Nepal looks to 'spiritual tourism' for economic boost

Nepal has a prime spot on the world tourism map thanks to its celebrated mountains, particularly Qomolangma, known as Mount Everest in the West.

But a new form of tourist attraction, known in Nepal as "spiritual tourism", is emerging, with foreigners visiting the Himalayan nation not to climb the majestic peaks but to absorb the faith and religious mysticism practiced by residents.

"Since the first ascent of Mount Everest in 1953, most people have been coming to Nepal for trekking or climbing," said Rajan Simkhada, concept designer of the Nepal Yoga Retreat and Spa Center.

"But I see well-being and spiritual tourism as another area where we can develop as a tourist attraction and help boost our economy."

The Global Wellness Tourism Economy Report 2013 says that "wellness tourists" spend on average 130 percent more than regular tourists.

In the West, practicing elements of religions from the East has become popular. For example, yoga studios are mushrooming globally along with practitioners of meditation, normally associated with Confucianism and Buddhism.

Nepal, birthplace of Buddha and site of many Hindu shrines, is becoming a popular destination for so-called spiritual tourism.

Simkhada said: "Nepal is home to several sacred sites for both Buddhists and Hindus. The opportunity to develop spiritual tourism is there, and we just need to grab it."

Nepal's private sector is attempting to lure higher-spending tourists to a country that has long been popular among budget travelers.

Tourism entrepreneurs believe that foreigners traveling to Nepal for wellness and spiritual trips will spend a fair amount of time experiencing and learning about yoga and meditation.

"Entrepreneurs have the flexibility and ideas to improve the country, but this must be done in collaboration with the government," Simkhada said.

The private sector is concentrating on giving foreigners a chance to practice yoga, meditate and spend time in ashrams and other places of worship.

At a newly designed temple in Sankhu on the outskirts of Kathmandu, the mysticism and spirituality for which Nepal is known for can be experienced.

Young Nepalese Hindu Brahmins are trained here to become priests responsible for performing religious rituals in temples and homes after rigorous training.

Mahesh Kharel, 15, said: "I joined the ashram two years ago. At first, it was very difficult for me, as I had to leave my family behind. But now I enjoy worshipping and performing rituals."

Foreigners can witness the daily rituals performed by Hindu priests and learn how they became drawn to this religious path.

Chintamani Gautam, the first yoga PhD holder in Nepal, said Westerners know little about Eastern religions and many think of yoga as just a physical exercise.

He hopes that foreigners can learn to integrate the religious and spiritual aspects of this age-old practice, which stems from the Vedas, the most ancient Hindu scriptures.

"Yoga is a good way to reintegrate energies, particularly in today's world where changes happen very fast," Gautam said.

Despite political instability and poor infrastructure, the Travel and Tourism Economic Impact 2013 report says Nepal is expected to attract 861,000 international tourists this year.

The report is published by the World Travel and Tourism Council.

Xinhua

(China Daily 06/05/2014 page10)