Locals have expressed dissatisfaction over the construction of a staircase (stone steps) along the trekking route to the religious and historical site, Majhuwa Gadhi, in Khotang. The staircase was built under the budget allocated by the Department of Archaeology, but locals have raised concerns that the construction does not meet the required standards. They claim that the steps were made using cement and sand, which is contrary to the stipulated guidelines, and are calling for the demolition of the current structure and the rebuilding of the staircase to conform to the appropriate standards.
The Department of Archaeology had estimated a cost of NPR 19,97,392 for the project during the fiscal year 2080/081. However, the construction contract was awarded to Yunik Construction Service Khotang for NPR 11,84,560. The company completed the construction of the staircase steps through the contract. According to Purushottam Acharya, an official at the Department’s Planning Branch, the detailed project report (DPR), bidding process, and payments were all completed as part of the project.
Babi Chamling, president of the Majhuwa Gadhi Conservation Committee, highlighted that the use of cement in the construction of the steps is problematic. He emphasized that the site, a heritage of the Kirat community, is continuously facing encroachment and that historical site preservation efforts should not result in its destruction. He urged relevant authorities to pay attention to this issue.
At a multi-party meeting held on the 19th of Mangsir (2023), political leaders and stakeholders expressed concern over the construction of non-compliant structures in the Majhuwa Gadhi area. The attendees raised alarms about the threat to the integrity of the site, urging Chief District Officer Shiv Kumar Karki to take action. Complaints were also made about the construction of a water tank within the bunker of the Majhuwa Gadhi area under the Mevakhola Dovan Sapsu Kalika Devithan lifting water project, as well as encroachment by the Armed Police Force in the area. The use of concrete stairs by the Department of Archaeology was also mentioned as contributing to the potential destruction of the site.
Chief District Officer Shiv Kumar Karki mentioned that, as of now, there has been no written response, and no action has been taken regarding the complaints.
Dinesh Ghimire, the spokesperson for the Diktel Rupakot Majhuwa Gadhi Municipality, also pointed out that the Department of Archaeology did not coordinate with the municipality before constructing the staircase. However, the project director of Yunik Construction Service, Phadindra Acharya, stated that the work was completed according to the estimates and handed over to the Department of Archaeology.
The municipality is working on the development of infrastructure in Majhuwa Gadhi with the help of federal and provincial governments, aiming to promote the area as a tourism destination while preserving its historical significance. Efforts to upgrade and protect the site have been underway, and the municipality is dedicated to maintaining it as a significant tourist spot.
Majhuwa Gadhi is historically significant, having been ruled by King Ranveer Hang until the year 1804. The site is known for its historical and religious importance, with an annual celebration of the Sakela dance during the festivals of Unbhuli and Undhuli. The northern side of Majhuwa Gadhi contains a furnace used for making gunpowder and weapons, while the eastern side features stone structures such as Phoolpati Danda, Ranga Ahala, and Damaha stone. The site also houses a shrine at its center, known as Mauli, which historically served as a space for the king’s servants to offer sacrifices during the Dashain festival.
The southern part of the site contains a place where a star is said to have fallen, and the area is surrounded by fortifications. Additionally, there is the Kalika Bhagwati Temple at the base of the hill, where sacrifices are still performed regularly.
Majhuwa Gadhi is a unique convergence point for both Hindu and Kirat communities. Along with the Sakela dance, festivals such as Ram Navami, Balachaturdashi, Shivaratri, and Haritalika Tihar are celebrated. The site attracts a large number of domestic and international tourists, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays, offering spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayas and the Terai plains, including Mount Everest.
The name “Majhuwa Gadhi” is derived from the word “Majhuwa,” meaning “middle,” as the site is surrounded by several fortresses. Located at an altitude of about 2,000 meters above sea level, Majhuwa Gadhi offers clear views of the surrounding fortifications and landscapes from all sides.
