Rhododendrons have started blooming in the forests of Taplejung, creating a vibrant red landscape. This colorful bloom is not just a visual delight but also a potential boost for tourism. As in previous years, local business owners and tourism entrepreneurs are optimistic about the opportunities the flowering season brings.
At an altitude of 3,000 meters, the forests around Suketar Airport have turned red with blooming rhododendrons, attracting nature lovers and positively impacting the tourism industry. Residents say that this season brings increased business activity. Visitors from far and wide travel to witness the laligurans, which not only enhance the beauty of the region but also contribute to the local economy. LB Rai from Fungling Municipality-7 noted that this year, the rhododendrons have bloomed slightly earlier than last year.
With the arrival of the blooming season, social media has also been filled with stunning pictures of laligurans. Many tourists come not only to see the flowers but also to enjoy trekking and the natural beauty of the region. Locals say that these activities are helping to promote tourism in the Pathibhara area.
Laligurans are not just admired for their beauty; they also have medicinal properties. Their leaves, bark, and flowers are used in various medicines. Additionally, locals have been making efforts to boost economic activity by producing pickles, juice, and local liquor from rhododendrons. According to Lekali Kancha Mukkum from Fungling-9, laligurans have started blooming earlier this year compared to previous years. He believes that proper conservation and organized promotion of laligurans could further enhance tourism in the region.
Mukkum emphasized the need for the government and relevant stakeholders to establish rhododendron gardens and promote their commercial use. Nepal is home to 32 species of rhododendrons, with 28 species found in the Threejure-Milke region, which lies at the intersection of the Taplejung, Tehrathum, and Sankhuwasabha districts. In Pathibhara alone, 26 species of rhododendrons can be found, according to Ramesh Rai, program coordinator of the Himalayan Conservation Forum, who has been working in conservation for a long time.
“The Pathibhara region has the potential to become a top tourism destination, with its natural beauty and the diverse rhododendron species blooming in spring attracting tourists,” said Rai. He added that with proper promotion, infrastructure development, and sustainable tourism strategies, the area could be developed into a Rhododendron Park, significantly boosting tourism.
