Golaghat, the confluence of the Rapti and Narayani rivers, is emerging as a captivating destination for domestic tourists. Located about 35 kilometers west of Bharatpur in the Chitwan region, Golaghat offers a stunning view of the broad riverbanks and an island in the center, surrounded by lush greenery from the nearby Chitwan National Park. As the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the landscape, Golaghat transforms into a picturesque “godhuli” (twilight) spot.
First-time visitor Khumnath Paudel from Unique Tol, Bharatpur-10, was enthralled by the breathtaking scenery. “The Rapti and Narayani rivers, along with the environment, are incredibly beautiful. This is one of the finest tourist spots—definitely a place to visit,” he remarked.
The number of tourists visiting Golaghat in the evenings has been on the rise. A dam constructed along the Narayani riverbank has made access to Golaghat easier for visitors. Previously, reaching the area required navigating through dense forests, which posed some risks. However, recent floods have cleared the way, making it more accessible.
The area has also become a popular destination for families, with many flocking to enjoy the sunset views from the dam. Purushottam Kandel, who traveled from Kholesimal in eastern Chitwan, called Golaghat an ideal spot for sunset watching. “I felt truly lost in the beauty here. The wide river and the distant sunset are truly mesmerizing,” he said, adding that this delightful place deserves more promotion.
Luxury hotels have been established in Meghauli, catering to tourists seeking a peaceful and natural environment. These hotels often set up camps during sunset, allowing guests to enjoy delicious meals alongside stunning views. During holidays, the area experiences a surge in domestic tourists, particularly during the Dashain festival. Samikshya Gautam from Torikhet, Bharatpur-5, shared her experience: “I came to celebrate Dashain with my family. We enjoyed the beautiful natural surroundings and the sunset.”
Bharatpur Metropolitan City has prioritized the tourism development of Golaghat, investing in infrastructure and promotional activities to attract visitors. Bishwo Subedi, a tourism advisor for the municipality, highlighted the commitment to developing Golaghat as a recognized tourist destination. “Golaghat is a paradise, as reported by those who have visited. Consequently, we’ve seen an increase in visitors lately,” he stated, emphasizing the municipality’s various plans aimed at enhancing tourism.
Meghauli, regarded as the birthplace of Nepal’s tourism, saw the establishment of Tiger Tops in 1965, marking the beginning of commercial wildlife tourism in the country. Golaghat, located nearby, has embraced this identity and showcases the culture of the Tharu and Kumal communities.
Source: Annapurna Post
