The number of tourists visited Lumbini reached 37892 in 2004 showing an increase by 35.07% in 2004…
The number of tourists visited Lumbini reached 37892 in 2004 showing an increase by 35.07% in 2004 compared to last year, according to data provided by Information Centre of Lumbini Development Trust(LTD). The visit of Nepalese and Indian Nationals was not counted in this figure. In 2003, only 28053 tourists visited Lumbini. The record shows that the tourists and pilgrims from 70 countries visited Lumbini in 2004. The LTD has cited that the main reason for surge in tourist arrivals in Lumbini is the rapid development of Lumbini Master Plan project components; promotional activities of Lumbini by LDT/HMG Nepal. The Second World Buddhist Summit 2004 is another landmark event which has helped promote Lumbini internationally. The unwavering support provided by His Majesty`s Government is another reason for up in tourist arrivals in Lumbini, says LTD.
The outstanding contribution of Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Tourism for Rural Poverty Alleviation Programme (TRPAP), Monastic Zone and Tourism Entrepreneurs also played key role in the promotion of Lumbini, says LTD release.
The highest number of visitors in 2004 was from Sri Lanka which is 12,217. The number of pilgrims from Thailand, South Korea, Japan and Myanmar are 7735, 3365, 2724 and 2115 respectively. Visitors from new 11 countries like Afghanistan, Latvia, Peru, Laos, Guatemala also visited Lumbini in 2004. Similarly, the visitors from the countries like Uruguay, Tanzania, Serbia, Palestine, Nigeria, Lebanon, El Salvador who visited Lumbini in 2003 did not visit in 2004, says the release.
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