Forests colourful with vibrant blossoms of Laligurans

By Baburam Sharma,Dolakha, Mar. 23: Forests in Dolakha are now adorned with the blooming rhododendron (Laliguras) which is Nepal's national flower.

In the upper regions of the district, including Sailung, Kalinchok, Jiri and Boch, the forests near the villages are throwing a stunning beauty after the entire landscape turned red with all Laligurans, scientifically known as Rhododendron arboreum, blooming in full.

Ramesh Pakhrin, a hotelier in Kuri of Kalinchok, said that while the blooming Laligurans in the forest is a natural gift, there is potential to generate income by trading the leaves of these flowers as herbs.

According to him, Laligurans are considered important from both environmental and tourist perspectives, as it is used as medicine for jaundice, cough, liver swelling and to freshen breathing. 

Until March and April, the forests here are adorned like a bride, captivating everyone's heart.

Laligurans bloom abundantly in over 80 per cent of the forests in the area. 

Nabaraj Pakhrin, another hotelier from Kuri, expressed that given the ample Laliguras forests, there is potential for significant income generation if they can be effectively utilised.

Laligurans juice-making industries are emerging in various parts of the country. However, due to insufficient publicity and negligence on the part of relevant authorities, the blooming flowers in the community forests remain unsold and undistributed. 

The charming sight adorned with Laligurans captivates the hearts of all who visit the villages.