DHANGADHI: Human interests and lifestyles are evolving, with growing enthusiasm for travel, photography, social media content creation, and nature-based leisure.
The traditional pattern of gathering with family and close relatives is shifting toward more adventurous and recreational pursuits. Today, travel has become a lifestyle choice, whether for internal exploration or external tourism.
Among Nepal’s emerging domestic travel destinations, Birekhola Waterfall in Bajura has garnered increasing attention.
Situated on the border of Wards 6 and 8 of Badimalika Municipality, the waterfall lies just 6 kilometers from the district headquarters, Martadi, and approximately 50 kilometers from the neighboring Achham district.
In recent years, Birekhola Waterfall has become a magnet for domestic tourists. Easily accessible and visually stunning, the site has not only brought joy to visitors but also generated economic opportunities for locals.
From mid-June (Asar) to mid-November (Kartik), the waterfall sees a steady influx of visitors ranging from children to adults.
Badimalika-6 Ward Chairperson Krishna Bahadur Khadka noted that tourism in the area surges during the rainy season. The ward charges a nominal entry fee of Rs 20 per visitor.
“While Fridays and Saturdays attract large crowds, the number of visitors declines on weekdays,” he shared.
Birekhola is more than just a place to cool off. It offers a blend of scenic beauty, relaxation, and fun, making it a favorite for families, couples, and nature enthusiasts alike.
The waterfall cascades from a height of 100 meters and is conveniently located beside the Sanfe-Martadi road, making it visible and easily accessible to travelers passing by.
Mayor Amar Khadka of Badimalika Municipality emphasized that Birekhola has been officially recognized as a priority destination for domestic tourism. “Plans are underway to make the area more organized and attractive,” he said.
Over the past five years, the waterfall has gained significant traction on social media. Visitors often bathe in the cool mountain water, take photos, and create TikTok videos. Infrastructure improvements have helped enhance the tourist experience, including a widened access road, entrance gate, wooden bridge, safety railings, and shaded seating areas.
Many visitors describe their experience as deeply refreshing and joyful—often spending hours at the site. Schools are also organizing student excursions, further boosting local tourism.
Despite its growing popularity, challenges remain. Limited infrastructure and a lack of systematic development have prevented the full potential of Birekhola from being realized.
Local stakeholders believe that partnering with the private sector could transform the area into a year-round tourist hub and significantly contribute to the region’s economy.
According to locals, businesses in nearby Rapak Bazaar—often quiet during the off-season—come alive after Asar due to increased tourist footfall.
The demand for local products, including cucumbers and poultry, has also grown, turning Birekhola into a valuable source of income for small traders.
With timely planning and investment, Birekhola Waterfall has the potential to become not only a beloved domestic travel spot but also an attraction for international tourists in the future.
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