The Fungfunge Waterfall, located in Mikwakhola Rural Municipality, is rapidly gaining popularity among domestic and international tourists. Improved road access and better transport connectivity have contributed to a steady rise in visitor numbers, making the waterfall one of the district’s emerging tourism hotspots.
Natural Beauty and Growing Tourist Interest
The waterfall, cascading from the hills of Kap, captivates every visitor with its scenic charm. Local homestay operator Vijay Limbu reported that people from different parts of the country have started visiting Fungfunge regularly. To promote the waterfall, he and the Mikwakhola Rural Municipality have been organizing the annual Fungfunge Waterfall Festival since last year. Future plans include social media campaigns, photo, and video competitions to further highlight the site.
Visitors are increasingly drawn to the waterfall’s clean, pristine environment, and social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube are amplifying its reach. The viral sharing of photos and videos has further fueled tourist interest.
Government Initiatives and Infrastructure Development
Fungfunge Waterfall is listed among 100 official tourist destinations by the government. Efforts by federal, provincial, and local governments aim to develop it as a prominent tourism hub. Kumar Mabo, a local resident, noted that infrastructural improvements such as upgraded trails and resting facilities have enhanced visitor experience. The road network connecting Phungling headquarters to the waterfall has made access much easier, while the federal government has allocated Rs 1 crore for beautification projects.
Local stakeholders suggest that additional facilities, such as mist-spraying zones and local culinary experiences, could further attract tourists and promote local products, generating better income for residents.
Homestays and Local Economy Boost
For visitors wishing to stay overnight, Temba Community Homestay has started operations near the waterfall, with more hotels gradually opening. Tourists can now travel from Phungling to the waterfall and return the same day despite the road being unpaved, offering flexibility and convenience for both day-trippers and overnight visitors.
Upcoming Fungfunge Festival
The annual Fungfunge Waterfall Festival is scheduled from Mangsir 7 to 11. According to Vijay Sawal, festival committee chairman, the event will feature inter-club men’s football competitions, cultural performances, small enterprises, agricultural exhibitions, and displays of traditional products.
Prizes for the football competition include Rs 3,02,082 in cardamom for the winners and Rs 1,52,082 for runners-up. The amounts are calculated based on the current market price of cardamom, promoting local produce as both a reward and a tourism incentive.
Funding and Support
The festival committee, led by treasurer Suk Bahadur Sawal Limbu, stated that organizing the festival requires over Rs 19 lakh. Funding is sourced from local hydroelectric projects, construction businesses, and support from sports enthusiasts both in Nepal and abroad.
A Promising Future for Fungfunge Waterfall Tourism
With growing infrastructure, homestays, and targeted promotional activities, Fungfunge Waterfall is poised to become a key tourism destination in Mikwakhola, attracting visitors for its natural beauty, cultural events, and local experiences. The coordinated efforts of the municipality, local community, and tourism stakeholders are ensuring sustainable tourism growth while enhancing local livelihoods.
