SATV 17 April, Kathmandu: Jaljala Rural Municipality is preparing to launch the Jaljala Eco Trek aiming to promote tourism while conserving local art, culture and biodiversity.
According to Raju Prasad Acharya, Chairperson of the Rural Municipality, a proposal has been submitted to the Ministry of Tourism for the development of necessary infrastructure after conducting a feasibility study and mapping the route of the eco trek.
The Jaljala Eco Trek, which starts from Beni in Parbat, includes various rural settlements, natural sites and religious destinations within the municipality. Acharya said that the trek aims to promote rural tourism, preserve local traditional art and culture, protect biodiversity, promote local products, uplift living standards and contribute to economic development.
He said, “We have completed a feasibility study and survey and prepared a detailed project report (DPR) with an estimated cost of Rs. 30 million. We have requested funding from the Ministry of Tourism. Once the budget is secured, the municipality will begin infrastructure development for the trek.”
The eco trek route will connect rural settlements from Beni in Parbat to Durbar of Majhphant, Purnagaun, Malgaun of Banskharka, Lophre, Phalame Danda, Kalanjar Humpal, Jaljala, Sirpu, Tare, Deurali, Dadhuwachaur, Dhairing, Bhumethakur and up to Milan Chowk.
Acharya said that the eco trek would help promote the natural and religious sites, agrotourism and art and culture of the region.
Another route of the eco trek will connect Deurali, Haljure, Bano, Luprang and Naglibang to Khaniyaghat, linking rural settlements along with natural and religious sites, he said. Proposals have also been made for building parks, rest stops, walking trails and homestays along the trek.
Acharya expressed his belief that the Jaljala Eco Trek would be an exciting trail to explore natural beauty, rural settlements, traditional art and culture, local cuisines, warm hospitality, rural lifestyle and majestic Himalayan views. The main goal of the eco trek is to promote rural tourism and enhance local income opportunities.
Since the Jaljala Eco Trek will also be connected to the Karbakeli Eco Trek and the Annapurna-Dhaulagiri Community Eco Trail, which include tourism destinations in Myagdi and Parbat, it is expected to play an important role in promoting tourism.
Likewise, the eco trek will also benefit tourists traveling from Jaljala to Ghodepani Poon Hill via Maharedanda. Stretching from the banks of the Kaligandaki River to hilltops, the trail passes through picturesque rural villages, scenic Himalayan views and forests, promising a joyful trekking experience.
From Phalame Danda, which lies along the eco trek, trekkers can enjoy stunning views of the Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and Annapurna mountain ranges. The trail also offers breathtaking views of the Kaligandaki River, villages in Myagdi, Parbat and Baglung, along with mesmerising sunrise and sunset scenes.
