Aabukhaireni Rural Municipality has generated NPR 3 million in revenue from Ainapahara Park within seven months, from the first week of Shrawan to the end of Magh.
Situated along the Prithvi Highway in Ward 4 of Aabukhaireni, the municipality has invested NPR 20 million to promote tourism in Ainapahara. The park features artistically carved rocks to attract visitors, including a depiction of Lord Ganesh on a waterfall-side rock and sculptures of a mother and child as well as a fairy on nearby rocks.
Visitors find the location serene, and the unique sculptures draw significant attention. According to Chief Administrative Officer Bishnu Prasad Sharma, Ainapahara Park sees 300 to 400 domestic tourists daily, generating NPR 300,000 to 400,000 per month.
The park experiences higher footfall during holidays and school excursions. Entry fees are set at NPR 50 for locals, NPR 30 for students, and NPR 100 for visitors from other municipalities and external tourists.
The municipality has deployed four staff members for waste management. During monsoon, tourists visit to admire the waterfall, while in winter, the artistic sculptures attract visitors.
Increased tourist activity often causes parking congestion, prompting the municipality to expand parking facilities. Sharma mentioned that Ainapahara Park, located along the Prithvi Highway, has become a popular stop for travelers seeking relaxation, especially during summer.
Municipality Chairperson Shukra Chuman stated that efforts are underway to develop Ainapahara as a major tourist destination in Gandaki Province. The number of visitors has increased significantly since the rock carvings were introduced. Ainapahara Waterfall, formed by the water from Siudikhola at the foothills of the towering Mahabharat range in Tanahun, is being further developed under a master plan by the municipality.
