The long-anticipated upgradation of the Tripurakot–Maure Lake road section in Dolpa district has officially begun, with a budget exceeding Rs 25 crore, marking a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity between Dolpa and Jumla. The project, initiated under the physical infrastructure development plan, aims to improve access for locals and tourists while supporting the economic and tourism potential of the Karnali region.
Rs 25.99 Crore Allocated for Road Upgradation
According to Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Urban Development, Sher Bahadur Budha, the government has allocated Rs 25 crore 99 lakh 88 thousand for the upgradation of the Tripurakot to Maure Lake road. The contract-based work has officially started after the necessary budget allocation.
The upgradation includes the construction of a strengthened gravel road, roadside structures, and essential improvements along the 68-kilometer stretch. The project is part of a multi-year plan aimed at creating a reliable alternative route connecting Tripurakot, Chhal, Kaigaun, Maure Lake, Jumla, and eventually Mugu’s Rara Lake.
Second Alternative Route to Jumla Initiated
With the Rukum West–Aathbiskot–Triveni road already providing one access route to Jumla, authorities have now prioritized a second route from Tripurakot Municipality-1. The objective is to diversify connectivity options and ensure uninterrupted mobility, especially during monsoon seasons when many rural roads remain blocked. Officials believe that the new route will not only serve local residents but also help balance traffic flow, reduce transportation costs, and promote trade between Dolpa and Jumla.
Tourism Prospects: Linking Rara and Phoksundo Lakes
One of the most promising aspects of this project is its potential to enhance tourism in Karnali Province. Minister Budha emphasized that the upgraded road will establish a direct surface link between two of Nepal’s most iconic tourist destinations:
- Rara Lake in Mugu, and
- Phoksundo Lake in Dolpa.
If these two major sites are connected via a motorable road, the combined tourism circuit is expected to attract thousands of domestic and international travelers each year. This will offer new opportunities for local businesses, including homestays, lodges, transport services, and cultural tourism initiatives. “The connection of these two prime tourist destinations by road will significantly strengthen tourism promotion efforts in both districts,” Minister Budha stated.
Additional Budget for Chhungar–Liku–Balangra Road
Alongside the Tripurakot–Maure project, the government has also allocated Rs 4 crore for the development of the Chhungar–Liku–Balangra road section. This additional allocation aims to begin construction on another vital local route, ensuring broader regional connectivity. Both road segments are expected to complement each other by integrating isolated settlements and facilitating smoother movement of people and goods.
Multi-Year Plan to Be Completed in Two Years
The Infrastructure Development Office in Dolpa confirmed that the Tripurakot–Maure road is being implemented as a multi-year project. The contract agreement for the upgradation was signed in Ashar (June/July), and the task must be completed within two years.
Office Chief Tek Hitan stated that the road’s alignment had already been opened in earlier phases, which will help accelerate current construction activities. Under the new budget, a gravel road with proper drainage structures will be constructed up to the sacred Budhal Masht Temple–Chhal area.
He added that the 68-kilometer road will serve as a crucial link connecting Dolpa to Jumla and further to the Rara region of Mugu, positioning it as a strategic transport corridor in the mid-western hills.
Economic and Social Benefits Expected
Once the road is upgraded, residents of Dolpa and Jumla are expected to benefit from:
- Easier access to markets, healthcare, and education
- Reduced travel time and transport expenses
- Increased agricultural trade opportunities
- Growth in tourism and hospitality-related income
- Improved service delivery and administrative access
The government and local stakeholders believe that the project will play a transformative role in enhancing livelihoods and accelerating regional development.
