Many residents of Dharan remain unaware of the natural and touristic potential of Guransedanda, located in Bishnupaduka, Ward No. 20 of Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City. This previously unrecognized area is now gaining attention for its lush forest of rhododendron (Laligurans) flowers.
For the first time, the Nepali Congress Sunsari-1 Regional Committee recently organized a rhododendron planting program in Bishnupaduka’s Banshila, revealing the area’s potential as a blooming rhododendron forest. A total of 626 rhododendron saplings were planted in the Banshila and Mahabharat hill areas, which are situated at an altitude of 1,400 meters, ideal for rhododendron growth.
Sujendra Tamang, Regional President of the Nepali Congress Sunsari, explained, “The aim is to establish Dharan as the city of rhododendrons by planting these saplings.” The initiative to protect and develop Gurans in Banshila is expected to enhance the area’s touristic appeal, which will lead to improved road infrastructure and physical development.
During the planting program, Congress leader Dr. Shekhar Koirala emphasized the need for creative steps to develop Dharan’s remote areas. He expressed concern over the declining population of rhododendrons and stressed the importance of continuous efforts to preserve them.
Resident Bikram Tamang highlighted the scenic views from the area, including Makalu and Kanchenjunga mountains, and picturesque locations such as Dharan Bazaar, Itahari, and the Char Koshe forest. Tourists, who often spend significant amounts to visit places like Tehrathum and Taplejung to see rhododendrons, can now enjoy similar experiences in Guransedanda.
Devendra Rai, a Ward Member of Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City-20, mentioned that the local rhododendron forest blooms fully during Falgun and Chaitra. Although the exact species of rhododendrons found here is yet to be identified by experts, the flowers are believed to be unique compared to those in Tehrathum’s Tinjure Milke area.
Despite the rich biodiversity, the rhododendron forest is gradually declining due to forest fires and competition from other plant species. Rai explained, “Frequent forest fires prevent new rhododendrons from growing and burn the old trees, allowing other plants to proliferate.”
Banshila and Mahabharat hills are about 14 kilometers from Mangalbare Bazaar in Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City-17. The journey includes seven kilometers from Mangalbare to Dharan Bhanjyang, two kilometers from Bhanjyang to Bishnupaduka Temple, and six kilometers from the temple to Banshila. Local efforts and a budget of Rs. 400,000 from Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City have facilitated the construction of a five-kilometer road for vehicles from Bishnupaduka Temple upwards, though the road remains hazardous and prone to landslides during the monsoon.
Near Banshila, the Mahabharat hill at an altitude of 1,500 meters hosts the Himalayan Meditation Center, established by Guru Sonam Lama from Pharping. Lama noted the pleasant weather, similar to other hilly regions, enhancing the area’s appeal for meditation and retreat.
Previously, the area was visited mainly for grass, firewood collection, and hunting, but the new initiatives are transforming Guransedanda into a significant tourist destination, offering both natural beauty and serene retreat opportunities.
