In the Thini area of Mustang’s Gharpajhong Rural Municipality-5, visitors are encountering difficulties reaching the Snow Leopard Cave due to the deteriorated condition of the trail leading to the site. Despite its potential to attract and prolong tourist stays, the Snow Leopard Cave has been overlooked due to inadequate infrastructure.
The trail from the Jomsom-Thini-Dhumba Tal road to the cave has fallen into disrepair, making it challenging for tourists to access the site. It has been suggested that constructing approximately 300 meters of new trail could significantly improve accessibility for visitors.
Niraj Thakali, a local resident of Thini, noted that a well-maintained trail from Thini to the cave would enhance visitor experience. “The cave’s name, Snow Leopard Cave, piques curiosity about the relationship between the snow leopards and the cave,” Thakali said. “During the establishment of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), cameras were placed in the area, capturing videos and photos of snow leopards. The footage confirmed the presence of four snow leopards, validating the connection between the cave and the snow leopards.”
The Snow Leopard Cave was named to highlight the presence of these rare and elusive animals in the area. Snow leopards are a critically endangered species found in only 12 countries worldwide, including Nepal.
The cave is accessible via a 10-minute drive from Jomsom Market to Thini, followed by a 5-minute walk. In 2014, during the construction of a park, three caves were discovered. The main cave, extending over 10 meters, features various natural formations. Additionally, visitors can enjoy views of Thini village and Jomsom Market from inside the cave.
The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), the Nepal Tourism Board, and Gharpajhong Rural Municipality had previously developed amenities such as entry gates, trails, and benches for tourists. However, repeated rainfall has damaged the trail, creating accessibility issues.
Prem Prasad Poudel, Chief of the Mustang Tourism and Industry Office, announced that a budget of NPR 2 million has been allocated for the current fiscal year to repair the trail and other infrastructure. Poudel believes that with the new budget, the improved trail will facilitate easier access for tourists and potentially increase visitor numbers.
