the tourists. Besides the carrying capacity can be determined by practical factors. For example in Dolpa the carrying capacity is determined as well by the amounts of flights to/from Juphal and to a lesser extend the amount of flights to Jumla. The supply of tourism infrastructure should not exceed the amount of tourists that can reach Dolpa per day/week. If the capacity of the airlines is lower than the carrying capacity of Dolpa as discussed above, ways have to be studied to increase the accessibility of Dolpa. For example by increase the capacity of the airlines. This should be clear before investing in tourism infrastructure. 1. Kruk, Hummel and Banskota (2007) Facilitating Sustainable Mountain Tourism, Volume 1: Resource Book, Kathmandu: Hill Side Press Ltd. 2. Van Egmond (2008), The tourism phenomenon, Past, present, future, Leiden: Toerboek 3. TRAP (2003): Participatory District Tourism Development and Management Plan 2004-2008. Dolpa District

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6. Different product market combinations and SWOT analysis for Dolpa For managing the tourism well and for well aimed marketing, it is important to determine different products and to divide the market in different target groups. In this way you create different product market combinations. 6.1 Products I determined the 5 main/potential products in Dolpa (the first 4 are trekking products): 1. The most popular trekking route between Juphal and Phoksumdo Lake, eventually enlarged to Dho-Tarap, staying in tents (Dolpa Circuit). 2. The most popular trekking route between Juphal and Phoksumdo Lake, eventually enlarged to Dho-Tarap, staying in small guesthouses and homestays (Dolpa Circuit). 3. The longer trekkings starting in Beni (4 hrs drive from Pokhara) or Jumla (to the west of Dolpa) and the trekkings that go from Dolpa to Jomsom via Lower Mustang. These are all trekkings very much off the beaten path. Jumla-Dolpa-Jomsom is part of the Great Himalayan Trail. Trail conditions are sometimes poor. 4. When you continue any of these treks from Phoksumdo Lake to Shey Gompa and beyond, you enter Inner Dolpo. Very few tourists come here, this is definitely very much off the beaten trek as well. 6.2 Markets Based on the quantitative and qualitative research described before, you can distinguish the following markets which are interesting for Dolpa: Western markets (Western Europe, USA, Australia) and Asian markets (Japan, Sri Lanka; may be China and India): 1. Organized dedicated adventurers that want a camping trek. 2. Organized hard-core tourists that want a camping trek. 3. Dedicated backpackers that want a camping trek (and book their tour in Kathmandu). 4. Dedicated backpackers that want to stay in guesthouses and homestays during their trek (FITs, Free Independent Travellers). Besides these markets, there are two other markets that could be of interest as well: 1. The national market (pilgrims, visitors of friends and relatives, harvesters of medicinal plants, especially the cordycep mushroom) 2. The volunteer/student market.

Research could be done to get more insight in these markets. How can you reach and attend the local market? Is there a volunteer market for Dolpa, and if so, how can you reach and attend them? For example, for national travelers (porters, pilgrims) small hotels and restaurants catered for local people could be developed. This doesn’t affect the authenticity and investments needed are lower. First of all, however, it should be clear if there is a demand for this with the national markets. Therefore, more research is needed: Make sure information registration offices (SPNP office, for example) also make Nepalese travelers register, and that information is administered well, to gather quantitative data, like where do they come from, age, why they come, when they come, where they go, how long do they stay.

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Develop surveys/questionnaires/structure for open interviews to find more about why they come (visiting friends and relatives, pilgrimage, trade, etc), how did they come (by walk or flight), where do they stay and eat during their travels?

Investigate their interest in cheap accommodation and restaurants for Nepalese people. Would they want to stay/could they afford to stay in lodges or homestays that are catering for international trekkers as well? Ask if they have other suggestions. The volunteer/student market could be interesting for 2 reasons:

1. a volunteer/student stays for a long time in the area, lives with a local family (in lodge or homestay) and eats there, so the net economic result of one volunteer is relatively high, and as a consequence the multiplier effect of one volunteer is relatively high 2. a volunteer/student can help the tourist development, by doing necessary research after target markets, after alternative energy, after waste management improvements, by helping in the development of trails, brochures, etc (depending on the study/interest/capabilities)

However, students and volunteers need an institute behind them that supports and directs them. It is recommended to direct attention first to the international markets. For this report, I united the Western and Asian markets. More research is necessary to design special products/marketing for the Asian markets. Besides, the organized dedicated adventurers and hard-core tourists are combined, as they are 2 types of tourists on a continuum and hard-core tourists alone are a market which is too small to have their specific marketing strategy. In the part between Juphal and Phoksumdo Lake there are already homestays and small guesthouses, which makes it suitable for dedicated backpackers that want to stay in guesthouses and homestays (FITs). As tourism is still on a very small scale, authenticity is not lost by tourism development. Dolpa should not aim at organized hard-core tourists and dedicated adventurers who travel by group and want to stay in guesthouses, as bigger guesthouses would have to be built to accommodate the groups, which would affect the experience of authenticity that the target groups are looking for. Besides the investment could turn out to be too high with respect to the number of tourist arrivals. 6.3 Product Market Combinations Different trekking products of Dolpa appeal to different market segments: 1. Dolpa Circuit, the most popular trekking route between Juphal and Phoksumdo Lake, eventually enlarged to Dho-Tarap, staying in tents. Aim at: Organized dedicated adventurers and dedicated backpackers that want a camping trek. (for hard-core tourists this part is already too “touristy”). 2. Dolpa Circuit, staying in small guesthouses and homestays. Aim at: Dedicated backpackers that want to stay in guesthouses and homestays during their trek (FITs, Free Independent Travellers). 3. Inner Dolpo. Very few tourists come here, this is definitely very much off the beaten path. Here you find the most pure Tibetan Bhuddhist and Bonpo culture. Aim at: Organized dedicated adventurers, hard-core tourists and dedicated backpackers that want a camping trek.

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4. The longer trekkings starting in Beni (4 hrs drive from Pokhara) or Jumla (to the west of Dolpa) and the trekkings that go from Dolpa to Jomsom via Lower Mustang (Chharka Trail). These are all trekkings very much off the beaten path. Jumla-Dolpa-Jomsom is part of the Great Himalayan Trail. Trail conditions are sometimes poor. Aim at: Organized dedicated adventurers, hard-core tourists and dedicated backpackers that want a camping trek. 6.4 Competition and SWOT analysis per product market combination (PMC) In this chapter the competitors per product market combination will be discussed. Competitors are the alternatives that the aimed tourists take into consideration. Next, per PMC a SWOT analysis will be made: an analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Strengths and weaknesses are the competitive advantages and disadvantages in the eyes of the tourists. Opportunities and threats are events, trends and incidents that might favorably or unfavorably influence the popularity of the PMC. 1. Dolpa Circuit, the most popular trekking route between Juphal and Phoksumdo Lake, eventually enlarged to Dho-Tarap, staying in tents. Aim at: Organized dedicated adventurers and dedicated backpackers that want a camping trek. Competititon: Other areas in Nepal and outside Nepal, which are interesting for camping treks, especially other treks with beautiful mountains, Buddhism culture and little tourists, like Mustang and Ladakh. But also other camping treks, like around Manaslu and around Dhaulagiri trek in Nepal. Even the mountains in Europe and the Andes in Latin America belong to the competition. Strengths Pure Buddhism religion and culture, only open for tourists since 1989. Bon (or Bonpo) religion; Dolpa has the largest Bon population in Nepal Non oppressed Tibetan culture Villages and settlements with friendly “authentic” people, with few extern influences because of

remoteness The possibility to attend cultural (Buddhism and Bon) festivals in monasteries The stunning natural landscapes of the Trans Himalaya (e.g. the miles-long Dho-Tarap valley and the Phoksumdo Lake, crystal clear lake, without any aqua life, surrounded by snowcapped peaks) Chance to see endangered animals like the snow leopard, musk deer, grey wolf and blue sheep The region is rather famous because of the movie Caravan/Himalaya Less traveled and trammeled by trekkers than most other regions in Nepal Weaknesses Difficult access, you have to fly in and out Unreliable and expensive flights High price Difficult trekking and harsh conditions, because of altitude and high passes Lack of infrastructure (poor condition of some bridges, few campgrounds, no signposts, poor trail condition on some places) Not a lot of information available, not well known that for this part there is no high fee

2. Dolpa Circuit, staying in small guesthouses and homestays. Aim at: Dedicated backpackers that want to stay in guesthouses and homestays during their trek (FITs, Free Independent Travellers).

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Competition, strengths and weaknesses, same as 1 +: Competition Other treks in Nepal where you can stay in homestays, like Tamang Heritage Trail in Langtang area. Strengths Lots of interaction with local people and good change to learn about local village life by staying in homestays (only a strength compared with the competition mentioned at point 1) Weaknesses No good information: not well known that between Juphal and Phoksumdo Lake there are

homestays and small guesthouses and you don’t have to camp, so you can go individually No information about availability of porter-guides in Dolpa Little availability of skilled English speaking porter-guides No signboards along the trek for individual trekkers 3. Inner Dolpo. Very few tourists come here, this is definitely very much off the beaten path. Here you find the most pure Tibetan Buddhist and Bonpo culture. Aim at: Organized dedicated adventurers, hard-core tourists and dedicated backpackers that want a camping trek. Competition, strengths and weaknesses, same as 1, +: Strengths Inner Dolpo has a very special, mysterious appeal, is looked upon as “The hidden land” or “The

last Shangri-La” Even more pure Buddhist and Bon culture The impressive Shey Gompa (Buddhist monastery) Weakness The high government fee of US$ 500 for the first 10 days and after this US$ 50 a day 4. The longer trekkings starting in Beni (4 hrs drive from Pokhara) or Jumla (to the west of Dolpa) and the trekkings that go from Dolpa to Jomsom via Lower Mustang. These are all trekkings very much off the beaten path. Jumla-Dolpa-Jomsom is part of the Great Himalayan Trail. Trail conditions are sometimes poor. Aim at: Organized dedicated adventurers, hard-core tourists and dedicated backpackers that want a camping trek. Competition, strengths and weaknesses, same as 1 +: Strengths Diverse vegetation, including over 400 species of medicinal and aromatic herbal plants, most of

them used in traditional Tibetan medicine (can be interesting for some hard-core tourists, special interest groups)

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Opportunities and threats per PMC As most of the trends are affecting all of the PMC’s in Dolpa, for clarity I decided to put all the opportunities and threats together instead of per PMC’S, like with the competition, strengths and weaknesses. If the opportunity applies more for specific PMC’s I put this in brackets. Opportunities: some positive market trends for Dolpa: Tourism is growing worldwide. The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) forecast a long-term

growth of 4,1% per year worldwide and 6,2 % for South Asia. For Dolpa Long-haul travel is most important, as almost all trekkers come from Europe and USA. According to the forecast, long-haul travel will grow with 5,4 % per year up till 2020. (www.unwto.org) The following trends are based on “Tourism Trends for Europe”, European Travel Commission, Brussels, 2006 (http://www.etc-corporate.org/resources/uploads/ETC_Tourism_Trends_for_Europe_09-2006_ENG.pdf) Trends among the youth market (16-35 age group), which accounts for 20 % of global tourism:

increased income, the growth of single-person households and the trend to get children at an older age. These trends are expected to result in a demand for more active holidays, particularly adventure nature tourism. There is an increased older age group with good health and well-financed pension. People are likely to become more active in their retirements as life expectancy and health improve. (There is a tendency however towards a decline in the value of pensions and a rise in the retirement ages. On the other hand, many people make their personal arrangements to still be able to retire at an earlier stage) (especially interesting for PMC 2) The Chinese economy is growing, and as a consequence, more and more Chinese are travelling to foreign countries. As Nepal is bordering Nepal, China can be an interesting market. (I don’t have information however on the interests of Chinese in trekking to places like Dolpa, this is worth to be investigated) (especially interesting for PMC 1,2) The same is true for the Indian market. At this moment more older Indians travel, who are not interested in trekking. On the longer term, more young people are expected to travel (same remark here as with Chinese market) (especially interesting for PMC 1,2) There will be more and more experienced travellers, who are looking for deeper experiences within the communities they visit. People are looking for genuine and more intense experiences rather than staged ones. Tourists try to achieve deeper and more meaningful experiences. Among others, they do so by changing their role, by engaging in volunteer tourism or creative tourism. (especially interesting for PMC 2 and 5, but also for the other PMC’s) As a consequence, there is a growing demand for “safe danger” (e.g. adventure travel) or the development of new destinations which offer a “controlled edge”. Growing demand for eco-tourism and nature-based holidays. Growing interest in Fair Trade Products, so for socially responsible travel. (especially interesting for PMC 2) Growing interest in spiritual products, based on inner experiences. (especially interesting for PMC 2,4) Other opportunities for Dolpa: Peace in Nepal, which results in more tourist arrivals, Peace in Dolpa, which used to be a conflict zone Growing interest in Buddhism, partly due to the popularity of the Dalai Lama. Growing popularity of outdoor tourism Developmemt of Great Himalayan Trail (which goes through Dolpa) by SNV and ICIMOD and intentions to make this a strong brand.

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Trend which can work out positively, if taken into account The more experienced travellers will demand higher quality experiences and service at all levels of expenditure. (especially interesting for PMC 1,2,4) A bigger environmental awareness and growing demand for environmentally responsible travel. (is opportunity if tourism is planned well!) Threats/Negative market trends (based on ETC report 2006): Rising of energy prices (as a consequence of which travelling becomes more expensive) Increasing uncertainty of consumer confidence A more competitive global environment. More and more destinations are developing their tourism potential, and are trying to use tourism as a means for poverty alleviation. They are all fishing in

the same limited pond (of interested tourists). Tourists can find and compare many (cheap) products easily over the internet. New destinations are being created through improved accessibility, such as the development of new airports. Destinations not easily accessible by direct transport systems will suffer (this is a threat for Nepal as a whole as well)

Other important threat: The recession coming up, caused by the world wide financial crisis.

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7. Conclusions tourism potential Dolpa 7.1 Issues Dolpa District is an isolated and very poor area, more than half the population lives below the poverty line. People mainly live from agriculture. As a result of the arid ground, yields are generally low. Additional sources of income are few, due to the inaccessibility of Dolpa. Tourism could be the opportunity looked for to create additional sources of income. The spectacular landscapes and authentic Buddhist culture is appealing for hikers. However, virtually all tourists come in fully supplied camping groups and at present tourist arrivals in Dolpa are low. In 2000 1190 tourists came to Dolpa, after that year arrivals decreased sharply due to the Maoist conflict. In 2006 tourism started to recuperate and in 2007 617 tourists came to Dolpa. As a result, up till now local people in Dolpa hardly benefit from tourism. In Nepal tourism is seen by both the government, NGOs as the private sector, as one of the ways to contribute to poverty alleviation in remote areas. Since 2000 plans have been developed for Dolpa to increase the benefits for the local population from tourism, while at the same time maintaining the cultural and natural heritage. The local people were organised in community based organisations, awareness programs and skill building programs have been developed. Unfortunately however, up till now tourism hasn’t shown the benefits hoped for. This is mostly due to the Maoist conflict. Now the conflict has ended, the time is there to re-evaluate the plans made for Dolpa and adapt them to the present situation. 7.2 Potential The unique selling points of Dolpa are the combination of: Physiographic diversity: a high diversity in natural landscapes. From narrow, deeply incised river

valleys to wide Trans Himalayan valleys like the valley of Dho-Tarap; the Trans Himalaya Mountains that divide these valleys (among which the Kanjiroba Range) and spectacular high passes. Shey Phoksumdo National Park, with inside the Phoksumdo Lake, crystal clear lake, surrounded by snowcapped peaks, and other high altitude lakes

High biodiversity: over 30 species of mammals, including endangered animals like the snow leopard, blue sheep, musk deer and grey wolf , 196 species of birds, diverse vegetation, including over 400 species of medicinal and aromatic herbal plants. Diversion of culture: Hinduism in lower parts of Dolpa; authentic Tibetan culture with Buddhism (Nyingmapa) and Bon (or Bonpo) religion in the higher parts of Dolpa, with ancient Buddhist monasteries (especially Shey Gompa), chortens and maniwalls. Especially the Buddhist and Bon culture is very appealing to Western tourists. These cultures have very few extern influences due to their remoteness.

This remoteness is at the same time Dolpa’s biggest weakness. Tourists have to fly in and out or make a very long trek. Flights are subject to cancellation due to bad weather. The low number of flights that Juphal Airport can handle, could become a bottleneck for tourism growth. There are some good opportunities for Dolpa. Since peace established in Nepal, tourist arrivals are growing. Worldwide, a growing demand for eco-tourism and nature-based holidays can be seen. Besides, more people are looking for deeper experiences and authenticity during their holidays. Dolpa can benefit from the plans of SNV and ICIMOD of developing and branding the Great Himalayan Trail of which it is part. However, at the same time, there is a growing supply of destinations who are trying to use tourism as a means of poverty alleviation, so competition is growing.

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One can conclude that there is definitely a potential for tourism development, but due to the remoteness and difficult access, Dolpa has to concentrate on niche markets and growth numbers will probably not be very high. At the same time Dolpa has to define beforehand how many tourists it wants to attract, as the carrying capacity (especially the cultural carrying capacity) sets limits to growth as well. 7.3 Tourist profile Dolpa should concentrate mainly on Western markets (Western Europe, USA, Australia), interested in authentic trekking products. Besides a growing interest in trekking on Asian markets is noticed (Japan and Sri Lanka, where most Asian trekkers come from; China and India which are recently showing an interest in trekking) which may be interesting for Dolpa as well. Further, Nepalese travellers (trade people, pilgrims, people visiting friends and relatives, cordycep mushroom harvesters) could be an interesting market too. Further research is needed to get insight in these markets. The Western tourism markets for Dolpa consist of dedicated to hard-core adventurous tourists, both organized by a foreign touroperator and backpackers who book their trip to Dolpa in Kahtmandu. They are called dedicated, because they are committed (dedicated) to the quality and preservation of nature and culture of the places they visit. The quality of the experience is more important than comfort and convenience. For these types of tourists authenticity is very important. They don’t like things that are “touristy” or meeting many other tourists on their travels. They are prepared to pay the high price to get to Dolpa, with respect to money, effort and harsh conditions, because of the authenticity perceived. These groups tend to have an extensive cultural capital, which means they are highly educated and have a large general knowledge. Besides they tend to be in the higher income classes. Up till now, almost only organized camping groups are coming to Dolpa. However, recently small guesthouses and homestays are being developed between Juphal and Phoksumdo Lake . This makes this part of Dolpa also interesting for individual travelers (FITs, Free Independent Travelers). Volunteers could be an interesting market as well. They stay a long time in the area. Both groups have a big multiplier effect, as they spend their money direct with the locals.

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8. Strategy for sustainable tourism development in Dolpa 8.1 Introduction The goal of sustainable tourism development is to maximize the positive benefits and minimize the negative benefits from tourism for the local population and the environment. In this chapter I’ll give recommendations to achieve this. These recommendations are based on my evaluation of the tourism potential of Dolpa and on the proposals mentioned in the Sustainable Tourism Plan for Shey Phoksundo NP, Bufferzone and Tourist Access Routes 2002-2007 (from SNV/DPP and WWF Nepal) and the Participatory District Tourism Development and Management Plan 2004-2008 (from TRPAP) (1,2). The strategy is based on a vision. The vision is specified in objectives, which are further specified in desired results and activities to achieve these results (and in consequence the objectives and vision). In appendix 8 this is presented in a logical framework. Some remarks As mentioned before, I haven’t been in Dolpa myself. Therefore the results and activities proposed are tentative; they are my suggestions, based on an extensive literature study and my experience in tourism. Besides, it was impossible for me to come up with results that are measurable, which would have been preferred. It is recommended to evaluate the results by somebody who knows Dolpa well and make them measurable, in order to be able to verify if the results have been achieved. The sources of verification, and the leading and supporting organizations to execute the activities could be seen as suggestions as well. In the planning process, the following aspects should be taken into account: 1. Determine the carrying capacity. As seen before, in Dolpa the carrying capacity is largely influenced by the flights to/from Juphal and to a lesser extend the flights to Jumla. But other aspects of carrying capacity, especially the cultural, ecological and psychological carrying capacity

play a role as well and should be taken into account (see Chapter 5). 2. Estimate the growth of tourist arrivals. Investments should be based on this estimation. Besides, if tourist arrivals are expected to be higher than the carrying capacity, measures should be taken. This doesn’t seem to be the case in the near future, however. It is expected that the amount of

tourists will grow, but not in exceptional numbers. One of the reasons for this is that the volumes of the target markets are relatively small and competition is large. 3. The importance of authenticity for the target markets Of course the overall objective for Dolpa is sustainable development. Tourism is just one of the ways to reach this objective. Therefore, other opportunities besides tourism development to increase a sustainable livelihood for the local population should not be overlooked. An example could be the harvest, processing and trade in medicinal plants. Over 400 species of medicinal plants, including over 50 endemic species occur in Dolpa (2). The most famous of them is the cordycep mushroom, which attracts thousands of harvesters each year.

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8.2 Vision and objectives A vision is very important in sustainable tourism development, as it is the core of the strategy; it guides the process. As seen before, many different stakeholders are involved in sustainable tourism development. A vision for tourism development should be appealing to all those stakeholders. The tourism development should contribute to the achievement of the objectives of the different stakeholders, which has to be reflected in the vision. The stakeholder matrix in chapter 2 shows that the various stakeholders involved have objectives that are directed at:

Diversification of the tourism/trekking product in Nepal Encourage involvement in tourism Tourism as a means for poverty alleviation Increase sustainable livelihood of local population/Improving household incomes Catalyze social entrepreneurship Implement grassroot development Skill development of local population Tourism as a means to raise money for conservation Positive attitude of local people towards conservation Conservation of natural resources Restoration of cultural resources, mainly gompas (monasteries)

Besides, the vision should be market oriented, it has to be appealing to the tourists you want to attract as well. The vision of the five year tourism plan for Dolpa developed by TRPAP in 2003 was (2): To establish Dolpa as an exotic trekking and cultural experience and to make tourism as an important contributor to the household economy of tourist areas. Taken into account the objectives of the different stakeholders and the orientation to the market, the following vision for Dolpa is suggested. It looks like the vision of TRPAP, but is a bit more specific. It gives direction towards the kind of tourism that Dolpa wants to develop and shows the unique selling points of Dolpa. The vision gives attention to the importance of preserving the natural and cultural resources of Dolpa. Besides, it gives attention to authenticity, which is an important aspect for the target market. I chose a date which is not too far ahead, as I noticed an urge to act. Not enough has happened since the intervention of TRPAP, mainly because of the Maoist conflict. Now peace returned, the time is there to take action. Vision Dolpa will be the authentic Himalaya destination for international trekkers who want to experience pure Buddhism culture in a stunning, untouched high mountain landscape with optimal opportunities for the local population to benefit from tourism, without affecting the natural and cultural heritage, by 2015. To put the vision in practice, the following objectives are proposed:

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Objectives 1. To develop tourism infrastructure in such a way that it offers an authentic and high quality experience to the tourists and maximum benefits to the local population, without affecting and

where possible even improving the natural and cultural heritage of Dolpa 2. To organize local supply chains in such a way that Dolpa offers an authentic and high quality experience to the tourists and maximum benefits to the local population, without affecting and where possible even improving the natural and cultural heritage of Dolpa 3. To develop additional ways to maximize the positive impacts and minimize the negative impacts of sustainable tourism development on the the natural and cultural heritage of Dolpa 4. To develop a marketing strategy directed at the target markets

8.3 Results and activities Objective 1 To develop tourism infrastructure in such a way that it offers an authentic and high quality experience to the tourists and maximum benefits to the local population, without affecting and where possible even improving the natural and cultural heritage of Dolpa Results 1.1 Community Based organizations have been reinforced and are involved in the tourism development in Dolpa 1.2 A good cooperation with all stakeholders has been established 1.3 A good network of trails and bridges has been developed 1.4 Juphal airport has been upgraded and the capacity has increased. 1.5 An organized lobby with the aim to get direct flights from Pokhara has been established 1.6 An organized lobby with the aim to allow FITs on the whole Dolpa Circuit has been established 1.7 A good zoning plan is established, which indicates which activities and which types of tourism are allowed in which areas. 1.8 A health and safety system has been developed 1.9 The possibility to give tourist functions to the present District Information and Documentation Centre (DIDC) in Dunai has been investigated and is implemented if feasible 1.1 Community Based organizations have been reinforced and are involved in the tourism development in Dolpa As the aim of the development of tourism is to provide extra income opportunities for the local population, it is evident that they should be involved in the planning, management and monitoring of tourism development. To achieve this, they have to be organized in Community Based Organizations. The CBOs have to be involved in all decision making with respect to tourism. According to reports and key persons consulted, CBOs indeed have been formed, but are not really active at the moment. During a field visit made by SNV in 2004 it turned out that the local villagers who are not directly benefiting (yet) from tourism don’t see how they could benefit from tourism (3). It is important to know the attitude of the local people towards tourism. What is their position on the Irridex (see Chapter 4; 4.2)? It’s obvious that local people who benefit have a positive attitude, but what about the ones who see the tourists passing by, but don’t benefit? At the moment CBOs are not active. A reason for the lack of activity of CBOs could be the little results seen from tourism so far. But the local population is still interested in developing tourism. Since peace returned to Dolpa, development is taking place; small guesthouses and homestays are being developed. Besides, some people benefit as a porter, by selling food or souvenirs, or renting mules. It

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seems that most of these developments are spontaneously. To increase the benefits from tourism, planning and organization is important. By being organized in CBOs, tourism development can benefit more people. Only being organized they have the power to make things done. Therefore CBOs should be revitalized. An NGO like SNV or Dolpo Institute can play a supporting role in this. A starting point could be to organize meetings and discuss with villagers how tourism could make a difference for them. To increase the tourism awareness, basic workshops for the local population about tourism and the role they can play in tourism could be organized. What is a tourist, why does he travel, what is he looking for? What can be interesting about their daily life for tourists? Why? Show local people that tourists are interested in many aspects of their daily life and show them why. For example by showing pictures of very crowded big cities where tourists come from. Discuss with the people their cultural identity. What are our values? What are our traditions? What are we proud of? How should tourists visiting us behave? An evaluation should be made of which people would like to work with/in tourism and in which way. How and how much do they want to be involved in tourism? Besides, expectations of tourism development of the local people should be evaluated, and if needed adjusted. Many times, expectations of the benefits of tourism are too high, which only results in disappointment. Links between CBOs and local and regional authorities and NGOs should be established as well. In the analysis is shown that women are in a disadvantaged situation (Chapter 1). Women groups could be organized, to give them more power. These women groups can be in charge of community campgrounds, teahouses, souvenir production, etc. Acitivities

Organize meetings with local people to discuss the tourism developments in the last years, the ideas that people have about tourism in the past years and the ideas they have for the future. Evaluate interest of local population to be involved in tourism, how and how much do they want to be involved? Revitalize the CBOs Organize meetings with local and regional authorities and local and regional NGOs to discuss the functioning of CBOs and other local organizations Establish links between CBOs and local and regional authorities and NGOs Develop/adjust existing training programs to improve the awareness of the local population with

respect to tourism. These training programs should pay attention to the expectations of tourism development of the local population 1.2 A good cooperation with all stakeholders has been established As mentioned before, working together with all stakeholders in the development of tourism is very important. You need their cooperation to get things done and to maintain the quality of the tourism experience. Here I would like to stress one of the stakeholders: the tourism sector, especially Nepalese agencies which are already coming to Dolpa. The tourism sector is often not included in the developing process. However, they know their clients, and have an insight in the demands and needs of the international trekkers. Besides, you need the cooperation of the tourism industry to reach the goal of preserving biodiversity through sustainable tourism. Therefore, when planning tourism it is important to take the priorities and constraints of the tourism sector into account (4). Even co-operation with international touroperators can be looked for. Contacts can be made with the tourleaders and/or product managers of these companies. As the tourleaders accompany the groups,

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they are easier to contact than the product managers. And as they work with the tourists, tourleaders know very well what the tourists want and what they complain about, so they can come with good ideas. Besides the tourism industry, the other stakeholders mentioned in the stakeholder matrix should be contacted and invited for a meeting (in Kathmandu or Dunai, whatever is most appropriate) where the plans for tourism development and the role they can play will be discussed. They should be involved in the planning and development process and be informed about developments. Activities

Establish contacts with Nepalese Nepalese trekking/travel agencies, which are already coming to Dolpa and other agencies who could be interested in Dolpa as well Establish contacts with international touroperators, which are already coming to Dolpa Establish contacts with all other stakeholders Organize meetings with stakeholders about tourism development Determine which role each stakeholder will play in tourism development Stay in touch with stakeholders during the process

1.3 A good network of trails and bridges has been developed Trail and bridge maintenance is needed to improve the quality and safety of the trek. At the same time, local people benefit directly from this as well. As seen before, ICIMOD and SNV want to develop the Great Himalayan Trail, going from West till East-Nepal. Look for cooperation with ICIMOD and SNV for trails which are part of the GHT. Signboards are needed to give information about the trail, to improve the interpretation and to inform about the code of conduct (point 1.12). Besides, you need directional signs on the Dolpa Circuit (the part suited for FITs), so that they stay on the right path (even guides that might accompany FITs don’t always know the way). Activities:

Evaluate current quality of network of trails and bridges and indicate where improvements are necessary Look for cooperation with ICIMOD and SNV for trails that are part of Great Himalayan Trail Determine where signboards and directional signs have to be placed

Estimation of costs of works on trails and bridges and of placing signboards and directional signs Draw up report for funding application for Asian Development Bank, government offices and/or INGOs Implementation of the improvements of trails and bridges Installation of signboards and directional signs

1.4 Juphal airport has been upgraded and the capacity has increased. Upgrading the airport of Juphal is very important, in order to improve the capacity of the airport and to increase the reliability of the flights. Due to the location, flights will always be subject to weather conditions. However, currently the airstrip is made of grass. A black top airstrip would improve the accessibility of Dolpa to a high extend. The Asian Development Bank was planning to upgrade the airport (2), but due to the Maoist conflict these plans were delayed. A new apply for funds should be made to ADB, and if necessary to other government offices or INGOs. Extra flights can have additional advantages, like possibility to sell olives, apples, walnuts, apricots and pomegranate, which are cultivated in Southern Dolpa outside of Dolpa.

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Acitivities Evaluation of current quality of Juphal airport which indicates where improvements are necessary Estimation of costs of improving Juphal airport Draw up report for funding application for ADB (and eventually government offices and/or INGOs) Implementation of the improvements of Juphal airport

1.5 An organized lobby with the aim to get direct flights from Pokhara has been established At this moment there are only flights via Nepalgunj, in the western Terai. You cannot fly in one day from Kathmandu to Juphal or back. Having direct flights from Pokhara would mean a big increase in the accessibility of Dolpa. Therefore it is important to lobby with airlines and government offices to have and allow direct flights from Pokhara. Activities

Establish a commission which is in charge of the lobbying Try to interest national organizations, like NTB, to help with the lobbying Make an activity plan of steps to be taken in the lobby process and attribute the activities to specified persons

1.6 An organized lobby with the aim to allow FITs on the whole Dolpa Circuit has been established Up till now, FITs are allowed in the stretch between Juphal and Phoksumdo, but not in the whole Dolpa Circuit. This excludes a potential large market segment from the tourism market. Therefore lobbying to get permission to have FITs on the whole Dolpa Circuit is very important. Activities

Establish a commission which is in charge of the lobbying Try to interest national organizations, like NTB, to help with the lobbying Make an activity plan of steps to be taken in the lobby process and attribute the activities to specified persons

1.7 A good zoning plan is established, which indicates which activities and which types of tourism are allowed in which areas. In the Tourism Development and Management Plan 2004-2008 for Dolpa, a plan for zoning is proposed for Shey Phoksumdo National Park and the buffer zone (2). The area is divided into 4 zones. The zoning system is based on principles as biodiversity hotspots and ecological fragility.

1. Core zone to preserve, protect and maintain the natural ecosystem 2. Utility zone, where tourism infrastructure is allowed 3. Facility zone, mainly for infrastructure for park management 4. Buffer zone, including human settlements with multiple uses in the park buffer zone. In the buffer zone areas regulated tourism activities with enforced environmental code of conduct will

be permitted. Besides, a zoning plan for whole Dolpa was proposed, based on existing and potential volume and pressure of tourists, ecological and cultural sensitivity of the area, and management attention required in the development of the area (2). Zone 1 is a potentially high intensity tourism zone, requiring critical environmental management safeguards, mainly from the SPNP authorities. This zone consists more or less of the tourist trail between Juphal airport and Phoksumdo, Dho-Tarap and Phoksumdo and the smaller trails that fall in the SPNP.

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Zone 2 is the medium intensity zone. These are environmentally fragile and culturally sensitive areas that have to be managed carefully. This zone is more or less the same as the Dolpa Circuit. For this zone there is no restriction in the number of tourists (yet), but impacts are assessed regularly. Zone 3 is the medium to low intensity zone. This zone consists more or less of Upper Dolpa and the less popular treks. I recommend making an estimation of the carrying capacity for each zone, based on the different aspects of carrying capacity described in Chapter 5. It is very important to keep to this zoning plans. Not only because of the ecological and cultural sensitivity and needs of the area, but also because of the importance of authenticity to the target markets. At this moment homestays, small guesthouses and campgrounds are being developed by the local population between Juphal and Phoksumdo Lake. Concentrate tourism facilities like lodges and homestays in this part and on the rest of the Dolpa Circuit, but not in any other parts. In this way you maintain parts of Dolpa which are almost completely untouched, which is attracting the hard-core and very dedicated tourists. It is recommended to develop only campsites in the other parts of Dolpa. Besides, a high, spontaneous growth in tourism facilities is not desirable. If tourism would be developed in a too large scale, the dedicated tourists who look for authenticity won’t come anymore. Dolpa won’t be able to attract the more mainstream tourists, as for these markets the weaknesses: expensive and difficult access and harsh conditions during trekking, are difficult to overcome. Mainstream tourists are in general not prepared to renounce comfort or only to a small extend. The dedicated and hardcore tourists who look for authenticity are prepared to pay a high price for it. When authenticity is lost, there are many other places to go to with a similar landscape and culture, which are a lot easier to go to. (For example, the northern part of the Annapurna Circuit, Langtang Trek, Ladakh in India, Tibet). At present Dolpa is really distinguishing itself for its authentic, unspoiled culture, this should not be lost. Besides, the impacts of tourism should be controlled. Therefore, planning, management and monitoring and the use of zoning are of utmost importance to reach for the desired benefits. Acitivities

Organize meetings with CBOs, local and regional authorities and other local and regional stakeholders to discuss the zoning plan Determine carrying capacity of different zones

Organize meetings with local and regional authorities to legalize the zoning plan Establish the zoning plan Monitor the impacts of tourism in the different zones Evaluate the zoning plan and propose adjustments if necessary (which have to be discussed again in meetings with CBOs, local and regional authorities and other local and regional stakeholders)

1.8 A health and safety system has been developed It is important to guarantee as much as possible the health and safety of the tourists. A study to evaluate the current situation with respect to health and safety of both the local population as the tourists and how this could be improved, should be executed. An emergency number should be installed, connecting the central police station in Dunai. As mobile connection is reasonable nowadays in Dolpa, this is feasible. There have to be an agreement with helicopter rescue companies in Kathmandu. Besides, tourists should know where health posts are. It is advised to give the medical staff of health posts a basic training in altitude sickness and other common diseases/injuries of western trekkers. Activities

Study how health and safety of tourists can be guaranteed as much as possible Execute recommendations of this study Install emergency number

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Provide information to tourists about health posts and emergency number Give basic training to staff of health post in altitude sickness and other common diseases/injuries of western trekkers Put recommendations to avoid altitude sickness in brochures, on website and signboards

1.9 The possibility to give tourist functions to the present District Information and Documentation Centre (DIDC) in Dunai has been investigated and is implemented if feasible Already in the Sustainable tourism plan of 2001 the wish to establish multiple use visitor centers has been expressed (1). During TRPAP period (till 2006) one visitor information centre was opened. This one doesn’t function anymore, due to absence of adequate staff and other means. At this moment there are no visitor centers at Dolpa, but the District Development Committee established a District Information and Documentation Center (DIDC) in Dunai. This is the office for district planning, implementing and monitoring. Besides district information is stored here (District profile, plans, reports, publications etc.). The DIDC serves as a centre of information which helps updating the situation of Dolpa and its possibilities. It is recommended to investigate the possibility to give this centre a tourist function as well. It could give explanation about the cultural and natural heritage of Dolpa, by displaying cultural and natural artifacts, or by developing a slideshow about Dolpa with voice-over. Besides it is a place where souvenirs can be sold. May be traditional diners can be served here as well. I wouldn’t recommend a culture show, as this could be perceived by the tourists as staged authenticity, which they mostly dislike (6). In the Sustainable tourism plan of 2001 it is proposed to use the centre as well as a centre where trekking agencies in Kathmandu can get information about availability, price and quality of local products and services (1). Besides it can service as an information centre for FITs. It is recommended to consult with CBOs, NGOs, local and regional authorities and if possible representatives of the tourism sector about the contents of the DIDC. I don’t recommend building many visitor centers, as this is a costly affair, and a website will provide lots of tools for interpretation and visitor management as well. Activities

Investigate the possibility to give tourist functions to the District Information and Documentation Center (DIDC) in Dunai Investigate for which purposes the DIDC can be used, in consultation with CBOs, NGOs, local and regional authorities and representatives of the tourism sector

Investigate what displays for visitors it could contain, in consultation with CBOs, NGOs, local and regional authorities and representatives of the tourism sector If feasible, give the proposed tourist function to the DIDC Objective 2

To organize local supply chains in such a way that Dolpa offers an authentic and high quality experience to the tourists and maximum benefits to the local population, without affecting and where possible even improving the natural and cultural heritage of Dolpa Results 2.1 A homestay and campsite program has been developed 2.2 A teahouse/restaurant program has been developed 2.3 A local food supply chain has been established 2.4 New excursions have been investigated and developed 2.5 A program for developing souvenirs has been developed and implemented 2.6 A program to use more porters, cooks and guides from Dolpa is implemented 2.7 A system to store camping equipment in Dolpa for trekking agencies has been developed.

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A local supply chain is the part of the production process of the tourism product (transport, accommodation, food and beverage, activities, shopping, services, etc.) that takes place at the destination. Ways should be searched to maximize the benefits for the local population from the local supply chain, without affecting the natural and cultural heritage. 2.1 A homestay and campsite program has been developed As mentioned in point 1.7 it is recommended to concentrate future investments in accommodation in homestays and campsites only to maintain the authenticity. An additional advantage of homestays, is that women tend to run the homestays and look after the guests more than men, what will give them a better position in the family. To have more women integrated, the possibility to have a community campground run by women could be investigated too. I recommend having owners (or group of owners, like CBOs or women groups) invest themselves, by micro credits, so that they are aware of the responsibility. Activities

Make an evaluation of the current number of lodges, their quality, their capacity and their service level Make a plan to determine which accommodations (lodges, home stays, campgrounds) need to be upgraded (in cooperation with CBOs and regional community organizations). Make a plan to determine the location, type and number of new accommodations (home stays, community/private campgrounds) (in cooperation with CBOs and regional community organizations). Determine guidelines and rules regarding the accommodations (architecture, size, etc) Investigate which institutions can provide micro credits for the development of the campsites, etc. Determine criteria to select families for the homestay program and owners for the campsites Select families for the homestay program Select owners for the campsites Apply for micro credits together with owners of campsites and homestays Build/restore/adjust campsites, lodges, houses for homestay accommodation Develop/adjust existing training programs for skill building (management, food preparation, hygiene, basic English, demands and behavior of international tourist, etc) for lodge and homestay

owners Develop/adjust existing training programs for managing campsites 2.2 A teahouse/restaurant program has been developed To improve the benefits for the local population, small teashops and small restaurants can be built. For the restaurants you need a current food supply, so it is advised to start with the restaurants in bigger villages in Lower Dolpa, like Dunai and Juphal. But it is recommended to investigate opportunities in villages like Phoksumdo (Ringmo) and Dho Tarap as well. A restaurant which sells only Tibetan noodlesoup (thukpa) and/or momo’s would be fine already. They could offer the typical Tibetan dish, tsampa (barley porridge) and Tibetan butter tea as well, to give the tourists an opportunity to try it. It is not recommended to start restaurants with extensive menu’s, like in Everest Region or Annapurna Region, as this would have a negative effect on the experience of authenticity. A noodlesoup and momo shop would probably appeal as well to local people and Nepalese travelers, which makes these restaurants less dependent on international tourist arrivals. I recommend to have restaurants in local atmosphere (for example with Tibetan cloths in front of the door and Tibetan decoration), but with extra attention for hygienic standards and with a vegetarian option. I also recommend having owners (or group of owners, like women groups) invest themselves, by micro credits, so that they are aware of the responsibility.

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Activities Make an evaluation of the current number of restaurants and teahouses, their quality, their capacity and their service level Make a plan to determine which restaurants and teahouses need to be upgraded to be able to attract international tourists (in cooperation with CBOs and regional community organizations) and

how. Make a plan to determine the location, type and number of new restaurants and teahouses (in cooperation with CBOs and regional community organizations). Determine guidelines and rules regarding the restaurants and teahouses (architecture, size, hygiene, etc) Investigate which institutions can provide micro credits for the development of restaurants and teahouses. Determine criteria to select owners for the restaurants and teahouses Select owners for the restaurants and teahouses Apply for micro credits together with owners of restaurants and teahouses Develop/adjust existing training programs for skill building (management, food preparation, hygiene, basic English, etc) for restaurants and teahouse owners

2.3 A local food supply chain has been established. Up till now, trekking groups have been almost entirely self catering, because there was no other possibility. According to the trekking groups, they couldn’t rely on having the food provided in Dolpa. Good information vise versa about the needs of the trekking groups and the ability to fulfill those needs is needed to change this. In the lower regions of Dolpa it will be easier to provide food for the trekking groups, as the ground is more fertile in these parts. The NGO Drokpa recently introduced greenhouses, which enable local communities to lengthen short growing seasons and produce more and more different vegetables. With the introduction of greenhouses, farmers can contribute to the supply of the trekking groups. This is a “win win situation”, as it is cost saving for the trekking agencies to bring in fewer supplies by air. An NGO like SNV, Drokpa and/or an NGO from Dolpa, can function as an intermediary between the CBOs, farmers and the trekking agencies for this cause. Besides, now more homestays and small lodges will be developed, farmers will have the opportunity to provide food to these accommodations. Many times these owners will be farmers as well, but what they can’t provide themselves, they have to buy. They have to be aware of using local food and drinks as much as possible. Activities

Investigate the possibilities in the different villages to provide food for tenting groups, among others by organizing meetings with farmers, CBOs, NGOs from Dolpa and other local and regional institutions Organize meetings between Nepalese agencies and representatives from NGOs, CBOs and farmers from Dolpa to discuss how farmers in Dolpa can provide supplies for tenting groups Make agreements between Nepalese trekking agencies and CBOs/NGO/farmers from Dolpa regarding the supply of food and beverage during the camping treks Make lodge and homestay owners aware of using local food and drinks as much as possible

2.4 New excursions have been investigated and developed Organizing excursions for the tourists creates opportunities for the local population to earn some extra money. Besides it creates possibilities to increase the quality of the experience of the tourists and have a better interpretation of the cultural and natural heritage. What has to be kept in mind is that the tourists are looking for an authentic experience. The risk is always there, that the tourist will evaluate

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an excursion as touristy. In that case, the loss is worse than the extra gain. It is recommended to keep it low key, and offer excursions in villages on the Dolpa circuit only. Below are some examples of excursions that could be offered. It is recommended to discuss these examples (and look for more) with both CBOs, NGOs from Dolpa and other local and regional institutions, Nepalese trekking agencies and if possible international touroperators and international tourists who are already coming to Dolpa. Excursions to give tourists a better experience/interpretation of the cultural heritage: Village tour with local guide: visit monastery, school, family, workplace (could be of souvenirs), drink local beer/yak butter tea, eat local food (tsampa), give explanation about daily life, about rituals,

about the yaks, show how to prepare yak butter tea, etc. Guided visit in monastery, with explanations from an monk (translated by a local guide) Excursions to give tourists better experience/interpretation of natural heritage: Guided nature tours to spot animals, with explanation about those animals, their habitat, are they in danger, how are they endangered, etc (especially interesting for snow leopard) Walk to hotsprings of Sahartara (walk is extra day excursion for people who only go to Phoksumdo, but it is on the Dolpa Circuit). o Charge a small entrance fee for the hot springs Sahartara. o Rent towels at the hotsprings. Combination of experience/interpretation of natural and cultural heritage: Explanation of traditional Tibetan medicines. Visit an Amchi (Tibetan medicine man). Make a tour to search for medicinal plants together with local guide and if possible with the Amchi, who gives

explanation of the uses of the plants. A possibility to buy traditional medicines can be offered. In the management plan of 2003 other excursions like pony rides, kayaking and rafting in the surroundings of Dunai are mentioned as well (2). With respect to the pony rides, the risk of decrease of perceived authenticity has to be taken into account. With respect to kayaking and rafting, the benefits for the local population and the interest in these activities with the target markets have to be investigated. The above should be organized together with the CBOs, in order to have an organized structure of activities and to avoid conflicts and internal competition. Activities

Create criteria to determine in which villages excursions will be organized. For example, attitude of local population towards participating in excursions, interesting sights/nature to show, place where tourists stay for two days or arrive early in the afternoon, like Dho, Ringmo/Phoksumdo) Organize meetings with CBOs in designated villages to discuss which kinds of excursions will be organized, and all the organizational aspects, like program, price, which families will be visited, is there a rotation, etc. Organize meetings with CBOs and local and regional authorities and local and regional NGOs to discuss the excursions Organize meetings with Nepalese trekking agencies to discuss the excursions Include questions about excursions in survey for tourists (see below, result 3.1), to measure interest with international tourists

2.5 A program for developing souvenirs has been developed and implemented Souvenir selling is another way to increase the income from the local population from tourism. An extra advantage is that souvenir production is back stage, the maker of the souvenirs doesn’t have to be the same person selling them. This is a big advantage, regarding the fragile culture and low cultural carrying capacity. Another advantage is that by souvenir production traditional products and skills will

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be conserved or even revived. It is recommended to make an audit of existing souvenirs and see if it is possible to diversify the offer, based on the local culture and the skills of the local population. It has to be kept in mind that souvenirs have to be easy to carry. Make trial products and show them to tourists, in other words, research what would appeal to the tourists. Nepalese trekking agencies can be consulted as well. Examples of souvenirs which are produced at this moment are sash, blankets and Tibetan carpets (1, 5). The last two, however have the disadvantage of being too heavy for most tourists to take with them on the trek. Market access for the souvenirs has to be created: investigate where and how the souvenirs can be sold. Will there be a special shop? Or a display/room in a lodge, homestay, visitor centre or local restaurant? Are there villages with a local market? Promote these markets, and add one stand (not more, in order not to loose the authenticity) with souvenirs. It is also possible to organize a tour, where tourists visit a workplace where souvenirs are made (if souvenir makers want this). If these products are also locally used, this doesn’t affect the authenticity perceived. Or one of the makers can give a demonstration in a homestay, lodge or campsite. There can be a display at registration offices. This is a win-win-win situation: the souvenir makers will have extra places to sell their products; registering of a whole group takes time, so while waiting, tourists will spend their time looking at the souvenirs; at the registration office of SPNP, a small percentage of the products sold could be given to the SPNP, and be used for conservation. It is a good idea to tell the story behind the product: add a little card with the souvenir with name and picture of the person who made it. Write a small introduction of this person on the card and/or information about the product. Besides, a poster in the shop could present explanation with pictures of how the product is made, where it is made and/or what is the original use. If souvenir production has been established, it could be investigated if production for selling in fair trade shops in Kathmandu is feasible (if the airport will be improved, transport will be less of a constraint) It is possible to develop a system to put a small amount from each product sold in the Dolpa Development Fund, proposed in result 2.7. Like with the excursions, there is always the risk of loss of authenticity perceived by the tourists. That is why it should be kept low key, and only be organized in villages on the Dolpa Circuit. Activities

Investigate which souvenirs are being made at this moment. Investigate which other souvenirs could be made: discuss this in meetings with CBOs, local and (inter)national NGOs and if possible with Nepalese trekking agencies Investigate interest of tourists in the souvenirs Give training to improve skills for souvenir making Investigate and determine ways to sell the souvenirs (shop, market, display in lodge, homestay or

restaurant, bring souvenirs to campsite, give demonstration of making them on campsite, homestay or lodge, tourist visiting workplace, etc) Investigate ways to promote the appeal of the souvenirs to tourists (little card with information of person who made it; information about the product, like original function) Investigate needs for micro credits to buy materials, displays, etc

Investigate which institutions can provide micro credits for this Apply for micro credits Investigate if it is possible to sell the souvenirs to fair trade shops in Kathmandu and/or Pokhara Ask trekking companies to inform their clients about souvenirs, so they bring sufficient cash.

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2.6 A program to use more porters, cooks and guides from Dolpa is implemented At this moment, most porters, cooks and guides are brought in by the Nepalese trekking agencies. However, porters, cooks and guides were educated by TRPAP. Cooperation with Nepalese trekking agencies should be looked for to establish possibilities to make more use of porters, cooks and (assistant) guides from Dolpa. In villages where trekkers stay longer, local guides can show tourists around (see 2. 2 excursions). Activities

Discuss with trekking companies to make more use of local porters and local guides Make agreements with Nepalese trekking agencies regarding the use of porters and local (assistant) guides from Dolpa Give (refreshment) training to possible local (assistant) guides and cooks Give training on the job for (assistant) guides and cooks (by the Nepalese trekking agencies)

2.7 A system to store camping equipment in Dolpa for trekking agencies has been developed. At this moment all camping gear of tented treks is flown in. The option to store camping equipment in Dolpa and charge for this should be discussed with trekking companies. Besides storage, other services can be offered, like cleaning and maintaining the equipment. This is a “win win situation” as fewer supplies have to be brought in by air. This storage could be built in Juphal or Dunai. Activities

Investigate the feasibility to establish a storage centre. Have meetings with different stakeholders (CBOs, local and regional authorities and NGOs, tourism business) about a storage centre and who is going to be responsible for it. If feasible, establish storage centre and establish prices for storage, cleaning and maintanance.

If feasible, organize training for responsible persons, with respect to requirements of storage and maintenance. Objective 3 To develop additional ways to maximize the positive impacts and minimize the negative impacts of sustainable tourism development on the the natural and cultural heritage of Dolpa Results 3.1 A good waste management system has been implemented 3.2 An alternative energy program has been implemented 3.3 Available funds for conservation of cultural heritage have increased 3.4 A code of conduct for the tourists, with tips how to maximize their contribution to the population

and minimize their socio-cultural and environmental impacts on Dolpa has been established 3.5 An organized lobby with the aim to decrease the Restricted Area Fee of US$ 500/to attribute at least half of the fee directly to Dolpa has been established 3.6 The possibility to charge a Dolpa development fund (DDF), to be spent on local and environmental projects, has been investigated and if feasible, DDF is implemented

3.7 The possibility to establish a Friends of Dolpa Foundation (FDF), to be spent on local and environmental projects, has been investigated and if feasible, FDF is founded 3.1 A good waste management system has been implemented In the Sustainable Tourism Plan and the Management Plan for Dolpa a good waste management is already proposed. Most recommendations below are taken from these reports (1,2). To minimize waste produced by trekkers, the 4 R’s – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Replace strategy should be promoted. Make waste gathering sites at appropriate places. The waste should be

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separated; biodegradable waste will be composted and rest waste will be burnt using incinerators. Improved compost-making technology needs to be promoted. The waste management system needs good management and has to be communicated to trekkers, trekking agencies and the local population. Sanitation is another problem that needs attention. There are still many households without toilets in Dolpa. As human waste is very unhygienic, this can cause infectious diseases. Awareness programs and building programs are important and need to be included in the tourism strategy. It is obvious that every lodge, homestay and campsite needs to have toilets. Possibilities of composting toilets (eco-bio toilets) which don’t need water should be investigated. Activities

Re-evaluate the existing waste management plan for Dolpa and make necessary adjustments Re-evaluate the existing waste management plan per major settlement in Dolpa and make necessary adjustments Install/restore/manage waste gathering sites (compost containers and incinerators) Develop and give training for awareness and management of waste and sanitation Communicate waste management system to tourists, trekking agencies and local people, by

brochures, signboards, etc Investigate how many families don’t have a toilet Look for special donor for waste and sanitation program (like Asian Development Bank) Have toilets built for families without toilet Investigate possibilities for composting (eco-bio) toilets

3.2 An alternative energy program has been implemented For cooking, heating and lighting fuel wood is mostly used. Increased tourism means increase pressure on scarce wood (only 8 % of the area remains forested). Especially because tourists use far more energy/wood than local people (6,4 kg wood per person per day, a porter uses 1,5 kg a day (2). In the Sustainable Tourism Plan and the Management Plan for Dolpa alternative energy programs are already mentioned. Most recommendations below are taken from these reports (1,2). Alternative energy programs mentioned in these reports have to be evaluated, re-activated or implemented. In order to increase the popularity of alternative fuel, it has to be affordable, adaptable to local conditions and needs and the use of alternative energy has to be the norm (2). For this the cooperation of local authorities is required. The altitude and remoteness makes implementing new technologies more problematic. New technologies include (See also http://www.fost-nepal.org/technologies.html): Improved Cooking Stove (ICS, stove with chimney), which reduces energy need up till 40 %, and is better for health as smoke doesn’t enter the kitchen

Back boilers in lodges, which circulate water through a hearth for having continuous hot water without spending fuel for heating. This is also used for space heating. Solar cooker. There are also portable solar cookers which could be obliged for camping groups. Solar panels Water energy/micro hydropower plants Making maximum use of the sun as a heat source when building new houses, using local materials Biogas, cooking on human and animal excreta (the end product is a good fertilizer as well) Camping treks are required to carry their own fuel needs, for both trekkers as guides and porters. In practice the brought kerosene is almost only used by the trekkers. Kerosene depots were proposed in

the Sustainable Tourism plan of 2001 in Juphal and Dho VDC (Village Development Commmittee).

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Another possibility could be making and using briquettes, made from waste, sawdust, grass, leaves and paper. The production is mostly done by women, which is a source of income from them at the same time. Using briquettes less toxic gases are produced. This would be only possible in Lower Dolpa, because of the availability of the raw materials needed, besides paper would have to be flown in. Research should be done towards the feasibility of this method. More information can be found on the site of Fost-Nepal and: http://www.hedon.info/FuelBriquettesFromWastes Activities

Investigate the current use of alternative energy Investigate current plans for increasing the use of alternative energy Investigate more possibilities to increase the use of alternative energy Develop and give training for awareness for using alternative energy Find a donor for subsidizing alternative energy plants (government, INGO, Asian Development Bank) Install/restore/manage alternative energy plants, stoves, panels, back boilers, etc Install/restore/manage kerosene depots in Juphal and Dho VDC Communicate alternative energy use, while giving tips to minimize energy consumption to tourists,

trekking agencies and local people, by brochures, signboards, etc. 3.3 Available funds for conservation of cultural heritage have increased Buddhist monasteries (gompas), chortens and other Buddhist features are an important aspect of the cultural heritage of Dolpa. They are a key aspect in the Buddhism culture. For tourists, gompas are very attractive “sites” to visit, to experience the Buddhist culture. At present in many gompas tourists can make a voluntary donation. Implying an obligatory fee is a good way to raise the necessary money for the restoration and will increase the positive attitude of monks and local population in general towards tourism. Besides, more tourists can result in more donations to foundations that contribute to the restoration of gompas, like American Himalayan Foundation and Marjan Rens Gompa Renovation Project. Information about these organizations should be available at the gompas. Last, increased international attention for Dolpa by increased tourism can make it easier to apply for government funds or funds of international NGOs. Dolpa can also use the wish to develop tourism as an argument for funding. Activities

Discuss level of entrance fee of monasteries with monks, CBOs and Nepalese trekking agencies Apply entrance fee Make a small notice board, which shows where entrance fees and eventual voluntary donations are used for Have information available about foundations which help with the restoration of gompas Try to apply for extra funds from government institutions and INGOs

3.4 A code of conduct for the tourists, with tips how to maximize their contribution to the population and minimize their socio-cultural and environmental impacts on Dolpa has been established. A code of conduct for trekkers with environmental and socio-cultural do’s and don’ts is very important. The way the tourists behave determines the level of impact tourism has on both the environment as on the lives of local people. Tourism behavior is very important for the relationship between host and tourist. According to key persons consulted such a code does exist, but I couldn’t get one. Therefore, here I would like to make some general recommendations with respect to this code of conduct.

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A code of conduct describes how tourists can avoid negative affects, and gives suggestions how their visit can benefit the local people in Dolpa. Besides making a list of those do’s and don’ts, the tourists should be made clear the benefits that respecting the code of conduct has for themselves, in order to motivate them to respect the code of condut. Make them see, how their presence can benefit the people of the places they visit and how they can contribute to the conservation of a fragile culture and nature. Besides, by respecting the code of conduct they will have more opportunities to make contact with the local population. This will give them a good feeling, which increases the chance they keep to the code of conduct. The code of conduct should be on the website, and should be distributed in flyers, which should be given when buying the permit for Dolpa. A shorter version can be placed on displays, for example at Juphal Airport and at the entrance of Shey Phoksumdo National Park. On the back site of the maps of Dolpa, background information about Dolpa and the code of conduct can be put as well. As many of the porters and guides are still from outside Dolpa and are Hindu, it is recommended to make a Nepali version of the code of conduct as well. There are many differences between the different cultures and even Nepalese people don’t know the right way to behave. Besides the environmental awareness is most of the time quite low with the lower classes where most of the porters are from. Although it is the responsibility of the Nepalese agent to instruct his staff about respect for nature and culture, you cannot count on this to happen. Activities

Organize meetings with CBOs and with local and Park authorities to evaluate and discuss the code of conduct Organize meetings with trekking agencies to evaluate and discuss the code of conduct If necessary improve existing code of conduct, based on those meetings and on code of conduct

from other places (like Annapurna) Communicate code of conduct to tourists, trekking staff and to local population (in flyers, website, etc.) Make information boards with code of conduct

3.5 An organized lobby with the aim to decrease the Restricted Area Fee of US$ 500/to attribute at least half of the fee directly to Dolpa has been established It is important to lobby with the government for lowering the Restricted Area Fee charged by the government and which is not spent in Dolpa. This would help to increase the number of tourists visiting Dolpa. Another possibility is to apply a return system, by which part of the Restricted Area Fee is returned to Dolpa, preferably around 50 %. Activities

Establish a commission which is in charge of the lobbying Try to interest national organizations, like NTB, to help with the lobbying Make an activity plan of steps to be taken in the lobby process and attribute the activities to specified persons

3.6 The possibility to charge a Dolpa development fund (DDF), to be spent on local and environmental projects, has been investigated and if feasible, DDF is implemented. A Dolpa Development Fund (DDF) could be created, to be spent on social and environmental projects. Money can be raised by a Dolpa development tax paid by tourists in guesthouses, homestays and campsites and/or by charging a Dolpa Development Fee of plus minus US$ 50 to international tourists. The Dolpa Development Fund is the only way to ensure that all people in Dolpa benefit from

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tourism. It is a tool to avoid the risk of social disruption because of the fact that some families benefit and others don’t (see Chapter 4,4.2). Not every region could just establish a fund of US$ 50. But in this case, Dolpa can benefit from its uniqueness and authenticity. People who visit Dolpa know that they are traveling in a vulnerable area. Besides, people who travel to Dolpa find it worth to spend money to visit it, especially if they go to Inner Dolpa/Dolpo. A trip to only Lower Dolpa with a Dutch tour operator costs between € 1575 and € 2195, excluding the flight from Amsterdam, which is an additional € 1000. A trip to Inner Dolpa/Dolpo even costs € 3595, excluding the flight from Amsterdam as well. So you can expect that people who book a trip like this, won’t be stopped by an extra fee of US$ 50. During the Maoist conflict tourists had to pay the same fee or more to the Maoists and this was accepted. Contributing directly to the community and environment will be easier to accept. With the growing popularity of fair trade and responsible travel the market seems to be ready for this kind of fee. A DDF will only work if the organizations and people involved in tourism are supportive towards it (7). Planning, management, monitoring and communication are important aspects to introduce and work with the fee. Planning: There should be a detailed plan of: 1. The expected money (expected visitor number x fee) 2. The social and environmental works to be realized (to be discussed with the local CBOs, some possibilities are: more greenhouses to improve the production of vegetables, alternative energy systems, micro credits for the poorest people, for example to buy yaks, or micro credits for

homestay development, schools and/or medical service, programs to protect the snow leopard or to increase the knowledge about medicinal plants found in Dolpa) 3. A cost calculation of those plans 4. Responsibilities (who is responsible for what?) 5. How the fee will be raised. It can be in the form of an entrance ticket which you buy when you enter Dolpa (like in Everest region) or a trekking permit, which you buy in advance in an office in Kathmandu or Pokhara (like Annapurna region) Management and monitoring: A good and clear administration, so that each year an audit can be made, is mandatory. This audit should be published, so that everybody can see how much money is raised and where it is spent on. Communication: The Dolpa development fee has to be communicated to the Nepalese tourism industry and to the tourists. It is a good idea to involve NTB in the discussion about the fee, to get them on your site, which makes it easier to communicate with the tourism industry and the tourists. Ways to communicate to the tourism industry: Make a brochure to explain the fee and the way it will be spent Mailings to the trekking- and travel agencies and their associations, attaching the brochure Visiting agencies Organizing a seminar with explanation in Kathmandu and Pokhara or explain in the event (proposed under result 3.4) Ways to communicate to the tourists: Make a brochure to explain the fee and the way it will be spent, which they get when they enter

Dolpa/when they buy the permit Internet. Put information about the DDF and the projects (to be) realized with it on the site for Dolpa proposed under result 3.5 Information boards where projects are being realized with the DDF

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Regarding homestays and guesthouses: if showers or hot water buckets are provided, a charge for the showers should be imposed. It is advised to make price agreements and put part of the charges in the DDF. Legislative and bureaucratic challenges may be overcome if the money raised by DDF is channeled to an NGO or conservation foundation. A trust fund to receive and distribute the money to projects could be a possibility as well. The best way for administering the DDF depends on the legislation and has to be investigated (4). Activities

Investigate the feasibility to establish a DDF Have meetings with different stakeholders (CBOs, local and regional authorities and NGOs, NTB, tourism business) about DDF If feasible, establish price for DDF and other funds of income for DDF (like hot water charge) If feasible, establish projects to be executed with raised money of DDF If feasible, communicate DDF to tourism industry and tourists by brochures, the internet, information boards, etc

3.7 The possibility to establish a Friends of Dolpa Foundation (FDF), to be spent on local and environmental projects, has been investigated and if feasible, FDF is founded Besides DDF, the feasibility of raising a foundation, like Friends of Dolpa, for people who want to contribute to the development of Dolpa, should be investigated. Tourists can become a friend of Dolpa by donating a certain amount of money (for example minimum € 5 a month). You can also think of different grades: Friend of Dolpa for € 5 a month, Special Friend of Dolpa (or Dye or Didi, Nepali for older brother or sister, word of respect) for € 10 or more a month. Friends and special friends should get a newsletter (2-4 times a year). As an addition you can think of benefits like a free night and special welcome dinner for them or for their friends if they would return/send friends. In this way tourists can contribute to certain social and environmental projects. This foundation could reduce the constraint of the seasonality of tourism. It could be an interesting subject for a student to investigate the above possibility (assisted by SNV). A foundation like this requires a lot with respect to administration and management and can only be developed in cooperation with an NGO based in Kathmandu. Activities

Investigate the feasibility to establish a Friends of Dolpa Foundation (FDF) Have meetings with different stakeholders (CBOs, local and regional authorities and NGOs, NTB, tourism business) about FDF If fesasible, create FDF If feasible, establish projects to be executed with raised money of FDF

If feasible, communicate FDF to tourism industry and tourists by brochures, the internet, information boards, etc If feasible, investigate how the money should be administrated

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Objective 4: To develop a marketing strategy directed at the target markets Results 4.1 Product Market Combinations are clearly defined and research has been done after target markets 4.2 A benchmarking study of Bhutan has been executed 4.3 A concept and storylines have been developed for Dolpa 4.4 The knowledge of Dolpa among international trekkers as an authentic trekking destination has

increased As the NTB is responsible for presenting Nepal on the international market, the NTB will have to play an important role in the development of the marketing strategy. NTB has to be involved in all processes with respect to the marketing strategy. 4.1 Product Market Combinations are clearly defined and research has been done after target markets It is important to clearly define the target markets. As seen in Chapter 6 and 7, the most important target group is: dedicated and hard-core international trekkers, looking for an authentic experience. According to the segmentation of Mc Kercher, they are purposeful cultural tourists, tourists for whom culture is important in the decision making process and who are looking for a deep experience. They want to experience and learn about the culture and nature of Dolpa (8). They can be divided further into:

Group trekkers FITs Special interest tourists (Buddhism, Bonpa culture, snow leopard, medicinal plants, researchers, etc) And: Western markets Asian markets

And: Hard-core and very dedicated trekkers “Common” dedicated trekkers In Chapter 6, special Product Market Combinations have been developed. Treks staying in homestays and small lodges are for FITs. (For group trekkers only tenting treks are possible, as big lodges would decrease the authenticity perceived.) The treks off the beaten path, like Inner Dolpo and treks from Jumhal and Jomsom are suitable for the hard-core and very dedicated trekkers. All the treks on the Dolpa Circuit are suitable for the “common” dedicated trekkers. For the special interest groups, cooperation with a trekking agency could be established to develop special tours. An example is a tour for people with a special interest in Tibetan Buddhism, with more in-dept explanations and opportunities to meditate together with Buddhist monks or a special meditation class from a Buddhist lama. In this case, cooperation with Buddhist monasteries and a Buddhist organization like FPMT (Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition, which has an office in Kopan Monastery in Kathmandu) is necessary as well. A tour like this could be offered (among others) on the website of FPMT, or by mail to Buddhism Institutes to the west, like Maitreya Institute.

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Another example is a tour looking for and studying endangered animals like the snow leopard and blue sheep. This tour should be developed in cooperation with the SPNP authorities and the NGO Snow Leopard Conservancy. A group like this could be allowed in the core zone, where normally tourists are not allowed. It could be offered at universities, in biologist magazines, etc. (preferably by trying to produce free publicity) A third example is developing GPS walks, which can be put on specific websites that exist for GPS walks. This can attract a new target group. It is very important to know how you can reach your target markets and what is important for them in their holiday experience. Therefore, it is recommended to do research after tourists who are already coming to Dolpa: Make sure information from registration offices (SPNP office, for example) is administered well, to gather quantitative data, like where do they come from, age, profession (which gives an

indication of their social group and income) when they come, where they go, how long do they stay. Develop surveys/questionnaires/structure for open interviews to find out why they come, how did

they get to know about Dolpa, how did they come (by (which) international touroperator, Nepalese travel agency, FIT)? Investigate how the quality of the experience can be enhanced (what do they like, dislike, are their expectations met, do they have suggestions), how length of stay can be enhanced, how benefits for the local people can be enhanced. Investigate their interest in the above mentioned

excursions and ask if they have other suggestions in this aspect. Investigate their willingness to pay the DDF and what amount they are prepared to pay Investigate if they would be interested in becoming a member of a Friends of Dolpa Foundation and what they think is a normal monthly/quarterly/yearly donation Investigate if they would be interested in a visitor centre and what they think it should contain Investigate if they would visit a website of Dolpa and what they think it should contain Activities

Discuss at which target markets Dolpa should aim, with (representatives of) CBOs, NGOs, Park Management SPNP and tourism sector, and if necessary, redefine target groups mentioned above Do research after tourists visiting Dolpa: develop research objectives and on basis of that, develop questionnaires/structure for interviews

Investigate who can execute research Collect information about tourists visiting Dolpa from SPNP and other registration offices Work together with Nepalese agencies to organize special tours for special interest groups 4.2 A benchmarking study of Bhutan has been executed

Bhutan is very successful in promoting itself as the last Shangri-La. It has a well organized tourism industry. Bhutan doesn’t want too many tourists, and people who visit Bhutan have to pay US$ 200 a day. Many people are prepared to pay this high fee, as they are curios after this hidden paradise. Bhutan is able to provoke curiosity. Therefore a benchmarking study with Bhutan as an example of best practices with respect to promoting a destination is recommended. (I don’t recommend the system of such high fees and high government control, only the way Bhutan presents itself to the world). As SNV is active in Bhutan as well, this should be relatively easy to do. Activities

Execute a bench marking study of Bhutan, studying websites, promotional material, policies, etc.

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4.3 A concept and storylines have been developed for Dolpa The unique selling points of Dolpa are a combination of: the physiographic diversity, the Shey Phoksumdo National Park with the Phoksumdo Lake, high biodiversity and the diversion of culture (Hinduism and untouched, authentic Tibetan Buddhism and Bonpo religion, from which the Buddhism and Bonpo culture is most appealing to the target groups) (see Chapter 1 and 7). The combination of USPs determines the tourism profile of Dolpa, the combination of unique features, which defines its identity and its competitiveness. This can be seen as the hardware of Dolpa (8). Besides, the software is at least as important. The software deals with the atmosphere of the place and is based on the sense of place and time. The sense of place is defined by natural and cultural resources, the local culture and the atmosphere. The local people form the core of the sense of place (8). You could say that the hardware forms the basis for the software. The ancient cultural traditions of Dolpa have been able to survive and thrive in a context of seclusion and isolation and extremely limited interaction with the rest of Nepal and the world (2). This appeals to the imagination and provokes curiosity. Dolpa evokes a sense of mystery; with its remoteness and rugged natural beauty and the well preserved Buddhist and Bonpo culture, it is seen as a last Shangri-La. You could call this the sense of place of Dolpa. Besides, Dolpa provokes a sense of nostalgia to times where life was more authentic and not that complicated and fast as life in modern society is now. This is the sense of time of Dolpa. Sense of place and time describe the magic of Dolpa, its enchantment, and are unique selling points as well. They have to be reinforced and consolidated in the tourism development and in the marketing of Dolpa as a destination. The hard- and software together (so USPs, sense of place and time) are the core ingredients for a tourism concept. A good concept appeals to the fantasy of both suppliers and consumers. It has instant recognition (brand value), creates a clear image, evokes curiosity, makes people dream and enhances the distinctiveness of a destination. The concept communicates “the spirit of the place”. As tourism is all about experiences, it is important to create a strong concept, which will be the core of the communication. “VA=Dm3: Visitor Attraction is a Dream consisting of Myth, Magic and Mystery” (8). The concept for Dolpa should be appealing to trekkers and refer to the unique culture and the remoteness and isolation of Dolpa. In the Dolpa Management Plan of 2004-2008 the term brand image is used, which has similarities with a concept. The brand image used is: trekking as an exotic experience, based on the experience of physiographic diversity, the living Bonpo and Nyingmapa cultural traditions and the biodiversity, wild life and MAPs (Medicinal and aromatic plants) (2). Three main trekking routes have been identified to promote the brand image (2):

1. Phoksumdo Nature Experience: the short trek from Juphal/Dunai to Phoksumdo 2. the Dolpa Experience: the Dolpa Circuit. 3. Dolpa Heritage Experience: the Upper Dolpa trek The concept proposed here is:

“the authentic Himalaya trekking region to experience spectacular, remote landscapes and ancient cultural traditions of Tibetan Buddhism”. Based on the concept, storylines can be used. A storyline is a theme, a story that is characteristic for the area and that fits in the sense of place and time. It is a tool for interpretation that helps tourists to understand and feel what makes a place special. It brings the site to life, because it appeals to the imagination. It enriches the tourist experience. I would recommend using storylines like, “The last Shangri-La”, “The secrets of the hidden Buddhism cultures of Dolpa”, “How a unique people knows

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how to survive in a harsh climate” and/or “Amchi practices”, all referring to the unique culture and the remoteness and isolation of Dolpa. Besides the unique Buddhism culture, Dolpa is also the land of the snow leopard, an animal which is very appealing as well. A storyline could be developed around the theme of the snow leopard. Information about the fragile ecology of Dolpa can be organized along this storyline. Some suggestions are: “ Dolpa, the forgotten land of the snow leopard” ,“How do snow leopards survive in the harsh climate of Dolpa?”, “Learn from the snow leopard and learn how to survive in a harsh climate” or “The struggle of the snow leopard and other animals to survive in the harsh climate of Dolpa”. It is recommended to visualize the storylines as well. As seen before, most trekkers coming to Dolpa have an extensive cultural capital and are highly educated. They will be interested in background information about Dolpa. They tend to prepare themselves well and want to learn a lot during their holiday. So lots of information has to be provided to them, which can be organized along the storylines. Information can be provided (among others) on the internet, on information boards, on displays in a visitor centre, but most important are the guides. The guide is the optimal source of information for Dolpa. Therefore, it is recommended to provide the guides that accompany the groups (which at this moment will still be mostly guides from outside Dolpa) with background information about the cultural and natural heritage of Dolpa. It would be best to develop a training program for guides leading tours in Dolpa. The story lines should be used in the development of the course. The course should consist of: History of Dolpa

Buddhism and Bonpo religion and traditions in Dolpa Geography of Dolpa Biodiversity of Dolpa Cultural and natural code of conduct for trekking staff and tourists How can tourists contribute to the sustainable livelihood of the local people How can tourists contribute to the conservation of the natural and cultural heritage of Dolpa

The course can consist of only written materials, but can be a workshop as well. Of course a workshop would be preferred. If this is too complicated (as each time there will be new guides), a course presented on the internet could be developed as well. Guides have to do an examination (if possible by the internet) as well. It would be best to oblige guides to do this course. In this way, they will be able contribute to the experience of the tourists, giving lots of interesting information and they will be able to make the tourists behave in the right way. In this way this course is a tool for visitor management as well. Activities

Use the proposed concept or develop own concept as the brand image of Dolpa Develop storylines for Dolpa Present information based on concept and storylines (information boards, brochures, etc) Develop training for guides along concept and storylines Organize training workshops/courses by the internet

4.4 The knowledge among International trekkers of Dolpa as an authentic trekking destination has increased At this moment few people know Dolpa. Even many people who saw the movie Himalaya, don’t know it was filmed in Dolpa. Knowledge should be enhanced; Dolpa should be promoted with the international public as “the authentic Himalaya trekking region to experience spectacular, remote landscapes and ancient cultural traditions of Tibetan Buddhism”. There are several ways to increase the knowledge among the international public.

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Dolpa can benefit from the plans of SNV and ICIMOD to develop and strongly brand the Great Himalayan Trail, of which Dolpa is part. This will raise the interest in Dolpa among trekkers. Cooperation to synchronize the marketing efforts of Dolpa and the GHT is important A logo for Dolpa/Shey Phoksumdo NP should be developed. A logo enables quick recognition. I recommend to have a logo for Dolpa as this is more appealing than only SPNP. The logo could have a combination of a Buddhism feature and a feature of a snow leopard (for example a print). The logo can be applied for local products and services in Dolpa (souvenirs, excursions, etc) which are developed under the sustainable tourism strategy. This makes it clear which excursions, souvenirs, etc. are part of the sustainable tourism strategy and which are developed spontaneously. By this way, the logo will promote these products and services and will be turned into a quality brand. Printed information should be prepared for trekking agencies, international touroperators and FITs, based on the concept of Dolpa. a brochure/booklet which indicates the unique selling points of Dolpa and gives lots of practical

information: a description of all the treks and their grade of difficulty, information about the campsites, homestays and lodges, etc (if it is cost saving, this can also be put on a cd) a flyer with beautiful pictures which communicates the concept of Dolpa a small flyer of A6 format with one or two beautiful pictures which communicate the concept of Dolpa, with little text and the name of the website, which raises the interest, to be distributed in

hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, bars, etc in Kathmandu and Pokhara business cards to distribute in hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, bars, etc in Kathmandu and Pokhara Networking. Trekking agencies in Kathmandu should be informed about Dolpa and the way it is being developed. A representative of Dolpa (could be somebody from SNV or from an NGO in Dolpa) should pay visits to agents to inform them. Contact with journalists and writers of guidebooks should be made, to create free publicity. Journalists from Travel Programs on television in Europe should also be contacted (in Holland you have (among others) “3 op reis” and “RTL Travel”, but also an international Travel Channel exists nowadays). An event could be organized, for example an evening for Nepalese agents and representatives of international touroperators who happen to be in Kathmandu (the agents have contacts with the tourleaders of these touroperators, so they can invite them). National media, like journalists of newspapers and magazines (also the in-flight magazine of Nepalese airlines) and may be even the radio and/or television station, can be invited for this event as well (The Nepalese newspapers in English are being read by many tourists as well). During the event a (digital) slide show is presented which offers a good representation of the natural and cultural heritage, the trekkings that can be made, the homestays and other accommodation, the excursions, etc. It is very important that the pictures shown are of good quality as pictures can raise the interest more than a thousand words. The slide show should also show how the visits of the tourists benefit the people of Dolpa. Some Tibetan snacks (momo’s) and drinks should be provided (or a diner, depending on the budget). Events like this can also be organized on a smaller scale for tourists staying in Kathmandu. For tourists a small entrance fee can be raised (in Kathmandu Guesthouse it is common to have slide shows about Everest treks for tourists who pay about € 4 to attend the slide show). After the slide show participants have the opportunity to ask questions.

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A good website of Dolpa should be made A good website is a very important marketing tool, may be the most important of all. More and more people look on the internet to find information about their holiday. It is an important tool in the decision making process of where to go. Next to a site for promotion, the website is also a tool for visitor management. For example, by the way the trails are described, the site can direct trekkers to the parts with higher carrying capacity, so visitor flows are managed. It is recommended to invest money to have a well structured and user friendly site, with up to date information. The site could be managed in Kathmandu, if needed. Besides, it should have maximum opportunities to score high on google and other searching machines. The website should contain at least the following aspects: the unique selling points of Dolpa, based on the concept/brand image of Dolpa, with attention for storylines information about the cultural and natural heritage of Dolpa, including background information, presented along the storylines (this could include interesting stories to raise the interest of the potential visitor, like some Buddhist rituals, important moments in family life, myths if they exist,

or information about the harvest of the cordycep mushroom) information about the trails: grade of difficulty, going up or down, altitude of different spots,

walking distance and estimated walking time, what kind of nature, Buddhist architecture, settlements, etc trekkers encounter on the trails, chance to see wildlife (the trails you want to protect can be described less favorable in order to manage visitor flows) the location of campsites, lodges and homestays, and a description of these other practical information with respect to trekking in Dolpa. Trekking season, minimum-

maximum temperature, rainfall, location of health posts, tips against altitude sickness, etc the code of conduct for traveling in Dolpa information about the excursions information about the souvenirs information about sustainable tourism: what is being done and in which way can tourists

contribute to the income of the local people and to the conservation of nature if being developed: information about visitor centre, Dolpa Development Fund, Friends of Dolpa

Foundation Some other nice features could be: a possibility to send an e-card. A relatively easy way to increase the knowledge of Dolpa as an

authentic trekking destination Possibility to hear Buddhist music (from the horns they use with ceremonies for ex.) (to enhance

sense of place) Possibility to see parts of the movie Himalaya (which has good Buddhist music on the background as well) (to enhance sense of place)

Besides, contacts should be made to have a page or link on other sites like: www.welcomenepal.com , the site of NTB, and www.visitnepal.com A FAM trip for Nepalese trekking agencies, international touroperators and journalists (especially journalists of travel or outdoor magazines and travel programs on television) has to be developed To get agencies and international touroperators really interested in Dolpa as a destination, they have to experience it for themselves. Therefore a FAM trip can de organized, in cooperation with NTB and if possible a branch organization, like TAAN and NATTA and/or a trekking agency which is already going to Dolpa. Cooperation with airlines should be looked for as well, to see if they want to provide (discount on) the international airline ticket.

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Besides the tourism industry, journalists of travel or outdoor magazines and travel programs on television have to be invited. This should best be done after objectives 1 and 2, and other results of objective 3 have been (mostly) realized, to be able to show the touroperators and journalists “the new Dolpa”, where tourism is organized in such a way that the local people benefit as much as possible, without effecting the cultural and natural heritage. A small fee can be asked (for example only the costs of the flight to and from Juphal) to be sure you get only really interested touroperators and journalists on the FAM trip. It is recommended to organize an evaluation meeting at the end of the FAM trip, to get direct feedback about the trip: what do they appreciate and what could be improved. For this, representatives of CBOs, lodge- homestay and campsite owners, NGOs and SPNP authorities should be invited as well. As an addition to this, questionnaires could be developed for the participants. Activities

Link with the Great Himalaya Trail, which is in a process of development by SNV and ICIMOD Develop a logo for Dolpa Develop printed material for Dolpa based on the concept/brand image Distribute printed material in Kathmandu and Pokhara and via NTB on international market Network: Pay visits to trekking agencies in Kathmandu and Pokhara to promote Dolpa as a

destination and get in contact (by mail) with international touroperators, with their headoffice, but also with their tourleaders Approach journalists and other media (travel programs on television) to create free publicity Organize an event for the tourism industry and media with a slide show to promote Dolpa Organize slide shows for tourists in Kathmandu and/or Pokhara, for which entrance can be raised Contact travel guidebooks, like Lonely Planet, Rough Guide, etc. to promote Dolpa as a destination for individual trekkers, invite authors to event Make a good website: o Gather and write information for the website o Look for good website designer and make cost calculation of building and maintaining the website o Make sure that attention is paid to scoring high on google and other searching engines o Look for special donor for creating the site o Draw up report for funding application for Asian Development Bank, government offices

(NTB?) and/or INGOs o Have the site built o Look for cooperation with other sites for links Organize a FAM trip o Look for cooperation with NTB, TAAN and NATTA and trekking agency already going to

Dolpa to organize a FAM trip o Look (together with NTB) for cooperation with airline companies to have them provide international tickets (or discounts on these tickets) o See if own contribution of participants can be asked for o Organize program of FAM trip, in cooperation with NGOs, lodge and homestay owners, SPNP and other local and regional authorities in Dolpa o Select trekking agencies, international touroperators and journalist you want to invite o Send invitations o Execute FAM trip o Evaluate FAM trip with participants

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1. SNV/DPP and WWF Nepal (2001), Sustainable Tourism Plan for Shey Phoksundo NP, Bufferzone and Tourist Access Routes 2002-2007, submitted to DNPWC (Draft)

2. TRAP (2003), Participatory District Tourism Development and Management Plan 2004-2008. Dolpa District

3. Lienhart and Oliveros (2004), Evaluation of the implementation of TRPAP in the district op Dolpa. Field visit report, SNV Nepal

4. UNEP (2005), Forging links between protected areas and the tourism sector. How tourism can benefit conservation. Paris

5. Nagendra Budhathoki (2002), Detail Study on Possibilities for "Pro-poor sustainable tourism development" along Charka Trail (Jomsom to Dho-Tarap)

6. Van Egmond (2008), The tourism phenomenon, Past, present, future. Leiden: Toerboek 7. UNEP (2005), Making Tourism More Sustainable. A guide for policy makers. Paris 8. Schouten (2008), Managing visitors: Helping the frail to prevail (In collaboration with Beunders, Landré,

Barten). Breda: NHTV

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Appendix 1: Literature Beun (2007), Preparatory Study Report on Sustainable Prctices of the Tourism Industry of Nepal, SNV Nagendra Budhathoki (2002), Detail Study on Possibilities for "Pro-poor sustainable tourism development" along Charka Trail (Jomsom to Dho-Tarap), SNV Nepal European Travel Commission, Brussels, 2006 “Tourim Trends for Europe”(http://www.etc-corporate.org/resources/uploads/ETC_Tourism_Trends_for_Europe_09-2006_ENG.pdf) Kruk, Hummel and Banskota (2007), Facilitating Sustainable Mountain Tourism, Volume 1: Resource Book, Kathmandu: Hill Side Press Ltd. Lienhart and Oliveros (2004), Evaluation of the implementation of TRPAP in the district op Dolpa. Field visit report, SNV Nepal NTB (2008), Nepal tourism statistics 2007 Dr Nambyal Rinpoche (2005), Dolpo the hidden land, SNV Nepal Schouten (2008), Managing visitors: Helping the frail to prevail (In collaboration with Beunders, Landré, Barten). Breda: NHTV

SNV/DPP and WWF Nepal (2001), Sustainable Tourism Plan for Shey Phoksundo NP, Bufferzone and Tourist Access Routes 2002-2007, submitted to DNPWC (Draft) TRAP (2003) Participatory District Tourism Development and Management Plan 2004-2008. Dolpa District Van Egmond (2008), The tourism phenomenon, Past, present, future, Leiden: Toerboek Van Egmond (2007), Understanding Western Tourists in Developing Countries, Wallingford: CABI. UNEP (2005), Making Tourism More Sustainable. A guide for policy makers. Paris UNEP (2005), Forging links between protected areas and the tourism sector. How tourism can benefit conservation. Paris

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Appendix 2: Dolpa at a glance (Information from SNV) Administration and Political Status Development Region Mid Western Zone Karnali Headquarter Dunai Area 7889 sqkm (5.36% of Nepal) VDCs (Village Development Committee) 23 Electoral sector 1 Altitude 1525m to 7754m (from msl) Demographic (Population) Population 29545 ( 2001 CBS) Male 14735 Female 14810 Household 5812 Average household size 5.07 Annual population growth rate 1.7% Population density 3.76 persions per Sq. Km Settlement 137 Literacy rate 36.36% Religion Hindus 64.6% Buddhists 35.52% Bonpo (Buddhist) 5.5% Castes and ethnicities Kshetries 44.95% Gurung 19.58% Magars 12.17% Kamis 8.92% Thakuries 6.10% others Languages Nepali 65.01% Bhote/Sherpa 25.56% Physical facility/Infrastructure Piped drinking water facility 63.94% Airport 1 on operation, 1 under construction Telephone 150 line C dot, 5 line VHF Electricity 17% Employment Economically active population 14087 Agriculture, livestock, forestry 90% Manufacturing and industry 2.24% Professionals, technicians, administration, sales and service 7.08% Human development Index HDI (1998) Position 70th Life expectancy (Male) 48 years Life expectancy (female) 46 years Per capita income US $ 770 Pre-poor 50% Poor 25% Tourism spot Shey Phoksumdo National Park Shey Phoksumdo lake Dho Tarap Valley Shey Gumba Bala Tripura Sunadari Temple Bio-diversity 32 species of mammals 196 species of birds 376 to 407 species of herbs Habitat of rare animals (musk deer, blue sheep,

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Snow leopard etc) Habitat of rare animals (musk deer, blue sheep, Snow leopard etc) Forest Forest land 8.05 percent Hand over Community forests 54 Nos Area of Community Forest 4489.197 He Beneficiaries HH 3737 Timber product Stock 220500 Cub. ft. Firewood stock 888723 Cub. ft Industries/ Enterprises Small industries 38 Investment on Small industries 19 lakh 40 thousand Employment on Small industries 172 Land use Grassland/ open area 31.48% Snow land, Rock, Steep Slopes 59.29 Forest Area 7.59 Agriculture land 1.18 VDC Wise Population (Source:District Profile-2058)

S.No VDCs Total Hh

Male Female Total Remarks 1 Dunai 332 1218 1115 2333 2 Juphal 314 850 939 1789 3 Majphal 312 971 952 1923 4 Tripurakot 405 1047 1084 2131 5 Shun 237 759 694 1453 6 Pahada 259 872 862 1734 7 Liku 265 888 881 1769 8 Laha 172 494 479 973 9 Sarmi 269 749 804 1553

10 Narku 171 605 537 1142 11 Kalika 181 561 506 1067 12 Rimi 189 624 598 1222 13 Kaigaum 141 403 379 782 14 Raha 136 353 339 692 15 Phoksumdo 77 239 252 491 16 Saldang 406 867 877 1744 17 Vijar 90 182 213 395 18 Tinje 228 548 584 1132 19 Dho 182 389 392 781 20 Lawan 208 660 745 1405 21 Sahartata 286 808 875 1683 22 Mukot 129 338 311 649 23 Chharka 106 306 335 641

Total 5095 14731 14753 29484

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Appendix 3: map of Dolpa District

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Appendix 4: Stakeholders involved in sustainable tourism development in Dolpa This Appendix gives a more extensive description of the different stakeholders and their objectives. This is based on information on the websites of the organizations and on information in Beun (2007): Preparatory Study Report on Sustainable Prctices of the Tourism Industry of Nepal, SNV (government stakeholders) and Nagendra Budhathoki, Detail Study on Possibilities for "Pro-poor sustainable tourism development" along Charka Trail (Jomsom to Dho-Tarap) (information about some NGOs). Government organizations International Asian Development Bank (ADB) ADB is an international development finance institution whose mission it is to help its developing member countries reduce poverty and improve the quality of life of their people. By the Ecotourism project, the ADB wants to support effective institutional arrangements and policy for ecotourism development as a tool for poverty alleviation and environmental conservation in designated project areas. Dolpa is one of the Bank’s project areas. Among others they aim to provide a package of hardware (improvement of airport and trails) and software (community development, training and awareness programs) (3). For more information, see: www.adb.org National Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA) The MoCTCA is responsible for policy development and supervision of tourism in Nepal. It is responsible for the laws and regulations concerning tourism businesses and travel related jobs. Besides, it regulates the mountaineering permissions, mountaineering related rules & regulations. As one of the foreign currency earners, the goal of this Ministry is promoting tourism in Nepal and to encourage the private sector for their involvement and participation. They want to play a catalytic role for the growth of the tourism sector and stress the need for substantial improvement in the tourism management system. They want to give equal importance to conservation of natural, cultural and human resources. The Ministry also provides information to the tourism industries through the six District Tourism Offices. (1) For more information, see: www.tourism.gov.np Nepal Tourism Board The Nepal Tourism Board is established in 1998 as a Public Private Parnership. Its aim is to make the tourism business more efficient by better addressing the needs of the industry. Its main tasks are: marketing and promotion, product development, research and monitoring, monitoring of tourism service standards. It supports the promotion of Nepal by the website: www.welcomenepal.com, attending trade fairs, organizing FAM (familarisation) trips, etc. Besides they are involved in educational programmes and in alliances of the tourism sector. They are one of the partners in the TRPAP project, the Tourism for Rural Poverty Alleviation Programme. They are also partners in the MAST-Nepal project, Marketing Assistence for Sustainable Tourism Nepal (1). Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) The Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) falls under the Ministry of Forests and Soil Conservation. It is responsible for managing 15 protected areas, covering almost 18% of Nepal’s territory. So they are responsible for the SPNP and the buffer zone. Many protected areas include tourism activities, and the income of tourism concessions and entry fees contribute significantly to their budget. In relation to the conservation efforts of the department, the government has decided to allocate 30% to 50% of the entry fee income for development projects in local communities in protected areas and

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buffer zone areas. Some of these projects involve income generation by the local community through tourism (1). National Planning Commission (NPC) The National Planning Commission works with the Ministries and sectors to develop five-year plans for Nepal. Tourism has been included as a major sector of the national economy. The NPC has also been involved in the formulation of a Sustainable Development Strategy and related Sustainable Development Agenda for Nepal. Diversification and development of less visited and new tourism destinations is a priority in activity planning, including rural tourism development. Keeping a maximum amount of the money spent by tourists in local areas is specifically mentioned as one of the objectives, which indicates the poverty alleviation focus of the government (1). Nepal Academy for Tourism and Hotel Management (NATHAM) The National Academy for Tourism and Hotel Management is the major government institution concerned with tourism training. They offer a three-year Bachelor degree in Hotel Management. Besides, NATHAM is the only recognised organization to offer licensing courses for tourist guides, trekking guides, river guides, and local guides. It also gives short courses in tourism awareness, language, housekeeping, cooking etc., both in house and on location. Regional District Development Committee (DDC) Dolpa DDC Dolpa is the regional authority in Dolpa. In the District Development Plan of DDC Dolpa, sustainable tourism is mentioned as one of the means to develop the district. DDC Dolpa is responsible for infrastructure development work in and around SPNP. (E.g., they constructed a trail to divert travelers and especially pack animals away from SPNP core area to reduce the impact on natural resources protected by the park). Shey Phoksumdo National Park (SPNP) The National Park authorities are responsible for the management of the park and conservation of its natural recourses. Buffer Zone Council A group of Buffer Zone Management Committees set by the SPNP, responsible for the management of the buffer zone of SPNP. Local Village Development Committees (VDC) These are the local authorities in Dolpa and responsible for local issues. Buddhist monasteries In the Buddhism part of Dolpa, the part where most trekkings are, monasteries have quite a lot of local influence. NGOS SNV Netherlands Development Organization SNV is dedicated to a society where all people enjoy the freedom to pursue their own sustainable development. SNV contributes to this by strengthening the capacity of local organizations. They support organizations that have the capacity to make a significant contribution to their country’s development. They are involved in the stimulation of the tourism sector in Dolpa through various programs. They provide technical and financial support, among others to DESERT and DAD-TAG (see below).

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WWF – Nepal Programme Goal of WWF is to conserve the natural environment and ecological processes worldwide. In Dolpa WWF provides technical support to SPNP and is involved in community development activities of DESERT and DAD-TAG. They were involved in the introduction of solar sets in Upper Dolpa and small hydro plants in Lower Dolpa. ICIMOD (International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development) Mission: Enable equitable and sustainable well-being of the people of the Hindu Kush-Himalayas by supporting sustainable mountain development through active regional cooperation. ICIMOD has three key strategic areas: integrated water and hazard management, environmental change and ecosystem services and sustainable livelihoods and poverty reduction. Regarding the last one, one of the objectives is to develop and pilot pro-poor community-based mountain tourism strategies. ICIMOD’s strategy is aimed at benefiting the people of the Himalayas and at the same time safeguard the lives of billions of people living downstream. They are involved in the development of the Great Himalayan Trail between West- and East-Nepal. The Dolpo Institute Mission: Economic growth and poverty reduction through proper utilization, management and conservation of natural resources and tourism. To develop Community Based Sustainable Tourism in Dolpo with maximum economic benefits and minimum negative social and environmental impacts. This NGO is involved with all kind of activities to promote economic growth in Dolpo. DAD-TAG (Development Association of Dolpa -Tourism And Generation) This NGO is actively involved in sustainable tourism development. It is involved in social mobilization and community development activities. DESERT (Dolpo Educational Social and Environmental Reservation Team) This NGO is involved in education, natural resource management and conservation efforts in the buffer zone communities of SPNP. Like DAD-TAG it is involved in social mobilization and community development activities. Snow Leopard Conservancy (SLC) The reason of existence of the Snow Leopard Conservancy is protecting the snow leopards. Their mission is: promoting innovative grassroots measures that lead local people to become better stewards of endangered snow leopards, their prey, and habitat. One of the program objectives is to link snow leopard and biodiversity conservation with initiatives aimed at improving household incomes in environmentally friendly, socially responsible and economically viable ways. They look for ways to help villagers to see the snow leopard as the national treasure it is. In 2001 SLC implemented in partnership with DESERT, “Jr. Rangers”, an environmental education program, in and around SPNP. SLC and DESERT are also conducting snow leopard livestock depredation survey in Phoksumdo, Dho and Bijer VDC’s (Village Development Committees). Marjan Rens Gompa Renovation Project (MRGRP) A project started after the death of Marjan Rens, a Dutch woman who dedicated a big part of her life to the conservation of gompas (Buddhist monasteries) in Dolpa. The MRGRP wants to continue this work and contribute to the restoration of gompas. This will contribute to the promotion of tourism in the area. American Himalayan Foundation (AHF) AHF is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping the people and ecology of the Himalaya. AHF projects involve local commitment and community participation. In Dolpo they contributed to the restoration of some small but locally very important Bon Monasteries.

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DROKPA DROKPA's (Nomad in Tibetan) mission is to partner with pastoral communities in the Himalaya and Central Asia to implement grassroots development and catalyze social entrepreneurship. DROKPA's focuses on some of the most pressing problems: poor health, fuel and fodder shortages, lack of education and economic opportunities, as well access to markets and services. They started the Dolpo Alternative Energy Project by which they introduced greenhouses, among others in Do Tarap Valley. Greenhouses enable local communities to lengthen short growing seasons. Greenhouses bring nutritional benefits by making possible the cultivation of previously unavailable vegetables like carrots, squash, pumpkins and tomatoes. Private Sector The private sector consists of accommodation in Dolpa, transportcompanies, touroperator, trekking- and travel agencies in Pokhara and Kathmandu. Guides and porters are mostly contracted throught the agencies in Pokhara and Kathmandu or sometimes on the streets in those cities (informal sector). In Dolpa very few guides and porters are contracted. You can find few souvenir sellers in the villages (informal sector as well). Airlines companies (most importantly Nepal Royal Airlines, Yeti Airlines) The only airlines flying to Juphal. Up till now, the amount of flights to Juphal is a very important factor which determines the amount of visitors going to Dolpa. The accommodations and touroperators are united in several Associations (information from the site of Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation www.tourism.gov.np and sites of respected associations) Trekking Agents Association of Nepal (TAAN) Objectives: Assemble and create an umbrella organization; work together to meet the common goals,

like developing and promoting adventure tourism in Nepal. Assist the government by providing suggestions to make trekking business a revenue

generating industry Provide employment opportunity to the locals Mitigate mountain environmental stress TAAN members (nearly 300 general members and 12 associate members) meet annually to endorse policy guidelines. It frequently communicates with the government to simplify the procedures and solve the problems related with trekking. It also organizes workshops to make trekking agents aware of the rising pollution in trekking routes and other problems encountered by the trekkers and trekking agents. For More Information: Website: http://www.taan.org.np/ Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA) Objectives (summary of most important ones): Protect the interests of those engaged in the travel business Safeguard the tourists from exploitation by unreliable agents Contribute to the healthy development of tourist industry and trade; Develop goodwill among travel agents on all subjects of common interests and welfare &

protect the professional interest; Provide co-operation and consultation to the Government for the promotion of tourism in

Nepal; Promote and safeguard the interests of other professionals, trade & industries that are

ancillary to tourism; make wide publicity for tourism development. For More Information: Website: http://www.natta.org.np/ Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) The Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) is the national mountaineering association of

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Nepal. Its main objectives are promotion of the mountaineering activities in the Himalayan region and to upgrade the professional and mountaineering skill of Nepalese mountaineers, to popularize mountaineering activities among Nepalese students and youths, to create awareness both in national and international level to preserve the beauty of Himalayan region for future generations. For More Information: Website: http://www.nma.com.np/ Local owners of guesthouses, homestays and camp sites Between Juphal and Phoksumdo Lake guesthouses and homestays are being developed. Together with the owners of campsites, they play a big role in the development of sustainable tourism.

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Appendix 5: Statistic figures of tourism in Nepal Source: Nepal Tourism Statistics 2007 NTB

Table 1. Tourist arrivals by sex & age groups (2004-2007)

Year Sex Total Age Groups Male Female 0-15 16-30 31-45 46-60 61&Over Not Specified

2004 255.303 129.994 385297 38.734 84125 128.267 96.920 37.251 (66,3) (33,7) (100) (10,1) (21,8) (33,3) (25,2) (9,7)

2005 257.972 117.426 375.398 30.429 57.115 114.103 106.077 67.674 (68,7) (31,3) (100) (8,1) (15,2) (30,4) (28,3) (18,0)

2006 218.818 165.108 383.926 37.433 75.626 123.541 95.260 52.066 (57,0) (43,0) (100) (9,8) (19,7) (32,2) (24,8) (13,6)

2007 290.688 236.017 526.705 38.870 112.879 164.488 130.756 69.927 9.785 (55,2) (44,8) (100) (7,4) (21,4) (31,2) (24,8) (13,3) (1,9)

Figures inside paranthesis represent percentage of the total.

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Table 2. Tourist arrivals by purpose of visit (1970-2007)

Year Holiday Trekking & Business Pilgrimage Official Conv. Rafting Others Not Total

Pleasure Mountaineering Conf. Specified 1970 41.881 556 918 - 1.528 - 1.087 45.970

(91,1) (1,2) (2,0) - (3,3) - (2,4) (100,0)1998 261.347 112.644 24.954 16.164 22.123 5.181 21.271 463.684

(56,4) (24,3) (5,4) (3,5) (4,8) (1,1) (4,6) (100,0)1999 290.862 107.960 23.813 19.198 24.132 5.965 19.574 491.504

(59,2) (22,0) (4,8) (3,9) (4,9) (1,2) (4,0) (100,0)2000 255.889 118.780 29.454 15.801 20.832 5.599 17.291 463.646

(55,2) (25,6) (6,4) (3,4) (4,5) (1,2) (3,7) (100,0)2001 187.022 100.828 18.528 13.816 18.727 0 22.316 361.237

(51,8) (27,9) (5,1) (3,8) (5,2) (0,0) (6,2) (100,0)2002 110.143 59.279 16.990 12.366 17.783 0 58.907 275.468

(40,0) (21,5) (6,2) (4,5) (6,5) (0,0) (21,4) (100,0)2003 97.904 65.721 19.387 21.395 21.967 0 111.758 338.132

(29,0) (19,4) (5,7) (6,3) (6,5) (0,0) (33,1) (100,0)2004 167.262 69.442 13.948 45.664 17.088 0 71.893 385.297

(43,4) (18,0) (3,6) (11,9) (4,4) (0,0) (18,7) (100,0)2005 160.259 61.488 21.992 47.621 16.859 0 67.179 375.398

(42,7) (16,4) (5,9) (12,7) (4,5) (0,0) (17,9) (100,0)2006 145.802 66.931 21.066 59.298 18.063 0 72.766 383.926

(27,7) (12,7) (4,0) (11,3) (3,4) (0,0) (13,8) (100,0)2007 217.815 101.320 24.487 52.594 21.670 8.019 65 78.579 22.156 526.705

(41,4) (19,2) (4,6) (10,0) (4,1) (1,5) (0,0) (14,9) (4,2) (100,0)Figures in paranthesis represent percentage of the total.

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Table 3. Tourist arrivals by purpose of visit & major nationalities , 2007

Nationality Holiday/ *Trekking & nationality % of % of nationality Business Pilgrimage Official Conference Rafting Others Not Total

Pleasure Mountaineering total trekking that goes for trekking Specified

Australia

5.621 3.113

3

25 354

476

207 118 -

2.379 101

12.397 Austria 2.095 1.321 1 30 92 145 54 15 - 625 126 4.504 Canada

3.654 1.422

1

19 296

280

271

49 -

1.275 152

7.420

Denmark

1.390 692

1

22 123

63

149

35 -

640 65

3.180 France

9.573 5.780

6

29 354

380

256

35 -

3.306 566

20.284

Germany

9.627 6.095

6

29 681

567

425

66

2

3.239 621

21.358 India

32.218 892

1

1 10.334

9.527

8.774 5.055

31

18.345 10.834

96.012

Italy

6.635 1.882

2

17 234

89

151

32

2

1.738 480

11.262 Japan

17.240 3.928

4

15 828

1.146

545 132

1

2.760 478

27.076

Netherlands

5.164 2.816

3

27 206

296

194

33

2

1.720 158

10.618 Spain

9.593 2.099

2

13 116

96

91

25

1

2.850 801

15.687

Switzerland 2.311 1.446 1 28 129 170 206 28 1 848 99 5.267 Sri Lanka

10.564 19.157

19

38 927 15.363

888 176 -

2.842 30

50.004

U.S.A

14.596 4.411

4

15 1.438

1.276

1.297 229

3

5.960 573

29.802 U.K.

17.490 7.118

7

22 1.209

522

1.264 117

7

4.089 551

32.396

Others

70.044 39.148

39

22 7.166 22.198

6.898 1.874

15

25.963 6.521

179.887 Total 217.815 101.320 100 19 24.487 52.594 21.670 8.019 65 78.579 22.156 527.155

*Nationality Breekdown estimated

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Table 4. Actual length of stay by major nationality , 2007

Nationality No. of Tourist's Same Day Number of Average Days Visitors Departure with specified Length of Stay length of stay

Australia 139.634

233 11.613

12,02 Austria

57.824

39

4.250

13,61 Canada 120.142

82

7.393

16,25

Denmark 48.239

14

2.991

16,13

France 316.040

195 19.871

15,90 Germany 326.785

309 21.092

15,49

India 608.854 - 94.539

6,44

Italy 121.077

33 11.280

10,73 Japan 212.035

1.341 25.961

8,17

Netherlands 184.542

135 11.683

15,80 Spain 143.279

36 15.594

9,19

Sri Lanka 53.093 26.528 14.148

3,75

Switzerland 78.781

85

5.137

15,34

U.K. 524.901

175 32.344

16,23 U.S.A. 422.614

341 29.546

14,30

Others 2.244.178 20.967 160.763

13,96 Total 5.602.018 50.513 468.205

11,96

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Table 5. Number of trekkers in different trekking areas(1980-2007)

Year Annapurna,

Manag, Jomsom

Controlled Area Mustang Lower Upper total % of trekking Total growth

% growth

Dolpa Dolpa Dolpa in Dolpa trekking trekking 1980 14.332 27.460 1993 39.764 768 485 142 627 0,91 69.042 1994 44.733 777 434 106 540 0,71 76.290 7.248 10 1995 50.012 840 500 185 685 0,81 84.120 7.830 10 1996 52.399 833 553 183 736 0,83 88.337 4.217 5 1997 54.078 753 414 199 613 0,67 90.894 2.557 3 1998 65.587 798 322 81 403 0,36 111.862 20.968 23 1999 67.371 1.027 645 214 859 0,80 107.166 -4.696 -4 2000 76.407 1.069 1.069 121 1.190 1,00 118.414 11.248 10 2001 65.313 922 488 119 607 0,61 100.138 -18.276 -15 2002 38.642 536 0 119 119 0,20 59.644 -40.494 -40 2003 40.668 572 0 369 369 0,56 65.721 6.077 10 2004 42.347 825 329 77 406 0,58 69.442 3.721 6 2005 36.224 661 200 81 281 0,46 61.488 -7.954 -11 2006 37.901 248 225 92 317 0,47 66.931 5.443 9 2007 60.237 1.282 419 198 617 0,61 101.320 34.389 51

Table 6. Monthly breakdown of trekkers, 2007

Trekking Routes Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total Mustang Trek -

2

45

117

130

28

127

192 321 280 27

13

1.282 Lower Dolpa Trek - - 4 39 23 17 69 81 111 71 4 - 419 Upper Dolpa Trek - - - - 2

8

4

60

78

46 - - 198 Source: *Department of National Park & Wildlife Conservation. **Central Immigration Office.

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Appendix 6: Research after tourists visiting Dolpa Source: Nagendra Budhathoki, Detail Study on Possibilities for "Pro-poor sustainable tourism development" along Charka Trail (Jomsom to Dho-Tarap) taken from a Tourist Preference Study, Wies Buysrogge, 2001, DPP SNV/Nepal) To get a picture of the types of tourists visiting Dolpa personal questions were asked about country of residence, age and gender. Also information related to travel behavior was asked: how often do they go on holiday, do they normally travel in groups or individually, have they been in Nepal before. 20 of an estimated 400 tourists (5,0%) who visited Dolpa in 2000 completed and handed in the questionnaire. Age The average age of the tourists visiting Dolpa in 2000 was 32 years old. The maximum age was 51 years, and the minimum was 17 years. Gender 50% of the tourists visiting Dolpa in 2000 were female and 50% was male. Average number of holidays per year The majority (75%) of the tourists visiting Dolpa normally go on holiday several times a year, 15% of the tourists goes once a year and 5% goes more seldom. Organized or individually The majority (85%) of the tourists visiting Dolpa normally travels individually. 10% Normally travels in an organized group. 5% does both. Number of people in trekking group The average number of persons in trekking groups to Dolpa was 7 persons. The minimum in 2000 was a 2-person group; the maximum size was 14 persons. Note that this is the number of tourists; the numbers of assisting guides, porters, cooks etc. is not taken into account. Previous travel to Nepal For 42,1% of the tourists visiting Dolpa, it was their first time in Nepal. 57,9% of the tourists who visited Dolpa in 2000 had visited Nepal before. 33% of the tourists visited once, 22% has visited two times or more. On average, tourists visiting Dolpa have visited Nepal 2 times before. Previous travel to Dolpa For 85% of the tourists visiting Dolpa in 2000 it was their first visit to Dolpa. 15% had visited before. Dolpa as tourist destination Hear about Dolpa trekking circuit before The majority (68,4%) of the tourists visiting Dolpa in 2000 have heard about the Dolpa trekking circuit before. 31,6% had not heard about it before. The responses do not reveal how they heard about the trail or what sources information they had used.

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Visit Dolpa part of larger tour For only 16,7% of the tourists visiting Dolpa, their visit was part of a larger tour, which mostly included a combination with the Khumbu District and the Kathmandu Valley. The majority (83,3%) of the tourists visiting Dolpa in 2000 visited only Dolpa. While the larger trekking tours of which Dolpa is part take an average of almost 4 weeks (27 days), the average length of time spent in Dolpa is 20 days. The minimum duration of the stay in Dolpa is 12 days, the maximum 33. 85% of the tourists visiting Dolpa in 2000 perceived the length of their trip in Dolpa just right. 15% found it too short. Main interest in tour itinerary Many tourists did not give one main interest in the tour itinerary but several. Culture was mentioned most (37,5%) in combination with nature and trekking (both 27,5%). Other interests were doing research on paintings, visiting schools with Action Dolpo and interaction with the people of Dolpa. Comparable with other holidays 50% found the Dolpa tour comparable with other holidays. No explanations were given with what areas the comparison was made or what aspects were comparable. The other 50% of the tourists found their experience in Dolpa not comparable with earlier holidays. They stated it was very different because of the duration of the holiday (long), the opportunity for solitude and contemplation and the harsh monsoon climate. Tourist satisfaction (expectations, perceptions) Rating of overall tour itinerary 40% of the tourists visiting Dolpa rated the overall travel itinerary as good, 30% as very good. Another 10% found it satisfactory. So, 80% is satisfied, of which 70% more than just satisfied. 15% of the tourists think improvements are necessary, 5% thinks major improvements are necessary. Suggestions were made about having more lodges along the route instead of camping sites and about the maintenance of the trail.

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Appendix 7: Net economic results per type of tourist in Dolpa (in euros) Dedicated adventurous tourists 20 days roundtrip (including flight from Europe), 3 nights Kathmandu in middle class accommodation, 15 day trek Lower Dolpa; Dolpa Circuit: fly in and out to/from Juphal -Phoksumdo Lake - Dho-Tarap- Dunai –Juphal Net economic result for Nepal Expenditure of tourist to European company Cost of trip, per person 2500 Pre-leakage (45 %) 1125 Gross foreign exchange earnings 1375 Leakage (25%) 344 Net foreign exchange earnings Nepal 1031 (Airport tax (not in cost of trip, has to be paid in airports) 27 ) Taxes, excluding airport tax (fees Dolpa and Shey Phoksumdo NP, other taxes) 50 Savings 20 Net economic result for Nepal (1031-70) 961 Economic result for Treasury (27+50) 77 Expenditure of tourist during holidays Meals in Kathmandu (3*2,50 breakfast, 3*3 lunch, 3*5 diner) 31,5 Bars, drinks 15 Souvenirs 30 Shopping 10 Tipping 40 Local transport 7 Total 134 Leakage (15 %) 20 Taxes (including entrance fees) 15 Savings 10 Net economic result for Nepal (134-45) 89 Total net economic result for Nepal (961+89) 1050 Total economic result for Treasury (77+15) 92 Total economic result for Nepal, including savings 1172 Net economic result for Dolpa Total net economic result for Nepal 1050 Leakage (% which doesn't arrive in Dolpa) 96% 1008 Net economic result Dolpa 42

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Dedicated backpackers 30 days roundtrip, staying in cities in in budget accommodation, 15 day trek Lower Dolpa organized in Kathmandu. 15 day trek Lower Dolpa; Dolpa Circuit: fly in and out to/from Juphal -Phoksumdo Lake - Dho-Tarap- Dunai –Juphal Net economic result for Nepal Expenditure of tourist during holidays Tour Dolpa (including flights, taxes and entrance fees) 930 Accommodation Nepal (14*5) 70 Meals in Nepal (14*2,50 breakfast, 14*3 lunch, 14*5 diner) 147 Bars, drinks 75 Souvenirs 30 Shopping 30 Tipping 40 Local transport 40 Excursions and tours (Chitwan, etc) 120 Total expenditure in Nepal 1482 Leakage (10 %) 148 Airport tax (for international and local flights) 27 Other taxes (fees Dolpa and Shey Phoksumdo NP, other taxes and entrance fees) 60 Savings 10 Net economic result for Nepal (1482-148-27-60-10) 1237 Total net economic result for Nepal 1237 Total economic result for Treasury (27+60) 87 Total economic result for Nepal, including savings 1334 Net economic result for Dolpa Total net economic result for Nepal 1237 Leakage (% which doesn't arrive in Dolpa) 97%* 1200 Net economic result Dolpa 37 *As backpackers stay longer in Nepal than the organized tourists, a smaller percentage of the money which stays in Nepal, actually stays in Dolpa.

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Dedicated backpackers staying in guesthouses and homestays 30 days roundtrip, staying in cities in in budget accommodation, 15 day trek Lower Dolpa organized in Kathmandu. 15 day trek Lower Dolpa; Dolpa Circuit: fly in and out to/from Juphal -Phoksumdo Lake - Dho-Tarap- Dunai –Juphal Net economic result for Nepal Expenditure of tourist during holidays Flights for Dolpa 300 Accommodation Dolpa (14*2,50) 35 Food and drinks Dolpa (14*7,50) 105 Porter-guide from Dolpa (minimum from Porters Association is US$ 10 per day) 111 Accommodation rest Nepal (14*5) 70 Meals in rest Nepal (14*2,50 breakfast, 14*3 lunch, 14*5 diner) 147 Bars, drinks 75 Souvenirs 30 Shopping 30 Tipping 40 Local transport 40 Excursions and tours (Chitwan, etc) 120 Total expenditure in Nepal 1103 Leakage (10 %) 110 Airport tax (for international and local flights) 27 Other taxes (fees Dolpa and Shey Phoksumdo NP, other taxes and entrance fees) 60 Savings 10 Net economic result for Nepal (1103-110-27-60-10) 896 Total net economic result for Nepal 896 Total economic result for Treasury (27+60) 87 Total economic result for Nepal, including savings 993 Net economic result for Dolpa Total net economic result for Nepal 896 Leakage (% which doesn't arrive in Dolpa) 68% 609 Net economic result Dolpa 287 (guesthouse or homestay, food and drinks, porter, souvenirs, half entrance fee SPNP)

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Volunteers 3 months stay in Nepal, from which 2 1/2 months in Dolpa, including a15 day trek Lower Dolpa, organized in Kathmandu. 15 days Dolpa Circuit, fly in and out to/from Juphal -Phoksumdo Lake - Dho-Tarap- Dunai –Juphal 2 months voluntary work in Dolpa, 15 days touring in Nepal Net economic result for Nepal Expenditure of tourist during holidays Tour Dolpa (including flights, taxes and entrance fees) 930 Accommodation Dolpa (60*2,50) 150 Meals Dolpa (60*4) 240 Accommodation rest Nepal (14*5) 70 Meals in rest Nepal (14*2,50 breakfast, 14*3 lunch, 14*5 diner) 147 Bars, drinks 75 Souvenirs 50 Shopping 30 Tipping 40 Local transport 40 Excursions and tours (Chitwan, etc) 120 Total expenditure in Nepal 1892 Leakage (6 %) 114 Airport tax (for international and local flights) 27 Other taxes (fees Dolpa and Shey Phoksumdo NP, other taxes and entrance fees) 60 Savings 20 Economic result for Nepal (1842-114-27-60-20) 1671 Total net economic result for Nepal 1671 Total economic result for Treasury (27+60) 87 Total economic result for Nepal, including savings 1778 Net economic result for Dolpa Total net economic result for Nepal 1671 Leakage (% which doesn't arrive in Dolpa) 65% 1086 Net economic result Dolpa 585 (homestay, food and drinks,souvenirs, half entrance fee SPNP, part of tour Dolpa)

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Appendix 8: Logical Framework for Sustainable Tourism Development in Dolpa Intervention Logic Objectively verifiable

indicators Sources of verification Assumptions

Vision/ Overall objective

Dolpa will be the authentic Himalaya destination for international trekkers who want to experience pure Buddhism culture in a stunning, untouched high mountain landscape with optimal opportunities for the local population to benefit from tourism, without affecting the natural and cultural heritage, by 2015

o Increase in tourist arrivals o No negative impacts on natural and cultural resources o Regional economic growth: More income for local

population More local people working in tourism and relating

sectors

Statistical figures on tourist arrivals from NTB, District Police Office, SPNP Information on natural resources from SPNP Information about economic situation from DDC

o Strategy for Sutstainable Tourism Development will be implemented according to criteria of sustainable tourism. o Political and social stability at global, national and regional level.

Objective 1 To develop tourism infrastructure in such a way that it offers an authentic and high quality experience to the tourists and maximum benefits to the local population, without affecting and where possible even improving the natural and cultural heritage of Dolpa

o Accessibility has improved o Quality of trails has improved o More small scale tourism businesses of good quality o No negative impacts on nat. and cult. resources

Information DDC Information of SPNP

o IDEM, + o Availability of funds and micro credits o Cooperation of stakeholders o Participation of local community

Results 1.1 Community Based organizations have been reinforced and are involved in the tourism development in Dolpa

1.2 A good cooperation with all stakeholders has been established 1.3 A good network of trails and bridges has

been developed 1.4 Juphal airport has been upgraded and the

capacity has increased. 1.5 An organized lobby with the aim to get direct flights from Pokhara has been established 1.6 An organized lobby with the aim to allow

FITs on the whole Dolpa Circuit has been established

1.7 A good zoning plan is established, which indicates which activities and which types of tourism are allowed in which areas.

1.8 A health and safety system has been developed

1.9 The possibility to give tourist functions to the present District Information and Documentation Centre (DIDC) in Dunai has been investigated and is implemented if feasible

1.1 More CBOs exist and are meeting regularly

1.2 Stakeholders participate in STD

1.3 Better quality of trails and bridges

1.4 Better quality of Juphal airport

1.5 Lobbying is in process 1.6 Lobbying is in process 1.7 Zoning is established and

legalized 1.8 Emergency number is in

use and communicated 1.8 Staff of health posts have

knowledge of altitude sickness, and other common illnesses of tourists

1.9 DIDC has tourists uses, if result of study is feasible

1.1 number of CBOs, information DDC and VDCs

1.2 to be assessed by DDC/SNV 1.3 to be assessed by

DDC/SNV 1.4 to be assessed by

airport authorities, DDC/SNV

1.5 to be assessed by SNV

1.6 to be assessed by SNV

1.7 Info DDC, SPNP and BZC, to be assessed by SNV/ DNPWC

1.8 info DDC, to be assessed by SNV

1.9 Info DDC/VDCs, to be assessed by SNV/local NGOs

IDEM OBJECTIVE 1

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Who leads Who can support Activities 1.1 Community Based organizations have been

reinforced and are involved in the tourism development in Dolpa a. Organize meetings with local people to

discuss the tourism developments in the last years, the ideas that people have about tourism in the past years and the ideas they have for the future.

b. Evaluate interest of local population to be involved in tourism, how and how much do they want to be involved?

c. Revitalize the CBOs d. Organize meetings with local and regional

authorities and local and regional NGOs to discuss the functioning of CBOs and other local organizations

e. Establish links between CBOs and local and regional authorities and NGOs

f. Develop/adjust existing training programs to improve the awareness of the local population with respect to tourism. These training programs should pay attention to the expectations of tourism development of the local population

DDC

ADB, SNV, ICIMOD, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, Drokpa, SLC, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, BZC, VDCs f. also NATHAM

1.2 A good cooperation with all stakeholders has been established a. Establish contacts with Nepalese

trekking/travel agencies, which are already coming to Dolpa and other agencies who could be interested in Dolpa as well

b. Establish contacts with international touroperators, which are already coming to Dolpa

c. Establish contacts with all other stakeholders

d. Organize meetings with stakeholders about tourism development

e. Determine which role each stakeholder will play in tourism development f. Stay in touch with stakeholders during the

process

DDC SNV, NTB, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT b. Nepalese trekking/travel agencies

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1.3 A good network of trails and bridges has been developed a. Evaluate current quality of network of trails

and bridges and indicate where improvements are necessary

b. Look for cooperation with ICIMOD and SNV for trails that are part of Great Himalayan Trail, which SNV and ICIMOD want to develop and brand

c. Determine where signboards and directional signs have to be placed

d. Estimation of costs of works on trails and bridges and of placing signboards and directional signs

e. Draw up report for funding application for Asian Development Bank, government offices and/or INGOs

f. Implementation of the improvements of trails and bridges

g. Installation of signboards and directional signs

DDC, SPNP, BZC ADB, MoCTCA, NTB, SPNP, BZC, SNV, ICIMOD, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, VDCs, CBOs, Regional authorities of neighbouring districts

1.4 Juphal airport has been upgraded and the capacity has increased. a. Evaluation of current quality of Juphal

airport which indicates where improvements are necessary

b. Estimation of costs of improving Juphal airport

c. Draw up report for funding application for ADB (and eventually government offices and/or INGOs)

d. Implementation of the improvements of Juphal airport

DDC and airport authorities ADB, MoCTCA, NTB, SNV, ICIMOD, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, airline companies

1.5 An organized lobby with the aim to get direct flights from Pokhara has been established a. Establish a commission which is in charge

of the lobbying b. Try to interest national organizations, like

NTB, to help with the lobbying c. Make an activity plan of steps to be taken in

the lobby process and attribute the activities to specified persons

DDC NTB, MoCTCA, SNV, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, Nepalese trekking/travel agencies, airline companies

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1.6 An organized lobby with the aim to allow FITs on the whole Dolpa Circuit has been established a. Establish a commission which is in charge

of the lobbying b. Try to interest national organizations, like

NTB, to help with the lobbying c. Make an activity plan of steps to be taken in the lobby process and attribute the activities

to specified persons

DDC NTB, MoCTCA, SNV, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, Nepalese trekking/travel agencies

1.7 A good zoning plan is established, which indicates which activities and which types of tourism are allowed in which areas. a. Organize meetings with CBOs, local and

regional authorities and other local and regional stakeholders to discuss the zoning plan

b. Determine carrying capacity of different zones

c. Organize meetings with local and regional authorities to legalize the zoning plan

d. Establish the zoning plan e. Monitor the impacts of tourism in the

different zones f. Evaluate the zoning plan and propose

adjustments if necessary (which have to be discussed again in meetings with CBOs, local and regional authorities and other local and regional stakeholders)

DDC and SPNP SPNP, BZC, SNV, ICIMOD, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs

1.8 A health and safety system has been developed a. Study how health and safety of tourists can

be guaranteed as much as possible b. Execute recommendations of this study c. Install emergency number d. Provide information to tourists about health

posts and emergency number e. Give basic training to staff of health post in

altitude sickness and other common diseases/injuries of western trekkers f. Put recommendations to avoid altitude

sickness in brochures, on website and signboards

DDC NTB, SPNP, BZC, SNV, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs, Nepalese and international tourism companies

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1.9 The possibility to give tourist funcions to the present District Information and Documentation Centre (DIDC) in Dunai has been investigated and is implemented if feasible a. Investigate the possibility to give tourist

functions to the District Information and Documentation Center (DIDC) in Dunai

b. Investigate for which purposes the DIDC can be used, in consultation with CBOs, NGOs, local and regional authorities and representatives of the tourism sector

c. Investigate what displays for visitors it could contain, in consultation with CBOs, NGOs, local and regional authorities and representatives of the tourism sector

d. If feasible, give the proposed tourist functions to the DIDC

DDC NTB, SPNP, BZC, SNV, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs, Nepalese tourism companies

Intervention Logic Objectively verifiable

indicators Sources of verification Assumptions

Objective 2 To organize local supply chains in such a way that Dolpa offers an authentic and high quality experience to the tourists and maximum benefits to the local population, without affecting and where possible even improving the natural and cultural heritage of Dolpa

o More additional income opportunities for local population from tourism o No negative impacts on nat. and cult. resources

Information DDC Information of SPNP IDEM OBJECTIVE 1

Results 2.1 A homestay and campsite program has been developed

2.2 A teahouse/restaurant program has been developed

2.3 A local food supply chain has been established

2.4 New excursions have been investigated and developed

2.5 A program for developing souvenirs has been developed and implemented

2.6 A program to use more porters, cooks and guides from Dolpa is implemented

2.7 A system to store camping equipment in Dolpa for trekking agencies has been developed.

2.1 Homestays are functioning 2.1 Campings for which a fee is being charged are

functioning 2.1 Owners of homestays and

campings received necessary training

2.2 Teahouses and restaurants are opened 2.2 Owners of teahouses and

restaurants received necessary training

2.3 Farmers are providing food and drinks to camping groups and accommodation

2.1 info DDC, to be assessed by SNV

2.2 info DDC, to be assessed by SNV

2.3 Info DDC/VDCs, to be assessed by SNV/local NGOs

2.4 Info DDC/VDCs, to be assessed by SNV/local NGOs

2.5 Info DDC/VDCs, to be assessed by SNV/local NGOs

2.6 Info DDC/VDCs, to be assessed by SNV/local NGOs

IDEM OBJECTIVE 1

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2.4 New excursions which don’t affect the authenticity perceived are offered

2.5 New souvenirs are offered 2.5 market access for

souvenirs is established 2.6 More people from Dolpa

work for trekking agencies 2.7 Centre to store camping

equipment has opened

2.7 Info DDC/VDCs, to be assessed by SNV/local NGOs

Who leads Who can support Activities 2.1 A homestay and campsite program has

been developed a. Make an evaluation of the current number

of lodges, their quality, their capacity and their service level

b. Make a plan to determine which accommodations (lodges, home stays, campgrounds) need to be upgraded (in cooperation with CBOs and regional community organizations).

c. Make a plan to determine the location, type and number of new accommodations (home stays, community/private campgrounds) (in cooperation with CBOs and regional community organizations).

d. Determine guidelines and rules regarding the accommodations (architecture, size, etc) e. Investigate which institutions can provide

micro credits for the development of the campsites, etc.

f. Determine criteria to select families for the homestay program and owners for the campsites

g. Select families for the homestay program h. Select owners for the campsites i. Apply for micro credits together with owners

of campsites and homestays j. Build/restore/adjust campsites, lodges, houses for homestay accommodation k. Develop/adjust existing training programs

for skill building (management, food preparation, hygiene, basic English, demands and behavior of international

DDC ADB, NTB, SNV, ICIMOD, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, SLC, Drokpa, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs

k: NATHAM

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tourist, etc) for lodge and homestay owners l. Develop/adjust existing training programs for managing campsites

2.2 A teahouse/restaurant program has been developed a. Make an evaluation of the current number

of restaurants and teahouses, their quality, their capacity and their service level

b. Make a plan to determine which restaurants and teahouses need to be upgraded to be able to attract international tourists (in cooperation with CBOs and regional community organizations) and how.

c. Make a plan to determine the location, type and number of new restaurants and teahouses (in cooperation with CBOs and regional community organizations).

d. Determine guidelines and rules regarding the restaurants and teahouses (architecture, size, hygiene, etc)

e. Investigate which institutions can provide micro credits for the development of restaurants and teahouses.

f. Determine criteria to select owners for the restaurants and teahouses

g. Select owners for the restaurants and teahouses h. Apply for micro credits together with owners

of restaurants and teahouses i. Develop/adjust existing training programs

for skill building (management, food preparation, hygiene, basic English, etc) for restaurants and teahouse owners

DDC ADB, NTB, SNV, ICIMOD, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, SLC, Drokpa, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs

I: NATHAM

Activities 2.3 A local food supply chain has been established. a. Investigate the possibilities in the different

villages to provide food for tenting groups, among others by organizing meetings with farmers, CBOs, NGOs from Dolpa and other local and regional institutions

b. Organize meetings between Nepalese agencies and representatives from NGOs, CBOs and farmers from Dolpa to discuss how farmers in Dolpa can provide supplies

DDC NTB, BZC, SNV, SLC, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, Drokpa, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs, Nepalese tourism companies

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for tenting groups c. Make agreements between Nepalese trekking agencies and CBOs/NGO/farmers

from Dolpa regarding the supply of food and beverage during the camping treks

d. Make lodge and homestay owners aware of using local food and drinks as much as possible

2.4 New excursions have been investigated and developed a. Create criteria to determine in which

villages/areas excursions will be organized. For example, attitude of local population towards participating in excursions, interesting sights/nature to show, place where tourists stay for two days or arrive early in the afternoon, like Dho, Ringmo/Phoksumdo)

b. Organize meetings with CBOs in designated villages to discuss which kinds of excursions will be organized, and all the organizational aspects, like program, price, which families will be visited, is there a rotation, etc.

c. Organize meetings with CBOs and local and regional authorities and local and regional NGOs to discuss the excursions

d. Organize meetings with Nepalese trekking agencies to discuss the excursions

e. Include questions about excursions in survey for tourists (see below, result 3.1), to measure interest with international tourists

DDC ADB, NTB, DNPWC (capacity building for nature guides) SPNP, BZC, SNV, SLC, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, Drokpa, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs, Nepalese and international tourism companies

2.5 A program for developing souvenirs has been developed and implemented a. Investigate which souvenirs are being made

at this moment. b. Investigate which other souvenirs could be

made: discuss this in meetings with CBOs, local and (inter)national NGOs and if possible with Nepalese trekking agencies

c. Investigate interest of tourists in the souvenirs

d. Give training to improve skills for souvenir making

ADB, NTB, BZC, SNV, SLC, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, Drokpa, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs, Nepalese and international tourism companies

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e. Investigate and determine ways to sell the souvenirs (shop, market, display in lodge, homestay or restaurant, bring souvenirs to campsite, give demonstration of making them on campsite, homestay or lodge, tourist visiting workplace, etc)

f. Investigate ways to promote the appeal of the souvenirs to tourists (little card with information of person who made it; information about the product, like original function)

g. Investigate needs for micro credits to buy materials, displays, etc

h. Investigate which institutions can provide micro credits for this i. Apply for micro credits j. Investigate if it is possible to sell the

souvenirs to fair trade shops in Kathmandu and/or Pokhara

k. Ask trekking companies to inform their clients about souvenirs, so they bring sufficient cash.

2.6 A program to use more porters, cooks and guides from Dolpa is implemented a. Discuss with trekking companies to make

more use of local porters and local guides b. Make agreements with Nepalese trekking

agencies regarding the use of porters and local (assistant) guides from Dolpa

c. Give (refreshment) training to possible local (assistant) guides and cooks

d. Give training on the job for (assistant) guides and cooks (by the Nepalese trekking agencies)

DDC NTB, SNV, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs, Nepalese tourism companies, NATHAM

2.7 A system to store camping equipment in Dolpa for trekking agencies has been developed. a. Investigate the feasibility to establish a

storage centre. b. Have meetings with different stakeholders

(CBOs, local and regional authorities and NGOs, tourism business) about a storage centre and who is going to be responsible for it.

DDC NTB, SNV, ICIMOD, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs, Nepalese tourism companies

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c. If feasible, establish storage centre and establish prices for storage, cleaning and maintanance.

d. If feasible, organize training for responsible persons, with respect to requirements of storage and maintenance.

Intervention Logic Objectively verifiable

indicators Sources of verification Assumptions

Objective 3 To develop additional ways to maximize the positive impacts and minimize the negative impacts of sustainable tourism development on the the natural and cultural heritage of Dolpa

o No negative impacts on nat. and cult. resources o More funds available for protection and improvement of natural and cultural heritage

Information DDC Information of SPNP Information monasteries and MRGRP

IDEM OBJECTIVE 1

Results 3.1 A good waste management system has been implemented

3.2 An alternative energy program has been implemented

3.3 Available funds for conservation of cultural heritage have increased

3.4 A code of conduct for the tourists, with tips how to maximize their contribution to the population and minimize their socio-cultural and environmental impacts on Dolpa has been established

3.5 An organized lobby with the aim to decrease the Restricted Area Fee of US$ 500/to attribute at least half of the fee directly to Dolpa has been established

3.6 The possibility to charge a Dolpa development fund (DDF), to be spent on local and environmental projects, has been investigated and if feasible, DDF is implemented

3.7 The possibility to establish a Friends of Dolpa Foundation (FDF), to be spent on local and environmental projects, has been investigated and if feasible, FDF is founded

3.1 No waste in villages, on trails or illegal dumpsites

3.2 More households are using alternative energy

3.2 Camping treks don’t use wood for energy

3.3 More money is raised from entrance fees, donations to foundations and new donors

3.4 Code of conduct exists and is implemented

3.4 Code of conduct is practised by tourists 3.5 Lobbying is in process 3.6 DDF is investigated and

implemented if possible 3.7 FDF is investigated and

implemented if possible

3.1 info DDC, to be assessed by SNV/SPNP/BZC/ WWF Nepal

3.2 info DDC, to be assessed by SNV/SPNP/BZC

3.3 info monasteries and DDC, to be assessed by SNV

3.4 Info DDC, to be assessed by SNV/SPNP/BZC/VDCs/CBOs

3.5 Info DDC/NTB, to be assessed by SNV

3.6 Info DDC, to be assessed by SNV

3.7 Info DDC, to be assessed by SNV

IDEM OBJECTIVE 1 + 3.4 code of conduct is respected by tourists, guides and porters

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Who leads Who can support Activities 3.1 A good waste management system has

been implemented a. Re-evaluate the existing waste

management plan for Dolpa and make necessary adjustments

b. Re-evaluate the existing waste management plan per major settlement in Dolpa and make necessary adjustments

c. Install/restore/manage waste gathering sites (compost containers and incinerators)

d. Develop and give training for awareness and management of waste and sanitation

e. Communicate waste management system to tourists, trekking agencies and local people, by brochures, signboards, etc

f. Investigate how many families don’t have a toilet

g. Look for special donor for waste and sanitation program (like Asian Development Bank)

h. Have toilets built for families without toilet i. Investigate possibilities for composting (eco-

bio) toilets

DDC, BZC, SPNP NTB, DNPWC, SNV, ICIMOD, SLC, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs, ADB

3.2 An alternative energy program has been implemented a. Investigate the current use of alternative energy b. Investigate current plans for increasing the

use of alternative energy c. Investigate more possibilities to increase the

use of alternative energy d. Develop and give training for awareness for

using alternative energy e. Find a donor for subsidizing alternative

energy plants (government, INGO, Asian Development Bank)

f. Install/restore/manage alternative energy plants, stoves, panels, back boilers, etc g. Install/restore/manage kerosene depots in

Juphal and Dho VDC h. Communicate alternative energy use, while

giving tips to minimize energy consumption to tourists, trekking agencies and local people, by brochures, signboards, etc.

DDC, BZC, SPNP NTB, SNV, ICIMOD, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, SLC, Drokpa, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs, ADB

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3.3 Available funds for conservation of cultural heritage have increased a. Discuss level of entrance fee of monasteries

with monks, CBOs and Nepalese trekking agencies

b. Apply entrance fee c. Make a small notice board, which shows

where entrance fees and eventual voluntary donations are used for d. Have information available about

foundations which help with the restoration of gompas

e. Try to apply for extra funds from government institutions and INGOs

DDC, Buddhist monasteries, MRGRP

ADB, NTB, SNV, AHF, Nepalese tourism companies

3.4 A code of conduct for the tourists, with tips how to maximize their contribution to the population and minimize their socio-cultural and environmental impacts on Dolpa has been established. a. Organize meetings with CBOs and with

local and Park authorities to evaluate and discuss the code of conduct b. Organize meetings with trekking agencies to

evaluate and discuss the code of conduct c. If necessary improve existing code of

conduct, based on those meetings and on code of conduct from other places (like Annapurna)

d. Communicate code of conduct to tourists, trekking staff and to local population (in flyers, website, etc.)

e. Make information boards with code of conduct

DDC and SPNP NTB, SPNP, BZC, SNV, SLC, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, AHF, Drokpa, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs, Buddhist monasteries, Nepalese and international tourism companies

3.5 An organized lobby with the aim to decrease the Restricted Area Fee of US$ 500/to attribute at least half of the fee directly to Dolpa has been established a. Establish a commission which is in charge

of the lobbying b. Try to interest national organizations, like

NTB, to help with the lobbying c. Make an activity plan of steps to be taken in

the lobby process and attribute the activities to specified persons

DDC NTB, MoCTCA, DNPWC, NPC, SNV, ICIMOD, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, Nepalese trekking/travel agencies, TAAN, NATTA, international touroperators

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3.6 The possibility to charge a Dolpa development fund (DDF), to be spent on local and environmental projects, has been investigated and if feasible, DDF is implemented. a. Investigate the feasibility to establish a DDF b. Have meetings with different stakeholders

(CBOs, local and regional authorities and NGOs, NTB, tourism business) about DDF c. If feasible, establish price for DDF and other

funds of income for DDF (like hot water charge)

d. If feasible, establish projects to be executed with raised money of DDF

e. If feasible, communicate DDF to tourism industry and tourists by brochures, the internet, information boards, etc

f. If feasible, investigate how the money should be administrated

DDC, SNV NTB, ICIMOD, SPNP, BZC, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs, Nepalese tourism companies

3.7 The possibility to establish a Friends of Dolpa Foundation (FDF), to be spent on local and environmental projects, has been investigated and if feasible, FDF is founded a. Investigate the feasibility to establish a

Friends of Dolpa Foundation (FDF) b. Have meetings with different stakeholders (CBOs, local and regional authorities and

NGOs, NTB, tourism business) about FDF c. If fesasible, create FDF d. If feasible, establish projects to be executed

with raised money of FDF e. If feasible, communicate FDF to tourism industry and tourists by brochures, the

internet, information boards, etc f. If feasible, investigate how the money

should be administrated

DDC, SNV NTB, ICIMOD, SPNP, BZC, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs, Nepalese tourism companies

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Intervention Logic Objectively verifiable indicators Sources of verification Assumptions Objective 4 To develop a marketing strategy directed at the

target markets IDEM OBJECTIVE 1

Results 4.1 Product Market Combinations are clearly defined and research has been done after target markets

4.2 A benchmarking study of Bhutan has been executed 4.3 A concept and storylines have been developed for Dolpa

4.4 The knowledge of Dolpa among international trekkers as an authentic trekking destination has increased

4.1 A document with clearly defined PMCs is produced

4.1 Research after target groups has been executed

4.2 A document with results of bench mark study is produced

4.3 A document with concept, possible storylines and stories has been produced

4.4 Trekking agencies and int. touroperators notice an increased interest in Dolpa

4.4 Slide show attracts many tourists

4.4 Website which is created has many visitors 4.4 Media attention of Dolpa

4.1 Quality of document to be assessed by SNV/NTB

4.2 Quality of document to be assessed by SNV/NTB

4.3 Quality of document to be assessed by SNV/NTB

4.4 Information from trekking agencies and int. touroperators

4.4 Visitor numbers of website

4.4 Articles and items

IDEM OBJECTIVE 1

Who leads Who can support Activities 4.1 Product Market combinations are clearly

defined and research has been done after target markets a. Discuss at which target markets Dolpa

should aim, with (representatives of) CBOs, NGOs, Park Management SPNP and tourism sector, and if necessary, redefine suggested target markets

b. Do research after tourists visiting Dolpa: develop research objectives and on basis of that, develop questionnaires/ structure for interviews

c. Investigate who can execute research d. Collect information about tourists visiting

Dolpa from SPNP and other registration offices

e. Work together with Nepalese agencies to organize special tours for special interest groups

NTB and DDC SNV, ICIMOD, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, SPNP, BZC, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs, Nepalese tourism companies, NATHAM

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4.2 A benchmarking study of Bhutan has been executed a. Execute a bench marking study of Bhutan,

studying websites, promotional material, policies, etc

NTB and DDC SNV

4.3 A concept and storylines have been developed for Dolpa a. Use the proposed concept or develop own

concept as the brand image of Dolpa b. Develop storylines for Dolpa c. Present information based on concept and

storylines (information boards, brochures, etc)

d. Develop training for guides along concept and storylines

e. Organize training workshops/courses by the internet

NTB and DDC SNV, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, SPNP, BZC, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs, Nepalese tourism companies, NATHAM

4.4 The knowledge among International trekkers of Dolpa as an authentic trekking destination has increased a. Link with the Great Himalaya Trail, which is in a process of development by SNV and

ICIMOD b. Develop a logo for Dolpa c. Develop printed material for Dolpa based on

the concept/brand image d. Distribute printed material in Kathmandu and Pokhara and via NTB on international

market e. Network: Pay visits to trekking agencies in

Kathmandu and Pokhara to promote Dolpa as a destination and get in contact (by mail) with international touroperators, with their headoffice, but also with their tourleaders

f. Approach journalists and other media (travel programs on television) to create free publicity

g. Organize an event for the tourism industry and media with a slide show to promote Dolpa

h. Organize slide shows for tourists in Kathmandu and/or Pokhara, for which entrance can be raised

i. Contact travel guidebooks, like Lonely

NTB and DDC SNV, ICIMOD, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, SPNP, BZC, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs, Nepalese tourism companies, TAAN, NATTA, NATHAM

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Planet, Rough Guide, etc. to promote Dolpa as a destination for individual trekkers, invite authors to event

j. Make a good website: 1. Gather and write information for the website 2. Look for good website designer and make

cost calculation of building and maintaining the website

3. Make sure that attention is paid to scoring high on google and other searching engines 4. Look for special donor for creating site 5. Draw up report for funding application for

Asian Development Bank, government offices (NTB?) and/or INGOs

6. Have the site built 7. Look for cooperation with other sites for

links

NTB and DDC SNV, ICIMOD, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, SPNP, BZC, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs, Nepalese tourism companies, TAAN, NATTA, NATHAM

k. Organize a FAM trip 1. Look for cooperation with NTB, TAAN and

NATTA and trekking agency already going to Dolpa to organize a FAM trip 2. Look (together with NTB) for cooperation

with airline companies to have them provide international tickets (or discounts on these tickets)

3. See if own contribution of participants can be asked for 4. Organize program of FAM trip, in

cooperation with NGOs, lodge and homestay owners, SPNP and other local and regional authorities in Dolpa

5. Select trekking agencies, international touroperators and journalist you want to invite

6. Send invitations 7. Execute FAM trip 8. Evaluate FAM trip with participants

NTB, DDC and interested trekking agency

SNV, ICIMOD, WWF-Nepal/NMCP, SPNP, BZC, The Dolpo Institute, DAD-TAG, DESERT, VDCs, CBOs, Nepalese tourism companies, TAAN, NATTA, NATHAM

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