Preparations are in full swing for Mundum Trail Visit Year 2025, with the ambitious goal of attracting at least 100,000 tourists. The initiative aims to promote the newly explored trail in Bhojpur and its surrounding districts, highlighting its unique offerings to both domestic and international visitors.
At a press conference held today at the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu, Ramesh Kumar Rai, President of the Maiyung Temke Salpa Silichung Tourism Promotion Centre, outlined the objectives and plans for the event. Rai emphasized the trail’s potential to lure tourists by showcasing breathtaking Himalayan views, including those of Mt. Everest and Mt. Kanchenjunga.
The Mundum Trail is an off-the-beaten-path route that offers visitors stunning vistas of the Himalayas. Organizers plan to enhance the trail’s infrastructure by improving accommodations, drinking water facilities, toilets, and rest areas to ensure a comfortable experience for trekkers. Additionally, an Information and Rescue Centre will be established to address safety and informational needs.
Rai highlighted the economic benefits the trail could bring to local communities, stressing that successful tourism could provide significant financial boosts to the area. To enrich the cultural experience, several local festivals, such as Sakela Ubhauli Udhauli, Rudraksha, Suntala, Gothaste, and Rudrakshya, will be organized during the Visit Year.
The Mundum Trail encompasses tourist spots in the districts of Bhojpur, Khotang, Solukhumbu, and Sankhuwasabha, regions predominantly inhabited by the Kirati communities. The trail offers a picturesque journey through lush green landscapes and challenging terrains, giving visitors a unique trekking experience.
Former Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Sudan Kirati, underscored the importance of branding the Mundum Trail. He advocated for year-round tourism and urged organizers to preserve the native cultures and natural environment.
Nilhari Bastola, President of the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN), stressed the need for local government involvement to ensure the trail’s promotion and preservation. He noted the risk of trails disappearing due to neglect and called for concerted efforts to maintain them.
During the event, five individuals were named Mundum Trail Tourism Ambassadors: singer Rajesh Payal Rai, actor Dayahang Rai, ultra-runner Mira Rai, cyclist Pushkar Shah, and mountain guide Pemba Wachung Sherpa.
Experts noted that Mundum is a verbal scripture of the Kirati people, depicting their rituals, lifestyles, and traditions. Historically, high hills such as Temke, Mehrung, Maiyung, and Salpa Pokhari were pilgrimage routes for the Kirati Guru to reach the sacred Silichung hill, adding cultural significance to the trail.
The organizers hope that Mundum Trail Visit Year 2025 will not only attract tourists but also preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region.
