A newly constructed trekking route connecting Kaski’s Naya Pul to the popular tourist destination of Ghodepani in Myagdi has officially opened, offering a fresh path for adventurers and nature lovers. This route passes through Parbat’s Modi and Jaljala rural municipalities before reaching Annapurna Rural Municipality-6 in Myagdi.
The trail, which was identified 13 years ago, stretches from Naya Pul through Moharia, Sarau, Tangale, Bhumerkot, and Mohare Danda, ending at the famous viewpoint of Poon Hill in Ghodepani. The Parbat-Bhumerkot-Ghodepani Tourism Area Development Committee launched the new route on the occasion of the 45th World Tourism Day.
According to Man Bahadur Khadka, chairman of the committee, the trail is now operational with basic infrastructure in place, including rest stops and accommodations. He emphasized that the route offers a unique blend of culture, nature, and adventure, making it an attractive destination for tourists.
The construction of this 16-kilometer route from Naya Pul to Hampal, Parbat’s highest point, was completed with a budget of NPR 16 million, funded by local, provincial, and federal governments. The trail is marked by stone steps, and 10 rest stops have been built along the way. For further development, Gandaki Province has allocated an additional NPR 3 million in the fiscal year 2081/82 to extend the trail from Hampal to Jaljala.
Jaljala, located at an altitude of 3,610 meters, offers panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. The trail passes through various communities and landscapes, including homestays operated by local Magar, Gurung, Dalit, Chhetri, and Brahmin communities, showcasing their diverse cultures and traditions.
The trek, which takes two nights and three days, also offers glimpses of wildlife, medicinal herbs, and scenic mountain views, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Tourists can enjoy amenities like tea shops, restaurants, and community lodges along the route, ensuring a comfortable journey.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Tourism of Gandaki Province, Modi Rural Municipality, and the Pokhara Tourism Council, the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) Gandaki has been actively promoting this new route. On World Tourism Day, TAAN organized a promotional trek, starting from Naya Pul and passing through Bhuk and Dandaketero, showcasing the region’s potential for tourism growth.
Tourism Minister Mitralal Basyal highlighted the importance of this route in curbing rural migration and boosting local economies through tourism. He also mentioned the potential to generate employment for local youth by encouraging homestays and other tourism-related businesses.
Additionally, the province has designated Hampal and the Mundel area near Ghodepani as satellite destinations of Pokhara, aiming to extend tourist stays and enhance the local economy. Efforts by both government and private sectors have been focused on identifying new auxiliary routes to rejuvenate the Annapurna Circuit, which has been shortened due to road construction.
With this new trekking route now operational, the region is set to attract more visitors, enriching the experience of travelers and supporting the local economy.
