Bajura's Ranisain emerges as tourist hub

By Sher Bahadur Sharki, Bajura, Apr. 29: Ranisain, a scenic destination in Bajura, has recently begun providing employment opportunities for unemployed youth in the area.

Although known for its natural beauty, Ranisain had long remained largely unnoticed due to the lack of proper access roads. In the past, the site, located in the Gumnath area, was difficult to reach as there was no developed trail, leaving it isolated for years.

After 2018, however, the Himali Rural Municipality prioritised its conservation and promotion. Since then, efforts to develop foot trails to the site have gradually improved access, attracting both domestic and foreign visitors.

With the increase in tourist arrivals, local unemployed youth from remote settlements have started finding work. Many now earn a daily income of around Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 3,000 by carrying luggage for visitors.

Mangal Bahadur Budha of Himali Rural Municipality-3 said that while there were limited opportunities for youth in the area, Ranisain has started to offer them a source of income. “A few years ago, Ranisain was largely unknown. It gained attention only after the local government built access trails,” he said.

He added that if the site is further developed and managed, it could create employment opportunities not only for local residents but also for youth across the district.

Despite the growing number of visitors, there is still a lack of basic infrastructure, particularly accommodation facilities. There is an urgent need to build lodging and other essential amenities for tourists.

Ranisain is located about 165 kilometres from the district headquarters, Martadi, and provides relatively closer access to Saipal in neighbouring Bajhang district and the route towards Mansarovar. The area remains cold throughout the year and is known for its striking natural beauty.

Surrounded by high Himalayas, the site features a wide, flat landscape in the middle, making it an attractive destination. Both domestic and international tourists have started visiting the area to enjoy its unique scenery.

Ranisain lies at the junction of Bajura, Humla and Bajhang districts. Every year, Buddhist followers from Bajura and Humla gather there, where a large monastery is also located. To support its management, the Himali Rural Municipality allocates Rs. 200,000 annually.

Situated at an altitude of around 4,400 to 5,000 metres, Ranisain is often described as a valley of Bajura, with a flat expanse surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

If developed properly as a tourist destination, Ranisain has the potential to promote Bajura in the same way that Rara Lake has brought recognition to Mugu.

Govindra Bahadur Malla, chairperson of Himali Rural Municipality, said that despite its exceptional beauty, often described as “a piece of heaven”, the site has not received adequate attention from higher levels of government.

“I have repeatedly requested budget support from provincial and federal governments for the conservation and promotion of Ranisain, but there has been no response so far,” he said.

He added that proper development and promotion of the site could significantly improve the livelihoods of people in remote villages by boosting tourism.