#news #tourism #development #Meghauli #Nepal
The entry gate to the western side of Chitwan National Park in Meghauli used to buzz with the hustle and bustle of wealthy individuals from around the world. They would venture into the luxurious resorts nestled deep within the jungle, such as the Tiger Tops Resort, which was a popular attraction for foreign tourists, including visitors from the Nepalese royal family.
In an effort to cater to high-end tourists, an airport was constructed in Meghauli for easier access, with helicopters and twin otter planes flying in from Kathmandu. At that time, there were reportedly up to 10 flights daily operating from the airport. However, recently, there have been reports of the Nepali army conducting parajumping exercises at the airfield.
Tourists were willing to spend up to $500 per night at places like Tiger Tops Resort. Founded by American citizens Tudi Lee Vaughan and Herb Klein in 2020, the resort was later purchased and operated by British national Jim Edwards in 2028. The resort was frequented by distinguished personalities such as Queen Elizabeth of the UK, former UK Prince Philip, and former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
With the establishment of Chitwan National Park in 2030, the influx of tourists to the area increased. However, due to a lack of clear regulations, several resorts within the national park, including Tiger Tops, had to cease operations. Currently, Tiger Tops is not the only closed resort in the area, as others like Machan Wildlife Resort, Chitwan Jungle Lodge, Ayala Jungle Resort, Temple Tiger Resort, and Gaida Wildlife Camp have also shut down.
According to Ramesh Khatri, a representative of Kansai Nepal News, the closure of these resorts has led to a decrease in the number of budget tourists in Meghauli. This decline in footfall has affected the wildlife tourism sector in the region, with hopes for a revival in luxury tourism in the near future. Siddharth Group’s CEO, Krishna Prasad Nyupane, has taken steps to revitalize tourism in Meghauli by launching the Siddharth Wildlife Retreat in the area.
Looking ahead, Chitwan National Park’s Meghauli region holds great potential for wildlife tourism and cultural preservation. The tranquil beauty of the region, combined with sightings of a wide range of wildlife, has attracted tourists seeking a peaceful natural environment. With plans for further development, including the operation of boat tours along the Rapti River, the region is poised to become a prime destination for high-quality tourists.
In the coming years, Meghauli aims to enhance its offerings to cater to a more upscale clientele, with luxury resorts like Last Horizon Safari Resort and Spa set to open. The region’s natural serenity and diverse cultural experiences are expected to appeal to a growing number of high-end tourists and investors, signaling a positive outlook for Meghauli’s tourism sector.
As per Ramesh Khatri, the closure of resorts within Chitwan National Park has impacted the local economy, leading to a loss of jobs for many locals. However, with new ventures like the Meghauli Serai A Taj Safari Luxury Resort by the Chaudhary Group in 2073 and the Barahi Jungle Lodge by the Barahi Group in 2070, there is renewed hope for economic growth and employment opportunities in the region. While these developments may attract a higher caliber of tourists, they also raise concerns about preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Meghauli.
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Author: MAYA | HARUTO
Posted at: May 4, 2025 7:01 pm
