‘Rising’ Trek Route, attracting tourists

By Ganesh Paudel,Parbat, Jan. 22: With motor roads reaching most areas of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the appeal of this popular trekking route has diminished. In response, tourism entrepreneurs have begun guiding tourists along a newly established trail known as the “Rising Trek Route.”

The Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) Gandaki Chapter introduced the route, which runs from Nayapul to Bhuktanglung, Hampal, and Ghorepani. According to TAAN Gandaki Chair Krishna Acharya, the route is free from motor roads and is unlikely to be affected by road construction, making it an attractive option for trekkers.

The chairperson of TAN Gandaki, Krishna Acharya informed that motor roads have not reached this area and from a geographical point, the chances are slim to none in the upcoming days. Due to this reason, tourist prefer this route. This new trekking route connects Nayapul in Kaski District with Tangling, Dandakamere, Mate, Jaljala, Mohare Danda, and Ghorepani in Parbat’s Modi Rural Municipality. The route features predominantly forested areas, allowing trekkers to complete it in two nights and three days.

Although the route had been identified years ago, commercial trekking was only recently made possible after the trails were fully developed. A detailed map has been prepared, and the route has been officially marked for commercial use. According to Acharya, the trail is expected to extend the duration of tourists' stays, boosting local tourism.

The route offers visitors the chance to explore lush forests, a variety of herbal plants, and wildlife. Trekkers can also enjoy breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Mountain ranges from several vantage points.

Local hotel entrepreneur Rana Bahadur Khadka reported that European, Korean, Australian, German, and Russian tourists have already begun using the route. He noted that its development has significantly increased tourist numbers.

Man Bahadur Khadka, Chair of the Bhumre-Ghorepani Tourism Area Development Committee, said that the trail connecting Nayapul, Mohariya, Tangling, Falate, Dandakateri, Hampal, Jaljala, Mohare Danda, Poon Hill, and Ghorepani is now fully operational. While basic infrastructure for tourist accommodations exist, the establishment of commercial hotels within forested areas has been challenging due to environmental restrictions.

The Modi Rural Municipality is considering leasing forest land and investing in infrastructure to support tourism. Khadka highlighted the cultural and natural appeal of the trail, describing it as an emerging adventure destination. He added that groups of over 50 tourists traverse the route daily during peak trekking seasons.

Since its inception in 2011, the trail has received a total investment of NPR 16 million from the former District Development Committee and the federal, provincial, and local governments. Stone steps have been installed along the trail, and 10 resting spots have been built. The Gandaki Province government has allocated NPR 3 million in the current fiscal year for further development, with plans to prioritize the trail in upcoming budgets.

The route passes through several wards of Parbat's Modi and Jaljala Rural Municipalities and Annapurna Rural Municipality in Myagdi District. Home-stays are available in Laundibot, Bhuktanglung, and Tangling, offering visitors a glimpse into the unique cultural diversity of the Magar, Gurung, Dalit, Chhetri, and Brahmin communities.

Additional infrastructure includes Wi-Fi access in Falate, Hampal, and Jaljala, as well as tea shops, restaurants, and community lodges. The Bhumre-Ghorepani Tourism Area Development Committee also arranges guided tours for visitors who provide advance notice.