Nestled in Gharpajhong Rural Municipality-2, Marpha village has emerged as a top destination for tourists visiting Mustang. Known as the “Apple Capital” of Nepal, this charming settlement offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and local traditions that captivate visitors year-round.
Tourists can be seen strolling through the stone-paved alleys of Marpha, capturing photographs and videos from dawn to dusk. According to local resident Chandraman Lalchan, the popularity of Marpha has surged in recent years, thanks in part to its portrayal in popular Nepali movies like Jhola and Kabaddi.
“The construction of the Beni-Jomsom road has made Marpha more accessible, turning it into a preferred stop for tourists traveling to Mustang,” Lalchan explained.
The Famous “Jerry Alley”
Marpha’s narrow alleys are a significant attraction, particularly the one now famously known as “Jerry Alley,” named after the movie Jerry that was filmed there. Formerly called Bhakti Galli, the alley was renamed by Bhaktiprasad Hirachan, a local resident whose house is located near the alley.
“After we put up a signboard with the new name, the alley gained immense popularity. Tourists now flock here to take photos, make TikTok videos, and share their experiences on social media,” Bhaktiprasad shared.
A Blend of Culture and Tourism
Marpha is a treasure trove of Himalayan culture and natural beauty. Tourists often rent traditional Himalayan attire, such as the bakkhu, to capture photos in the picturesque setting. Locals offer the attire for rent at prices ranging from NPR 200 to NPR 300, while yak dummies set up for photo opportunities cost an additional fee.
Visitors are also drawn to Marpha’s apple orchards, which produce some of Nepal’s finest apples. The village is home to six apple brandy distilleries and several souvenir shops selling apple-based products, dried meat (sukuti), lentils, and apple brandy as keepsakes.
Enriching the Tourist Experience
Marpha has more than 20 hotels catering to visitors, while ongoing developments aim to enhance the tourist experience. According to Mohan Singh Lalchan, Chairperson of Gharpajhong Rural Municipality, plans are underway to install nameplates and signs for the 11 main alleys in the village, making navigation easier.
“The alleys will have names like Amar Singh, Buddha, Dhaulagiri Base Camp, and Stress-Free Lane,” Lalchan said. “Additionally, the village has underground electrical wiring, and its streets are illuminated at night to create a vibrant atmosphere.”
Natural and Historical Attractions
Marpha boasts unique architectural features, including flat-roofed houses made of clay and stone, with logs placed on the roofs to protect against snow. The lush greenery of apple orchards contrasts with the barren, dry mountains, creating a stunning visual.
Notable sites include the Samtelung Monastery and a 300-year-old cliffside monastery used for spiritual rituals and prayers for prosperity and protection. Visitors can also explore the Kawaguchi House, named after Japanese monk Ekai Kawaguchi, who stayed in Marpha during his journey to Tibet in 1888.
For agriculture enthusiasts, Marpha is home to the Temperate Horticulture Development Center, which supports research and development of fruits, vegetables, and grains suitable for the region. Tourists often visit to learn about apple farming and admire the innovative agricultural practices of the locals.
A Village Rich in Heritage
Marpha’s charm lies in its preservation of tradition. The village’s Thakali community, comprising families with surnames like Lalchan, Hirachan, and Jwarchan, has maintained its cultural heritage for centuries. The harmonious coexistence of nature and culture in Marpha continues to attract thousands of visitors annually, with over 113,000 tourists recorded in Mustang last October alone.
With its scenic beauty, rich culture, and innovative tourism offerings, Marpha is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Himalayan region. Whether it’s strolling through the alleys, tasting the delicious apples, or immersing in the local traditions, Marpha offers an unforgettable experience.