KAILALI: Located at the foot of the Chure Hills, about seven kilometers north of Lamki Bazaar in Kailali, Aampani waterfall has emerged as a popular destination for domestic tourists.
Nestled within the Bargada Community Forest in Mohanyal Rural Municipality-7, the site has gained traction after systematic development and official operation.
Previously known as a scenic spot for locals and residents of nearby districts to escape the summer heat, the area saw increased popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic, despite travel restrictions.
“This place was already popular with nature lovers, but after the development of the waterfall, the number of domestic tourists has grown significantly,” said Dhwaj Bahadur Shahi, Secretary of the Bargada Community Forest Office.
A total of Rs 4 million was allocated under the tourism promotion program of the Sudurpaschim Province Government to develop the site.
Dawal Bahadur Bohora, head of the provincial tourism program implementation unit, said the goal was to promote ecotourism by sustainably managing the area, which lies in a tranquil location near the highway.
“Even before the waterfall was developed, basic infrastructure like a toilet and picnic area had been built. Now, with the additional investment, we are more confident in its potential,” Bohora said. “Proper protection and management are now essential.”
A construction committee, led by Kesh Bahadur Rawal, chairperson of the community forest, oversaw the project. Infrastructure has been developed to support tourism, including bathing and picnic areas, river management, and a system to ensure continuous water flow.
Facilities such as a water tank, bathing area, fountain, changing room, toilet, and footpath have also been constructed. The site is maintained and managed by the Community Forest.
According to Secretary Shahi, the site now draws over 500 domestic tourists on Saturdays and public holidays, and over 100 on other days. Visitors come from Kailali, Bardiya, Surkhet, and even neighboring parts of India.
However, the increase in visitors has brought challenges, particularly in maintaining cleanliness. “Littering has worsened. Some tourists leave behind glass bottles, plastic waste, and other trash. Despite placing dustbins, they are often ignored,” Shahi said.
To address this, the Community Forest plans to introduce a ticketing system to support waste management and area upkeep. “We’ll coordinate with the rural municipality and other stakeholders to introduce a minimal entry fee. This will help generate revenue while promoting accountability and safety,” he added.
Revenue from the waterfall’s operation will go into the community forest fund, supporting forest conservation, further infrastructure development, and local employment. Locals say the Aampani Waterfall has become a beacon of hope for those seeking a convenient short-term travel destination.
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