At the inauguration of the two-day Koshi–Bengal Cultural and Tourism Festival in Birtamod, Minister for Tourism, Forests and Environment of Koshi Province, Bhim Parajuli, stated that the provincial government is actively promoting initiatives aimed at attracting tourists from the bordering Indian states of West Bengal and Bihar.
Highlighting the cultural similarities shared between the people of Nepal and these Indian regions, Minister Parajuli emphasized that the longstanding people-to-people connections should now be further strengthened through tourism. He noted that the provincial government considers tourism a key pillar for sustainable economic development and has already developed four trekking routes, including the Mundhum Trail.
He further pointed out the strong potential to attract a significant number of visitors from West Bengal and Bihar. The festival features a total of 30 stalls—18 from Nepal and 12 from India—showcasing hotels, homestays, travel services, handicrafts, and organic products. According to Indira Shrestha, President of Hotel Association Jhapa, these stalls provide visitors with insights into tourist destinations and their unique features in both countries.
A business and cultural delegation from West Bengal has also participated in the event. The opening ceremony included captivating Bharatanatyam-style classical dance performances by artists. Additionally, a documentary on bird conservation, produced by conservationist Devendra Kharel based on research in the Taplejung and Panchthar regions, was screened.
Officials, including Bhavesh Shrestha, Co-coordinator of the Koshi Province Tourism Year Steering Committee, and Chhabilal Khatriwada, Chief of the Tourism Office Kakarbhitta, praised the provincial government for its collaboration with the private sector in advancing tourism development and promotion.
