A new walking path has been constructed in Marpha, a picturesque village in Mustang’s Gharpajhong Rural Municipality, connecting Hisarung Gumba and an apple orchard. The initiative, funded by the Industry and Tourism Office of Mustang with a budget of NPR 3 million, includes stone steps and beautification efforts, creating a one-kilometer pathway at the village’s summit.
Pram Prasad Poudel, head of the Industry and Tourism Office, stated that lighting has been installed along the path to enhance its visibility at night, making Marpha more attractive to visitors. The improvements aim to extend the stay of tourists in this charming village.
Previously, the route to the apple orchard was steep and narrow, but local ward chair Man Bahadur Hirachan noted that the new path has made it easier for tourists to explore both the orchard and the Gumba. The installed lighting adds to the village’s allure at night, attracting visitors to capture photographs with the iconic apple-shaped statue and the backdrop of Marpha.
Visitors can also enjoy scenic views of the apple orchards and the majestic Dhualagiri mountain range. Marpha is known for its unique Thakali culture, traditional lifestyle, and beautiful temples and caves, making it a key tourist destination.
The village, characterized by houses made of white and red clay with thatched roofs, retains its century-old authenticity. Rita Khatri, a visitor from Kathmandu, described the enchanting experience of strolling through apple orchards in bloom during spring and laden with fruit in autumn.
Marpha is home to about 150 households, primarily belonging to the Thakali community, alongside a significant Dalit population. The village has been featured in various domestic and international films, showcasing its rich cultural identity through artistic decorations in its homes.
Notable attractions include the ancient Samteling Gumba, approximately 300 years old, where local rituals are performed to invoke prosperity and ward off disasters. Additionally, the Kawaguchi House, named after Japanese monk and explorer Ekai Kawaguchi, who studied Buddhism in Tibet in 1888, stands as a testament to Nepal-Japan relations and draws interest from history enthusiasts.
With these new developments, Marpha aims to further establish itself as a must-visit destination in Mustang, inviting tourists to explore its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Source: RSS
