A large-scale rhododendron plantation campaign has been launched along the renowned Mundum Trail in Bhojpur under the Sagarmatha Afforestation Campaign, with the objective of promoting environmental conservation, enhancing biodiversity and strengthening the area’s tourism appeal.
The initiative seeks to transform the surroundings of the popular trekking route into a greener and more eco-friendly destination while supporting sustainable tourism development in eastern Nepal. The Mundum Trail, known for its breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, rich biodiversity and cultural and religious significance, has increasingly attracted both domestic and international trekkers in recent years.
Campaign to promote green and sustainable tourism
According to local authorities, the plantation programme is designed not only to improve the natural beauty of the trekking route but also to contribute to long-term environmental protection and climate resilience. Speaking during the plantation programme, Temkemaiyung Rural Municipality Vice-Chairperson Ramadevi Rai said rhododendron saplings were planted with the vision of making the trekking trail greener, more attractive and environmentally sustainable.
She said conserving and expanding rhododendron forests, home to Nepal’s national flower, would help preserve biodiversity while also reinforcing the region’s cultural identity.
“The plantation campaign is expected to enhance the ecological value of the Mundum Trail while offering visitors a more beautiful and environmentally friendly trekking experience,” Rai said.
Officials and local community participate
The tree plantation programme, held on Sunday, brought together representatives from local government, district administration, forest authorities and community organizations. Among those participating were Temkemaiyung Rural Municipality Chairperson Saroj Basnet, Vice-Chairperson Ramadevi Rai, Chief District Officer Rajan Paudel, Division Forest Office Bhojpur Chief Khudrus Miya, along with officials from various government agencies and members of the local community. Participants emphasized that community involvement would play a crucial role in ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of the plantation campaign.
500 saplings to be planted in phases
According to Khudrus Miya, Chief of the Division Forest Office Bhojpur, the office has supplied 500 rhododendron saplings for the campaign. He said 100 saplings were planted during the first phase of the programme, while the remaining 400 saplings will be planted in subsequent phases in the Chakhewa area through coordinated efforts between the rural municipality, the Division Forest Office and local residents. He expressed confidence that the phased plantation programme would significantly improve the natural landscape surrounding the Mundum Trail while contributing to forest conservation and sustainable tourism.
Supporting biodiversity and local livelihoods
Local officials believe that expanding rhododendron forests along the trekking route will not only enrich the area’s biodiversity but also increase its attractiveness as an eco-tourism destination. As one of eastern Nepal’s emerging trekking routes, the Mundum Trail has gained recognition for its pristine landscapes, indigenous culture and panoramic mountain views. Authorities expect that continued conservation initiatives and community-led environmental programmes will further strengthen the trail’s reputation while supporting local livelihoods through sustainable tourism.
