RSP convention fills hotels across Chitwan
Hotels in Sauraha, which are typically quiet from mid-June to August and often send staff on leave during this period, are now operating at near-peak capacity.
KATHMANDU: Sauraha and surrounding hotel hubs in Bharatpur have seen an unusual surge in visitors during the off-season, driven by the first national convention of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), currently underway in Chitwan.
Hotels in Sauraha, which are typically quiet from mid-June to August and often send staff on leave during this period, are now operating at near-peak capacity.
Instead of the usual slowdown, the region is experiencing occupancy levels comparable to the main tourist season, with many hotels reporting difficulty in finding available rooms.
According to the Hotel Association Chitwan, the convention has brought an estimated 4,211 delegates, along with party leaders, supporters, observers, and media personnel. Overall arrivals in Chitwan are estimated to have reached nearly 10,000 people.
Hoteliers say the impact is widespread across Sauraha, Bharatpur, and nearby areas. Sauraha alone has around 150 hotels with a combined capacity of about 7,000 beds, and occupancy has climbed above 80 percent, compared to around 40 percent in the same period last year.
“Normally, this is a low season, but this year the situation feels like peak tourist time,” said hotel entrepreneurs, noting that both small and mid-range hotels are almost fully booked.
Businesses in the tourism hub, including restaurants and resorts, also report strong demand. Hotel operators in Sauraha say visitors associated with the convention are not only attending official events but also staying for leisure, boosting local tourism activity.
The impact has extended beyond Chitwan, with hotels in Gaindakot also reporting full occupancy. Some properties have remained fully booked for several days.
Organizers say the influx has been supported by coordinated lodging arrangements. The convention’s accommodation committee estimates that participants themselves are covering their hotel and food expenses, encouraging families and accompanying members to join.
From Monday onward, food arrangements are being centralized only for closed-door sessions, while participants are responsible for meals during other periods.
Hotel entrepreneurs say the convention has provided an unexpected boost to business during what is usually a dormant season, helping offset low occupancy months and improving overall revenue for the hospitality sector in the region.
