Rajkanda, located in Mohanyal Rural Municipality-7 of Kailali, is quickly gaining popularity among domestic tourists due to its breathtaking natural beauty, improved road access, and homestay facilities. Situated about six kilometers uphill from Chisapani, this scenic spot offers mesmerizing views of the Api and Saipal Himalayas and stunning sunrise vistas, which have become a major draw for visitors.
While the journey to Rajkanda involves a 16-kilometer drive north from Lamki, many tourists still prefer the adventure of a trek from Chisapani, adding a touch of excitement to their visit. Locals report that, despite the challenging uphill hike, visitors find the journey rewarding once they reach Rajkanda. “I have visited Rajkanda seven times,” shared Kaparas Budhathoki from Ghodaghodi Municipality-1. “Though the hike can be tiring, the beauty of the place makes every effort worthwhile.”
Tapendra Shahi, a visitor from Bardiya, praised the location for its stunning mountain views and sunrise. He also appreciated the comfortable homestay accommodations that made the visit more enjoyable. Some tourists bring tents to camp, while others prefer the homestays, which have grown in popularity as visitor numbers increase.
Min Bahadur Bohara, who operates the Dhulikot Homestay, recalls how he started with just one house during the COVID-19 lockdown after relocating from his hotel business in Lamki. “Initially, people advised me against leaving my business in the Terai, but now I’m making a good income here. During peak tourist season, there’s often a shortage of accommodation,” he noted, adding that Rajkanda sees an uptick in visitors during festivals like Dashain and Tihar when the weather and environment are especially favorable.
Bohara mentioned that during the tourist season, his earnings range from NPR 30,000 to NPR 50,000 daily. However, he sometimes faces challenges in accommodating everyone, as his homestay can host up to 30 guests, but visitor numbers occasionally exceed 40. Even when lodging is full, he offers meals to visitors, sometimes catering to up to 100 people in a day. He pointed out that limited water supply poses a challenge, as the homestay relies on solar power to pump drinking water, which can be scarce on cloudy days.
In addition to the Himalayan peaks, Rajkanda offers other attractions, such as Hatti Dhunga, Ranikuwa, the Dhulikot Palace, and local caves. Bohara believes that with better infrastructure and organization, Rajkanda has the potential to attract international tourists, further boosting the region’s tourism profile.
Source: RSS