People’s Perception on the Establishment of Buffer Zone and Ecotourism Development in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Nepal

Abstract

The National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act of Nepal introduced the buffer zone (BZ) concept to ensure people's participation in conservation. BZ plays a significant role in ecotourism development, particularly in areas rich in biodiversity, natural beauty, and indigenous cultures. Delays in declaring BZ might create challenges in benefit sharing and sustainable management, especially in developing countries like Nepal. This study aims to understand the perception of local people towards the establishment of BZ and ecotourism development in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve of western Nepal. A household survey (n=152), key informants interview (n=6), focus group discussion (n=6), and an intensive literature review were used for the data collection. Statistical methods such as frequency, percentage, and chi-square tests were employed to interpret the collected field data. The study revealed that local communities lack awareness about the benefits of BZ establishment. The area offers facilities and services with warm hospitality, caring for health & sanitation in homestays, seminar halls, hiking, and nature walks for the tourists. A significant association between education level and perception towards ecotourism prospects, as well as its role in environmental conservation, culture preservation, and the development of cottage-based industries, was determined. The results suggest that the successful implementation of ecotourism initiatives is possible with the collaboration of the local community, government, and non-governmental organizations.