The Pathibhara area, which had recently resembled a ghost town due to road blockages, is witnessing a surge in the number of pilgrims following road repairs and reopening. With the temporary restoration of access to the Pathibhara Temple in Taplejung, local hotel and transport businesses are expressing excitement over the influx of visitors.
After prolonged rainfall caused significant road disruptions on the Mechi Highway, Tamor Corridor, and in the Panchthar region, the restoration of these routes has led to an increase in pilgrim activity. Rajendra Mahat, a staff member at the Pathibhara Temple, reported that nearly 400 pilgrims visited the temple just on Monday.
Local hotel operators have noted a rise in bookings for accommodation and meals in the upper Fedi area, as businesses prepare to welcome visitors. The reopening of roads just before the Dashain festival has prompted local entrepreneurs to gear up for the anticipated influx of pilgrims.
Road transport had been severely affected since Ashwin 12 due to heavy rains. The collapse of a temporary bridge over the Henwa River halted direct traffic between Panchthar and Taplejung, while rising water levels at the Nawakhola on the Tamor Corridor complicated transport further.
Landslides on the Ramite and Rajdawali routes created additional challenges for restoring traffic. However, with the establishment of temporary diversions, vehicle movement has resumed, revitalizing trade and commerce in the region. The Pathibhara Development Committee has confirmed that the reopening of roads has positively impacted the number of visitors at the temple, which had seen a decline during the road blockages experienced during the Navaratri festival.
Source: RSS
