BHOJPUR: The Jor Ahal–Shankhamchuli–Dimalung hiking trail in Hatuwagadhi Rural Municipality in Bhojpur has emerged as a new attraction for trekkers and nature lovers.
With the construction of a five-and-a-half-kilometer trail spanning the naturally scenic and historically significant Hatuwa area, the region is now being promoted as a key tourism destination.
According to Mahesh Niraula, Chief Administrative Officer of Hatuwagadhi Rural Municipality, the trail was developed to position the area as a major tourist hub and generate local economic opportunities through increased internal and external tourism.
“We’ve developed this as the main tourism project of the rural municipality, with the aim of linking tourism to the local economy,” he said.
Rural Municipality Chairperson Prem Kumar Rai described the trail as a “pride project” of the municipality. He noted that once a concrete bridge over the Dudhkoshi River at Chuhar is completed, access to the region will improve significantly—particularly from nearby Terai cities like Dharan, Itahari, and Biratnagar, just 65 km away from Ghodetar.
“This short-distance trekking route showcases key attractions of the rural municipality,” said Chairperson Rai. “We’re working to develop it as a historical trekking route and plan to establish homestays for visiting tourists.”
The lush greenery and pastures of the Phatinla hills have already begun attracting visitors. Officials anticipate even more tourist flow once infrastructure improves, especially with the upcoming bridge over the Dudhkoshi.
The municipality aims to organize the trekking experience so that visitors can spend two to four days enjoying the natural and cultural landscape.
Ward Chairperson of Hatuwagadhi-1, Kumar Bista, highlighted the historical value of the area, once ruled by Kirat kings. “We’re planning development to include religious, historical, and tourism landmarks in an integrated way,” he said.
The trail winds through Shankhamchuli Danda, the highest point in Hatuwagadhi at 1,865 meters above sea level. From here, trekkers can enjoy sweeping views of the Terai plains and surrounding mountain ranges. The municipality is actively promoting the route as a serene and culturally rich hiking destination.
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