BETTIAH, Jan. 2 -- Valmikinagar, nestled in the lap of nature's splendour on the India-Nepal border in Bihar's West Champaran district, witnessed a huge influx of tourists on New Year's Day, with footfall running into tens of thousands, officials said on Thursday. Known for its scenic surroundings - abundant sightseeing options like Baraz, temples, confluence of river and pristine surroundings marked by lofty hills, dense forests and fresh, fragrant air, the region has emerged as one of Bihar's most sought-after holiday destinations. Tourists from across the state as well as from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and neighbouring Nepal thronged the area to usher in the New Year amid pleasant winter weather. "It was truly an exhilarating experience. We were told that Valmikinagar is the Kashmir of Bihar, and there is no reason to disagree. Just one visit is enough to explore the mystic beauty of the place," said Kartik, a tourist from Delhi. Another visitor, Prashant Barwat from Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj, said he was drawn to Valmikinagar after watching videos on YouTube and other social media platforms. "Our experience here has exceeded expectations. The food, hospitality and the natural beauty of the place have all the elements to leave visitors spellbound," he said. However, some who undertook jungle safari was thrilled to watch wild animals inside deep forests "Spotting leopards, and sloth bears, along with deer, peacocks, and wild chickens made the visit really thrilling," said Sudhir Kant Shukla, a tourist. At Jungle safari kiosk, the forest staffers had a hectic day and so are the two checkposts located in Valmikinagar. "At least 1,350 people went inside the forest through Jata Shankar checkpost, while 60 trips of jungle safari were undertaken - nearly the double the number of Sundays," said Amit Kumar, range officer, Valmikinagar. Tourists entry in forest via other checkpost could not be known immediately. Accommodation facilities such as hotels, resorts and guest houses reported near-full occupancy, while local traders and roadside vendors cloaked brisk business. To ensure smooth movement and public safety, the district administration deployed additional police personnel and forest officials at strategic locations....