Exploring the potential of geotourism along the trek route of the Pokhara Ghandruk section of Gandaki Province, Nepal

Abstract

Geoconservation enhances tourist knowledge of a site’s geology, going beyond surface appreciation. Geotourism emphasizes geology and landscape, contributing to geodiversity conservation through various activities. While the Pokhara Ghandruk area in Gandaki Province is renowned for tourism, it remains unexplored from a geotourism perspective. The study focuses on identifying key geoconservation and geotourism sites for national economic development by systematic geological survey with map preparation highlighting distinctive geological, geomorphic, cultural, heritage and site-seeing features of each site. The region boasts several significant sites, such as Pokhara Valley known for its caves, lakes, and the Seti River gorge. Pokhara canyoning provides thrilling water geoadventures on quartzite cliffs. Naudanda offers breathtaking views of Pokhara Valley and the Annapurna range. Poon Hill and Khumai Danda serve as stunning vantage points for observing snow-capped mountains. The Mardi and Annapurna trek routes, along with Ghandruk Landruk Lwang Dhampus, offers geologically significant sites, including unique rock outcrops due to its passage through the Mahabharat Thrust and the Main Central Thrust (MCT) and exhibit potentiality for rock climbing centers, hot springs, and geocultural parks capitalizing on Gurung hospitality and rich traditions to boost tourism and preserve geoheritage. The study recommends the establishment of geotrails and a geopark within this region.