American International Journal of Social Science

Park Establishment, Tourism, and Livelihood Changes: A Case Study of the Establishment of Chitwan National Park and the Tharu People of Nepal
Jennifer K. Lipton, Utsab Bhattarai

Abstract
Communities adjacent to National Parks may experience socio-cultural transformations from livelihood changes incurred from tourism. The creation of Chitwan National Park (CNP) in Nepal resulted in livelihood transformations for the indigenous Tharu people of Sauraha, Chitwan District, Nepal. This study examines the impacts of CNP and tourism on the Tharu people of Bachhauli Ward and Harnahari Ward in Chitwan District, Nepal. Comparative and qualitative analyses of interview results obtained from Tharu informants are discussed to explain the differential impact of the establishment of CNP and tourism on each Ward. Results show that the economic impact of CNP and tourism in Harnari Ward is higher than in Bachhauli Ward. However, the sociocultural impact was found to be moderate in both wards. Based upon suggestions provided by Tharu respondents, interviews with park officials, and observations, recommendations are made for improved economic and cultural sustainable development for the communities of Chitwan.

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