Nepal’s First Cruise “Rhino Cruise” Launched on Narayani River in Gaidakot

Nawalparasi : Nepal’s first-ever cruise, the Rhino Cruise, has been inaugurated and is now operational on the Narayani River. The cruise, officially launched on Sunday evening, aims to promote both religious and water tourism, providing regular service from Devghat Dham to Triveni Dham.

According to Gaidakot Municipality Mayor Madanbhakta Adhikari, the cruise will significantly contribute to promoting local tourism, and the municipality will provide necessary support. Former member of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Dr. Tilchandra Bhattarai, stated that the cruise operation will boost the economic development of Nawalpur, Gaidakot, and the surrounding areas.

The cruise is 95 feet long, 21 feet wide, and has a two-story structure. It can accommodate 150 passengers normally, with a maximum capacity of up to 200 passengers. Trip timings can be customized according to packages, and ticket prices range from 500 to 3,000 NPR depending on the program. Each passenger is also covered with insurance worth 1 million NPR.

Cruise operator Deepak Dhungel said the Rhino Cruise aims to combine the religious sites, natural beauty, and luxury hospitality along the Narayani River into a single economic cycle. It can also be used for breakfast, lunch, and dinner cruises, as well as special events such as weddings, rituals, and birthdays.

The cruise operation has directly provided employment to 50 people. Deputy Mayor, local industry and commerce associations, and hotel entrepreneurs have expressed confidence that this project will transform the district into a major tourist hub.