The Great Himalayan Exodus: Why Darjeeling and Nepal Lost Their Festive Spark for Bengal Travellers

As the vibrant festive season in Bengal fades, a stark reality emerges for the tourism sectors of Darjeeling and Nepal: a significant downturn in visitors. Once the undisputed queens of Bengali holiday itineraries during Durga Puja and Diwali, both destinations have seen their crowns slip, leaving a trail of disappointed tour operators and economic uncertainty in their wake.

For years, the cool embrace of Darjeeling's hills and the spiritual allure of Nepal's valleys were synonymous with festive getaways for families across West Bengal.

Yet, this past season, the usual bustling crowds were conspicuously absent. Multiple factors, ranging from geopolitical tensions to nature's wrath, have conspired to reroute the traditional flow of tourists, compelling many to seek solace and adventure elsewhere.

Nepal, a land of majestic peaks and ancient temples, has struggled to fully regain its footing after the devastating 2015 earthquake.

Lingering perceptions of instability, coupled with recent border-related complexities and political shifts, have made it a less appealing choice for the average Bengali traveller. The uncertainty surrounding travel advisories and the perceived hassle of international travel, even to a close neighbour, have contributed to its decline.

Closer to home, the 'Queen of the Hills,' Darjeeling, and its charming neighbour Sikkim, have faced their own set of formidable challenges.

A series of untimely landslides, heavy monsoon rains, and resultant infrastructure damage have severely impacted accessibility and safety. Images of blocked roads and disrupted travel plans have deterred even the most ardent fans, painting a picture of a region still grappling with recovery.

The economic ramifications of this shift are profound.

Tour operators in Kolkata, who once thrived on bespoke packages to these destinations, report drastic reductions in bookings. Hotels, local guesthouses, handicraft vendors, and transport providers in Darjeeling and Nepal are experiencing significant financial losses, dimming the festive cheer that usually accompanies peak season.

So, where did the Bengal travellers go? Many have pivoted towards alternative international destinations, finding new favourites in the serene landscapes of Bhutan, the vibrant cultures of Southeast Asia like Thailand and Vietnam, or even more distant shores.

Domestically, there's been a noticeable surge in interest for other Indian gems – the snow-capped wonders of Kashmir and Uttarakhand, the regal charm of Rajasthan, and the sun-kissed beaches of Goa, all stepping up to fill the void.

This festive season has served as a poignant reminder of the fragility of the tourism industry, particularly for regions heavily reliant on specific demographics.

While the beauty of Darjeeling and Nepal remains undiminished, the path to reclaiming their former glory in the hearts and itineraries of Bengal's travellers appears to be a challenging one, requiring renewed efforts in infrastructure, safety, and perception management.