In a significant step towards sustainable tourism, the Lalitpur Metropolitan City has launched the trial operation of an electric buggy (E-Buggy) service. This initiative aims to provide both domestic and international tourists with an eco-friendly and immersive experience of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
A Step Towards Green Tourism
The E-Buggy, introduced in collaboration with Hotel Goodwill, is designed to navigate through key historical and cultural sites of Lalitpur. The planned route includes prominent locations such as Pulchowk, Mangalbazar, Mahavihar, and Patan Sundhara. The trial phase will assess the feasibility of the service, and based on its success, the city plans to introduce four additional E-Buggies for regular operation.
Lalitpur Mayor Chiri Babu Maharjan has emphasized that the initiative aligns with the city’s broader vision of promoting environmentally friendly transportation and enhancing tourism. The move follows Lalitpur’s commitment to integrating electric vehicles into public services, as seen with the introduction of electric police patrol cars and electric public buses under Sajha Yatayat.
Lalitpur: A Living Museum of Culture and Heritage
Lalitpur, also known as Patan, is renowned for its well-preserved temples, palaces, and courtyards that date back centuries. The city is home to Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features ancient Newar architecture, intricate wood carvings, and historic stupas. Tourists visiting the area can explore attractions such as the Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar), Kumbheshwar Temple, and the Patan Museum, which showcases Nepal’s rich artistic traditions.
In addition to its historical significance, Lalitpur is a hub for traditional arts and crafts. The city is famous for its metalwork, wood carvings, and Thangka paintings. Visitors can witness artisans at work in the back alleys of Patan and even purchase handcrafted souvenirs as a testament to Nepal’s centuries-old craftsmanship.
Enhancing Tourist Experience
The introduction of the E-Buggy service is expected to provide a comfortable and guided experience for tourists, reducing dependency on fuel-based vehicles and preserving the tranquility of heritage sites. With its pollution-free operation, the E-Buggy will contribute to maintaining the pristine environment of Lalitpur’s historical areas.
As the trial phase continues, authorities hope that this initiative will not only boost tourism but also serve as a model for other cities in Nepal to adopt green transportation solutions. Lalitpur’s move towards sustainability reflects a forward-thinking approach to balancing heritage conservation with modern urban mobility.
With the E-Buggy paving the way for eco-friendly tourism, visitors can now explore the timeless beauty of Lalitpur in a more sustainable and enjoyable manner.