The Bichitra Cave, located in Dhurkot Rural Municipality-5 of Gulmi, has recently become a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. Situated about five kos (roughly 15 km) north of Tamghas, the district headquarters, the cave is drawing growing attention.
Discovered in 1988 (2045 BS) by a resident, Janardan Bhandari, while chasing monkeys from his maize field, the cave remained a hidden gem mostly visited by local travelers. However, with increasing publicity even abroad it’s now attracting tourists from countries like France, Germany, and the UK.
According to Dhurkot Rural Municipality Chairperson Bhupal Pokharel, many foreign visitors also come to nearby Arabindra Ashram for yoga retreats and make a trip to the cave during their stay. The cave spans 185 meters in length and 350 meters in width. Its entrance is through a narrow hole between rocks, the same spot where the monkey Janardan chased had disappeared leading to the cave’s discovery.
Inside, the Bichitra cave walls feature fascinating natural formations that captivate all who enter. One of the most intriguing parts is called the “Path to Heaven,” a narrow passage believed to be accessible only to the pure-hearted. This section features a natural rock formation that resembles a giant elephant, with its body, trunk, and tail visible.
Visitors who manage to pass through the tight passage consider themselves lucky. So far, over 20 million rupees (approx. $150,000) have been invested by the local, provincial, and federal governments to develop the area. Located just 18 kilometers from Tamghas, the cave is accessible by both road and foot.
