Dang's ancient forts await preservation, promotion

BY GOKARNA PAUDEL

Tulsipur, Oct. 26: Ancient forts in different parts of Dang are drawing growing attention for their preservation and promotion. With increasing awareness of their historical, religious, and environmental importance, local youth and government bodies have begun taking initiatives to protect and promote these heritage sites.

To promote and develop tourism in historical forts such as Chhilli Kot, Sawari Kot, Raja Kot, Thar Kot, Mul Kot, and Jumli Kot, various awareness programmes and hiking events have been organised.

A hiking programme was held on October 19 to promote Raja Kot, located in Ward No. 2 of Dangisharan Rural Municipality. According to a local youth, Prakash Dangi, Raja Kot lies about 20 kilometres south of Tulsipur Bazaar. Similarly, a promotional hike was organised to Chhilli Kot in Ward No. 19 of Tulsipur Sub-Metropolitan City.

During the hike, Dr. Sudip Gautam, who has completed his Ph.D. research on the golden history of Dang Deukhuri, said that Chhilli Kot played a crucial role in protecting Nepal from Muslim invasions during the 12th century. He also emphasised the need for further research on Jumli Kot, located in Ward No. 13, Phulbari, which holds significant historical importance.

Tulsipur Sub-metropolitan City Mayor Tika Ram Khadka stated that the municipality will support research, preservation, and promotion of ancient forts like Chhilli Kot, Thar Kot, Khung Kot, Pratap Kot, Mul Kot, and Jumli Kot, as well as important archaeological sites such as Gwar Khola (Ganesh Ganga), where ancient stone tools were found, and Tuhi Valley, where human skeletal remains were discovered. Mayor Khadka also announced plans to construct a ‘Great Peace Vessel’ (Shanti Kalash) at Chhilli Kot for global peace.

Former central president of the Federation of Nepali Journalists, Bipul Pokharel, pointed out the importance of preserving these historic forts while also promoting locally produced organic products.

Likewise, Tika Ram Regmi, former coordinator of the Civil Society of Dang, said that stones collected at Thar Kot in Ward No. 3 were once strategically gathered to defend against possible attacks by British colonial forces.

To enhance the religious and environmental significance of the Chhilli Kot area, a campaign titled Dewaranya Chhilli Kot Abhiyan has been launched, under which 1,008 sacred trees, including banyan, peepal, sami, bel, and various flowering plants, are being planted, campaigner Sagar Regmi shared