The Rapti Peace Garden, located in Tulsipur Sub-Metropolitan City-7, has emerged as a major attraction for domestic tourists. On weekends and public holidays, the park witnesses the arrival of over 3,000 visitors daily, according to the park management committee.
The park has become a bustling destination, with locals and tourists alike being drawn to its serene and captivating ambiance. Goma Bhandari, a local resident, shared that the park’s scenic beauty is a major draw for visitors, and it frequently hosts over a dozen picnic groups in a single day, especially during holidays.
Originally established during a time of conflict to symbolize peace, the Rapti Peace Garden has evolved into a prominent tourist hub in the district. According to park staff member Khetu Prasad Bhandari, the garden attracts an average of 1,000 tourists daily, with numbers soaring to 3,000 on weekends and public holidays. Visitors are charged an entry fee of NPR 30 per person, while picnic groups are charged between NPR 300 and NPR 500. The park employs seven staff members and generates an annual surplus of NPR 4 to 4.5 million after covering operational costs.
Spread across 15 hectares, the garden features mesmerizing landscapes and diverse attractions. To the northeast, the park houses a children’s area equipped with baby rail, swings, slides, and a swimming pool. A lake within the park offers boating facilities, further enhancing its appeal to tourists.
Rich in biodiversity, the garden is home to a variety of plants, flowers, and wildlife. A mini zoo in the northern section houses species such as leopards, civets, deer, rabbits, and various birds, adding to its allure. The centerpiece of the park is a statue of Lord Buddha, prominently placed near the entrance, which has significantly boosted tourist footfall.
The park also provides well-maintained picnic spots, essential amenities such as drinking water, restrooms, kitchen utensils, firewood, and gas facilities. Visitors can also rent traditional Magar attire for photoshoots, a unique cultural experience that has gained popularity.
The Rapti Peace Garden was established with the collaborative efforts of the Ganesh Community Forest Group, intellectuals, local businesses, and government agencies. The land was provided by the Ganesh Community Forest Users’ Committee, and construction began on January 22, 2003 (Magh 8, 2059 BS). Initial challenges included clearing dense vegetation, with assistance from the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, and local residents.
Situated approximately 1.5 kilometers east of Shreegai Village and 3 kilometers north of the Tulsipur-Salyan section of the Rapti Highway, the Rapti Peace Garden continues to thrive as a tranquil retreat and a vibrant tourist destination.
