The picturesque Chhahare Waterfall, located in the Swat village of Annapurna Rural Municipality–5, Myagdi, remains hidden in the shadows due to a lack of infrastructure and promotion. Despite its natural beauty, the waterfall has yet to receive the attention it deserves as a potential tourist destination.
Situated close to Swat village, the mesmerizing Chhahare Waterfall is facing neglect primarily because of the absence of a well-managed trekking path and insufficient publicity. According to resident and hotel entrepreneur Man Bahadur Pun, the lack of information about the trail and the waterfall’s charm has prevented tourists from visiting the area.
Swat lies along the popular Annapurna Circuit and Khopra trekking route. Pun believes that Chhahare Waterfall can serve as a new point of attraction to encourage tourists to extend their stay in the region. However, the current access to the waterfall is difficult and risky, with visitors having to walk along steep, slippery trails on rocky slopes.
Despite its potential, the beauty of the waterfall remains confined to the local community. The roughly 200-meter-tall waterfall boasts a tranquil pool at its base, shaded by dense forests and accompanied by the melodious chirping of birds. Near the waterfall is a natural honeybee hive in a cliff face, where locals from Swat traditionally harvest honey during the first week of the Nepali month of Jestha (mid-May).
Chhahare Waterfall
Resident Bal Bahadur Tilija Pun shared that the sound of the cascading waterfall is mesmerizing and can offer a peaceful escape from stress and fatigue. The calm, solitary environment of the area adds to its appeal for those seeking serenity.
During sunny weather, a rainbow is often visible in the midst of the waterfall, enhancing its scenic beauty. Just below the main waterfall, another smaller cascade – known locally as “Small Chhahare” – adds to the natural attraction. It takes approximately 20 minutes on foot from Swat village to reach the main waterfall. There is also a dirt road that reaches near the upper part of the waterfall. Swat village itself offers hotel and homestay accommodations for visitors.
Rajesh Tilija Pun, Ward Chairperson of Annapurna Rural Municipality–5, shared that efforts are underway to promote Chhahare Waterfall as a tourism destination through conservation, infrastructure development, and promotion. A study has been conducted to construct stone steps from the road to the waterfall’s base, establish scenic viewpoints, and build resting areas for visitors.
Locals and tourism stakeholders believe that with the right investment and publicity, Chhahare Waterfall can emerge as a major tourist attraction, contributing to the local economy and enhancing the overall tourism experience in Myagdi.
