Far-Western Region - The Hidden Treasure of Nepal
Nepal is famous for its diverse culture and of course its natural beauty. The country of Himalayas includes some parts of Indo-Gangetic plain. With Mahakali in the west and Mechi in the east, Nepal covers an area of 147,516 square kilometers. Naturally rich and beautiful Nepal is well-known for its diversity in the number of flora and fauna all over the world.
If you ever want to quench your thirst for nature, Nepal is the place you should dream of. No matter what the season, sub-tropical or freezing, Nepal has many to serve. Be it Lumbini, Birthplace of Buddha or Mt. Everest- The highest peak of the world, Nepal has always set its level high to be one of the best tourist destinations. Trekking in the hills, ascending mountains in the Himalayas, Safaris in the Terai, or Rafting in the fast-flowing rivers, she has been the best of all. That is why thousands of tourists visit Nepal every year, to experience something new, taste something unique which no other nations serve.
 |
| Khaptad national park Source:Wikipedia Commons |
Far-western Nepal is a huge source of natural beauty. There is something magical about seeing majestic hills, rivers, mountains, and the dense forest of western Nepal. Sometimes it is the snow showering from the mountains of Darchula while other times it is the leaves falling in the dense hilly reasons. Be it a swamp deer of Sukhlaphata or the cattle grazing all over the countryside, the region holds its unique identity which is yet to be discovered by many.
The westernmost region of Nepal is somehow defamed by its socio-cultural differences and traditional values. On a positive note, the ancient society is inclining towards a better-educated society. The beauty of the region is not known to many, due to different infrastructural and geographical conditions. But we believe, the far-western region will soon get all the recognition it deserves.
Today we will try to explore all the hidden treasures of this region. From Terai to the Himalayas, we will present you with different magical and amazing destinations having different natural and socio-cultural values.
Best Places to Visit in Far Western Nepal
- Khaptad National Park
Established in 1984, Khaptad National park is a protected area in the far-western development region of Nepal. With an area of 225 square kilometers, it stretches over Bajhang, Bajura, Achham, and Doti. Named after the Holy Man Khaptad Baba ( known as philosopher, physician, scientist, and astrologer ), it is renowned for Khaptad Baba Ashram where Hindus worship for Lord Shiva.
Khaptad is well known for trekking up in the hills of the national park offering bird-watching opportunities to the locals and few tourists around the area. It is regarded as the heaven of the Far Westen Region. Full of natural beauty and biological diversity, the Khaptad region is the home for numbers of flora and fauna. Khaptad lake, Khaptad Baba Ashram, and Triveni Dham are the peak points for the number of tourists.
The region remains untouched by tourists, which has been a major economic as well as social problem for the people living around the Khaptad as well as the local and the central government. In spite of being one of the most beautiful and adventurous destinations of Nepal, Khaptad is not known to many, even within the country.
2. Dodhara-Chandani Suspension Bridge
The Dodhara Chandani Bridge also known as Mahakali Bridge is the longest suspension bridge of Nepal and is about 1452.96m long. It stands tall over the Mahakali river of the far-western region. As the name suggests, the bridge connects two villages Dodhara and Chandani, separated by Mahakali river.
There is something magical to cheer about seeing these architectural beauties, which can be a huge attraction for tourists around the globe. The unique design and style of engineering techniques can be a perfect site for recreational and educational purposes.
3. Karnali Bridge
One of Nepal's most famous bridges and must-see landmarks when you are in Far-Western Nepal. Karnali Bridge is the asymmetric, single tower and single stayed bridge constructed by British and Japanese Engineers. The pure work of art Karnali bridge is 500km west from the capital Kathmandu. The design of the bridge and natural beauty around it has attracted thousands of domestic visitors while it still remains unexplored by international tourists, few being the exception.
Karnali Bridge located at Chisapani of Kailali district, is the gateway to Sudurpashchim Pradesh. Not only the bridge but Chisapani itself is aesthetically very pleasing and awe-inspiring due to the fast-flowing turquoise water and the softly striking arctic wind. One must visit the site to know deeper about the iconic Karnali Bridge including interesting facts and the lifestyle of the Karnali region, which itself remains as the untouched slice of Nepal.
Fish of the Karnali river remains evergreen along with the iconic cultural attraction letting Chisapani be one of the startling staycation destinations of Nepal.
4. Suklaphanta National Park
Jungle Safari is what we imagine when we hear about Suklaphanta National Park. The national park (previously Wildlife Reserve) spreads around the Kanchanpur district. It is known to be one of the richest wildlife reserves in Asia due to its sub-tropical environment and also due to the largest population of swamp deer in the entire world. The name of the park represents the largest grasslands Sukla Phanta.
Suklaphanta is the hotspot for jungle safari which lets the tourists observe the protected wildlife closely. Spotted deer, one-horned Gaidas, wild dog, nilgai, endangered species of birds, and a few numbers of the tiger have been sighted in the park. Rani Tal is one of the major attractions inside Suklaphanta national park.
5. Ramaroshan, Achham
Ramaroshan, a gem of Achham district is located at an altitude of 2500m. It is the main tourist destination of the district and the far west itself with a good number of local and few international tourists. Lack of advertisement has been the barrier to attracting a good number of tourists every year. Else, it can be regarded as a piece of heaven. On a positive note, Ramaroshan now has a proper transportation facility.
Ramaroshan area has 12 lakes and 18 grasslands. So it is popularly termed as "बाह्र बण्ड, अठार खण्ड ". The area lies about 42km away from the headquarter of Achham, Mangalsen being a habitat for different birds and wild animals like Danphe, Munal, Kalij, Deer, Beer, and some tigers. Mangalsen itself is known for its ancient Mangalsen Durbar.
Ramaroshan also renowned for its fascinating lifestyle, culture, and tradition lies in the artery of the villagers in the heart of Achham.
6. Badimalika, Bajura
For decades, Badimalika is popularly remembered as a pilgrim site for Hindus. Badimalika temple, dedicated to Bhagwati is the peak point of the area. Every year there is a fair on the occasion of Janai Purnima and Ganga Dashara where thousands of Hindu pilgrims visit.
People have to go through a challenging 3-4 days of trekking starting from the headquarter of Bajura, Martadi. So, Badimalika not only is the site for religious values but can also be regarded as a hotspot for adventurous trekking and observing the Nepalese traditional culture closely. The region provides a good panoramic view of beautiful Mt. Api and Mt. Saipal.
As per Hindu Myth, it is believed that the left shoulder of Sati Devi fell in Mallagiri Mountain which is now known as Malika. Due to poorly developed routes and lack of lodges and restaurants for travelers, one has to make a difficult trek to the Badimalika temple. This is regarded as the major cause of the minimal number of tourists every year.
This single post is not enough to represent all beauty of Far Western Region of Nepal. To view more heart touching places or Part 2 of beauties of Far Western Region of Nepal. Click here.
( All the images are used for representational purpose )
