Dharahara observation time extended by one hour amid rising heat

KATHMANDU: With increasing temperatures, the observation hours at Dharahara have been extended by an hour.

The iconic tower, reopened to the public on Nov 24, 2024, after reconstruction, now allows visitors to purchase tickets until 4:15 PM and climb up until 5:00 PM, effective from Jan 28.

Previously, ticket sales were limited to 3:15 PM. Acting Director of the project, Prakash Aryal, stated that within just three months of operation, the site has generated revenue of Rs 15.2 million from entry fees.

Since its reopening, Dharahara has attracted an average of 1,200 visitors daily. It remains closed on Wednesdays. The site has also seen an increasing number of tourists from neighboring countries.

The entry fee for Nepali citizens is Rs 200 per person, with a 50% discount for students, senior citizens, children, and individuals with disabilities.

Tourists from SAARC countries are charged Rs 500 per person, while those from other nations must pay Rs 1,000.

Parking fees are set at Rs 20 per hour for four-wheelers and Rs 10 per hour for two-wheelers. Additionally, a separate Rs 50 charge applies for entry into the Dharahara premises.

For commercial purposes, advertising on the Dharahara pillar costs Rs 5,000 per hour. The same rate applies to professional video shoots, while photography incurs a charge of Rs 1,000 per hour.

The tower’s operation and fee structure were approved by the Cabinet on Nov\ 21, 2024, under the Special Structure Operation and Management Development Committee Formation Order, 2081.