The historic Gharphojong Fort, located in Gharphojong Rural Municipality-5 near Jomsom Bazaar, Mustang, is deteriorating into ruins due to a lack of preservation efforts. Built in the 8th century using mud, these historic structures have begun to crumble, endangering their cultural and historical significance.
Before the advent of Buddhist traditions, the fort served as the center of the local kingdom known as “She-Riw.” Historical records from Mustang indicate that King Thokarchen once ruled from this fort. Despite its current dilapidated state, remnants of buildings and houses within the fort area still bear witness to its rich history. Local leader Chandra Bahadur Thakali explained that the settlement around the fort later expanded to form the five villages of Syang, Thini, Marpha, Chairo, and Chimang.
The Gharphojong Fort, which holds significant historical value, lent its name to the Gharphojong Rural Municipality. However, residents like Rajendra Thakali lament that the mud structures are rapidly disintegrating, emphasizing the absence of concrete plans for preservation. Thakali expressed concern that, without urgent action, future generations will lose a vital piece of history. He believes that proper conservation could not only preserve this legacy but also attract tourists to the area.
Accessibility and Preservation Efforts
The fort is accessible within five minutes by vehicle from Thini village, followed by a 10-minute uphill hike. Alternative routes include a road and walking trail from Dhumba Lake. Gharphojong Rural Municipality has developed these paths, and local residents have built a small monastery within the fort premises.
According to Mohan Singh Lalchan, Chairperson of Gharphojong Rural Municipality, NPR 1 million has been allocated in the current fiscal year 2081/82 for the master plan development of the fort. The initiative aims to protect the site, build infrastructure, and promote it as a tourist destination.
A Viewpoint of Cultural and Natural Beauty
From the elevated location of the Gharphojong Fort, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Jomsom, Thini, Syang, Marpha, Dhumba Lake, the winding Kaligandaki River, and the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountains. Nearby attractions include Jomsom Bazaar, wooden suspension bridges, the Matrichakra, Yajaru Viewpoint, the Snow Leopard Cave, Kshamataal, Dhumba Lake, and the Kucchpateranga Monastery.
Chairperson Lalchan highlighted plans to develop these religious, historical, and natural sites as secondary attractions to Jomsom. This initiative aims to extend tourists’ stay in Mustang and enhance their experience of the region’s rich heritage.
Urgent preservation of the Gharphojong Fort is essential to safeguard its historical significance and unlock its potential as a prominent cultural and tourism hub.
