Bharatpur- Following the conclusion of the monsoon season and a subsequent reduction in water levels, motorboats have once again begun operating on the Narayani River. These motorboat services were temporarily halted due to the increased water flow caused by heavy rains and flooding in the area.
Typically, the motorboats remain closed for a three-month period, primarily during the months of June, July, and August when the river experiences significant flooding. Ashesh Malla, President of the Narayani Motorboat Business Association, reported that this year, motorboat operations resumed since the last week of the Dashain festival due to the river’s lower water levels, which extended into the month of October.
With the resumption of motorboat services, a surge in domestic tourists has been observed, as they flock to enjoy leisurely rides along the scenic Narayani River. President Malla noted that this year, the extended monsoon season delayed motorboat operations, but now they will continue regularly until May.
On holidays and special occasions, the number of visitors seeking motorboat rides has been significant. Chairman Malla stated, “Nowadays, around 2,000 tourists come to the Narayani River bank to take a motorboat every day. During the Dashain and Tihar festivals, a considerable number of tourists come here to enjoy themselves.”
From its humble beginnings with just one motorboat in 2076, the motorboat industry has grown substantially. Currently, 32 small motorboats are registered and operational. This year, 19 motorboats have resumed service, with fourteen companies registered in the Bharatpur Metropolitan Municipality.
Motorboat companies offer a variety of services, covering different routes and packages. Motorboats operate from the Narayani River Bridge to Majuwa Island Pokhara Bus Park, from Majuwa Island Pokhara Bus Park to Radhakrishna Temple in Gaindakot, from Majuwa Island to Parijat Park, and from Narayani Bridge to Devghat. Larger motorboats can carry 18 to 25 passengers at a time, while smaller ones accommodate six to twelve passengers. Prices vary based on the distance, ranging from Rs 250 per person for shorter trips to up to Rs 1500 per person for longer journeys.
