Pakhathar, located within the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve that spans East Rukum, Baglung, and Myagdi districts, has introduced a new homestay service aimed at boosting local tourism.
The initiative, supported by the Gandaki Provincial Government’s Ministry of Industry, Tourism, Forests, and Environment, has been established to develop Pakhathar as a fresh tourism destination. The homestay services are now operational in six local houses, with the capacity to host up to 120 visitors.
Jeevan Kumar Pun, Secretary of the Dhorpatan Tourism Promotion Organisation, detailed that a trekking route has been constructed connecting Pakhathar to Kiteni via Kadekodanda. “We have expanded the homestay capacity and are actively working to promote tourism by identifying and developing new destinations to extend tourists’ stays here,” Pun said.
The homestay expansion and infrastructure development have been funded by an investment of Rs 1.2 million under the Gandaki Provincial Government’s ‘One Election Constituency-One Model Home Stay’ program. The initiative includes improvements such as signposts at various locations and the construction of stone steps along risky sections of the trekking route.
Traditional wooden houses have been adapted to provide rooms for tourists, offering a range of locally sourced delicacies. Visitors can enjoy meals prepared from organically produced local ingredients, including millet, buckwheat dhido, potatoes, mushrooms, and green vegetables, as well as local chicken and mutton.
Currently, 29 hotels and homestay facilities within the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve are available, collectively accommodating up to 300 visitors daily. This development aims to enhance the tourism experience in the region while supporting local businesses and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
