Despite its abundant tourism potential, Manpang village in Myagde Rural Municipality–6 has remained in obscurity for years. Now, local residents are stepping up to change that by promoting tourism through a newly launched homestay program that offers visitors a glimpse into authentic rural life, scenic beauty, and cultural richness.
Located just 25 minutes uphill via an unpaved road from Tharpu on the Prithvi Highway, Manpang village sits at an elevation of 1,050 meters above sea level. From this serene vantage point, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Myagde’s diverse landscapes, the bustling Prithvi Highway, the administrative center of Damauli, and the distant corners of Shuklagandaki. However, despite such natural advantages, the village had long been overlooked due to a lack of proper promotion and tourism infrastructure.
To address this, eight households in the 20-home Gurung settlement have opened their doors to tourists by operating homestays. According to Soni Gurung, Chairperson of the Manpang Community Homestay, the initiative was launched in coordination with the local government to generate income and promote sustainable tourism. “We started this to bridge the gap between the city and the village. Now, domestic visitors have begun to arrive, and we aim to expand tourism infrastructure in the coming days,” she shared.
The community believes that Manpang’s tranquil atmosphere during the hot summer months, paired with its breathtaking views, will appeal to travelers seeking solace and nature. “Tourists not only enjoy the scenic landscapes but also relish the taste of local cuisine. While the cities heat up, Manpang offers a cool, refreshing escape,” added Gurung.
Traditional Hospitality and Local Flavors
Homestay operator Dil Bahadur Gurung explained that the nightly rate is fixed at NPR 1,200 per guest. The package includes traditional hospitality featuring dishes like gundruk (fermented leafy greens), bhatmas (fried soybeans), and roasted maize, followed by a hearty dinner and breakfast the next day. “We are working on improving facilities and increasing capacity. At present, we can host up to 30 guests at a time,” he noted.
The initiative is more than just a business venture; it’s a community-driven effort to preserve cultural identity while enhancing economic opportunities for locals.
Historical and Religious Significance
Adding to Manpang’s appeal are its historical and religious sites. Ward Chairperson Hiralal Gurung shared that the village was once part of the ancient Baise-Chaubise kingdoms and hosts important spiritual landmarks such as the Thanimai Temple and Kalbhairav Temple. “Special rituals are conducted at Thanimai Temple during Navami, attracting local devotees,” he mentioned.
To enhance visitor experience, three scenic viewpoints have been developed around the village. These spots offer unobstructed vistas of surrounding landscapes and have been made accessible via stone-paved footpaths. “We believed homestays would be a practical way to draw tourists here and support local livelihoods,” the ward chairperson added.
Infrastructure on the Rise
Understanding the significance of tourism to local development, Myagde Rural Municipality has allocated NPR 10 million from its supplementary budget to upgrade the road leading to Manpang. Chairperson of the rural municipality, Shree Prasad Shrestha, emphasized the importance of the region’s natural beauty in attracting tourists. “We believe the charm of Manpang can drive tourism, so we’ve taken the first step by supporting the homestay initiative. Additional infrastructure will follow to enhance promotion and visitor experience,” he stated.
As the homestay model gains traction, there are plans to expand the number of participating households and improve tourism amenities such as signage, sanitation, and guided tour services. The local government’s active involvement and financial backing have created optimism among residents, who now view tourism not just as a possibility, but as a pathway to sustainable development.
A New Beginning for a Hidden Gem
Manpang’s journey from obscurity to a budding rural tourism destination reflects a broader shift in Nepal’s tourism strategy, where lesser-known locales are being developed to distribute tourism benefits more evenly and reduce overcrowding in popular hubs like Pokhara and Kathmandu.
For now, Manpang remains a quiet retreat, untouched by commercialization. But with its pristine nature, cultural richness, and growing community enthusiasm, it is steadily carving a niche for itself in Nepal’s evolving tourism landscape.
As more visitors discover the warmth of Gurung hospitality, the scenic views, and the peaceful ambiance, Manpang is poised to transform from a forgotten village into a memorable stop for tourists seeking authenticity and adventure.
