JUMLA: Nadai Gufa (cave), located in Upper Khopri village of Tila Rural Municipality-9, is an important site of religious and tourism significance.
However, due to insufficient publicity and inadequate infrastructure, the cave is still waiting to attract visitors.
Rich in historical and cultural value, Nadaigufa has long been revered for its religious beliefs and natural beauty. Yet, limited promotion and poor transportation have hindered its development.
Ward Chairperson Dhan Bahadur Rawat said that a systematic trekking route has been constructed to improve access to the cave.
“There is a need for a reliable road to the village,” he said, adding that bids have already been invited for road construction this year. The ward council aims to promote local tourism by tapping into the area’s religious tourism potential.
The cave and its surrounding high peaks serve as key attractions for both domestic and international visitors. From the hills of Nadaigufa, breathtaking Himalayan views can be enjoyed. Chairperson Rawat noted that the scenic landscapes visible from the area have great potential to draw more tourists.
Last year, Rs 9 million was allocated from the federal government’s grant for the conservation and development of the Nadai Cave Temple. According to Rawat, the budget was used to build physical infrastructure, a hiking trail to the cave, and a dharamshala (pilgrims’ rest house).
Stretching about 200 meters long, Nadai Cave features a natural water flow and is shaped like a cow’s udder. Tila Rural Municipality Chairperson Motilal Rokaya said the local government is working to develop the historical cave as a religious tourism site, with plans to implement promotional initiatives and long-term infrastructure projects.
Local resident Aamkala Thapa of Tila-9 emphasized the need to expand the road network to improve connectivity and boost the local economy. “Better access will help attract both domestic and international tourists to Nadaigufa,” she said.
Locals believe that with proper conservation, infrastructure, and promotion, Nadaigufa could emerge as a major religious tourism destination in Jumla district.
The ward office has announced plans to install hoarding boards and maps this year to help identify and promote the site. Of the five villages in the ward, Upper Khopri and Lower Khopri remain disconnected from the road network.
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