With rhododendrons starting to bloom in Rayarayakot, a site connected to the famous religious and tourist destination Panchakot in Baglung, the number of domestic tourists has increased. Located on a hill above Baulung in Baglung Municipality–7, Rayarayakot is currently covered in vibrant red rhododendron flowers.
Locals say the blooming rhododendrons have made Rayarayakot, already a popular spot for natural sightseeing, even more attractive to visitors. During the months of Baisakh and Jestha (April–June), the local community also performs rituals here, worshipping the rain god.
Resident Tej Prasad Nyure stated that the number of visitors is increasing daily. “Due to the development of infrastructure and promotion, Rayarayakot has gained attention recently. With the rhododendrons in bloom, the site looks even more beautiful. Its religious and natural significance is drawing more domestic tourists,” he said.
According to Nyure, more than 300 domestic and some international tourists now visit Rayarayakot daily. “Earlier, people came mainly for religious worship, but now tourists are also coming to stay overnight. With walking trails, drinking water, toilets, rest houses, and other religious infrastructure developed, visitors now come to take photos, make TikTok videos, and enjoy views of the mountain range,” he added.
Rayarayakot, located in a high hill area about two hours by road from Baglung Bazaar, is attracting many internal tourists. Renu KC, who traveled by vehicle, said that Rayarayakot is becoming a peaceful getaway from the hustle of Baglung Bazaar.
She explained that Panchakot, spreading up to Sansarkot, had also developed into a religious trail. People from Gairagaun, Titaure, Batule, Tagram, Mulpani, Tityang, Malika, and other areas worship the rain god here as part of local tradition.
According to Gandaki Province’s Ministry of Tourism, infrastructure worth NPR 2 million has already been built at Rayarayakot. This includes roofing for the temple, preservation of an old bell, construction of rest houses, walls, and open spaces. However, a better quality road to the area is still needed.
The federal government has allocated NPR 5 million for the construction of a trekking route from Panchakot to Sansarkot. A trail is also being built from Karikot to Majhkot. A lift system has been installed to supply drinking water to the locals. An ancient bell offered by Chandraprasad Gauchan in 1926 BS (circa 1869 AD) is preserved at the site, which has been a place of worship since ancient times. The municipality office has stated that Panchakot is now being promoted as a religious destination comprising Tarjalakot, Karikot, Majhkot, Rayarayakot, and Sansarkot.
