Socio-cultural, economic and physical impacts of tourism in the southern part of Annapurna Region, Nepal : dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Diploma in Parks and Recreation Management in Lincoln College, University of Canterbury

Abstract

My particular interest in preparation of this dissertation is my concern about the deteriorating socio-cultural and physical environment of the Modi Khola valley. The apparent conflict between tourism and the environment is largely due to the difficulties of protecting the environment in the face of economic pressures to promote the growth of tourism. The economic pressures arise because tourism is a means of generating income in depressed areas, like the Modi Khola valley. Being a local person of the valley, I am aware of the needs of the local people.

To understand the problems, it is necessary to identify differing priorities between rich western nations which generally see the destruction of the environment as a pressing problem affecting everyone in the world, and poor nations like Nepal, whose priorities are first to raise their living standard. What is lacking here is a proper system of management of both tourists and resources, and a better knowledge based on sound research, to avoid the negative impact of tourists.

This dissertation provides an overview of tourism in the Modi Khola valley and its impact on the local communities. It provides recommendations to minimise these impacts.