Minister of Education, Science, and Technology, Bidhya Bhattarai, has expressed her commitment to unlocking the tourism potential of Nepal. Speaking at the ongoing Kotihom event in Dhungesanghu, Patneri, located in Pokhara Metropolitan City-15, Minister Bhattarai assured the public of her unwavering support for the region’s development.
“You have elected me twice, and I am here with you. With your love and goodwill, I am moving forward. You have requested the construction of necessary infrastructure to access the caves above the Seti River, and I will extend my support to this cause,” she said, emphasizing her connection with the local community.
Minister Bhattarai further stated that she would advocate for budget allocation at the relevant ministries to support development projects prepared by the locals. Kotihom initiator Shobhakanta Dhakal highlighted the immense potential of transforming the area into a religious tourism destination with proper infrastructure.
Dhakal proposed a development plan requiring an investment of NPR 20 million to construct facilities that would enable tourists to access the caves above the Seti River. This investment, he stated, could attract hundreds of tourists and generate significant income for the region.
The Kotihom project envisions the establishment of 108 Shiva Lingams, 108 Gaumukhi fountains, a staircase with 108 steps leading to the Seti River, and a senior citizen meeting center. These initiatives aim to boost both religious and tourism-related activities in the area.
The ongoing Shuklagandaki Kotihom-2081, the first of its kind in Gandaki Province, features prominent speakers, including Chief Narrator Shobhakanta Dhakal (Kripalu Das), Senior Narrator Dipak Sapkota, and Radha Kishori Dasi, alongside daily invited narrators. Narayan Bhandari, the event coordinator, stated that storytelling sessions are a significant part of the Yagya’s spiritual offerings.
The event serves as a vital step in promoting Dhungesanghu and Patneri as potential tourism hubs while preserving their religious and cultural heritage.
