Kathmandu— Tourism entrepreneurs and residents of Mustang are expressing enthusiasm following a visit from Prime Minister Balendra Shah, despite it being a private trip. The Prime Minister traveled to the district by road, driving himself along the Beni-Jomsom Roadway after an overnight stay in Pokhara before departing for Kathmandu on Sunday, bringing renewed attention to the region and raising hopes for increased investment in tourism infrastructure.

Prime Ministerial Visit Highlights Region

The Prime Minister’s journey to Mustang marks a continuation of high-profile visits to the Muktinath area; former Prime Minister Sushila Karki previously visited via helicopter. However, Shah's decision to travel by road was particularly noteworthy, allowing him to experience firsthand the condition of key infrastructure like the Beni-Jomsom Roadway. Locals believe this direct exposure will translate into greater government attention and potential improvements.

Tourism Sector Anticipates Growth

Raju Prasad Lalchan, Chairperson of the Mustang Chamber of Commerce and Industry, expressed optimism that the visit would significantly promote tourism in the region, particularly religious tourism centered around Muktinath. “Wherever the Prime Minister visits, the tourism sector of that area receives significant attention,” he said. He emphasized the potential for increased visibility and investment following Shah’s trip.

Infrastructure Improvements Urgently Needed

Local leaders are hoping the Prime Minister's experience with the Beni-Jomsom Road will lead to much-needed repairs and upgrades. Lalchan highlighted the road’s dilapidated condition, noting its importance not only for local travel but also for international visitors accessing Muktinath. He further suggested that activating the immigration office at the Korala checkpoint and offering passport services could greatly facilitate religious pilgrimages to Kailash Mansarovar in Tibet.

Past Visits Show Positive Impact

The current optimism is bolstered by previous instances of high-profile visits leading to increased tourism. Suraj Gurung, Chair of the Muktinath Hotel Association, recalled a significant surge in Indian pilgrims following a visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Muktinath Temple in May 2018. A similar effect was observed after then-President Bidya Devi Bhandari visited the temple in 2021.

Local stakeholders are now awaiting concrete action from the government to address infrastructure concerns and capitalize on the increased attention garnered by the Prime Minister’s visit, hoping it will translate into sustained growth for Mustang's tourism industry.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.