Domestic visitors increasing in Pili

By Premraj Simkhada,Kalikot, July 18: The number of domestic tourists visiting the war tourism site in Pili, Kalikot, has begun to rise. With the construction of basic infrastructure, more tourists have started coming to the area.

Pili was declared a war tourism area because it was the site of a major attack by Maoist rebels on the then Royal Army’s construction unit. Although the District Development Committee of Kalikot made the decision to develop Pili as a war tourism destination years ago, the plan was delayed. Finally, the Karnali Province Government allocated a budget and built the necessary infrastructure.

Today, the site includes a view tower and statues of both the rebel Maoists and Nepal Army soldiers. A narrow uphill trail from the Kalikot-Jumla section of the Karnali Highway has been constructed with railings. Military sentry posts and statues representing weapons used during the conflict have also been installed.

Ratna Bahadur Karki of Raskot-6 said that people often criticise such structures without understanding their value. “I used to believe the criticism that the Oli government only built view towers. But after visiting the site myself today, I realised that these towers also help increase local income and support small businesses,” he said.

“I came from Raskot today, had snacks here and contributed to the local economy. These structures offer both entertainment and an opportunity to learn history while helping generate income,” he said.

Similarly, Bharatraj Bista from Palanta said he really enjoyed climbing the view tower for the first time. “I had come to Manma from Palanta, and after hearing so much about the tower, I decided to visit. I am very happy to be here,” he said. There is even a swimming pool where people can swim during the summer, he added.

The swimming pool is filled with clean water. The view tower is built on a high hill to the south, and the entrance features life-size images of soldiers from both sides of the conflict holding weapons. The area around the tower is surrounded by green forests, and the snowy peaks of the Chuli Himal add to the stunning views.

Local and former ward chairperson Raj Bahadur Malla said that the biggest challenge now is protecting the structures built with investment from the Karnali Province Government. “Some herders have been damaging the infrastructure,” Malla said. That is why it is necessary to station a guard or even a small army unit with a barrack here,” he said.

He added that since locals do not interfere much, a permanent army presence would also make the area safer and more comfortable for tourists.