Activities of ethnic entrepreneurs in the formation of a regional tourist area in Pokhara, Nepal

Abstract

The primary aim of this study is to investigate tourism, by analyzing it in terms of its potential role or contribution to autonomous regional development. This study focuses on the hotel industry in Pokhara, a city in western Nepal. It examines three aspects of the activities of ethnic entrepreneurs and employees: the foundation of the hotel industry; the process of development; and the labor market. The field research was carried out in Damside, a tourist area of Pokhara, in March/April and July/August 1994, and November 1996, for a total of three months. Data were collected primarily through participant observation of local events in the tourist area and unstructured interviews with hotel keepers, their employeees, and local government officials. Statistical data were also collected.