The seventh edition of the Mundum Trail Race is scheduled to take place on June 21, aiming to promote the unique Mundum trekking route in Bhojpur. Organizers believe that combining sports with tourism is an innovative way to boost visibility and attract adventure enthusiasts to this culturally rich and naturally scenic region.
The announcement was made during a press meet where event details, route specifics, and sponsorships were shared with the media. The race, now in its seventh year, has steadily gained traction among locals and adventure runners alike, and the upcoming edition promises to further solidify the Mundum Trail as a key attraction in eastern Nepal’s tourism landscape.
Trekking Trail Turns into Race Route
This year’s Mundum Trail Race will traverse a 22-kilometer route covering major tourism hotspots between Chakhewa Bhanjyang and Temkedanda, extending to Tawabhanjyang, the border of Khotang district. The trail also includes Panchdhare, Ratiya, Majhaule, and Hattikharka, finally looping back to Chankhewa.
These areas, known for their serene mountain vistas, pristine forests, and indigenous culture, have long been regarded as hidden gems. By organizing a competitive race through these parts, the organizers aim to showcase the beauty of the Mundum Trail to a broader national and international audience.
Gender-Inclusive and Team-Based Competition
The Rimachung Education and Sports Academy, the primary organizer of the event, has emphasized gender inclusivity in the competition. Nine groups, each consisting of six participants, three men and three women, will take part in the race. This team-based format not only fosters unity but also ensures equal participation across genders, setting an important precedent for inclusive sports practices in Nepal.
Speaking at the press conference, Academy Chairman Pawihang Rai shared his enthusiasm about this year’s event. “Even though it is the rainy season, we are fully prepared. The race will not be affected by weather. We are committed to safety and successful execution,” he said.
Prize Money and Recognition
In a bid to encourage participation and celebrate athletic excellence, the organizers have announced a structured prize scheme. The group securing the first position will receive Rs 40,000 and a certificate, the second group will get Rs 30,000, and the third will be awarded Rs 20,000.
Additionally, individual runners who achieve first, second, and third positions in the race will be honored with Rs 15,000, Rs 10,000, and Rs 5,000 respectively. These incentives are expected to attract emerging athletes from various parts of the country who are eager to test their endurance on the rugged yet rewarding trail.
Local Government Support and Funding
The Temkemaiyung Rural Municipality has extended significant support to the race, granting Rs 500,000 to help with event organization and logistics. This assistance highlights the growing recognition of the potential that adventure sports and eco-tourism hold for local economic development.
The municipality’s involvement is seen as a step towards integrated tourism promotion, where collaboration between local government units, sports organizations, and tourism boards can lead to sustainable growth and enhanced livelihoods for residents.
Promoting the Mundum Trekking Route
The Mundum Trekking Trail, also known as the Mundum Trail, is a relatively new and culturally rich trekking route in eastern Nepal. It derives its name from the ancient Mundum scriptures of the indigenous Kirat community and offers a deep cultural immersion in the customs, rituals, and lifestyle of the Kirati people.
Starting from Diktel in Khotang and passing through Bhojpur, Solukhumbu, and eventually reaching Sankhuwasabha, the trail traverses remote hills and traditional settlements at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 4,200 meters. The route remains relatively less crowded, offering a peaceful alternative to the more commercialized trekking circuits in the country.
Organizers believe that sporting events like the trail race can significantly contribute to placing this route on the tourism map of Nepal, attracting not only domestic travelers but also foreign tourists seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Adventure, Culture, and Nature in One Package
The combination of running, scenic exploration, and cultural immersion makes the Mundum Trail Race a one-of-a-kind event. Participants will not only test their physical stamina but also witness the stunning views of snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and traditional villages nestled among the hills.
This kind of adventure-sport tourism has the potential to open up new possibilities for remote areas like Bhojpur, offering economic opportunities through homestays, local guides, food services, and transportation.
Future Prospects
The seventh edition of the race is being closely watched by tourism and sports stakeholders alike. If successful, the event could serve as a blueprint for similar races and festivals across other lesser-known trekking routes in Nepal.
Organizers are hopeful that the continued integration of sport and tourism will lead to sustainable development, stronger community engagement, and a renewed appreciation for the country’s rich cultural and environmental heritage.
With a well-planned route, significant prize incentives, gender-inclusive teams, and active support from local authorities, the Mundum Trail Race 2024 promises to be more than just a race, it is a celebration of culture, adventure, and community spirit. As the countdown begins, Bhojpur readies itself not only to host a thrilling event but also to welcome a new chapter in Nepal’s adventure tourism journey.
