MORANG: Betana Wetland in Morang, known for its natural beauty and biodiversity, has recently been attracting a growing number of domestic and international tourists.
The wetland, which is being promoted as an ecotourism destination, has also seen an increase in students and researchers visiting for academic studies.
Earlier, domestic visitors mainly came to the area for picnics and short walks, but recently the number of students conducting research on the wetland’s biodiversity has increased, said Shambhu Bhattarai, chairperson of the Betana Wetland Community Forest Users Committee. He informed that a group of students from a college in Kathmandu visited the wetland last week to conduct water-related research.
According to Bhattarai, tourists, including visitors from Siberia, are particularly attracted by the wetland’s rich wildlife, including birds, turtles, fish, pythons, deer, and other species.
“After traveling around 16 kilometers east of Itahari Chowk in Sunsari, visitors reach the lush green forest area near the East-West Highway in Belbari, Morang, where the wetland is located,” he said.
Bhattarai added that the area is known as a wetland because of the abundance of two species of bet plants found there. He said the site has become popular among domestic tourists due to its cool environment, clean air, scenic beauty, and opportunities to observe birds, fish, and turtles.
Rajan Prasai, joint secretary of the Forest Users Committee, said the wetland’s easy access from the highway has led to a steady flow of visitors, especially those coming for picnics and recreational activities. He added that pedal boat services have also been arranged for tourists.
Prasai further informed that construction of a water fountain project costing Rs 2 million has begun with support from the Ministry of Tourism, Forest and Environment of Koshi Province. According to him, the wetland, spread over around 65 bighas of land, is home to 25 species of rare birds, including migratory birds from Siberia.
Chairperson Bhattarai said that three years ago, a team of scientists from Austria discovered more than two dozen critically endangered Black Softshell turtles in the wetland area. He added that the users committee has been actively working to conserve the area’s unique flora and fauna.
According to the committee, the wetland is home to several rare species of turtles, fish, animals, and plants. Belbari Municipality Mayor Dil Prasad Rai said Betana Wetland has strong potential to develop into a major tourist destination in eastern Nepal. He stressed the need for cooperation and coordination among all three levels of government for its sustainable development.
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