SUNSARI: Taltalaiya is rapidly transforming into one of Sunsari district most vibrant tourist hubs, drawing increasing numbers of visitors with its natural beauty, recreational spaces, and expanding facilities.
Located in Itahari Sub-Metropolitan City Wards 2 and 3, the 21.5-hectare site has become especially popular for picnics and family outings.
According to Ganga Bahadur Rayamajhi, Chairperson of the Taltalaiya Management Committee, as many as 12,000 to 15,000 visitors arrive daily during the main forest-feasting period. On regular days, more than 500 tourists visit for sightseeing.
With space for more than 70 groups to hold feasts at once, visitors are advised to book two to four days in advance. To enhance the tourist experience, six ponds have been constructed on the premises, and two motorboats have been introduced.
Tourist numbers are highest from December to February, with roughly 40 percent of visitors coming from cities in India as well as from Siraha and Saptari. Rayamajhi noted that the onsite zoo, home to animals such as porcupines, peacocks, vultures, deer, ducks, horses, and monkeys, is another major attraction.
Additional infrastructure worth Rs 8.5 million, funded by the Ministry of Urban Development in fiscal year 2024/25, has also been completed. This includes toilets, upgraded zoo facilities, a nursery, water fountain, and children’s park, all of which have increased footfall among families during school holidays.
Local entrepreneurs say the growing tourist influx has significantly boosted small businesses. “Having a tourist spot nearby has greatly benefited us,” said Chandrakala Shrestha, who sells snacks. “With up to 500 tourists visiting daily, sales of items like chatpate, momos, and chowmein have risen noticeably.”
Visitors, too, are impressed. Niroj Thapa from Kanepokhari, Morang, described Taltalaiya as an ideal holiday spot, citing its open spaces, boating facilities, photo-friendly structures, and flower gardens.
As Taltalaiya continues to grow as a major leisure and forest-feasting site in eastern Nepal, provincial and federal governments are supporting the development of tourism infrastructure, wildlife habitat protection, and renovation of existing structures.
The management committee reports that dozens of pavilions, gardens, and statues have been built to offer visitors a comfortable and visually engaging experience.
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